I know now

Her mouth works wordlessly for a few moments before I hear her teeth audibly click shut. She glares at me for a couple more moments before responding, "I don't have to answer to you."

"Once again, you're right," I state, nodding my head and not looking away from her. "But you have friends, and I'd like to consider myself one of them, that are worried about you."

Uncertainty enters her eyes then, and I know I'm starting to get through to her. One way or another, I'm going to get a straight answer out of her, and I'd rather not have to stoop to plan B to get it.

The lapse lasts for only the briefest of moments, and is replaced by a steely gaze. "You don't need to worry about me. I can take care of myself."