An ultimate shaking grief fixes the boy, as he stands rigid, trembling, staring down and the author doesn't intrude for the boy has to learn the epistemology of loss.
Maybe, according to the author, he was right in not helping the boy or comforting him.
But was it the best decision to leave him, at a time he needed someone the most?
Wasn't it possible to teach him the epistemology of loss while also comforting him?
Isn't helping others in need and regret what we must?