"Nothing," Willie whispered, shoulders hunching in reflex.
"He's not in trouble," Eric said firmly. "Not even a little."
Mrs. Walters blinked. "He's… not?"
"No." Eric smiled faintly. "In fact, he helped me. I just need to take him on a short drive, if that's okay with you."
"Of course, of course," Mrs. Walters said, already halfway turned back into the house, one hand pressed dramatically to her chest. "Oh, my husband is going to have a heart attack when he hears this."
She disappeared for half a second, then reappeared in a flurry of motion, essentially flinging Willie's sneakers at him.
"Come on," she ordered, maternal mode fully reengaged. "Put on your shoes. Quickly."
She stepped closer, smoothing Willie's jacket, tugging it straight.
"Mum, I'm fine!" Willie protested, mortified.
Eric chuckled softly from the porch, leaning back against the railing, giving them space.
