The point is so well made that Devero shuts his mouth on his next protest with a clack of teeth. One particular word seems to trigger something in him, and he sort of shrinks down into the water. "I--"

He actually stops there for a long moment, struggling with himself to get something else out. It's been too long ingrained in him not to talk about this. He actually curls up on the seat, drawing one big leg up and hugging it to himself.

Finally, he's able to speak past his knee. "I always wondered what about me had changed, that she had to become s-so strict with me."