Alvin Quick, a small boy of just four years, was diligently scrubbing the floor of the cramped stock room he shared with his older brother, Felix. The room was dimly lit, and the air was thick with the scent of cleaning supplies. Despite the harsh conditions, Alvin found solace in the rhythmic motion of his work, a small escape from the harsh reality of his life.

As he worked, Alvin heard the familiar sound of raised voices coming from the main hall. His heart sank as he recognized the angry tone of his father, Leo Quick. Curiosity and concern got the better of him, and he quietly crept to the doorway, peeking out to see what was happening.

There, in the center of the hall, stood Felix, his face a mask of defiance and pain. Leo was berating him, his voice echoing through the grand room. Felix had been caught in another one of Harold's schemes. Harold, the adopted brother who always seemed to escape punishment, stood off to the side, a smug look on his face.

"Felix, how could you be so careless?" Leo's voice boomed. "You were supposed to buy the cake for Harold's birthday, and now look what you've done!"

Alvin's heart ached for his brother. He knew the truth. It was Harold's birthday, but it was also Felix's. Yet, the celebration was solely for Harold, as if Felix's existence was an inconvenience. The cake, which was supposed to be a simple vanilla, had somehow ended up with mango jam, triggering Harold's severe allergies.

Harold's eyes scanned the room and landed on Alvin. With a malicious grin, he pointed a finger at the small boy. "It was Alvin's fault too! He was with Felix when they bought the cake. They both should be punished!"

Alvin's eyes widened in fear as Leo's gaze shifted to him. "Alvin, come here," Leo commanded. Trembling, Alvin stepped forward, his small frame dwarfed by the imposing figure of his father.

"You two are responsible for this mess," Leo continued. "Harold could have been seriously hurt. You will both be punished."