"It's okay." She hitched her chair closer to him. "T.J., I can help you." Her laugh was a little unsteady. "Unless, of course, you're one of those macho men who can't accept help from a woman."

"No, I'm not." He blew out a breath. "And yes—an unqualified yes —to your offer of help. Jesus, I'd be pretty stupid to turn it down, wouldn't I?"

"Okay, then." She leaned forward in her chair. "Okay, one more question."

"Anything."

"What made you decide to trust me? Tell ...