Alexander's POV:

Nina licks cream off her finger. Laughs at something I didn't hear.

"This is delicious. You have to try it."

She offers me the plate. I take a piece. Taste nothing.

Anthony paces. Restless. 'Something's wrong.'

"Alexander? Are you listening?"

"Sorry. What?"

"I said thank you. For today. For helping me find the perfect gifts." She touches my arm. "Your parents are going to love what we picked."

'I should never have agreed to ...