Amelia gets wrapped up in a hug again when she moves closer like that. Verity doesn't think she's very good at this whole 'being comforting' thing, but she can operate on the principle of the Golden Rule. So hugs it is, and quiet, and as much patience as she can muster.

"Remember, this isn't permanent," she offers as consolation. "And things will be much better in the end for having done the hard work up front." Amelia's a practical soul. She should appreciate that. "This pain is temporary. It won't last forever. And just think how impressed Nathan will be when you get home, and are all grown up and ready to be with him. That'll be nice, right?"

Ah, the ball. That's a tricky subject and she's really not sure what the right answer is. "Hmm. Let's put a pin in that. We can wait and see how you're feeling the day of. If you want to come put in an appearance, that's okay. If you're not ready to deal with people, that's okay too. There'll be other parties."