ahem

[standing at the sink, toothbrush in hand]

Eldest: ...and then, there was the time that I almost broke my ankle.
Mama: [mid-scrub, the Toddles trying to wiggle away from the shampooing hands] mm, hm. [blinks] wha- ankle?
Eldest: [nods] yes. I was climbing on the car - not our car, J's car.
[in the tub, the Toddles sits still, listening. A slow grin creeps onto his face.]
Mama: you - you were? [clears throat] That's really not a good idea. You can damage the car that way.
Eldest: Yes, I know. And I caught my ankle in an open window.... [tilts head, looks thoughtful] This was back in first grade, you know. And kids that young don't always make the best decisions.

[pause]

Eldest: Why are you laughing? What's so funny?