CHAPTER NINETY TWO – WINGED TERRORS

"Good lord!" Julian exclaimed, shielding Charlotte with his body. "What in blazes is wrong with that bloody bird?" The seagull circled back, its beady eyes fixed on the couple with unsettling intensity. Charlotte clutched Julian's arm, her heart hammering in her chest. "I think it wants our food!" she cried, eyeing the half-eaten bag of chips Julian had tucked under his arm. Julian scowled at the relentless bird. "Well, it's not getting our snacks, that's for sure." He brandished the bag like a weapon, waving it threateningly. "Shoo! Away with you, you feathered menace!" The seagull let out an indignant squawk, diving at them once more. Charlotte yelped, ducking behind Julian as he swatted at the bird with the chip bag. "That's it, you winged terror!" he growled. "You've picked the wrong couple to trifle with!" The seagull seemed to sense Julian's determination and, after one last defiant screech, veered off in search of easier prey. Charlotte sagged against Julian, her heart sti