Karl stood at the door to the kitchen now, biting his lip. "So you're going…?" he asked.
She walked over and rested her hand on his cheek, brushing her thumb gently under his eye where it was still puffy. "Yes. Milo needs warm food tonight. He'll feel better knowing we care for him."
Karl nodded, though his bottom lip wobbled a little. "I wanted to come too but… Brother Adi said he'd be late with work, so… I'll stay. Watch the house." He puffed out his chest just a bit, like he was trying to convince himself.
Ruby leaned forward and kissed his forehead softly. "That's good. I need you here, alright? Make sure the doors stay locked, don't open the door for anyone you don't know. You're the guard tonight, my brave one."
Karl sniffed, cheeks turning pink at the praise. "I will. I'll watch the house. I won't let anyone come in…" He tried to smile, and Ruby let out a soft chuckle.
