"Oops… okay," Raya said lightly, tilting her head as she met Alessia's gaze without flinching, "let's say I don't like your gift."
Her lips curved faintly.
Not apologetic, not polite.
Just honest.
And the look in her eyes finished the sentence clearly enough...
What will you do about it?
The dining table stiffened.
"Seraphina," Derek said quickly, his voice low but firm, stepping in before the tension could sharpen any further, "don't be rude."
He shot her a warning look, the kind meant to remind her of where she was, whose table she was sitting at, and how thin the ice beneath her feet already was.
Raya didn't look at him.
She didn't bother to.
"I understand," Alessia said calmly, her voice smooth and composed as she remained seated, fingers resting lightly against the edge of the table, "...that not every gift will suit everyone's taste."
