I know. [Her fingers leave the pearls to instead touch Bree's cheek, eyes searching hers.] But you were very brave for me, and I knew you'd be fine. I don't know if you remember [it's a story she's probably heard more than once], but on the very first day of school, you refused to let me walk you in. You wanted to do it all on your own. I knew then that you were more than capable of standing on your own two feet when you put your mind to it.

[Even if it broke her mother's heart.]

But that doesn't mean you have to. Not anymore.