“Thanks,” she said, with a small smile, to both of her siblings. Part of her was still disappointed that it wasn't the boy she wanted, but it didn't matter now and she was just happy that everything seemed to be going well.
Having the subject changed was preferable, too. She didn't want her happiness getting in the way of whatever her siblings were going through. “And anyway, it's not like you'd necessarily have to cook in the compound's cafeteria. Plenty of people have their own little kitchens set up in their rooms.” Most of them were simple and used only for small meals, but it still gave people another means of preparing their own food. “So you could just risk burning the things in your own cell,” she said, putting a little cheerfulness in her voice as a way of teasing him.
Smirking, Leah arched an eyebrow and shook her head. “You're always plotting something against us, Bran-Bran. So the complex you develop is your own damn fault.” Just about the only way she was going to win this game would be because Kori was so terrible at bluffing. Leah wasn't that great at it anymore either, if she was being honest with herself.
It showed in how many cards she accumulated. But she really didn't care. It was all in fun, anyway. When the subject turned to a school, her head canted in interest. Kori's expression told her just how much the younger woman was already thrilled with idea. One corner of Leah's mouth pulled into a smile. “I think it's a great idea, actually. Especially since Mari's at that age now where she'd be starting preschool. It'd be good for her to learn along with the other kids. She won't learn as much if she only has me or Evan teaching her.” Evan was always busy, and she just wasn't smart enough to do something like that.
“I'd like to be there, though, if you guys don't mind. At least for the first couple of classes.” Her gaze dropped sheepishly to the cards in her hand. Maybe that was just the smothering mother part of her talking, but there were still times where she was selfish with Mari's time. Wanting to do everything herself and not let anyone help her.