How do you choose?

I think as a portrait for the family, the first one. As an entry in a contest or to display your skills, the second. I like the first for the direct and open look.
 
Given the benefit of comparison, the second. For exactly the reasons you expressed in your eloquent disclosure. Or to put it another way, the second is the one I'd be more pleased to have caught the slight emotional pull of the lip, and is closer to the way I'd want to develop shadows/darkness in her hair, like a hood around the central human light.
 
Beautiful young woman, Lukitas (I have two daughters myself), and great portraits.

After 5 minutes of comparison, I much prefer the first one. Much more detail in the hair and the eyes (due to light, among others, but probably different settings, or quieter camera). I am guessing this will make a big difference when printed. Print both and see ...

BTW, nobody but you and her knows the lips were quivering in the 2nd picture. They just look different.

Which one does she prefer ?

Roland.
 
Both photos look great. Congratulations. The first image has an advantage with the lips and the direct look with her eyes, while the second image has the advantage of a subtle look.
 
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