"Because…" What could go without saying because they both understood…?

…No, no, that was the old life… even if she understood, maybe because she did, make himself say it.

"…I've never been able to afford needing anyone. Because no one ever stays. Because I don't know what's too much to put on another person. Because I want to be a… friend, a… lover… to you, not an addict. Because you're not just here for my benefit. Because… I know you're fully capable of fending me off if I crossed a line, but I never want you to have to.

"And I know… I shouldn't worry about any of this. Because you understand and what's been true before doesn't mean it's true now. Because you're you, not anyone else. It's just… hard to shake some things. You know?"