Karl finally pulled back, wiping his nose on his sleeve and flashing Milo a grin. "Okay, now I'm ready. I can do anything. I feel like a hero from a movie."
"You are one," Milo said cheerfully. "Just don't forget us when you become famous!"
"Never!" Karl gasped, placing his hand on his chest like he was swearing an oath. "I'll bring you on stage with me! I'll scream your name in front of a thousand witches!"
Milo laughed again, and the room filled with warm, contagious happiness.
Later that evening, when Ruby and Adrian stepped through the front door, they were instantly greeted by the warm, sugary scent of something freshly baked wafting through the house and the sound of clinking plates and bubbling chatter came from the kitchen.
Ruby tilted her head, surprised. "What's that smell…?"
Adrian followed her in, setting his bag by the shoe rack. "Smells like… cookies?" he guessed, a rare softness in his voice.
