ROMAN'S POV

“Anyways, to recover from all the stress Aria gave me today, I got some nice steak and Italian rice, not just for me alone, I got for you guys too,” Tessa said slowly, carefully bringing out a small plate from the takeout bags. She placed it on the coffee table with care, her movements deliberate, as if she wanted to make sure everyone noticed her effort.

  “Nah, we’re good. We’re having a nice little dinner tonight, so I don’t wanna fill myself up before then,” Lauren said calmly, shaking her head with that serene, composed smile. Her tone was polite but firm, leaving no room for argument.

  “It’s...