The question had meant to be an innocent one. Sophia had been genuinely curious at to what holiday Tim liked best. For a while she had forgotten Tim's past. She was sure that he didn't want to be treated with kid gloves, even if she was still careful around him when it came to physical affection or having him open up to her. But no doubt all holidays were hell for Tim. Surely his mother made them so. Sophia realized what she said too late.

A horrified look crossed her face as she saw the change in Tim's expression. Instantly Sophia closed the gap between them and wound her arms around his middle. "I'm sorry!" She apologized frantically as she hugged Tim tightly. "I didn't think about what I was asking. I'm sorry, Tim! I didn't mean to upset you!"

Sophia bit her lip and looked up at Tim, a look of worry on her face. She could only imagine the horrible memories she had dredged up with her question. Would he push her away now? Would he leave? Would he never speak to her again? Sophia couldn't stand the thought of any of those happening and she hugged Tim again as she waited for him to respond in some way.