I looked at Helen.
"I know you're trying to help."
My voice was controlled, but my frustration was obvious.
"I know you care about us. But that was not your place."
Helen listened quietly.
"The decision about children is between Faye and me."
She lowered her eyes slightly.
"I only wanted to remind her that..."
"She doesn't need reminding," I said.
The words came out more firmly than I intended.
Helen sighed.
"I understand."
I shook my head.
"Do you?"
She looked at me.
"Because from where I'm standing, you brought up something you knew was sensitive and then acted surprised when it affected her," I said.
Helen remained quiet for a moment.
Then she spoke.
"I apologize."
Her apology was calm, almost too calm. She didn't mean it, though.
"But, Alexander, whether you like it
