[ there's no gentle way of saying "i've been here for almost a year with little progress," but it's not like he's about to lie to her. Solemnly, he nods, folding his hands in front of himself. ]

Believe me, so am I. According to them, there is no way back, and our worlds have been destroyed... However, I refuse to believe that without any evidence. [ a pause. Then, somewhat apologetically: ] My apologies. I don't mean to alarm you. But I thought it would be prudent to be honest about the situation.