Chapter 43: Chapter 43 : All A Charade

**Ellis POV

I tightened my grip around Carl’s fist, narrowing my eyes as he gaped at me. “Close your mouth, you look ridiculous,” I snipped.

Carl shook his head and pulled away from me. “What are you doing with my girl!?” he snapped.

“YOUR girl?” Olivia asked. She stepped up to my side.

I grinned, sliding my eyes sideways at her. She had her hands on her hips, glaring at Carl fiercely.

“This… is she the reason you cut me off!?” Carl cried, pointing an accusing finger at Olivia.

Pushing Carl’s hand aside, I stepped between him and Olivia to keep him from pointing at her.

“Misrepresenting the Peterson name is why I cut you off. The fact that you did so with Olivia’s family was an unfortunate coincidence,” I explained smoothly.

Carl’s hands clenched at his sides, his nostrils flared with each inhale and exhale snorted, and his face was red with rage.

“You! My own father! You’ve stolen what belongs to me!” Carl hissed.