Christopher didn’t glance up, his focus fixed on the tablet in his hands. A faint, almost imperceptible smile played on his lips as he replied,“The venue for my wedding with Evelyn. She’s always loved traditional weddings, so I’m trying to find the perfect place.”
Charlotte’s hand froze mid-air, the casual grace of her movement faltering. A wave of bitterness surged in her chest as she forced herself to sit down beside him. Her tone was measured, but there was a sharpness to her words, “Do you really think someone from a background like hers deserves such a grand venue? Brother Chris, I think a simpler one would be just fine.”
Her words lingered in the air like a thin veil of smoke, but Christopher’s reaction was immediate.
His gaze snapped to hers, sharp and unyielding. The weight of his stare was oppressive, making Charlotte’s heart sink.
“Her background?” he repeated, his voice cold and cutting. “And what about yours? Do you think you’re somehow above her?”
The chill in his tone deepened. “Three years abroad and you’ve come back with prejudice? I thought you were better than that.”
A bead of sweat formed on Charlotte’s temple as she realized she’d misstep. She knew Christopher well enough to recognize the subtle shifts in his temper—this wasn’t something he would easily overlook.
Pasting on a strained smile, she quickly backpedaled, “That’s not what I meant, Brother Chris. I only meant that... maybe I could help? I know women best, after all. I could make sure Evelyn’s dream wedding is exactly what she wants. It’d be a nice surprise.”
Christopher studied her for a long moment, the ice in his eyes thawing just slightly. Finally, he gave a small nod. “Fine. I’ll leave it to you. But use this chance to build a better relationship with her. Evelyn is your future sister-in-law and the two of you shouldn’t be at odds all the time. It makes things... difficult for me.”
Charlotte’s nails dug into the palm of her hand, but her smile remained intact.
“Got it,” she said, her voice dripping with false enthusiasm. “I’ll take care of it.”
***
Evelyn returned home late that evening, her body trembling from hours spent in the snow.