Sweetness and Scowls

"Is your throat still sore?"

When Stella realized Valerie's tone was not filled with anger, she looked up and answered obediently, "A little."

Valerie was speechless for a moment. She got up with Stella in her arms, patted her buttocks, and said, "Why did you eat chocolate when you're not feeling well?"

Stella pursed her lips and replied, "Ollie gave it to me. I wanted to eat it."

Valerie looked b