(scene opens in messy kitchen)
Me: Alpha, do you know where your bus stop is?
Alpha: (quietly) Yes.
Me: Did you want me to walk with you, just in case?
Alpha: (even quieter) No.
Me: (spider sense tingling) Alpha, would you be embarrassed if I walked you to your bus stop?
Alpha: (pause) Yes.
Me: It’s okay, Alpha, I understand. My feelings are not hurt. (cue “My baby is all grown up” soundtrack)