During engine trouble, who fears they will be blamed?

During engine trouble, who fears they will be blamed?

• A. Tom
• B. Al
• C. Ma
• D. Pa

Answer: (B)

The moment tests how a character responds under pressure and with responsibility. When the engine breaks down, the family is counting on someone to handle it, and Al is the one who feels the weight of potential blame the most. He’s the practical, mechanically minded member who knows he’s accountable for keeping the car running, so he fears that if anything goes wrong, it will be placed on him. That fear shows up in his quick, hands-on attempt to diagnose and fix the problem, as he tries to reassure everyone and prevent disappointment by taking charge. Ma and Pa are more about care and leadership in a crisis, and Tom isn’t the one directly responsible for the vehicle, so the anxious drive to dodge blame lands on Al.

The moment tests how a character responds under pressure and with responsibility. When the engine breaks down, the family is counting on someone to handle it, and Al is the one who feels the weight of potential blame the most. He’s the practical, mechanically minded member who knows he’s accountable for keeping the car running, so he fears that if anything goes wrong, it will be placed on him. That fear shows up in his quick, hands-on attempt to diagnose and fix the problem, as he tries to reassure everyone and prevent disappointment by taking charge. Ma and Pa are more about care and leadership in a crisis, and Tom isn’t the one directly responsible for the vehicle, so the anxious drive to dodge blame lands on Al.