Mara's POV
She stood in her private chamber, staring at the table like it had personally offended her judgment. It hadn't. But Selene had, and that was becoming a recurring problem she did not have time for.
Behind her, the door closed with a soft click. Theo had entered without asking for permission. Some people treated boundaries like decorative suggestions.
Mara didn't turn. "If you're here to say 'I told you so,' pick a shorter version."
Theo moved further into the room, unbothered, scanning it like he was quietly noting how much control she still had left in her own space.
"I wasn't aware I had said it yet," he replied.
"That tone counts as a prelude."
"I'll adjust my delivery next time," Theo said.
Mara finally turned slightly, just enough to look at him. "D
