The tension in the lavish penthouse apartment was palpable as Catherine swept into the room, Epione in tow. Charlotte stood by the window, arms crossed defensively as she glared at the pair. "Well, look who's decided to grace us with her presence," Catherine purred, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I was beginning to think you'd gotten lost on your way home, darling." "Cut the crap, mother," Charlotte spat. "I know exactly where you've been. Or should I say, who you've been with." Her eyes narrowed as they landed on Epione, who shifted uncomfortably under the weight of her gaze. Catherine tsked, wagging a perfectly manicured finger in Charlotte's direction. "Now, now, let's not be hasty. Epione and I were simply enjoying a bit of harmless fun, that's all."

"Harmless fun?" Charlotte scoffed. "I saw the way you were all over her at the gala last night. And the gifts - the jewelry, the designer handbag? Don't think I don't know what you're up to." "Oh, please," Catherine rolled her eyes. "Don't be so melodramatic, Charlotte. I was merely taking Epione under my wing, showing her the finer things in life. Something you've clearly failed to do." "Under your wing?" Charlotte's voice rose in pitch, her temper flaring. "You were practically devouring her! And now you've turned her against me." "Against you?" Catherine feigned innocence, placing a hand over her heart. "My dear, sweet Charlotte, I would never dream of such a thing. Epione is her own person, free to make her own choices. If she's chosen to spend time with me, well, that's hardly my fault, is it?"

"You're unbelievable," Charlotte growled, throwing her hands up in exasperation. "This is exactly why I can't stand being around you. You're a selfish, manipulative—" "Now, now, let's not get carried away," Catherine interrupted, her tone sharp. "I'm simply trying to look out for Epione's best interests. After all, she deserves so much more than a foul-mouthed, flat-chested girl like you." Charlotte's face flushed with a mixture of hurt and fury. "How dare you—" "Enough," Catherine held up a hand, silencing her daughter. "I won't hear another word. Epione and I have plans. Try not to wait up, dear."