The morning sun filtered gently through the tall windows of the mansion, warming the quiet halls with soft golden light. Outside, birds chirped lazily in the trees surrounding the property, and the distant hum of the city felt miles away.
It was the kind of peaceful morning that made the mansion feel less like a fortress and more like a home.
Matthew stood near the front door adjusting the sleeves of his shirt while Vinny moved around the living room collecting things into a picnic basket.
Blankets.
Sandwiches.
Fruit.
Juice boxes for Lily.
"Did you pack the cookies?" Vinny asked without looking up.
Matthew lifted a small container.
"Yes."
Vinny narrowed his eyes.
"Did you eat any?"
Matthew paused.
Vinny gasped dramatically.
"You ate them."
"I tasted one."
"There were twelve."
"There are eleven now."
Vinny sighed heavily.
"You're a criminal."
Matthew smirked faintly.
Lily ran across the room holding her stuffed rabbit like it was a trophy.
"I bring bunny!"
