Chapter 37: The hostility

Everyone gathered for dinner. Claudia, who had earlier bristled with hostility towards Bella, surprised everyone with a radiant smile. She even apologized to her.

The atmosphere was tense despite Claudia's attempts to smooth things over. Bella sat at the table, feeling the weight of everyone's eyes on her, especially Gina's, who still harbored obvious resentment.

"Sorry for what happened earlier," Claudia began. "Gina got a little emotional. Don't take her words to heart. I talked some sense into her, she is quite ashamed of herself."

Gina, beside her, offered a weak apology. "Yes, I am truly sorry for my outburst," she mumbled, although her tone betrayed no sincerity. "Theo, please don't be upset with me. You know how much I love you. Seeing you with her was heartbreaking. I was devastated."

Theodore arched an eyebrow, unconvinced. "And you're alright now?" he questioned. "No more hard feelings towards Bella?"