"I think she looked at Vivien the same way. Of course you can. You know. And, and yet with great respect, because she knew how hard it must have been. And that it was even harder for him, of course, than for her"

This quote is referring to a circumstance in which someone is being permitted to do something tough. The speaker is expressing admiration for the person being given permission, acknowledging that it should have been challenging for them to do. The speaker likewise acknowledges that it must have been even harder for the individual granting authorization, as they are the ones making the tough choice. This quote is a testimony to the respect and adoration the speaker has for both parties involved in the situation. It likewise speaks with the speaker's understanding of the trouble of the circumstance and their empathy for both parties. The speaker's words show that they recognize the nerve and strength it requires to make tough choices and to handle difficult tasks.