Frederic's breathing just about stopped when he wrapped his arms around Karen. He'd been inwardly panicking about offering until she gently laid her cheek against his chest and his mind cleared. This was the closest contact he'd had with a woman since the passing of Patsy, and he couldn't help but relish it. He knew this could be considered improper if anyone were to walk in on them right now, but he knew customers rarely came at this time as it was close to supper time for most folks and he trusted Clover to not go blabbering on about this moment to any of his school friends. Speaking of his son, the little boy proceeded to keep one arm and his legs around Frederic's leg and with the other arm, hugged Karen's leg, and Frederic let out a soft, silent sigh as he realized this was how it should have been. If Patsy had lived, it would be her standing here in Frederic's arms, but strangely, he only felt peace when he realized this, as if the conscience of his dead beloved was telling him to move on. Should he? All these thoughts ran through his mind as he stood there with Karen a little longer than he meant to, but he didn't want the moment to end, and apparently neither did Clover, for Frederic's son continued to keep a tight grip around both his and Karen's legs even when he thought he should step back.