It didn't make things easier. Whenever she was close, it was all he could do to keep himself from sweeping her into his arms and never letting go. If he didn't touch her at all, maybe it would get easier.

Still, he had to admit, if only to himself, that if he had the choice, he would have held on to her and never let go, ever.

"That's not true. You were doing fine before I showed up." He shook his head quickly. "I shouldn't even be here. There's no need for me here. Stacy made a mistake."