Elijah frowned and shook his head putting a hand out. "Please, no more shouting. He didn't do anything. I was the one who was surprised and dropped it." He grabbed both kids and pulled them into a hug. "You are brothers. Please, I want no fighting. I'm not angry at anyone, I just want everyone to be happy. So let's all take one deep breath."

"'e shouldn't 'ave shouted!" William shouted.
Bram sniffed.

"He's young and excitable." Elijah winced. "You are shouting too. Please.. lower voices.. Let us relax for a moment. No need to be loud, no need to be angry. We are alright. It is late. You kids have been stressed and are worried about your father so I'm sure emotions are still a little high.. " His voice lowered as he spoke until it was a whisper.

"I don't want father to diiiiiiiiiiiiiie!" Bram suddenly cried - not quietly.

Elijah didn't know what shocked him more. The volume or the words. He hugged Bram closer and shook his head. "He won't die. The doctor said it wasn't serious. He just needs to take it easy, I promise. It'll be ok. We are going to see him tomorrow and I bet you a pound he'll be at least a little better, alright?"

Bram continued to cry, but more quietly. William frowned, but finally put an arm around Bram as well. "He'll be alright," he joined in.

"Yes. You know we all want your dad to be alright. He just needs to get some rest. It'll be ok." He hugged the kids to comfort them and closed his eyes. This was harder than he thought but he really hoped they could trust that he meant what he said and that the'd be back with Ben in no time.

Bram slowly nodded and wiped his face. "Sorry for cryin'." he finally apologized.

Elijah shook his head and ruffled his hair. "Never say sorry for crying. It's good to get out your emotion when you're upset. I just ask that you try to not do it loudly but I know it can be hard to contain yourself." He led them to sit on the sofa. "you guys relax while I clean up the bowl and finish dishes, alright?"

"I'll help." said Will. "Bram, why don't you get ready for bed. I'll come in in a moment."
Bram sniffed, but finally left for the bedroom.