Three years- around the time his mother disappeared, if he was sorting things correctly. One thing at a time. Her touch helped, made him take things in more slowly, grounding him in the now.

He listened to her voice, and his mind tripped over the word partner.

It was important, and he knew it, but instead of pushing himself, he let it be. Gathered it up and held it close, but tried not to look directly at it. Tried not to think too hard.

"... what happened then?"