In "Leaving Time" by Jodi Picoult, the quote reflects the complexity of love and the fears that can accompany it. The character suggests that sometimes, withholding the truth arises from a deep love and desire to protect the other person. This indicates that love is not always straightforward; it can involve difficult decisions to maintain the emotional safety of those we care about.
The idea emphasizes that honesty can be risky in relationships. While transparency is usually seen as crucial, the implication is that a person might choose to remain silent out of fear of hurting their loved one. This showcases a nuanced portrayal of love, where the fear of causing pain may lead one to shield the other from harsh realities instead of being completely open.