Uno's smile didn't falter at Elias's accusation. If anything, it grew proud, the way an elder relative might look when blamed for traits he was secretly delighted to see passed on.
"I assure you," Uno said, "your daughter's brilliance is entirely her own."
Aria preened at the word "brilliance" and immediately released another glittering pulse of ether that floated toward the ceiling tiles like a firefly made of pure hazard.
Elias pointed sharply. "That. That right there. She does that because of you."
Uno blinked. "Of course she does. I'm her uncle."
Victor nearly dropped Otis.
"You are NOT," Victor snapped on reflex. "You are not family. You are not a friend. You are not even… even…"
Uno raised a brow, entirely serene. "I attend every birthday."
Elias did not look up from his spreadsheet. "He does."
"I bring gifts," Uno added, his blue eyes shining with entertainment.
Victor glared. "You brought a meteor."
"A small one," Uno corrected gently. "Perfect for a child."
