"Aunt, you know exactly why I didn't come—so stop being overdramatic," Elira said flatly.
Ailany froze mid-step as she descended the stairs, her smile twitching. She quickly glanced at Lord Haldrin, who was already narrowing his eyes in suspicion. Catching his gaze, Ailany forced a soft smile and extended her arms as if trying to win an award for "Most Loving Stepmother."
"What are you saying, dear? How could I possibly know? I just missed you, that's all. Come, give me a hug."
Elira rolled her eyes.
"Aunt… did you ever show even this much love to your real daughter?"
Haldrin turned sharply toward Ailany, his expression darkening.
Ailany's face twitched, and though she kept her expression sweet, inside her mind she was cursing.
'Tch. This damned brat can't just keep her mouth shut. And why would I ever love that red-eyed demon anyway?'
Haldrin's voice came cold and curious.
