The restaurant Aria had chosen, with its hushed whispers and stark white tablecloths, felt worlds away from the cozy, family-run spots Lilith adored. Sam, though wealth was no concern, felt a pang of unease. He was accustomed to simpler pleasures, to the warmth of a family-run trattoria over the sterile elegance of this place. He pushed down the unfamiliar prickle of discomfort, determined to enjoy the evening with his sister. After all, he was trying to understand her, to appreciate her, despite the unwelcome intrusion of Daniel earlier that morning.
Aria, resting her head on her crossed fingers, smiled. "So, I would like to know what you thought your big sis would be like, given that you were a bit hesitant to spend a few moments with me."
Sam was taken aback. He'd expected the usual
