"No…" Karl whimpered, his face contorted in fear as fat tears rolled down his cheeks. "I should've known that if that Louis guy is bad, then his mom must be, too… Ohhh," he cried, clutching Ruby's hand tightly. "I ate expired food! I've eaten two-day-old leftovers before, but I've never felt this sick... Not like today." His tears fell faster as he clung to her for comfort.
Adrian, looking just as miserable, grabbed her other hand, holding on as though she was his last anchor. Ruby sighed, feeling a mix of frustration and sympathy. They shouldn't have let themselves get so caught up in the promise of free food, but she couldn't help but feel sorry for them now, seeing their pale faces and teary eyes. Her annoyance softened, and she let out a reassuring breath.
"Don't worry," she said, giving their hands a gentle squeeze. "I'll take you both to the healer."
