"But it would be a great opportunity to get what you need to do done." Kate's tone is unnaturally flat and chilly, like it's not even her saying the words. There's a large amount of depersonalization there, only for Steph's benefit. It's like she's saying 'Go as far as you need to" without actually forming the words.

Things are easier this way, this false way of not taking responsibility for what you suggest.