"I suppose we will find out," Mrs. Hayes replies, her smile unwavering but entirely devoid of warmth. "As long as the food is reasonably palatable, I am satisfied. There is no need to overstate these things."
At the head of the table, Mr. Hayes focuses entirely on his tea, offering no vocal support but equally no correction.
Vivian, however, seizes the manufactured opening immediately.
Leaning forward slightly, she addresses Luna with the bright, oblivious enthusiasm of someone executing a flawless performance. "Miss Quinn, you absolutely must allow me to take you to our favorite spot the next time you're in Reston. You would simply adore it."
"Vivian," Julian says sharply, his voice dropping an octave. "That is enough."
"Julian, please," his mother chides softly, shaking her head wit
