I absolutely didn't mean it like that, which I tried to say up front, because I understood how it might sound. I have to ask, did you even notice that? (It's easy not to notice once you think you've been slighted or threatened. That's how brains tend to work.)

I can't tell whether you're suspicious or merely curious. If you're suspicious, then maybe that's how your relative feels when confronted with someone trying to teach them to read. Or there are many many possibilities. I won't know what to suggest until I know more.

If you're curious, I get it, but please understand that the point of asking is to offer advice better suited to your situation than generic advice that might be fine and might blow up in your face. Asking me for the whole playbook up-front is not reasonable. It fills a bookshelf and comes from 25 years of experience helping people. If I know more about your situation, then I believe I can help more effectively.

That's it. Nothing up my sleeve. No hammer behind my back. Empty hands.

I'm asking because I can help you better if I know. It's that simple.