In Alice Munro's "Too Much Happiness," the quote reflects a sense of inevitability about emotional turmoil in relationships. The speaker expresses skepticism about someone else's motivations, anticipating that she will manipulate feelings and create a scene of distress. It suggests a lack of understanding or control over how others might influence emotions, anticipating future conflict.

This statement reveals the character's wariness and underlying tension in the dynamic. There is a clear expectation that this person's actions will lead to regret and sorrow, pointing to an ongoing struggle between vulnerability and the fear of emotional pain. The dialogue hints at a complicated relationship marked by distrust and the presumption of coming strife.