Silas then gestured toward Vlad and spoke proudly,
"This is Vlad. One of my best friends from college."
Hearing that, Raya tilted her head slightly.
Helena followed Silas's gaze and looked at Raya with curiosity. "And her?"
Vlad smiled and placed a gentle hand on Raya's shoulder. "She's my younger sister."
Helena nodded in understanding, her smile widening. She lifted the tray slightly and said cheerfully,
"Since you're here, you should try some cookies. I made them myself, suited to young people's tastes."
Raya shook her head immediately. "I don't want to eat."
Her tone was polite but distant. "I don't take food that belongs to others."
As she spoke, her eyes lingered on Silas for just a moment, sharp and meaningful, as if silently conveying something only he was meant to understand.
Before the tension could grow, Vlad caught the hint and laughed softly.
"Raya always knew how to joke," he said smoothly. "Just like back then."
