Danielle ignored Raffy's dinner order completely.
She had her own work to get through that evening.
As for breakfast and dinner, Julia handled those; Danielle didn't know how to cook.
Danielle kept silent, and eventually Raffy gave up trying to get her attention.
But when they reached the bedroom door, Danielle entered the new code she remembered setting last time—only for the lock to flash: Incorrect code.
She let out a dry, humorless laugh.
Really? They change the code every single time someone figures it out?
Without a word, Raffy stepped up and punched in another set of numbers with practiced ease. The door unlocked with a soft click.
Danielle blinked, surprised.
So they'd switched it back to the old code?
She couldn't begin to understand their logic.
Honestly, it was like trying to reason with lunatics.
Still, her mind was elsewhere. She told Niki and Raffy to get started on their homework.
Niki discovered her old desk had been piled high with junk and toys.
Raffy looked at her and declared, "You don't even belong here. All this stuff is mine now."
Niki paused, lips pressed together.
She lowered her gaze, unwilling to argue. After all these years, she was used to it.
Turning away, she headed for the coffee table, deciding she'd just do her homework there.
But Raffy blocked her path. "That space is mine too. Go do your homework on the floor."
"Dad and Mom said this house belongs to me—not you, and definitely not that stepmom of yours."
Niki's eyes filled with tears.
Raffy pressed on, "But if you help me with my homework, I might let you use my desk."
"Your homework is your own responsibility," Niki replied quietly. "You should do it yourself."
But Raffy was determined to push her out, making sure she had nowhere to settle.
Just then, Danielle emerged from the study, her brow calm and steady. "Niki, come do your homework in here."
Niki clutched her books and hurried over.
Raffy watched her run straight into Danielle's arms.
Danielle smiled, scooping Niki up, smoothing her hair, and murmuring comfort.
Raffy twisted his mouth in annoyance.
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