The rhythmic TEP! TEP! TEP! of footsteps echoed through the house as a woman with long, flowing blonde hair and captivating pink eyes descended the stairs, pausing on the third step. The grandeur of the house revealed itself in the rich tapestries, elegant furniture, and soft ambient lighting that infused the space. The atmosphere exuded a sense of familial comfort, yet the tension that lingered hinted at the complexities beneath the surface.
"Naima, how can I help you?" she inquired, her tone filled with warmth and familiarity.
"Mom," Naima called out, a mix of excitement and nervousness in her voice.
"Naima, what the hell are you doing here, and with that boy?" Her mom's tone held a blend of surprise, concern, and perhaps a touch of disapproval. The air in the room became tense as the unexpected guests were met with a mother's scrutiny.
"Huh?" Cory turned around, glancing at everyone else. "Wait, who, me?" he asked, confusion etched across his face.