She wasn't sure what prompted her to do it, but when Josiah looked back at her like that she found herself mouthing I love you before turning to close and lock the door. Leaning her forehead against it, she took a moment to compose herself before she returned to the kitchen. This wasn't her grief, and all that she could do was be strong for the boys-- and for her boy.
When she felt steady, and solid, and James again, she turned and headed back toward the kitchen to join them. Sammy was sitting on the counter now, and she approached the five-year-old.
"I think this is more of a pancake morning. I like chocolate chips in mine," she added in a stage whisper, "and I know your uncle has some, because I bought them. What do you like in your pancakes?"