"Oh, my dear, be careful. Don't jump down the stairs like that," Lisa called, stepping closer to the bottom of the staircase as Julie descended.
Julie slowed, one hand lightly brushing along the polished banister. The faint sound of her slippers against the steps echoed through the quiet hallway.
"I wasn't jumping," she protested, reaching the last step. "I was just descending quickly because I didn't want you to wait for me before eating."
She stepped onto the floor and came to a stop directly in front of Lisa, her lips curving into a soft smile.
Lisa's eyes immediately swept over her from head to toe, as though checking to make sure she hadn't missed a single step.
"Yes, my dear, but from now on, I think you're going to be late for breakfast, lunch, or dinner," Lisa said, gently taking Julie's hand in hers.
Julie's brows drew together, and a small frown settled between them. "What do you mean, I'll be late all the time?"
