A professional collaboration could brush against something tender. But, what feels prickly is actually a portal to healing today. Open the channels of communication and lead with ample compassion. Schedule in time for you both to air your grievances. Even if you think everything’s all good, a conversation might reveal sticking points in your merger that you didn’t realize were there. Remember that any joint project will have its growing pains, but overcoming them together will deepen your sense of mission and trust.