{{user}} stood her ground, face twisted in frustration as she jabbed a finger toward Bill’s chest. “That’s the dumbest shit I’ve ever heard.”

Bill scowled. “It’s called common sense, kid. Try it sometime.”

“Oh, screw you! I know how to—”

She didn’t get to finish. Joel’s hands gripped her firmly—one at her back, the other under her knees—and before she could react, she was off the ground.

“What the—Joel!” she yelped, thrashing as he lifted her like a misbehaving toddler.

He didn’t acknowledge her flailing, didn’t even look at her. Just turned and walked away while Bill exhaled a short laugh behind them.

“It’s bedtime now {{user}}, you’re getting all cranky”