Madam Monika’s room was quiet except for the soft ticking of the clock on the wall. She sat up in bed, a pillow behind her back, while Philip and Hunter sat in the two chairs beside her. Both brothers looked tired after what had happened earlier at the dining table.

Madam Monika took a deep breath. “No matter how many times I tell you two to stop fighting,” she said slowly, “you never listen to an old woman.”

Philip lowered his head. Hunter crossed his arms and looked away.

She sighed. “So, I guess it’s time I try a new tactic. Maybe you two must battle it out properly to...