[The emotional wall she's built around herself is sturdy and thick, built with years of trauma and grief. Breaking through it would take even the most stubborn of individuals a great deal of time.

She takes another small sip out of the drink, forcing herself not to pull a face.]

At least it's not trying to be something it's not. I'd rather be here instead of someplace where everyone's pretending to be your best friend while secretly thinking they're better than you.