She tilts her lips against the underside of his chin, tenderly kissing that delicate spot.

"I know, sweetheart."

She's still stroking his hair, as if consoling a harried colt. She knows he loves his daughters. She knows he loves his wife, too. However, sometimes he can't see the forest through the trees.

Her eyes open, blinking slowly in the low light.

"Because y'finally stopped shuttin' me out, an' I took advantage of you."