[She wants to believe. She wants to feel safe. She wants to give him what he wants, her comfort and her peace of mind and her trust.

And yet—

Her eyes squeeze shut, tight. Though he kneels before her, she still does not feel like she could defend herself]

I wish to believe that that is so, Lord Percival. My intuition tells me that you are a sincere man, and not one whose feelings alter on a whim. My instincts tell me you will not cause me harm, and will protect me if you are able.

Yet, having experience of which you cannot know, I still am afraid. Please allow me time to verify my impression of you.