Alexander noticed.
And for the first time, he understood that his son’s reaction to Caroline was not simple shyness.
It was fear.
“Caroline,” he said quietly, “we need to talk.”
She smiled at Oliver.
“There you are, sweetheart. Have you been making another scene?”
Oliver stepped behind his father.
Caroline’s smile faltered.
Alexander looked at her.
“Did you tell my son Elizabeth died because he asked for his teddy bear?”
For one brief second, Caroline’s expression changed.
It was almost imperceptible.
But Alexander saw it.
“Alexander, children misunderstand things.”
“Did you say it?”
“I may have explained that his mother was driving because she had responsibilities at home.”
“That wasn’t my question.”
Caroline glanced toward the watching diners.
“Perhaps we should discuss this privately.”
“No.”
Alexander’s voice was quiet but absolute.
“You told a six-year-old boy that he caused his mother’s death.”
Caroline crossed her arms.
“I was trying to teach him that actions have consequences.”
Hannah felt Oliver’s hand trembling.
Alexander stared at his sister-in-law as though seeing her clearly for the first time.
“Elizabeth would have been horrified by you.”
Caroline’s face reddened.
“Don’t you dare tell me what my sister would have thought.”
“She would never have blamed Oliver.”
