Tatum placed two plates of breakfast on the dining table, then walked over to Elora, who was still absorbed in the newspaper. "Miss, breakfast is ready," he said politely.

"I'm coming, I'm coming," came Alonzo's voice from the stairs.

Elora glanced up just in time to see him sprinting down the stairs, dragging his small schoolbag behind him. "Alonzo!" she called sharply.

He froze mid-step, immediately straightened up, and slung his schoolbag onto his back. Then, with exaggerated care, he walked down the stairs one step at a time, trying not to draw any further scolding from his sister. It was clear the two little brothers shared similar mischievous streaks.

"Good morning, Sister. Good morning, Brother Tatum," Alonzo greeted respectfully once he reached the dining area.

Elora gave him a stern look. "If I catch you running down the stairs like that again, I'll punish you. No food made by Tatum for an entire week."

Alonzo's eyes widened. "Sister, a week is way too long!" he protested instinctively.

soften. "And now you're bargaining with me? That must mean

dramatically. "Alright, alright. I'll change, okay? I was just trying to save time, that's

attempt at humor. For a moment, Alonzo straightened up and looked serious. But then he stuck out his tongue

that siding with him was a clever move.

cling to, huh? Let me tell you something: I'm on your sister's side. If you're banking on me pleading for you, it'd be better to

school. I'll let you off this time, but if you pull another stunt like that, even Tatum won't be able to

glanced up at Tatum

you even get

dramatically. "Brother Tatum, you're afraid of

"If you keep chatting

mouth,

head. "That kid is getting

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