After finishing breakfast, the family began to disperse, each heading out to their responsibilities for the day.
David adjusted his coat and grabbed his keys from the counter. "I'm off to the teahouse. Let me know if anything comes up," he said, giving a quick wave to everyone before stepping out.
Caroline followed shortly after, clutching her purse as she tied a scarf around her neck. "I'll be at the restaurant if you need me. Don't let Emily bully you too much, Noah," she said with a playful smile before heading out the door.
Noah laughed softly. "No promises."
He then turned to Emily, who was gathering her school bag. The two walked together toward the school gates, Noah's hands holding her tiny hands as they crossed the road.
As they reached the entrance to her school, Noah crouched slightly to meet her eye level. "Alright, Em," he said, ruffling her hair affectionately. "I'll come pick you up after school, okay?"
