Negotiate

Marcus had barely settled into the rhythm of their project when Claire reappeared, arms crossed.

"Alex, we're leaving soon."

Alex barely looked up from her notebook. "Leaving where?"

Claire sighed, rubbing her temple. "Your uncle Mitchell called. He and Cam have an announcement, so we're all heading over to their place."

Alex frowned. "Can't I just stay here? We literally just started working."

Claire gave her a look. "No. Family event."

Alex let out a dramatic groan, slumping in her seat. "This better not be some boring adult thing."

Marcus, still twirling a lollipop in his fingers, smirked. "Odds are not in your favor."

Alex shot him a glare before turning back to Claire. "Fine. But Marcus has to come with us."

Claire blinked. "What?"

Alex shrugged. "We have a project. It's due soon. We'll just work on it there."

Claire looked at Marcus, skeptical as ever. "Do you even want to go?"

Marcus leaned back, considering. "Eh. Never been to a family announcement before. Might be fun."

Claire stared at him like she was trying to find an ulterior motive.

Phil, suddenly appearing beside them, clapped his hands. "Oh, let him come! A good ol' Dunphy family outing!"

Claire shot him a look.

Phil immediately backed off. "Or… not my decision."

Claire sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Fine. But no distractions."

Alex smirked in victory. Marcus just grinned, already predicting that "no distractions" was wishful thinking.