As they descended in the elevator to the lobby, Kendell's demeanor swiftly shifted from warm and apologetic to reserved and uneasy. Initially dismissing it as a strained relationship with Michaela, Joana tried not to dwell on it. With Michaela by her side, Joana felt assured that Kendell wouldn't attempt anything untoward.
It seemed unlikely that Kendell would instigate any conflict or pranks with a child present. It almost felt as though Michaela sensed this dynamic, prompting her ardent desire to accompany them. Yet, Joana dismissed these thoughts; Michaela, being only eight years old, likely wished to join them for the promise of fun. After the incident where she felt excluded when Elijah and Joana went out without her, Joana didn't want to risk disappointing her again.
Kendell had he
