[Though a part of her is saddened by the idea of entering into such an arrangement with another person in a way that seems so impersonal, she supposes that's how it has to be, given the current situation, and she nods in response. She can't remember if she's seen him even hint at a smile before now, but it's reserved— there's nothing soft about it, but she wouldn't expect there to be, given their experiences with one another so far.]

It does. Given the nature of these partnerships, both parties should stand to benefit beyond the basic necessity of it, I think.

[They're in agreement on their approach, at least, even if she's not hiding the fact that she wishes a more personal angle were somehow possible.]

All of that said, I don't think it's unreasonable to say that I would want any potential partner to be someone I got on with reasonably well. I don't think it's overly sentimental, either. Bondmates don't have to be the best of friends, but they should at least like each other.