“Liam…”
Frank remembered then the wet eyes at the dinner table the night before. It was getting scolded that made Liam Hellier saddest, not pain, not frustration. Feeling as if he’s disappointed someone, that seemed to be what truly hurt him. That realization broke Frank’s heart.
“Forgive me,” Frank begged. “I didn’t mean to frighten you. I never want to hurt your feelings. If we touch, though, it could hurt you for real…very badly. You remember that, right?”
Liam nodded solemnly.
“I’m so sorry if we’ve confused you. Sadly, nothing has changed as far as that.” Frank paced as he spoke, crunching tiny brambles and dry autumn leaves beneath his feet. “Once we get you healthy, you’ll meet other people. Normal people. Normal-looking people.”
Liam shook his head hard.
“I know it’s scary ri
