I'm sorry. [ Root isn't sobbing, which she's grateful for. Being able to talk right now is kind of important.

A deep, shaky breath in. ]

I can't... do this. Not today. I just-- can't tie you up and--

[ Breathe breathe breathe. Root has been through literal surgery without anesthetic before. She can get her thoughts together and talk to the person she trusts most. ]

I can't stop picturing you tied up for months and I can't do that to you, I'm sorry.