[she blinks in surprise; she hadn't expected him to ask, nor had she expected to have to put it into words. Still, she purses her lips a little thoughtfully]

Things like . . . I know that I can come to you, when I am troubled. Or wish for advice. And that you will offer your honest advice, regardless of if I will like it or not. You do not - mince? - your words. And you are firm in what you believe - I have always respected that.

There are other things - I do not know how to put it into words. But they are things that have never made me doubt our friendship, or the trust between us. Even if ten years have passed.

[she goes quiet, then makes a quiet noise and glances over at him, quirking a bit of a smile]

That is what I think they are, at least.