Charlotte's arc (2)

Charlotte stood by the doorway while watching the scene unfold with growing curiosity. She had barely stepped outside to catch her breath when the exchange between the man and woman caught her attention.

“Why are you alone?” the woman asked, her voice sharp but tinged with questions.

“I thought you would be happy to see me,” the man replied.

The woman was clearly upset and raised her voice. “Sebastian Gray! Don’t argue with your mother! I told you that you are not allowed to appear in front of me if you don’t have a wife!”

In the next moment, the woman appeared to lose control, her breathing became shallow and rapid. Panic flashed in her eyes and Charlotte saw the man’s expression shift immediately from frustration to concern.

“Mother!” he exclaimed, rushing to her side.

But the woman waved him off. “Don’t touch me, Sebastian,” she snapped, her voice trembling. “Just go.”

The man’s face fell, and Charlotte could see the guilt and helplessness written all over him. He stood there fo