"You cannot be serious," Uncle Victor sputtered, his face turning an alarming shade of purple.
Old Mrs. Bennett's weathered hand tightened on her cane. "I am always serious about family obligations."
The tension in the dining room was suffocating. Crystal chandeliers cast harsh light on faces twisted with confusion and rage. Scarlett Hayes stood frozen, her perfectly manicured hands still clenched into fists.
"Mrs. Bennett," she said through gritted teeth, "this man assaulted me."
"So you've mentioned." The old woman's voice remained maddeningly calm. "Several times."
I found myself seated at the far end of the mahogany table. The position felt deliberate. Like being placed in stocks for public humiliation.
Liam slammed his water glass down. "This is ridiculous. He doesn't belong here."
"Where exactly does he belong?" Old Mrs. Bennett asked mildly.
"Anywhere but here!"
Zoey nodded emphatically. "Grandmother's right, Liam. He should be in jail."
