"Miss Ruby, sorry for my son's behavior…" Madame Shades said, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. Her voice was polite, but her expression was strained.
"It's fine, it's fine," Ruby replied, waving her hands dismissively. "I didn't expect anything from him..."
Just then, Butler Ford came down the stairs slowly, holding a one note. He handed it to Madame Shades, who gave him a nod before turning back to Ruby.
"Miss Ruby, here it is. I hope it compensates you," she said with a gentle smile, although Ruby could tell it was practiced.
"Thanks, Madame Shades. It's more than enough," Ruby replied, offering her own polite smile.
Madame Shades then turned to Butler Ford. "Get all the packets of cookies for them and pack them up. We can't let our guests leave empty-handed," she said, her tone overly sweet. Her gaze then shifted to Karl and Adrian. "You're Karl and Adrian, right?" she asked, as if confirming their names for the first time.
