CHAPTER 58: PAST PRETENSE

"I've said my piece. Believe it or not, it's up to you," Victoria said firmly, her eyes narrowing slightly as she looked at Edmund. Her posture was rigid, shoulders squared, and her hands were clasped before her, betraying her stance to stand her ground. Edmund scowled, his eyes darting around the room, searching for the man he suspected was hiding. "Victoria, where did you hide that wild man?" he demanded, his voice a harsh growl. He moved closer to the bedroom, his steps heavy and deliberate, as if he could intimidate her into giving up the man’s whereabouts. Standing at the doorway, Victoria raised a hand to block his advance; her fingers splayed defensively. "Edmund Ashbourne, this is my home. If you try to wander around here, I won't be polite." Edmund's lips twisted into a smirk, though laced with malice. "Victoria, are you really going to fight me for the sake of a wild man? Honestly, I'm still quite a gentleman. Generally, I won't lay a hand on a woman." Victoria’s eyes gli