Alexander's face darkened instantly, his fingers tightening around the hand fork as his jaw clenched so hard it looked like it might crack. For a moment, he did not speak, his eyes fixed on Chris as if he was deciding whether to slam the tool into his head or the ground.
"Dream on," he said through gritted teeth.
Chris did not look at him, his movements remained calm as he loosened the soil around another flower with careful precision, his fingers moving with familiarity as he lifted the plant without damaging the roots before placing it gently into the bucket.
"You're already asking for help," Chris said calmly. "The least you can do is show some sincerity."
Alexander's grip tightened further before loosening abruptly, as if forcing himself to hold back, his chest rising and falling as he exhaled sharply.
"I'm not asking you," he snapped, even though he clearly was.
Chris finally glanced at him, his brows lifting slightly, though there was no real surprise in his eyes.
