“Sure thing," Isaac murmured, giving her a gentle pat. "Sleep tight."

Isaac headed downstairs for dinner solo.

Rowena noticed but didn't pry.

But Glenda blurted out, "Didn't Mrs. Johnston come home early today?"

Isaac settled Joe in his seat. "She's been super busy lately, needs some rest. I told her to crash. Let's rustle up some food for when she wakes."

Glenda agreed. "Got it."

Joe piped up. “I want Mom to feed me."

Isaac shot him a look. "You're old enough to handle it."

Joe's bottom lip quivered and his eyes reddened.

Rowena intervened. "Let me help."

Isaac insisted and took Joe away from the table.

When they returned, Joe quietly started eating. No one knew what Isaac had said.

Rowena started to say, "Kids act out, it's normal-"

She cut herself off, realizing she was overstepping her bounds.

Different generations came with different parenting styles. She decided not to interfere.

"Forget it. Let's eat."

Rowena changed the subject.

Around 1 a.m...

Camila stirred awake, unable to doze off again.

Isaac heard her tossing.