“E-Ester, I-I can explain,” Lucien stammered, watching my expression shift.
“Alright, explain now!” I demanded, my gaze sharp and unwavering. He opened his mouth, then hesitated, avoiding my stare.
“I-I’m sorry,” he whispered.
“I’m going to castrate you, Lucien Alexander!” I said, voice cold and steady.
Before he could say more, I grabbed his ear and marched him toward the cafe. Rose trailed behind us, trying to intervene, her guilty expression only fueling my resolve.
At the door, I turned to Rose and snapped, “Stay inside, young lady! I’ll deal with this brat first, then it’s your turn—I’ll shave you bald and send you to a convent!”
Rose darted inside, closing the door but peeking out from the glass. For a second, it felt like I was looking at her as a child again, anxious and wide
