"I'm sorry," Katie said. "I guess I shouldn't have said anything, but don't you realize that the way Alex treats you gives Jonathan reason to question your authority?"
Carmen stared at her. Was that possible? Her father had been the final authority, but never had she questioned her mother's authority. If she had, her father would have set her straight. Alex would do the same - wouldn't he?
That evening at home they were eating supper when Jonathan again asked Alex if he could get a cell phone. Alex frowned at him.
"Your mother said no, didn't she?"
Later, when they were alone, Carmen challenged Alex about his response. Alex looked surprised.
"I was backing you up," he said indignantly.
"No," Carmen said firmly. "You were blaming me - making me responsible for his dilemma."
His gaze became distant in thought for a few moments. Finally he rubbed the back of his neck and gave her a chagrined smile.
"Maybe you're right. I'll choose my words more carefully next time."
Katie was wrong about Alex. He made mistakes, but he was willing to take ownership and responsible enough to take corrective action.