Chapter 73 - Fading Bonds and Unspoken Words (3)

Looking towards the empty seat surrounding the table, Claire couldn't help but let out a sigh.

"This is my fault, isn't it?" Claire mumbled softly, barely audible.

Ethan heard and lowered his cup to the table, tilting his head slightly. "What do you mean?"

Claire bit her lip, trying to hold back the sudden surge of emotion. "Ever since I got here, Zayn seems to dislike me. And now, Eliza—"

"Do you think she is in trouble because of you?" Ethan interrupted, finishing the sentence that Claire didn't even dare to say.

Claire lowered her head, feeling both embarrassed and anxious. "Maybe. I don't know. But… he seemed angry at her… at us since last night, and now… they just left. Did I really bring them trouble?"

Ethan stared at Claire, longer this time. His eyes held no scorn or mockery as usual. Instead, there was a deep calm, as if he was weighing his words carefully.