The merest hint that he might not have the guts to say things to her face has him whirling around in a split-second.

'I don' need t'say it now, do I? You jus' did it for me, jus' like you decide how everythin' is before givin' anyone else a chance to 'ave their say.'

He doesn't really think she's bitter. Twisted, maybe. All the rest of it, right now, yes.

'You don't listen, Alex. An' you won't let me help you and then get angry and swear like a whore when I try an' step in. Why the 'ell should I bother?'