The tender trap? (6)
I believe the answer is:
gentle
This clue could be a double definition.
'the tender' is the first definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
'trap?' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with contact as well as being verbs in their base form.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for gentle that I've seen before include "Kind, not harsh" , "Mild and benign" , "Merciful -- grub" , "'Mild, soft, tender (6)'" , "Moderate, quiet; a maggot" .)