Despite her bravado, tears coursed down her cheeks.

The exchange, achingly reminiscent of times past, unsettled her.

Despite her reluctance to relent and her inability to break free, their confrontation drew attention at the club entrance.

Given her status, she was acutely aware of the public's eyes on them.

Collecting herself, she managed, "There's no point in mutual recriminations. Release me. Return to your companions; they await your presence."

"Is your indifference genuine?" Mark sought confirmation.

Her nod was resolute.

He persisted, "Understand, Flora is married. She holds no special place in my life."

This revelation only heightened Cecilia's distress. Her voice trembling, she asserted, “Your liaisons are not my concern."

With a forceful shove, she freed herself, climbed into her car, and left without a backward glance.

Mark, fraught with worry, rapped gently on the window.

“Take care on the road. We'll converse on this anon.”

As she drove off, Charlie emerged, just in time to observe her retreat.

He brushed his lips, musing aloud, “Her temper remains as fiery as ever. Mark, is such vivacity common among the youth?"

His smile was laced with suggestive undertones.

Mark's only reaction was a fleeting glance as he produced a lighter from his confines.

He toyed with the device, lost in thought.

Eventually, his words were barely audible.

"My affection for her leaves no room for others."

Charlie, somewhat disconcerted, confessed, "Your romantic inclinations are a revelation."