"Mr. Presgrave is busy," I said gently to Jared, trying to keep my tone light despite the unease settling in my chest. "Let's not take up any more of his time, alright?"
Before Jared could respond, Elliot bent down and lifted him into his arms as if it was the most natural thing in the world. "I'm not busy," he said simply. "We can keep playing."
Jared lit up instantly, wrapping his arms around Elliot's neck with excitement. "Yay! Mommy, come play with us too!"
I exhaled, a quiet mix of frustration and helplessness slipping through me. There was no reasoning with either of them once they had decided. "I'll take a walk," I said instead, stepping back. "You two enjoy yourselves. I'll be back."
