Jasper felt chastened by Ernie's tone. It really was none of his business. But he couldn't help offering softly, "Maybe it was clear to you, but not to them. If...it was as bad as you say, maybe they're just uncertain." Not wanting to say any more, he took a testing sip of his tea. It was still hot, but cool enough to drink. He would have liked some milk, but he didn't much feel like imposing any more than he had already. Part of him wished he was back at Bianca's where things weren't so complicated.