"Uncleeeee!!!"
Egypt's voice rang down the hallway as she ran straight toward Alpheus with her arms wide open.
He barely had time to react before she threw her arms around his legs, hugging him tight and looking up with a huge, cheeky grin.
Paris trailed just behind, much quieter and more reserved. She stopped beside him without a word, offering only a small, shy smile.
Alpheus laughed softly and gave both girls a playful ruffle on the head.
"So… were you two good in class today? No causing trouble for your teacher?" he asked, crouching down to their level with a teasing smile.
"Teacher said we were super good today, Uncle! She said it was kinda surprising!" Egypt replied proudly, puffing out her chest like she'd accomplished something big.
Alpheus couldn't help but let out a chuckle.
"She only said that to you," Paris mumbled, folding her arms with a small frown. "Don't drag me into it."
