When Kate entered the room, it was eerily quiet, as if unoccupied.
But upon crossing the threshold, she saw Ivy seated at the desk with her back to the door, head bowed over something, seemingly engrossed.
Kate approached and noticed that Ivy was writing with a pen.
"I'm back," she announced softly.
"Ah!" Ivy exclaimed, startled.
Kate took a half-step back, mirroring her surprise.
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry—you frightened me just now," Ivy apologized repeatedly.
"No need to apologize," Kate glanced at the paper on the desk. "What are you doing?"
"I..." Ivy lowered her head, fingers twisting nervously. "I did something wrong today and am writing an apology."
A flicker of confusion crossed Kate's eyes. "Does your family still make you write apologies?"
"This is for you," Ivy unconsciously pouted, her cheeks puffing slightly, dark eyes darting about, avoiding Kate's gaze.
