I see it more as a situation where Luce will do all the thinking, and will trick Steve into actually doing the dirty work for her.
"Steve, get the knife off the counter. Mom says that if you want to go to flyball this weekend, you have to practice this. It is an important skill. Now, hold it in your mouth. When she is sleeping, you need to do your box turn off her chest, but keep the knife in your mouth to mark where on her body you will grab the ball. Okay, when you are ready Steve. I'll judge you."