Questioning Mrs. Mendoza in that way was not one of the things Elise had on Elise's to-do list for that day.

But when it happened, it was beyond her control.

Her brows were creased as she stared at Tia Mendoza for a response.

Mrs. Mendoza turned her head lazily, as though surprised her words had caused a stir. For a beat, she said nothing, letting the weight of the moment hang.

Elise’s brows knit tighter, her pulse loud in her ears. She couldn’t tell if the woman had been serious or if she was playing one of her cruel little games.

Alejandro straightened beside her, his hand tightening over hers....