“Poor example?” Ms. Riordan echoed. “For taking my job seriously?” “For caring about it more than you care about this family.” “But I…but that’s…” Even on the second floor, Simon could hear Ms. Riordan take a deep, steadying breath. “How can you say that, Scott, with all the traveling you do? At least my work is local! I’ve never missed a Pop Warner game, or a parent-teacher conference, or—” “So it’s my fault you’re obsessed with work?” Mr. Riordan asked.

