I can't fucking stand this prelude, I'd rather be hit with it right now, just say what you mean or I'll flee never to be seen again

It used to to give me anxiety when people used that phrase on me. It still gives me anxiety it just used to too.

I have literally gotten nauseous hearing that phrase.

I sometimes try balance my kids' associations with this kind of opening. Like, knock on door "Hey, can I talk to you for a second?" Then follow that with, "You did good. There are cookies downstairs."

Gotta bluff your way through it- "I'm actually glad you decided to bring it up"

Totally going to procrastinate that request into forgottenness.