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“Don’t even think about smirking,” she said.

“I wasn’t.”

“You most definitely were.”

His smile only widened. “I’ve survived warriors, monsters, and gods.”

“Oh, you sweet, naive minotaur.” She shook her head. “You have no idea what my mother is capable of.”

He folded his arms. “She’s that formidable?”

“Mama can convince anyone they’re hungry.”

“I’ve got discipline.”

“Mmm.”

“I do.”

Ria laughed. “Tell yourself that.”

“It’s only a meal,” he said, looking genuinely unconvinced.

She gave him a sympathetic pat on the arm. “That’s what every guest says.”

“And?”

“And twenty minutes later they’re accepting thirds because she somehow convinced them they ‘barely ate anything.’”

“She already gave me another cookie,” Korinnae nodded enthusiastically.

Ria looked at her. “You’ve had three.”

“I have!” The calf sounded delighted by the fact.

Ria looked back at Asterion. “You’ve been warned.”

“I can handle your mother,” he said, meeting her gaze.

She simply smiled. “We’ll see.”

She led the way downstairs, while behind them, Korinnae skipped happily down the hallway.

“If Granny Ismene tries to feed you too much,” she whispered to her uncle, “just say your tummy’s full.”

“I’ll remember that.” He nodded gravely, as though he’d just received vital tactical advice.

“And if that doesn’t work…” she continued thoughtfully, “run.”

That did it. Ria snorted, quickly disguising it as a cough.

“I appreciate the strategy, lass.” His shoulders shook with a laugh.

By the time they reached the kitchen, Ismene was already setting another platter onto the island. “I just finished—” she said.

“Granny!” Korinnae interrupted, tugging enthusiastically on her sleeve. “Can you show me how you make the cheese triangles? Ria said they’re folded differently than the spinach ones!”

“Oh!” Ismene’s attention shifted immediately. “Of course I can. Come here, and I’ll show you.”