Instead, I studied Bruno with quiet interest.
He'd been holding that deferential posture the entire time, but I caught the calculation in his eyes the moment it flickered.
He thought handing over control of the project would be enough to shut me up?
"You seem very sincere."
I kept my tone light, almost indifferent.
Bruno's expression brightened instantly.
He thought I was letting him off the hook. He bowed his head eagerly. "Yes, Agatha, I truly realize how wrong I was. This authorization letter represents my commitment to you!"
Our parents nodded approvingly from the side of the table.
They'd all been taken in by the performance Bruno was putting on.
"Fine. I'll give you one more chance."
I let the words fall slowly.
Bruno looked overjoyed. Both sets of parents exhaled in visible relief.
What none of them realized was that I wasn't just speaking to Bruno.
I was speaking to all of them.
"Alright, alright, let's put the past behind us."
"To a smooth partnership between our two families!" My father raised his glass.
Everyone broke into smiles, and the atmosphere warmed again.
After dinner, Bruno walked me to the entrance.
"Agatha, let me drive you home."
He reached for my hand as he spoke.