Capone pressed his lips together, unable to explain, when the sound of sobbing came from the doorway.
He and Sophia turned around simultaneously. Standing at the door was Laura, holding a soft-boiled egg in each hand. She had intended to come in and share them with the two but froze at the sight before her. A whimper escaped her lips before she burst into tears.
Sophia panicked instantly. Forgetting everything else, she threw off the blanket and got out of bed to comfort her daughter.
Laura was usually well-behaved and rarely cried like this. Sophia also knew that no matter what grudges or conflicts existed between the adults, a child should never witness such a scene.
She moved hurriedly, her steps unsteady, even stumbling slightly. Capone reached out to steady her.
"Sweetheart, I'm so sorry. Did I scare you? It's Mommy's fault. I'm sorry!"