Karl’s head whipped toward Milo, his wide eyes narrowing in panic. "Did she say anything to you?"
Milo shrugged and leaned back on his hands. "Not really. But I heard wife mumbling that if Karl can’t recite the alphabet, she’ll make you write it five times."
Karl groaned, rubbing his face. "Great. Just great. Now I have to stay awake."
Milo smirked. "I mean, you could always stay asleep and see what happens."
Karl shot him a glare. "You just want to see me suffer."
Milo grinned cutely. "A little."
Karl sighed heavily, dragging his hand through his hair. "I’ll recite the whole alphabet if it keeps her from giving me that look."
Milo burst into laughter. "That’s probably a good idea."
Milo Went into the kitchen, humming quietly to himself as he peeked over Julian’s shoulder. But before he could get too comfortable, Julian’s hand shot out and gently tugged at Milo’s ear.
"Ow—ow! What was that for?" Milo whined, squirming under Julian’s grip.
Julian arched a brow, not letting go. "Since when did you become so naughty, Milo? Lying to Brother Karl like that."
Milo pouted, trying to wiggle free. "It wasn’t a lie! Wife did see him sleeping. I just... exaggerated a little!"
Julian gave his ear another tug, though he was clearly holding back laughter. "Exaggerating is the same as lying, you troublemaker."
"Owww... okay, okay! I’m sorry!" Milo yelped, rubbing his ear the moment Julian released him. He shot him a pitiful look. "But you know brother Karl didn’t even recite anything. He deserved a little scare!"
Julian sighed but couldn’t argue with that. "You’re not wrong... but don’t make a habit of it."
Finally, he let go of Milo’s ear. Milo rubbed it one last time, pouting dramatically. "It’s hurts..."
Julian’s expression softened, guilt flickering in his eyes. "I’m sorry," he said quietly, pulling Milo into a brief hug.
Milo huffed but leaned into the embrace, clearly not too upset to accept the affection.
"So... what are you making?" Milo mumbled against Julian’s shoulder.
Julian pulled back, shrugging. "Nothing yet. I was thinking of going to the market first. Do you want to come with me?"
Milo’s eyes brightened instantly. "Yes!"
The two of them wandered into the kitchen, peeking into cupboards and checking shelves. Julian frowned as he noted the empty spots.
"We’re low on vegetables, and there’s barely any flour left."
Milo nodded thoughtfully. "Yeah... and we probably need some tea leaves too."
Julian hummed in agreement, mentally taking note of everything.
After their quick kitchen check, Julian and Milo returned to the living room, where Ruby stood by the table.
Julian approached her, and she turned as he held out his hand expectantly. Without hesitation, Ruby placed twelve coins into his palm.
"Thank you, wife," Julian said softly, his fingers closing over the coins.
Ruby gave a small nod. "Make sure you get everything we need."
Julian grabbed the empty bag he had taken from the kitchen earlier and slung it over his shoulder, nodding gently.
As he and Milo made their way to the door, Karl appeared from the hallway, stepping into the living room with his usual lazy stride. His eyes flicked toward them.
Julian raised a brow. "Brother Karl, do you want to come to the market with us?"
"No," Karl replied simply.
Julian shrugged. "Suit yourself."
Milo, already halfway out the door, turned and waved back. "We’ll be back soon!" he called over his shoulder, his voice cheerful.
Ruby watched them leave, standing quietly for a moment before turning her attention back to the fabric.
Ruby carried the fabric over to the sofa, settling down with her legs crossed as she carefully began stitching lace around the sleeves and neckline.
Her fingers moved swiftly, the delicate pink lace blending softly against the dusty rose fabric. She had initially thought about adding a layered belt to the design, but the idea didn’t sit well with her. Instead, she opted for a built-in belt—simple strips of matching fabric attached at the waist, allowing the wearer to tie it from behind for a snug fit.
The robe, meant to be ready-made, wouldn’t require complicated adjustments or layers. It was light, easy to wear, and perfect for the warmer weather. Ruby threaded small golden beads around the neckline, creating a pattern that not only added elegance but functioned as buttons to secure the top.
Once the final stitch was tied off, she stood up and held the robe out in front of her, admiring the finished work.
The dusty rose fabric flowed gently, the golden beads catching the light as they shimmered subtly. The sleeves, adorned with delicate pink floral designs, added just enough detail without being overwhelming.
It wasn’t long or elaborate—Ruby had deliberately kept the design simple to make it comfortable and breathable.
She smiled faintly, pleased with the result.
But as she turned to fold the robe, she nearly jumped back in surprise.
Karl was right there, his face only inches from hers, peering at the robe with intense curiosity.
"What—!" Ruby let out a small yelp, taking a step back. "Karl! Don’t sneak up on me like that!"
Karl blinked, tilting his head innocently. "I wasn’t sneaking. You just weren’t paying attention."
Ruby rolled her eyes. "What do you want?"
His gaze drifted back to the robe in her hands. "Who are you making that for?"
"To sell." Ruby smoothed the fabric, holding it up so he could see it better.
Karl’s eyes lit up. "It looks good. Is it for ghost?"
Karl grinned, leaning forward slightly. "Can I try it on?"
Ruby eyed Karl for a moment, her gaze flickering between him and the robe. His build was lean but not too broad, and after a quick assessment, she realized the robe might actually fit him perfectly.
"Fine," she said, handing it over. "Go try it on."
Karl’s baby blue eyes lit up with excitement as he took the robe from her hands.
"Really? I can try it?" he asked.
Ruby nodded but warned, "Yeah, just don’t rip it."
"I’m not a child, Stu—wife," Karl huffed, crossing his arms as he caught himself mid-sentence. His blue eyes flickered nervously to Ruby, who was already narrowing her gaze at him.
—To be continued...🪄