[She wouldn't begrudge him for it. In fact, Perona's doing and thinking much the same - she's just gotten a little bit better at being quiet about it, or closing off until she can be alone to cry.]

Mm...I really only knew Sabo-kun enough for it to really count. [They were friends; Perona spoiled him and loved him very much.] Fir--eh, Ace-san I didn't know very well at all. ...And I think a part of me never wanted to.

[She looks down into her teacup, watching her reflection waver in the hot liquid.] But he wasn't as bad, or as frightening, as I thought he would be. I think I was even beginning to like him...a little.