"That is ludicrous."
Hermione's voice carried over the music with enough force that Esther startled beside her.
Louise's smile widened. She rested one elbow against the edge of the refreshment table.
"And why is it ludicrous?"
"I mean, it is obvious." Hermione crossed her arms. "Look at him. You can tell he does not understand what even means love. Or anything close to it."
"Can you?" Louise asked in return.
Hermione paused.
"What?"
"You sound very certain." Louise tilted her head. "I was wondering where such experience came from."
Hermione's cheeks gained color.
"I know about love."
"Do you?"
"Yes. I love Airam and Esther."
"I love you too, big sister!"
Esther threw both arms around Hermione's left arm. Hermione's expression softened, and she shifted her hand to pat Esther's blond hair.
Airam stood on the other side of them, silent. Her gaze had fixed on Louise intensely.
Louise noticed.
