Drake was practically glowing when the plate was placed in front of him. His slice of cake was bigger than his own little hands, and his eyes sparkled brighter than the candles had a moment ago. He dug in at once, cheeks puffed like a chipmunk as he chewed, while Alina stood beside him, trying hard not to laugh.
"Drake," she said softly, shaking her head with that patient teacher-smile of hers. "Don't do that next time. You have to wait for your turn properly."
Crumbs clung to the corner of his mouth as he paused dramatically, holding his fork mid-air. "Teacher," he said with utmost seriousness, his round eyes locked on hers. "You have to believe me… it happened automatically. The cake was calling me. Calling me! And I—I just couldn't resist!" He stuffed another big bite into his mouth before she could scold him again, muffling, "See? It's dangerous magic!"
