Kayden's mother couldn't help but laugh softly, glancing between the two men. "Ryland," she teased, "are you trying to train Kayden right now, or are you just fighting for your best friend?"
Ryland straightened in his chair, pretending to stay serious even as the corner of his lips twitched. "I'm training him," he replied firmly. "Someone has to remind him of a little respect around here."
Kayden rolled his eyes lightly, mumbling, "Respect, respect… I wasn't even being rude," earning a quiet chuckle from Thaddeus beside him.
His mother smiled knowingly and said, "You both can argue all you want, but I'm just happy to see everyone sitting here together again."
Thaddeus chuckled softly, placing his hand over Kayden's. "It's alright, Ryland," he said calmly, his tone gentle but firm. "He's not being disrespectful. He's just… being himself."
Kayden looked up at him, eyes warm and full of quiet affection. "See?" he said in a low voice, like a small victory.
