Charles let out a cold, sharp laugh, his eyes dark with indifference. "Falling in love with me was your first mistake," he said, his tone cutting like a blade.
Augustine stiffened, his breath catching in his throat. "Charles… you don't mean that," he murmured, almost pleading but the hollow look in Charles's eyes told him everything—he meant every single word.
"I don't mean that?" Charles scoffed, arching a brow as he took a step back. "I mean every damn word that leaves my mouth. I hate the idea of love! I hate that you think you love me… it's pathetic!" His voice rose with each word, laced with venom.
Before Augustine could respond, Charles turned on his heel and stormed up the stairs, his footsteps echoing through the silent mansion as he disappeared into the bedroom, slamming the door behind him.
