Grandma Josefina suddenly laughed, her voice breaking the thick air of tension.
"Oh, I thought something serious was happening," she said, her tone light but carrying the weight of authority. "What's so curious about this? I know these two children well—they're both intelligent, thoughtful, and they understand me. I'm certain the gifts they've prepared are special. But if we display them here, in front of everyone… wouldn't that be unfair to the both of them?"
Her words were reasonable. It would indeed be unfair to compare two gifts meant to come from the heart.
Louissa moved swiftly, slipping her hand into Arianne's and holding it firmly. "Arianne," she whispered, soft enough for the name to feel like a gentle scolding. Then, turning to Grandma Josefina, she wore a graceful smile.
"You're right, Grandma. It was only Arianne's little idea earlier, but we don't have to compare gifts. She only thought it might be unique to do so, that's all. Please don't be surprised."
