The thick, polished air of the family room was cut through by the sound of Seraphine’s laugh, perfectly controlled, each note practiced. Their parents smiled, captivated, watching her retell some story about her latest training session. Isla, sitting on the very edge of the sofa, barely let out a breath as she tried to make herself invisible.
“Seraphine has such natural
Across the room, Seraphine tossed her blonde hair back, barely concealing her smirk as she basked in their parents’ praise. Isla’s fingers tightened in her lap, but she kept her head down.
“She trains constantly,” Isla said softly. “Anyone could be good with that much time.”
Her father scoffed. “No, Isla. This takes talent
