And stop doing that," he said. "Backing away, giving me that look."Like you're scaring me? Maybe you are."He stepped back so fast he wobbled and caught himself, and the look on his face-Itvanished in a second, the scowl returning.I'd never hurt you, Chloe. You should know-" He stopped. Paused. Then wheeled andstarted walking away. "Next time? Handle it yourself. I'm done taking care of you.
In this excerpt from "The Awakening" by Kelley Armstrong, a tense exchange unfolds between two characters, highlighting a complex emotional dynamic. One character expresses fear and discomfort regarding the other's actions. The reaction is immediate, as the second character reacts defensively, trying to assert that they would never harm the other. This moment reveals vulnerability and a struggle with feelings of protection and fear, suggesting deeper issues in their relationship.
As the dialogue progresses, the second character feels overwhelmed and decides to abandon the conversation, indicating a shift from offering support to withdrawing. The phrase "Handle it yourself" signifies a boundary being drawn, reflecting frustration and a desire for independence. This moment encapsulates the challenges in their connection, where care is complicated by emotional turmoil and a need for self-reliance.
