Manipulator?

"Oh! Yeah, Rudy, do you have plans for today?" Joe asked calmly. "I just wanted to spend some time with Lucy and Rudy. But… Lucy has plans?"

Joe turned to Lucy and asked, "I heard you were talking about going somewhere. Is that today?"

"Yes."

"Where are you going?" Joe asked.

"I am not sure, really. My friends will be arranging that."

"Did you ask Rebecca's permission before making plans like that?" Joe asked sincerely.

"No…."

"You should have. She is your mother, and she deserves to know where you go."

"I was going to tell her before leaving. I already told Rudy."

"What would Rudy do? I am sure he himself takes Rebecca's permission before doing anything."

"Oh, I wish that was true," Rebecca remarked while shooting a glare at Rudy.

"It's fine, Joe. The kids are in their rebellious phase. If you try to discipline them at this age, they will end up being more distant from you. It's best if you leave them be."