Phoebe's POV
A while later, I dragged myself into the dining room, my feet feeling like lead. Charlies waved enthusiastically when he spotted me. "Phoebe, over here, come sit."
I completely ignored Harold's hopeful stare and walked right past him, settling down beside Charlies instead. Without a word, I focused on my breakfast, keeping my mouth shut.
Charlies had gotten used to my cold, quiet nature back at Clearwater University. He didn't seem bothered at all and chatted quietly with me as we ate.
But Malcolm, who'd spent years navigating dangerous border territories, picked up on my deliberate cold shoulder immediately. His eyes shifted to Harold, and he mouthed silently, "Mr. Bailey, she's mad."
Harold mouthed back, "I know."
Malcolm pressed on, "Want me to drag Charlies away?"
Harold shook his head. If Malcolm forced Charlies to leave, I might shut down completely.
