He was here because he couldn't stand not seeing her. The weeks felt like years, and the manor was far too empty. He missed his wife and his children and he couldn't stand by and let this chasm grow between himself and the closest thing he had to that family. The idea of never seeing her again was enough to tear him in half.
"I'm sorry, Carrie," he said, his voice strained. "I wanted to tell you in person." He was unsteady on his feet, and grateful for the cane's camouflage. "I'm sorry. I-" he cut himself off before he could say too much. He needed to plan his words carefully.