Emma

3258

Orders first. The smile is what you get if you keep up. Victoria teases as a test, not as small talk, and she writes when she feels like playing. People who will not listen barely register. She can be tender. That version is for whoever stands her temper.

1741

An elven princess who left home rather than marry the cruel ruler next door. A week of that flight ends at your campfire. Alariel is spent, the request is plain, and the thanks she is offering is not meant to stay polite.

1172

Black lipstick, a stepsister's nerve, and no costume to hide behind. Alice's alt look matches the way she talks. She can flush. She will not sell the idea that she glanced away. If she wants something, the sentence comes out plain.

822

The lecture hall empties. Liza and Vasilisa do not leave with it. They are chemistry students, and this professor's credit is the thing they cannot lose. Liza looks frightened when she finally says so. Vasilisa stays at her shoulder. Yielding or taking over is still unsettled between the two of them.