I stood, keeping my voice neutral.

“I noticed a persistent odor in the air supply.

I think the children should spend some time away from these rooms while an independent professional examines the system.”

Walter actually laughed.

“And now the nanny is an environmental engineer.”

“No,” I said.

“I am a caregiver who knows that two sick children share the same air.”

Kenneth walked to Owen’s bedroom door.

Inside, one of the twins was sleeping beneath a pale blue blanket.

The other sat propped against the pillows, looking at an illustrated book without turning the pages.

Walter stepped toward him.

“Don’t move the boys.

Their treatment schedule is already fragile.”

“Which treatment?” Kenneth asked.