I pulled Zelda closer, ignoring her protests, as we made our way outside to where Chang was already waiting with the car. He opened the door swiftly, his expression neutral but efficient. I helped Zelda inside, her hesitation evident, but she didn’t resist.
Once we were seated, Chang brought up the partition, ensuring our privacy, and started driving. The atmosphere in the car was tense, and Zelda immediately shifted to the farthest corner, turning her face to the window, her body rigid with annoyance.
I watched her for a moment, her silence speaking volumes, and then decided to break it.
“Do you have gems?” I asked abruptly.
Her head whipped around, her glare sharp and incredulous. “Gems? You just kissed me, and now you’re asking me if I have gems?”
“Yes,” I replied, unfa
