Alice drew in a deep breath and said, "I'm saying… I don't need you to teach me, and I don't need your help."
Chester let out a cold laugh. "Are you sure you're talking to me right now?"
"I'm sure."
A flicker of anger gathered in the dark depths of Chester's eyes, but was gradually replaced by a deep, heavy calm.
Chester nodded, his tone mild, as if devoid of any emotion. "Say it to me again."
"I said I don't need you meddling, and I don't need your help."
"You think now is the time to be throwing a tantrum at me?" Chester ground out between his teeth.
Alice forced down the sharp pain in her chest. "I'm not throwing a tantrum at you. What I'm saying to you is exactly what I've wanted to say in my heart… You and I aren't friends, we're not siblings, and we're certainly not lovers. What right do you have to interfere in my family's affairs?"
Chester didn't speak for a long time.
Their eyes met; his expression was rigid, icy.
