Pearl's shoulders instinctively square up at Garnet's affirmation, only for the tension in them to slowly drain away as she hears her continue.

She doesn't say anything in response right away, only turns her hand downside-up to brush Garnet's cheek. The corner of her mouth tweaks with a mixture of gratefulness and insecurity.

"Thank you, Garnet. I appreciate it." At least that part she can say with full confidence. "But it seems like such a selfish request to make... it's hardly as though I require your presence, I just..." Her voice drops to a shy mumble-- "like it."

"... And I know that," she's quick to add, frowning. "Time just passes so quickly when I'm not being watchful..."