What I meant to say was...

I've learned never to trust Santi when he says "Daddy already brushed my teeth", but, tonight, he was extra emphatic about it, so I went to check with Jose before I loaded up Santi's toothbrush. It was no surprise when I learned that, in fact, Santi's teeth had NOT been brushed, so when I went back and scolded Santi for lying to me. As I was getting the toothpaste open, he said, "I didn't mean to lie to you. I just meant to say 'I love you, Mommy.' I love you so much, Mommy. That's what I was trying to say." 
A man's game starts at a young age, ladies. I'm here to warn you. 

---