Upon hearing what Oliver just said, Cora was immediately taken aback. Her lips parted slightly, and her brows drew together in alarm. She blinked twice. Did he just say that out loud?
Yes, she had told him it was okay to greet her father. Yes, she had even suggested he be polite and not just stand there like a statue. But this? This was beyond what she expected. Presenting a gift? In front of everyone?
Her heart skipped a beat, It wasn't that Oliver meant harm he was trying to be respectful, kind, thoughtful even. But she had warned him. She had said it more than once: Her father was a very, very picky man. One who didn't smile at thoughtful gestures unless they came wrapped in the exact brand, the exact taste, and the exact price range that pleased him. A man who once returned a brand-new wristwatch simply because the leather strap was two shades lighter than what he liked.
