[Him falling apart wouldn’t do much good.  It would just make things worse, really, more confusing.  It’d be an excuse to close up, harden, and be more in line with Mars.  But she does want to give the boy a chance to explain himself.  He’s earned that much, at least.  Not that it’s entirely satisfying, hearing that short version, but it does prompt another question.]

I do want the whole story, from your side of things.  I need that.  But we can take it slow.  I won’t hurt you, and I’ll hear you out.  I swear.

[She clasps hands around her cup, takes a breath, and…]

Why did you panic? Let's start there.