Elora could already tell how her younger brothers would turn out. Alonzo would likely grow up to be
bold and ambitious, while Angelo would follow the rules more closely.
Being ambitious wasnât a bad thing, but it was important not to take risks without being sure of the
outcome or get into trouble.
Elora knew she needed to talk to their parents about Alonzoâs education. Even though she was
often busy, she always kept an eye on how he was doing in school because she cared deeply about
his future.
At home, if Alonzo ever misbehaved, the elders would spoil him, avoiding punishment. But when
Elora found out, she wouldnât hold back. Even if he cried or acted spoiled, she would discipline him,
correct his mistakes, and make him write a self-reflection. If the parents, uncles, or aunts tried to
protect him, they would also have to write one.
Eloraâs goal was to prevent the boys from getting into serious trouble in the future. Of course, she
didnât mind harmless mischief. Boys would be boys, after all, as long as they knew right from
wrong.
By instilling good values from an early age, she believed that even the most daring boys wouldnât
cross any lines or do anything harmful or illegal when they grew up.
âElora, Tatum said you can have some soup. He served you a bowl and told you to come inside,â
Mrs. Ormond said as she approached, seeing Elora with her brothers. When the boys heard about
the soup, their eyes lit up. They grabbed Eloraâs hands and said excitedly, âSister, I want soup too!
Brother Tatumâs soup is the best.â
Angelo chimed in, âIâm having dinner at your place today, and I want soup too!â
Whenever Tatum was home, Angelo always had his meals at his uncleâs house. Elora smiled, âDonât
worry, thereâs enough for both of you. Letâs head inside, stop playing in the snow, and warm up with
some hot soup.â
âYay!â Alonzo cheered, letting go of Eloraâs hand and running toward the house.
âAlonzo, slow down! Be careful!â Mrs. Ormond called out, hurrying after him.
Angelo ran after them, as if he might miss out on the soup if he didnât keep up.
Elora laughed, watching her brothers dash off. She glanced at the snow turtles they had made and
admired how well they turned out. She couldnât resist taking a couple of photos.
Though Elora rarely posted on social media, she shared the pictures with the caption: âMy brothersâ
masterpieces.â
Within moments, the post was flooded with likes.
Her phone rang. It was her best friend calling.
âElora, when did you get back? I brought you some souvenirs from my trip. Your mom said you were
away on business, so I didnât want to bother you.â
Elora, walking toward the house, replied, âI just got back today. Iâll be heading back to work this
afternoon. Iâm surprised youâre back! I thought you and your husband would be traveling for years.â
Her best friend, Rosie, had gotten married three months ago and had been on a honeymoon abroad
ever since. Although it was a business marriage, Rosie and her husband had known each other
since childhood and had a close bond. Since neither was the eldest in their families, they didnât
have the pressure of running the family business, so they had plenty of time and money to travel.