Another reading would not settle the questions that belonged to the investigation.

There was a message from Victor asking whether Noah was home.

I followed the communication arrangements rather than starting a private argument.

I did not give him Noah’s new words or ask my son to answer the telephone so his father would feel reassured.

I put the phone down.

From the bedroom came a small sound, then my name.

I went to the doorway.

“I can’t find my other sock,” Noah said.