"What a coincidence. I was just out buying groceries. You two go ahead and enjoy your shopping—I’m heading home."
With that, she turned to leave.
"Iris!"
After holding back for so long, Wendel finally called out to her.
She stopped and looked at him, her expression calm.
"Be careful on the way back," he said—just a casual remark, nothing more.
Iris nodded, but her gaze unconsciously lingered on the floral dress in Esther’s hands.
Noticing her look, Esther quickly explained, even before Wendel could speak. "My birthday is coming up in a few days, so Wendel took me out to buy a gift."
Wendel immediately chimed in, "That’s right! And when your birthday comes around, I’ll get you a gift too."
As he said this, his eyes landed on Iris’ worn-out clothes, patched up in several places.
For some reason, a wave of guilt washed over him.
After Iris left, Wendel hesitated for a moment before turning back toward the clothing store.
Esther grabbed his arm, confused. "Brother, didn’t we already buy clothes? Why are you going back in?"
He explained, "Technically, you’re both my younger sisters. I should be fair—I can’t play favorites."