My eldest son, Ryan, stood by the window, gazing into our backyard, but he didn’t step outside to join his friends. His homework was done, and he had the whole afternoon free for play, yet the soccer match unfolding just beyond the glass was happening without him.
“Aren’t you going out to play?” I asked, breaking the silence.
He turned away from the door, shaking his head. “No, not today. I just don’t feel like it.”
This was unusual for Ryan, who typically thrives in outdoor play. I suspected I knew the reason for his reluctance.
“Is it because of the Nerf gun incident?” I inquired.
He nodded slightly. “Kind of.”
Ryan returned his gaze to the scene outside, clearly wishing to join the game, yet he remained hidden behind the blinds.