I just popped in here for some inspiration. I like to read Piecing People's threads as I hope I am getting closer to that with my h.
I very much identified with your observation of the LBS getting easily spooked and I wish I had a good way to tell h that or have some sort of code that signified that I was 'spooked' and needed reassurance. Of course, that part is probably easy because it's in my control to say something. What is not in my control is his reaction. Will he reassure me in the way that I want? don't know....that's the scary part.
** Purple
As soon as you trust yourself you will know how to live. Goethe