Close Knit
Dave was convinced despite Malaya’s warning that the neighborhood was safe, and nothing bad would happen to Carey. Malaya’s concern about reports of kidnappings in the country led Dave to believe that Malaya had overreacted.
Dave believed that their new community was a safe place, since everyone knew each other and it seemed unlikely that anyone would do anything harmful.
Free
Dave was determined that fear would not be allowed to dictate his family’s lives. Dave wanted Carey’s freedom to enjoy and explore their new home. He didn’t want unfounded fears to limit Carey’s experience.
Dave loved the idea that Carey could have a happy childhood, like the one he enjoyed when he was younger. Dave was still haunted by Malaya’s fears as time passed. He became more alert, checking on Carey a little more often when the boy was playing outside.