"...Mother. I see you've arrived via... helicopter. Again."
Rafaela swept the room with a look that would have made ancient queens feel underdressed. "Helicopters are punctual. Unlike your scandal."
PomPom, nestled in her crook like a furry warhead, yapped once—sharply, judgmentally. The dog was dressed in a crystal-studded harness that probably cost more than Zach's entire wardrobe.
"Is the dog wearing Louboutin?" Zach whispered, squinting at the tiny red soles on PomPom's booties.
"Limited edition," Shen murmured. "She got them before Beyoncé."
Rafaela's gaze turned to Shen like a laser beam. "Mr. Wang. Still loitering around my daughter like an ambitious raccoon near a diamond trash can, I see."
Shen bowed slightly, unfazed. "Raccoons are resourceful, Mrs. Summers. And very good with locks."
Rafaela's sunglasses lowered just enough to reveal one perfectly arched brow. "Mm."
She turned to Zach. "And you. The temporary husband."
