Meanwhile, I got up with a grin. "I'm full. You guys just enjoy your dinner. Hope this little drama didn't spoil your appetite!" With that, I did a turn and walked out.

Delia ground her teeth, her face twisted in frustration. Emerald frowned, clearly displeased, but said nothing, continuing to eat. Across the table Brian watched my retreating figure with amusement. His half-sister wasn't the submissive pushover everyone had thought she would be.

After dinner, Emerald called Delia and Brian into the study. "This Saturday, I intend to throw a banquet in Sofia's honor," she said. "It's about time that she was properly introduced as a part of our family....