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 you don't want to change

was just trying to save time, that's all. But

at humor. For a moment, Alonzo straightened up and looked

a clever move. If

If you're banking on me pleading for you, it'd

off this time, but if you pull another stunt

glanced up at Tatum

offered a sheepish smile. "Your sister's right. I'm her private chef, after all. I follow her orders. You're lucky you even get to eat the food I make, and that's only because she allows it.

dramatically. "Brother Tatum, you're afraid of her

set the newspaper aside. "If you keep chatting here, don't come crying to me when

soon as the words left her mouth, Alonzo turned and bolted toward the dining

shook her head. "That kid is getting naughtier by the

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255