The Beginning Of All Sins

“Olivia? This is Maddie Zimmers,” Claude continued his introduction.

“Hi, Ms. Maddie. I’m Olivia.”

“Oh. Hi.” Maddie quickly glanced away.

Olivia felt embarrassed, especially since she and Sophie had kind of butted into what seemed like a private conversation. Sophie seemed oblivious, though, and complained, “I can’t believe you didn’t tell me about this!!

Ignoring Sophie, Claude turned to Maddie, asking, “Do you want some tea?”

“Thanks. I’m a bit thirsty,” Maddie replied.

Claude poured her a cup and then turned to Olivia. “And what about you? It’s been hot lately,”

He poured another cup for Olivia before she could even respond. “T–Thanks,” she said sheepishly.

The menu arrived, and Claude handed it to Olivia. “Take a look. You and Sophie can choose whatever you like.”

Maddie’s expression soured, and she stared at Claude in disbelief.

“What’s wrong?” Claude asked.

Maddie clenched her fists. As a young lady from a rich family, she was clearly unused to being ignored. “…Nothing,” she said through gritted teeth.

Olivia was surprised to be the first to get the menu, so she passed it to Maddie. “You should order first, Ms. Maddie. We can

wait.”

Maddie stood up abruptly. “And what am I supposed to order? Your favorite food? Your favorite drink?

Olivia and Sophie were stunned, and Claude’s expression darkened. “What’s going on?” he demanded.

“Why don’t you tell me?” Maddie snapped, pointing at Olivia. “Who is she?”

“I told you, my friend.”

“Why did you give her the menu first?”

“Because she’s our guest,” Claude replied.

“Then who the hell am I supposed to be?!” This belongs to NôvelDrama.Org: ©.

Claude’s eyes turned cold.

“You know what? Fine! I’m done. I don’t want to eat with any of you. At all!” As she stormed off, she knocked over the tea, spilling it toward Olivia. Sophie yelped.

Chanter tob

Olivia stood up quickly, but the tea had already soaked into her clothes.

Claude grabbed Maddie’s wrist. There was no hint of a smile on his face. “What are you doing?!”

“No, what are you doing?! You’re on her side now?!”

He released her and moved to Olivia’s side. “Are you okay?”

Sophie observed her brother’s unexpectedly caring behavior and pondered silently.