The butler gave her a reluctant glance, but Rosetta nodded and he complied. Sierra immediately noticed her presence, so she quickly changed her demeanor, standing up with a soft smile, far from the arrogant tone she had just used.
"Morning, Rosetta."
Rosetta skillfully avoided her extended hand without any expression on her face. "There's no need to act familiar. We're not close enough to hold hands when we talk."
The merciless words made Sierra froze briefly, but she recovered quickly. "Rosetta, are you upset with me? I only thought the decor didn't suit the living room's style. I didn't mean anything by it."
Watching her feigned innocence, Rosetta found herself growing weary of the pretense. "It's just us here now. No need to act like this. You're happy enough being allowed to stay here, aren't you?"
"Of course, I'm so happy to live here with you, Rosetta."
"Let's not kid ourselves, okay? You would prefer if I moved out and made room for you in this house."
"Will you, then?" Sierra's tone was almost innocent as she tilted her head and widened her eyes.
Rosetta looked at her for a moment, unable to suppress a wry smile. "Maybe I have underestimated you."