It felt like a demand, but he said it calmly. I wanted to get away from this uncomfortable situation. I couldn't, because Edmund's hold on my arm got stronger.

He pulled me against his side and whispered.

"You can't always run away."

Through the corner of my eye, I noticed Victoria watching me with annoyed expression.

"Stay..." he said quietly.

I didn't have any courage, but I obeyed.

"What did I get myself into?" Victoria rolled her eyes.

There seemed to be some invisible communication between Edmund and her, but I had no clue, what was up with them.

One thing was certain. They seemed close. Even with Maria, Edmund didn't act so free and careless. He didn't wear his usual full arrogance look this time.

"Come, we'll have some tea." Edmund suggested.