Chloe finally felt it was safe to pull Liam Jr. into a hug. She patted his back rhythmically, her voice a steady anchor. "It’s okay. I’m not leaving. I’m not going anywhere. I’m staying right here with you..."
After a long while, the little boy’s breathing evened out, and he finally calmed down completely.
Relieved, Chloe pulled back and sat him on his small stool. She looked at him with a feigned expression of hurt. "Liam Jr., you startled me just now. I was so scared. Can you promise me you’ll try not to lose your temper like that again?"
Liam Jr. looked at her, remembering how she had jumped when he smashed the model. His small face clouded over with guilt, and he slowly hung his head.
Chloe took his small, reddened hand in hers, thankful he hadn't cut himself. "I'm not scolding you
