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Korinnae’s eyes grew wide. “Oh!” She looked down at herself before turning to Ria. “I wonder what I look like!”
“You look human,” Ria said with a smile.
“Do I look like you?”
“If you want to, the glamour can adjust a little.”
“Oh, yeah!” Korinnae gasped. “I want to look like Harin!”
Ismene looked up from arranging another plate of pastries. “From Velvet Harmony?”
“You know them?” Korinnae spun toward her.
“I’ve been listening to them ever since Ria made me watch one of their concerts.”
“They’re the best!”
“I know!”
Within seconds, the two were deep in conversation, debating favorite songs, dance routines, and which member had the best stage outfits.
Ria smiled to herself as she watched the scene unfold. Her mother had always possessed a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, effortlessly drawing them out of their shells within minutes of meeting them. Hearing Korinnae’s carefree laughter, so much brighter than it had been in days, eased a tightness she hadn’t realized she’d been carrying.
Her gaze drifted toward Asterion, curious to see if he’d noticed the change too. He was watching the scene unfold with an expression of disbelief, as though he couldn’t quite believe his niece had found someone else willing to indulge her enthusiasm.
Ria reached for his hand. “C’mon.”
“Where are we going?” He looked down at her.
She answered by giving his hand a gentle tug, and to her surprise, Asterion followed without protest. They slipped out of the kitchen and into the hallway, leaving the lively chatter behind as they wandered into the adjacent living room. The room was empty, its quiet a welcome contrast to the bustling kitchen. Ria turned to face him the moment they were alone.
“You planned this.” He smiled.
“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
“Liar.”
She stepped closer until only a few inches separated them. “I just wanted a little privacy.”
“So that’s what this is.”
“Mmm.”
“Your mother is right there.” He brushed a thumb lightly across her cheek.
“So?”
“She’ll know.”
“She’ll probably pretend she doesn’t.” She laughed softly.
He shook his head, though he was smiling now. “I don’t think that’s how parents work.”
“No?”
“No.”
She rose onto her toes and pressed her lips against his anyway. He gave in almost immediately, his hands settling naturally at her waist as he returned the kiss with the same gentle patience she’d already come to associate with him. It was warm and familiar now, no longer tentative but comfortable, as though they’d already learned the rhythm of one another.
