"It's okay, I won't cook you."

Yeah, I know, that sounds a bit creepy. And I almost left out that first part just for effect, but then I thought nah, it was part of the whole exchange so it needs to be included. My 3 year old was looking a bit frightened and his nervous laugh and hesitant steps backwards let me know that the game was over. I was just kidding when I said his arm would be tasty. I was just joking when I said his leg would be yummy after I grilled it. I was just playing when I said his cheeks would be delicious in a salad. At first he laughed and simply said, "Mommyyyyy no." Then it escalated to him running away a bit and saying, "No, mommy." And then he ran, stopped with eyes wide open and said "Mommy, NO. I just want a hug." As cute as it all was, I knew when was when and assured him that all was well. Then I ended the whole fiasco with an assurance of him not being cooked and eaten and lastly stated, "I'll just give you a hug." I think I noticed a slight hesitation before he ran over to me and gave me a full-on bear hug. You know what they say...it's all fun and games 'til someone gets eaten. Or something like that.