Ruby stood frozen at the doorway, trying so hard not to laugh.
Karl turned back to them, breathing hard, broom still in hand. "That's how you deal with toxic relatives," he announced proudly.
Julian blinked at Karl's broom moment and softly said, "…Okay."
That was all.
Ruby sighed and finally went back inside, rubbing her temple. What a day.
🪄
Later that night, after dinner was done and everyone had changed into comfortable clothes, Ruby sat them all down in the living room. The floor was clear, the lights warm, and a small notebook and pen set was placed in front of each of them.
"Alright," Ruby said, clapping her hands lightly. "Let's start with something peaceful—basic math."
Karl's eyes twitched. "Peaceful?!"
She ignored him.
Julian sat down neatly and opened his notebook. His posture was perfect, his pen already in hand. Ruby watched him as he quietly wrote down the numbers she said, each one clear and correct.
"Mhm, very good," she said gently.
