Marcie took a step back when Kaden pushed the pan onto the floor, putting her hands up palms out, a little worried, but he didn't go beyond that. He was breathing hard though, and she couldn't help but think that maybe- maybe this would be the thing that cracked him open and let him finally start to heal.
"You're right," she said, wanting to just pull him into her arms but afraid if she tried he might lash out or stiffen up and pull away. "It doesn't change shit. You're still you. You're still brave and funny and compassionate. You're my kid now, not his. Never his." She spoke fiercely because they so rarely spoke like this, and she wanted to get it through to him. He was worthy of surviving when his brothers did not. She put a hand on his upper arm, her body language open and receptive should he need a hug.