Violet’s care was adapted to her age and medical needs, not to a fantasy that children should control every medical decision themselves.

At a follow-up appointment, the doctor showed Violet the label on a bottle and explained why the medicine had been recommended.

Violet listened and asked whether it would make her sleepy.

The doctor answered clearly.

Nora sat beside her but did not answer on her behalf.

Afterward Caroline took them to a park where the swings faced a row of maple trees.