Thinking about the main reason I’d wanted to talk to Ken today, I said, “Ken, Alice came all this way just to see you. This is a rare opportunity for you two to spend time together. So, for the next few days, I’m leaving her with you. Look after her—and maybe use this time to figure out how you truly feel.”

He blinked in surprise, looking caught off guard. “Isn’t that... a little inappropriate?”

Considering why Ken had gotten close to Alice in the first place, it ...