Jake had been watching Charlotte closely, his concern growing as she sat silently, her emotions hidden behind a blank expression. He finally pulled her gently onto his lap, wrapping his arms around her.

"Talk to me," he murmured, his voice almost inaudible. "What’s wrong?"

Charlotte sighed deeply, inhaling his scent before speaking in a low voice. "I got into an argument with Vincent."

Jake raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "Why? What happened?"

She hesitated for a moment before speaking. "He’s mad at me. And he’s blaming you, too."

"Blaming me?" Jake asked, turning her slightly so he could see her face. "Did I do something wrong?"

Her eyes welled...