"She was scared about a grown-up problem. Sometimes adults say the wrong thing when they're scared. You still did nothing wrong." Lucia dipped a fry in ketchup. "Daniel says grown-ups have secrets."
Miguel's stomach turned cold. "What kind of secrets?"
Lucia shrugged. "Like surprise things. He said I shouldn't tell you he brought donuts because it was a surprise." She looked up quickly. "But I forgot and told you now. Sorry."
Miguel reached across the table and covered her small hand with his. "Listen to me. You never have to keep a secret from me or Mom because an adult tells you to. Surprises are things people tell later, like birthday presents.
Secrets that make you worried or that someone says you can't tell your parents? You tell us. Always." Lucia nodded, suddenly serious. "Okay."