The hug makes her tense up immediately-- because of course it does, she can't remember the last time she let someone hug her. Asking for physical affection was letting herself be vulnerable, and she couldn't let herself have that. Not anymore. But rather than pushing her away like she normally would've... something clicks. Maybe it's because she isn't alone this time, or maybe it's because Dani is being so kind and hugging a complete stranger without hesitation. But she returns the hug instead, holding her in return. Tightly and securely.

She hears the soothing words, but she can't bring herself to respond for a few seconds. There are tears in her eyes that she's grateful Dani can't see, daring to spill down her cheeks uninterrupted. "...I don't know where they came from, either. It's like something from my nightmares just... jumped out and came to life. That doesn't sound as crazy as it should."