Alice’s POV
I instinctively scooted away from Sam, stealing a glance at Salone, then back at him. Her expression was unreadable—too calm, too composed, like someone trying very hard not to crack.
Sam gave a small, charming smile, like he was trying to ease the thick tension in the room.
“Have you ladies eaten? Should I order something?” he asked, casually but kindly.
Before I could politely decline, Salone interjected a little too quickly.
“No, we haven’t. I’ve really stressed Alice today—dragged her around the whole mall.”
I blinked, turning to her in surprise. Just minutes ago, she looked like she wanted to set me on fire with her eyes. Now she was… making conversation?
Sam turned to me with a mock-sympathetic frown. “I know how picky my Salone is. Getting the right shade of anyth
