“I was just thinking that it’s interesting that you began creating distance between yourself and others from such a young age.”
“Aren’t you supposed to be off duty at the moment?”
Emma smiled. “The truth hurts, big bro,” she said. “If you don’t recognize and accept it, you’ll be doomed to repeat the same mistake over and over again.”
I flagged down a waiter instead of responding to Emma. “Get me a glass of bourbon,” I said.
“I thought you weren’t drinking tonight?”
“I am now,” I said. “Because if I’m going to make it through this dinner with you… I’m going to need it.”
Emma gave me a smile as she reached for her wine. “Denial can be comforting,” she said. “But trust me, it won’t comfort you forever.”