"Of course its not her fault," he said. "Just as what happened between you and Colin wasn't anyone's fault. That's what makes it harder. When there's no one at all to actually blame. Because blaming yourself at least allows you some control over the situation. I've seen my six year old daughter do it. It hurts nearly as much to see Becky do it as well. But I understand why, even if it tears my heart up."
Cathair nodded grimly. "Thank you," he told her. "It's best she doesn't know. I don't like keeping it from her, but until she's accepted it and realized it's not going to end horribly, it's best she doesn't know. It'd just be another thing to tear herself up with."
He sighed again. "I believe you, colleen," he assured her. "I don't envy you for what you are dealing with. Because he has it easier. He's not got any doubts, any second thoughts. Even if you weren't such a lovely, understanding girl, he'd still be just as devoted to you because he has to be. You're aware of that fact and it heaps the responsibility on you. Not that he's not a good man or anything, but you're rather just as stuck as he is. Problem is, I think she realizes that in a way and feels even more guilty. Which isn't helping matters."
Cath shook his head and took a drink of water. "I wish there was some way I could convince her otherwise, but it's just going to take time and good experiences. Personally between you and me, he needed to mate with another were, because the boy knows piss all about it because he thought he'd been turned into some sort of monster. Since you're already clever and kind enough to be ready to accept the responsibility, then he's very lucky indeed. Just remember, neither of you are alone. You know how we Micks are about family." He gave her a little smile.