I opened my mouth and wanted to tell Oliver I couldn't go. But the words felt too cruel when they reached my lips.

So after some thought, I said, "I can't join right away because my students are waiting for their lessons."

Oliver's face fell, his mouth turning down unhappily.

I crouched down to his level, "Baby, don't be sad. I promise, as soon as I'm done with work, I'll come join you guys."

Unable to bear seeing him upset, I told him a white lie.

Instantly, ...