“A child who can’t control her vocal outbursts must be given a neutral environment until she chooses composure,” Teresa said.

She looked at Beatrice as if she were giving a lecture at a school board meeting.

“It was a structured behavioral self-regulation protocol,” Teresa said.

“I’ve used it for thirty years with exceptional results.”

“She was dripping sweat and barely breathing when I broke that lock off,” I said.

“You always did have a flair for blue-collar hysteria, Julian,” Teresa said.

“The garage was shaded, and the appliance was unplugged.