[ They shouldn't stay here much longer, Zephirin knows, though Francel has an excuse to miss the second half of gym class today. Rising to his feet, he takes the ice pack with him, lowering it, and extends his other hand to help the younger boy up. ]

I'll let Mr. Slafyrsyn know that you were told to rest. Do you want me to meet you after school?

[ Before he draws the curtain aside, standing poised for Francel to lean on him, he elaborates on his thinking: ]

I'm sure you'll be fine getting home on your own, but your family may have questions that I can answer.