Julia's face flushed with frustration, and she threw up her hands in exasperation.
"You have no idea what he's like when you're not around," she muttered under her breath. "But fine, Lucas. You take care of him. Let's see how long your patience lasts."
Lucas ignored her and gently stroked Caleb's back. "It's okay, buddy," he said softly. "I'm here now."
Julia stormed out of the room, leaving Lucas alone with Caleb.
As soon as the door clicked shut, Caleb's tears immediately began to dry up.
He sniffled once more for good measure, then leaned back slightly to look at his father, a sly smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
"Can we go get the superhero figures now, Daddy?" Caleb asked sweetly, as if nothing had happened.
Lucas, unaware of the sudden shift in his son's demeanor, nodded.
"Sure, champ," he said, relieved that Caleb seemed to be calming down.
