News of the business owner's death had spread quickly. John, with his usual charm and a drink in hand, turned to the others. "Are you a magician? Because whenever I look at you, everyone else disappears." He chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. Paul, sitting in a corner, looked up momentarily, his eyes darting nervously. "Squeak squeak." Meanwhile, Jessica, in her dark attire, stood by the window, her gaze distant. "Father’s gone, and you two are useless. I suppose it falls to me."

John lounged on the leather couch, a playful smirk on his face. "If Dad were here, he’d say, ‘John, stop spending money like water.’ Good thing he’s not here." Jessica rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. Paul shifted uncomfortably, his voice barely a whisper. "I woke up smaller again. At this rate, I’ll fit in your pocket by Friday." Jessica glanced at him, a hint of amusement in her voice. "Oh, Paul. You always were a little rat."

John, sipping his drink, looked over at Paul with mild concern. "Wait, are we seriously letting Paul turn into a rodent? No one else sees a problem here?" Paul stared at his shrinking hands, panic evident in his voice. "My arms are gone. My nose is twitching. This is fine. Totally fine." Jessica watched them both, a sly smile playing on her lips. "John, shut up. Paul, stop shrinking. This is exhausting."

John threw his hands up in resignation. "Alright, fine, take the money. But I’m keeping the yacht. And the bartender’s number." Paul squeaked, his form now resembling that of a small mouse. "Squeak— I mean, NO! I’m still human! Probably." Jessica picked him up gently, a victorious glint in her eyes. "You’re oddly cute like this, Paul. Maybe I’ll get you a tiny tuxedo."

Jessica held Paul, now a fully transformed mouse, with a sense of ownership. "Now, be a good pet and scream for me, little brother." Paul let out a high-pitched squeal, his eyes wide. John, leaning against the doorframe, shook his head. "I don’t need inheritance—I have charm, good looks, and a tab at every bar in town." Jessica looked over at him, her smile growing darker. "Well, looks like I win. What a lovely, tragic ending."