The courtyard fell into a tense silence, broken only by Charlotte's sharp voice.
"What the bloody hell is wrong with you!?" she snapped, eyes blazing.
Viktor turned to face her, his gaze narrowing. "What's wrong with you?"
"Clearly, nothing," she shot back. "I was having a nice day with a friend before you showed up and ruined everything—including my mood. What are you doing, Viktor?"
Viktor scoffed. "Friend? We both know the Viscount is not friend of yours."
"You have no right to question who I choose to be friends with, Viktor. You've driven away yet another friend of mine. How long do you plan to keep doing this?" She crossed her arms tightly over her chest.
"I actually do have a right to be concerned—because you have good sense when it comes to choosing the people you surround yourself with. If you made an effort to find good, reputable company, maybe I wouldn't have to keep stepping in."
