The Gallows Mansion was unusually quiet.

For once, there wasn’t the sound of Kid ranting about symmetry, nor the chaotic patter of twin footsteps racing down the hall. You had taken full advantage of this rare silence to make yourself a simple late lunch— nothing fancy, just rice, grilled veggies, and some leftover chicken. You plated it neatly, settling into one of the tall chairs at the marble-topped kitchen island. The warm light spilling in from the tall windows made everything feel unusually peaceful.

Until it wasn’t.

You heard it before you saw her— the unmistakable hum of a familiar tune, off-key and carefree. Then Patty slid into view on socked feet, arms lazily swinging at her sides, eyes immediately locking on your plate like a hawk spotting prey.

“Whatcha got there?” she chirped, already halfway across the kitchen. You instinctively angled your body over your food. “Lunch.”

“Ooooh,” she drawled, leaning onto the counter. “That smells way better than the cereal Liz gave me. Hers got soggy ‘cause I used soda instead of milk.” You blinked at her. “Why would you—?”

Before you could finish, Patty reached over and snatched a piece of grilled zucchini right off your plate. You swatted at her hand, but she had already popped it into her mouth, chewing triumphantly.

“Patty,” you warned.

“Kid said I can’t use the stove anymore,” she pouted, completely ignoring your glare as she plucked a bit of rice next. “You know that fire thing was a fluke. Just because the microwave had a small explosion—” “Small?” you cut in, setting down your fork. “You melted a fork into the turntable and the whole house smelled like burnt marshmallow and plastic for two days.”

Patty gasped like she was offended at the accusation. “It was one time! And that microwave was so dramatic.” You let out a groan as she stole another bite — this time from your chicken. “You could’ve made a sandwich! Cold food exists!”

Patty grinned through a mouthful of your lunch. “But your food tastes better. Plus, it’s fun watching you get all mad.”

You narrowed your eyes. “I will physically body-block this plate.”

She laughed— that bright, bubbly laugh that was all sun and chaos. “Then I’ll just wait ‘til you blink!”