"It's definitely not worth making yourself sick over," he places a hand on her shoulder lightly. "Don't use any more energy than you feel you can safely expend. We need to plan for the long term until we get some indication there won't be one."

Carefully, he picks one of the basil leaves, splits it, and tastes half thoughtfully. It seems the same as it ever did, although his is not the most discerning palate. Offering her the other half, he adds: "Let me know if I can help in any way, of course."