Bella's heart skipped. "L-Leo?"
"Yes, Nardo," Victoria said with a faint smile. "My serious boy, always frowning. He pretends to be made of stone, but he has one weakness he never grew out of. He hates being ignored. As a child, if I turned my back and praised Jay instead, he would scowl for hours, stomping around until I gave him attention again. If he annoys you, just ignore him for a while. Watch how long he lasts before dragging you back to look at him."
Bella's lips curved, her cheeks turning pink. "That… actually works," she admitted in a small voice.
Victoria's sharp eyes softened, but a playful glint danced in them. "Well then, if he makes you upset somehow, just ignore him. That boy was never able to bear being ignored by anyone he cared for, least of all someone he likes."
Bella's breath caught, her lashes fluttering as she lowered her gaze. She nodded quickly, but her heart was already beating faster.
