I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. “Hazel, sweetheart,” I said gently, crouching down to her level, “can you show me where your toys are? I think Mr. Teddy Bear might be missing you.”

Hazel’s eyes lit up, momentarily distracted from the conversation. She nodded enthusiastically and skipped off towards the playroom, leaving her words hanging in the air like a ticking clock.

Once Hazel was out of earshot, I straightened up, facing the room with as much dignity as I could muster. “I’m sure there’s a simple explanation,” I said, my voice firm but brittle. “Let’s all enjoy the party.”