Plans Within Plans

"Alright, stop crying. I'm fine. Mr. Nelson came down and rescued me later!"

Ella naturally wouldn't broadcast last night's events. Eric just smiled lightly, "Come on, my dear, you must be starving. Let's catch up over breakfast."

He grabbed her hand and walked briskly towards Charles. Chloe stood there, Eric's words echoing in her mind—my dear?

Huh, why did those words sound so awkward?

Ella sat across from Charles, her eyes full of concern. "Charles, I'm sorry. You got hurt because of me…"

Charles had a thick bandage wrapped around his forehead, a swollen face, and several bruises on his hands, which made Ella's heart ache.

This kind and gentle man shouldn't have been dragged into this.

"It's okay, I'm still alive, aren't I? Ella, are you really alright?" Charles's probing gaze landed on Eric.