"Don't stick your nose where it doesn't belong, Serena."
The argument died almost instantly. Serena had no words left, only anger burning in her eyes as she turned toward her mother, expecting for the familiar defense that had always come without fail. Instead, Mrs. Crestmont turned sharply to her daughter, her voice cutting despite how it had slightly trembled from pressure. "Go to your room now, Serena."
"But—"
"Your mother told you to go," Adalyn interrupted coolly. "Hear her, and leave. Now."
Serena ground her teeth, fury flashing as she shot one last glare at her aunt before spinning on her heel.
Her steps were loud as she stormed up the staircase, and the door to her room slammed shut with a loud thump, the sound echoing through the hall and announcing her departure with childish defiance.
