Mid-way, her words came out smudged as Wynona realized what she was trying to do and quickly placed a hand over her mouth.
Flashing forceful smiles at everyone watching, she pulled her daughter away from the scene, murmuring consolingly.
"Don't do it. Dahlia may have won the war, but she'll lose the battle and that can only happen when we find a more strategic and effective way to deliver the blow."
Maya gritted her teeth, her eyes pinned on the people who had begun buttering up to Dahlia.
Unaware of what was happening, Dahlia accepted the numerous contact cards being handed to her, unsure of what to do with them.
Wynona and Maya said nothing else for the rest of the party, and so the night passed smoothly for Dahlia.
Once it struck nine, she stood to leave.
Surprised, Malachi rose and followed after her.
"Where are you going? It's still too early to head home."
She didn't stop, only quickened her steps as she replied, "I have people waiting for me at home."
