> Because she deserves it most?

?  As a stronger Rei fan that Asuka, I'd find that very debateable! :)
Without ranting about Rei's better points, and Asuka's lesser one's, I'd say
she just needs someone to open up more to.  Refer to "The One I Love Is..."
Though out of character, the author did explore that idea somewhat.

> Because it would mean the most to her to find them?

And it wouldn't mean as much for Rei to find other reasons to live apart
from duty and compassion for others?  It would be nice for her to discover
her own worth!

Z