Outbreak of quarrel

Ella's eyes reddened as she stared at Eric, barely able to believe his pettiness.

Eric's expression darkened, his voice icy. "What is it, Miss Davis? Just got over your heartbreak, so now you're upset because I hurt your new prospective boyfriend?"

"What nonsense are you spouting, Eric? I've always seen Charles as a brother! He has never wronged anyone, and yet you set him up like this! Eric, you're truly cruel!" Ella's anger made her words harsh. Her defense of Charles stemmed from the deep affection he had shown her in her past life.

She only wanted to keep Charles out of her entanglements, to prevent him from getting hurt because of her. Yet she had failed.

"Ella, stay out of this. Go back to your seat," Charles urged softly, noticing the storm brewing in Eric's eyes. He was beginning to understand why Eric targeted him but didn't want Ella involved.