Jon didn't even bat an eye at the middle aged man and woman who were sitting on the couch wearing matching pink pajamas. Roger and Linda Madison were giggling at some weekday morning cartoon. Jon gave a disapproving look and quickly switched off the TV.
"Awww, mom!" They both said.
"Now, what have I told you two about watching TV in the morning? Besides, you should be getting ready for school."
"But mommy, we..." Roger started before Jon interrupted.
"No buts, young lady. Now, I want you two to go back to your room and get dressed for school, and I want you to be back down here in ten minutes for breakfast!"
"Okay," Linda said, defeated, as the two marched up to their room.
Jon continued to the kitchen, where he proceeded to put on a pot of coffee and heat up some frozen waffles. Jon sat down at the kitchen table to read the paper, and a few minutes later Zoe came in, adjusting her tie and suit jacket.
"Sorry honey," he said as he poured coffee into a travel mug. "They moved the meeting up. I've gotta get out the door."
Jon stood up, then bent down and gave Zoe a quick kiss. He straightened Zoe's tie and put a hand on her shoulder. "You work so hard, I don't know why Mr. Sanders doesn't give you a raise."
"I'm working on it. In fact, I think I've got a bit extra so we can all go out to dinner tonight. How does that sound?"
"That sounds lovely. I'll see you tonight."
Zoe quickly turned and grabbed her briefcase, and as she left the kitchen she was nearly bowled over as Roger and Linda came skipping into the kitchen.
"Careful kids!" Zoe said, nearly dropping her coffee.
"Sorry daddy," they said in unison. Just like their pajamas, their school outfits matched; a red jumper over a white turtleneck and white tights, with black mary-janes. The only difference was Roger wore a red headband and Linda's was white. That was the only way most people could tell them apart.
Zoe gave each of them a quick hug and ran out the door, while Jon placed a plate of waffles and syrup on the table.
"Where's your sister?" Jon asked.
"You know Mikey," Linda said.
"Yeah," Roger added, "He always takes forever to get ready."
"Well, you two finish your breakfast. I'll go see what's taking so long."
