The sudden roar from the doorway cut through the room like a knife. “You brainless puppet!” Bjorn’s voice thundered, causing heads to turn and the air to tense. Alora’s body went rigid, her eyes widening in fear as she clung tightly to Ivan, who instinctively pulled her closer.
Bjorn stormed in, his face twisted in anger as he strode toward her, his eyes ablaze. “You almost gave me a heart attack!” he shouted, his tone sharp and accusing.
Ivan remained calm, but his eyes darkened as he released Alora and faced his nephew. “This is your fault, Bjorn,” he said sternly. “Why did you leave her alone? You know you must always keep an eye on her. If she hides, she doesn’t make a sound.” His voice was measured but heavy with disappointment.
Bjorn’s lips curled into a scowl. “Do I look like her
