Alina blinked, a little startled. "Oh—uh, I don't want to trouble you, Aunty."
"Nonsense," Aunt Lyla interrupted with a laugh. "This house has more than enough space. You'll stay. Alina, you can sleep in your old room, and Georgia can share with you if she doesn't mind. Mr. Dante can take the guest room next to your old one. It's clean and ready." She looked positively delighted by her own plan.
Dante, who had been quietly sitting by the window, turned his head slightly. His green eyes glinted under the light, calm and unreadable. He didn't say anything right away, just looked at Alina, waiting.
Realizing everyone's eyes were on her, Alina fidgeted, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Umm…sir," she said softly, her voice a little shy, "you can decide. I don't mind going back to the kindergarten or staying here."
Her uncertain tone made Ethan grin, and Aunt Lyla hid her smile behind her hand.
