We had just pulled into the driveway, and the kids were already bouncing with energy despite the long day at school. As soon as we stepped inside, I handed Rhett and Ruby their bags and gave them a stern but playful look.
“Straight to the bathroom, you two. No detours, no distractions.”
“Yes, ma’am,” Rhett said with mock seriousness, and Ruby giggled as they raced up the stairs.
Helen and I stood there for a moment, listening to their chatter fade into the distance. Then I turned to her. “Alright, let’s get everything unloaded.”
We headed back to the car, opening the trunk to reveal the chaotic mess of shopping bags, toys, and goodies from the previous day. Helen grabbed a couple of bags, and I went for the bigger items, including Rhett’s oversized red remote-control car and little Ruby’s dollhouse.
“I still can’t believe how much Roman spoiled them,” Helen said, shaking her head with a faint smile as she hefted the bags.
“Neither can I,” I muttered, though my tone was less amused.
A
