Under Tobias’ heavy gaze, Edmund bit the inside of his cheek.  He wasn’t lying, he wouldn’t about this - but he supposed Tobias wouldn’t know that.  Still, he struggled to find the words to explain, and after a moment, Mable took over.

“Edmund raised me from the time I was born, so taking care of young children, and babies especially, is like second nature to him!  He’s really very patient and kind, and he’s - he’s never raised his voice at me even once in our whole lives.  Our family situation is very tragic, I’m sure you can imagine, and Edmund’s only ever done what’s best for me.  And I learned everything I know from him of course, so - so we’re both very responsible.”

The boy did his best not to be surprised by how confidently Mable defended him.  Not everything she said was true, he had most certainly yelled at her - especially lately - but saying that to Tobias wouldn’t give him a good impression at all.

After lunch, he would give Mable the tightest hug and buy her all the sweets she wanted.