To say that I am nervous about this impending discussion would be an understatement. It feels so very important that I can't even think about the consequences of saying the wrong thing, but I am damned if I know what the right thing is. I suppose we'll just have to do the best we can, and hope it's enough.

As I have in so many other situations, I pretend that I am completely at ease, though the grip I have on John's arm surely gives me away.