Spice

Before Damon could argue further, Blaise cleared his throat loudly. 

"Madame, the curry is getting cold," he said as he drew everyone's attention back to himself. He scooped a large spoonful of rice and curry on his spoon. "But I hope your kind offer is still on the table, despite the hostilities that have been exchanged between my brother and I." 

"Blaise, you can't be serious! Put down that spoon this instant!" Damon yelled, a note of panic entering his voice as he glared at Blaise, but Blaise ignored him. 

My eyes met Blaise's and he only gave me a soft smile. Through the bond, I detected his attempt at comforting the maelstrom of emotions that whirled within me.

Then he turned his gaze back to my mother, who was smiling at him in delight. 

"Of course it is! You have my word. Simply finish your meal, and I'll let Harper bring you to her room. I'm open-minded enough to not even demand that you keep the door open."