Charlotte’s bright smile faltered, her voice softening into a familiar, hesitant tone as she played her usual card.
“But Chris... my heart’s feeling a little fragile and it’s so cold out here.”
At that, Christopher finally turned to look at her. His piercing, icy stare gradually softened, shifting into the warmth and indulgence Charlotte had come to expect.
He reached up and adjusted her coat, tucking it tighter around her shoulders. His tone was gentle now. “It’s snowing and freezing out here. Go inside and warm up. I’ll wait a little longer.”
Charlotte hesitated before reaching for his hand, but just as she did, Evelyn arrived. She stepped through the gate and into the courtyard, only to find Christopher and Charlotte standing side by side, their attention entirely on one another.
Evelyn quickly lowered her gaze, biting her lip. She said nothing, quickening her pace until she reached the center of the snowy courtyard. There, she dropped to her knees without hesitation, her movement precise and practiced.
This was Christopher’s punishment. Yesterday, after an argument with Charlotte that escalated into harsh words, he had decreed that Evelyn should kneel in the snow for the entire day.