“Emerson, why don’t you come out here and we can talk.” I keep my words gentle, not wanting to spook her any more than I already have. A ragged sob on the other side of the door only makes me tempted to trial the grenade idea, the need to hold her so strong I almost can’t bear the fact I can’t touch her. “Sweet girl, I’m sorry if I’ve upset you. That was never my intention. I never want to upset you.” The truth in the words almost shocks me.
