Emberwood Remember when you said you loved me?

She could tell immediately from his words that he felt attacked. She recoiled involuntarily. Nothing she had said was meant to sound accusing towards him. She knew that she was the problem. She was the one who wanted things he couldn't give.

I know that. I can't understand because you haven't told me. And maybe I should be able to, but I can't. I can't just read your mind, and for once, I can't just lie and pretend otherwise. If that's what you need, I can't give it to you. She cut off, took a breath. She wasn't angry but she was upset - this hurt.

I'm trying Bronco. That's why I'm not blaming you. I'm trying so damn hard to understand why you need space, but I can't see this getting better when, from where I'm standing, you're legitimately happier when I'm not around. Even if it isn't your fault, don't you see how that feels from where I'm standing?

If it's memories, I wish you'd told me that sooner. Why didn't you? She'd known he needed space to work on his own things, and it turns out he had been cutting her out on purpose. It was complicated, hearing that and knowing he'd kept it to himself all of this time.