Chapter 11

Elena’s POV “Hi!” I greeted, trying to steady my voice and compose myself, but Bella didn’t even look at me. She brushed past me with a flick of her wrist, cat-walking into the room like she owned the place. I followed, my eyes fixed on her as she strode to the dining table, scanning the dishes with a sharp, critical gaze. “Where’s my brother?” she asked still without sparing me a glance. “He’s still at work, but he should be back soon,” I answered calmly, keeping my tone steady despite the irritation rising in me. Her eyes landed on the desserts, lingering as if searching for flaws. I stepped forward. “This is the apple tart, and that one is the chocolate mousse.” She picked up my tart, spinning it between her fingers. “Apple tart? This doesn’t look like an apple tart to me,” she said, her voice sharp with disdain. Then, without warning, she stabbed the fork into it, dissecting the middle like she was hunting for a secret. “Oh, please stop it!” I snapped, my hands trembling with anger