"We're going out," Cam announced.  Didn't ask if I wanted to, didn't give me any warning the way he usually does so I have time to get used to the idea.  Just said it.

Where?  Why?

"I don't know where.  Just out somewhere. I need some air."

I don't.

"Dog's coming," he said, as if I hadn't said anything.  "He doesn't have anything going on, either."

I don't want to go out.

"It's been too long.  You need it."

I don't.

"Just for a little while."

No.

I think he was surprised.  I don't usually say stuff like that to him.  I'll choke down anchovies rather than tell him I don't like them.  He's always on me to be more assertive and all that.

Except tonight, I guess.

He looked at me a long time, and then he sat down next to me.  I was holding a book but I hadn't actually been reading it, and he set it aside.

"I'm worried about you," he said.  "I don't know what to do to help."

You're already helping, I said.  You're letting me be here.

"That's not enough."

I don't want to talk about this.

He looked at me again for a minute, and then he sighed.  "Okay," he said.  "Let's just go out for a bit, okay?  I really think it'll be good for you."

I can't.  I'm sorry.

"We don't have to go anywhere.  Just outside.  A little fresh air, that's all."

I'm just not up to it.

"Okay. We'll stay here, then." He didn't say it in a guilt way, but I still felt bad.

You can go. I don't mind.

"I mind."