Noah walked over and bowed his head slightly in an uncharacteristic display of humility. "Forgive me, Elara. I won't do that again."
Elara sniffled, wiping her eyes. "Brother lies."
Noah lifted his head, his expression earnest. "I'm not lying. I actually thought yellow would have suited it better. The black paint just hid your art."
Elara's gaze sharpened, the violet in her eyes intensifying. "Daddy always likes it. He told me to paint whatever I desire."
"Fine, do what you desire, but don't bother me when I'm playing games with my brothers," Noah relented, clearly trying to salvage the peace. "I apologize, and I won't repeat it. Just don't cry like that. All our cousins are out looking for you, and we're all worried."
He stepped closer, his demeanor softening. Gabriel watched the exchange, his gaze shifting back and forth between his children, noting the subtle shift in the room's tension.
