"I know I wouldn't," Ava says. "But that's why I never put myself in charge of anything." She's not quite sure why Stede does when he always seems on the verge of a breakdown over it, but once she resigns properly she won't have to worry so much about the fallout. "You're the only one I trust."

She sighs softly, hooking an arm with Skulduggery's. "If he's doubting things. Himself, his feelings, his goals and... willingness to go on. It's easy to get lost in all that. If he's uncertain. You need to be. Trust me. Or else it's like... this feedback cycle of..." she waves her hand vaguely.