Rita's arms tense, her embrace tightening as she struggles with what feels like a lump in her throat. Of course 9S will support her. Of course he'll tell her just what she wants to hear. But she knows he means it.

"I'm glad you're here," she finally chokes out.

It takes a minute, but she gradually manages to calm down enough to continue, her voice quiet and even. "There's a good chance the Summer Court's going to retaliate for this. We'll have to be ready."