[She hums her agreement, amused and glad that this time, it really does sound like a joke. Maybe it's because he doesn't intend to hide the truth in the same breath -- he lays it in front of her right after.]

Mm... Sounds metal.

[But her tone is quieter, gentle. She understands. Not necessarily dissuaded, but she doesn't want to push him on it, either. Actually...]

I know this -- topic sucks, so. You can shut me up whenever. How do you... Um, I mean. Do you know? What all -- will...make someone turn.