Bella raised an eyebrow. “If that’s what you call conversation, I’d hate to see what you consider an insult.”
The murmurs around them grew louder, but Bella remained unfazed. She held Carmen’s gaze for a long moment, silently daring her to continue the confrontation.
But Carmen seemed to realize she’d already lost this round. With a huff, she picked up her teacup and turned her attention elsewhere, muttering something under her breath.
Bella relaxed slightly, but she remained composed, refusing to let Carmen’s behavior affect her further. Candice, who had been seated nearby, leaned over with a small smile.
“Remind me not to get on your bad side,” Candice whispered, her tone light but genuinely impressed.
Bella managed a small smile in return. “I’m not looking for enemies, Candice. But
