"Howard, when will you realise that I'm not trying to attack you or be condescending toward you, or that I don't think you're less than I am?" her tone wasn't harsh but it was firm.

Barbara was growing a little tired of walking on eggshells. She knew just from talking to him that he had a whole heap of issues which influenced the way he saw things, situations, people. But she did want the mere idea to dawn on him that she had no intention of hurting him in any way, or holding herself higher than him.

"If I had wanted to hurt you, don't you think I would have done so by now? I'm sorry if my want to help you and comfort you isn't what you want. I realise that you've been through an awful lot for someone of your age, and from what little you've told me, none of it is anything I would wish upon my worst enemy - the fact that you've pushed above it and carried on is highly commendable. I respect and admire you, Howard and I would love nothing more than to stand with you, and learn from you but you're making it immensely difficult."

She stood watching Howard a moment longer - displeased teacher face on - then turned on her heel and walked out. Perhaps at a later date she'll make up for the small outburst.