Sure they are. [He lifted a rough palm, cupping her cheek with it. A roughly-padded thumb swept over her cheek in a soothing sort of circle.] Doesn't make you any less good.

[His hand dropped, instead seeking out one of hers and squeezing it.]

I know it's hard to believe in your own worth sometimes, so instead just... believe in me, okay. I don't think you're a monster. And I don't think you deserve to be here.