Preston called ahead, apologized, and arrived anyway with no gifts to soften the delay.

The boys gradually learned his habits.

He learned theirs.

Eli wanted stories told twice; Theo wanted the ending first.

They disliked green beans but would eat peas.

They could tell when an adult was promising too much.

Naomi sometimes stepped aside and let Preston handle a small disagreement.

Other times she watched carefully, ready to intervene if the boys became overwhelmed.