Although what had happened earlier had briefly made things awkward, that subtle discomfort gradually faded as everyone finished bathing one after another.
When everyone gathered in the downstairs living room again, the atmosphere had become relatively relaxed once more.
"Dinner's ready."
A clean tablecloth covered the dining table, and Victoria was carrying dishes out of the kitchen one by one, arranging them neatly on it.
Vivian helped set out bowls and chopsticks, while Sylvia, now dressed in loose loungewear, helped fill the soup bowls.
"..."
Lilith stood beside the dining table, her gaze wandering uncertainly.
She stole a glance at Melina, who was sitting in a chair waiting for dinner, and bit her lip. Then, as though she had made up her mind, she picked up a freshly poured cup of hot tea, walked over to Melina, and offered it to her.
"...Here. For you."
Melina paused in mild surprise and looked up at Lilith.
Lilith looked away, the tips of her ears reddening, and spoke awkwardly:
"About what happened earlier... You said it was fine, but I'm not the kind of person who refuses to own up when she's done something wrong, so... I owe you a favor."
Melina accepted the cup and watched the wisps of steam rising from it, a smile touching her lips. "Thank you, Princess Lilith. I'm very happy."
Lilith gave a huff and sat down beside her. Although she said nothing more, the distance between them had clearly narrowed.
Victoria, who was arranging the dishes, couldn't resist teasing them when she saw this. "Oh? Friends already?"
Lilith immediately glared at her. "Wh-who said we're friends?! I'm just-forget it. I can't be bothered explaining it to you!"
Melina, however, picked up the conversation with a smile, turning to Victoria with a sincere, natural tone:
"I'd