"I hear you, and I'm sorry it's felt that way. I've been overwhelmed, but that's not an excuse — can we find time this week to talk?" (Works because it validates their feeling first before explaining, avoiding defensiveness.) Firmer Reply: "I care about you a lot, and I also need you to know I've been stretched thin. Let's figure out a schedule that works for both of us." (Works because it sets a boundary around capacity while still affirming the relationship.)