I was afraid he would punish me later for your confidence.”

I didn’t pretend that fear was unreasonable.

People who control a household often make sure everyone understands the price of disagreement.

“And when he told you to be quiet,” she continued, “you didn’t let him decide what happened next.

I think I’d forgotten I could do that.”

“You decided to leave.

I just drove the car.”

“You gave me room to decide.”