[ Her mirth cools into a close-lipped smile. She'll rearrange herself on the sand, her anger by now clearly drained. ]

I'm used to being self-sufficient. When I was younger I definitely considered a point of pride that I never asked anybody for help with anything!

[ ...

tilts her head. ]

But you're wrong about one thing. I might not say please, but I wouldn't be opposed to asking you for help, Lief. I just want you to understand it goes both ways.