Mike and the children had their ears glued to the door of the master bedroom and were eavesdropping.

Avery's loud roar earlier lured them over.

Moments later, the door opened without warning.

Mike almost fell into Avery's embrace.

Avery stared at them in bewilderment and said, "What are you guys doing?"

"Who were you fighting with, Mommy?" Layla asked as she looked up at Avery. Her innocent eyes were filled with curiosity. "Was it Dirtbag Dad?"

"Your mother turns a little feral in front of him and her enemies," Mike teased. "Otherwise, she's a perfect lady."

"Oh, so Dirtbag Dad's Mommy's enemy."

Layla was on point.

Avery felt a throbbing pain in her temples.

She walked out of her room and went downstairs.

"There's dinner for you in the kitchen, Avery!" Mike said to her back.

"Okay."

"I'll help the kids wash up. Let's talk after you eat," Mike continued.

With one hand on the banister, Avery turned her head and asked in confusion, "What's there to talk about? Why can't you