[ The yard-long stare Claude gives Monts is an indication of something, maybe a weariness that speaks to his inherent distrust of most everyone (including himself).

But he concedes to something as well, as he settles against his backrest and heaves a thin sigh. ]

Is it really so terrible? Is it so imperative that I 'like' someone who I spend some measure of time with?

[ Does his opinion even matter, is the question. ]

If I hate her, what then? Will you tell her about it and warn her away from me? That would be smart, to be sure.