After wrapping up his conversations, Tristan made his way over to Nova. His gaze briefly flickered toward the group of ladies who had been gossiping about her behind her back.

With a calm smile, he asked, "So, what delicious treats did you manage to snag?"

Nova held up her plate with an innocent grin. "Just some cakes—probably not your thing."

Tristan frowned slightly, eyeing the sugary confections. He wasn't a fan of overly sweet desserts, rarely indulging in cakes or ...