It's because you sound that way. You can respect me like that, and still sound like you're dismissing me.

I've brought this up before. When I say "You do this," you reply with "But not always." [ Massage, massage. ] Right now. I'm upset with you because I wanted to offer you some sort of comfort when I felt your worry. You pushed me away. And when I told you that's what you always tell me not to do, you blew me off.

[ His voice is raw and honest and - vaguely embarrassed, now: ] Most times, Alfie, I just want you to understand what you did to upset me and apologize. That's all.