Grown Minds & Women

Arabella cleared her throat, avoiding eye contact, while the room chuckled quietly. Emberly clapped her hands together. "Speaking of my son's women, where is my favorite daughter-in-law?"

Alera crossed her arms, smirking. "Playing favorites already? Should I start a list of grievances, Mother Emberly?"

Emberly chuckled, raising her hands in mock surrender. "Now, now, I love all of you all the same. But since Alexa's been in a deep slumber, I figured she needed a little more care."

Alera tilted her head, feigning indignation. "Oh, really? When I came back from the labyrinth keeping Pyris alive, I didn't get this so-called extra love."

Emberly nodded, genuinely apologetic. "You're right. That was my mistake, Alera. I'll make it up to you."

Before Alera could reply, a new voice cut through the conversation. "Someone doesn't like being outshined, do they?"