The clinking of cutlery faded as curiosity sharpened the air around the table.

Ink leaned back slightly, a playful glint in his eyes. “Do you mind introducing us to this pretty lady?” he asked, though the smirk tugging at his lips suggested he already knew exactly what he was doing.

Before anyone else could respond, Calvin replied smoothly, a faint smile playing on his lips.

“She’s Fairy—” he paused, letting out a soft chuckle as he corrected himself, “I mean, Cleo. Miranda and Raison’s daughter and the woman I love.”

The confession dropped like a stone into still water.

“You couldn’t even add that she’s my friend, Really? Colder,” Katie...