Vance scheduled a joint intake session for us next Thursday at four in the afternoon,” Ethan said.

“Will you sit in that room with me?”

“I’ll go to the session,” I said, adjusting my watch strap against my wrist.

“But sitting in a counselor’s office doesn’t mean I’m packing my bags for Maple Street.”

“I know,” Ethan said quietly.

“I’m not asking you to move in today, and I’m not asking for a quick fix.”

“Good,” I said.

“Because showing up is only the beginning of what has to change between us.”