I think I might be a bit lonely,

I said on the phone to a friend. Then I caught X's face, playing nearby with her toys. I put down the phone, "what"s the matter?"

"Why are you lonely when you are with me?" Her lip was trembling.

Oh, dear, oh dear, oh, dear. I feel dreadful. And it's not even true, I don't think. I'm not lonely, at all I don't think. I wish I hadn't said it.