Alexander’s expression darkened, his cold demeanor becoming icy. The tension in the room was palpable.
“Ethan!” Sophia scolded, stepping between them. “I’m the one who proposed to him. Don’t blame him for this.”
Alexander calmed down; he watched Ethan with an unreadable expression and finally spoke. “It’s fine. He’s just looking out for you. I understand.”
Catherine’s voice cut through the tension. “Ethan, apologize. Now.”
Ethan hesitated, his jaw tightening. He looked at Alexander and muttered, “I’m sorry.”
Alexander inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment.
An awkward silence followed.
Catherine clapped her hands together, trying to lighten the mood. “Sophia, why don’t you and Ethan go buy a nice fish for dinner? It’s been so long since I’ve had one.”
Sophia hesitated, glanci
