[She snorts.] You may as well ask the wind not to blow, while you're at it.

[And while it's...not the best of segues, not by any means, she does find herself recalling a question she's been meaning to ask him anyway. Her voice grows gentler, after a pause which she hopes says not that I think your friend is stupid, but...] How is Jim faring? If you don't mind my inquiring.