Alex was caught off guard, freezing as he met Lilian's icy glare. He felt uncertain, unsure whether to stand up or remain seated. He hadn't anticipated that she would confront him so directly.
"Uh... sorry if I was rude," he stammered, feeling a flush of embarrassment wash over him while Lilian's eyes burned with fury.
"You're not just being rude; you're showing an uncultured familiarity!" Lilian snapped back at him, her voice sharp.
Alex struggled to find words to counter her accusation, remaining silent until Lilian finally broke the tension. "How may I help you, Alex?" she demanded, her gaze filled with unmistakable disdain and unhappiness.
A chill ran down Alex's spine as he felt the weight of her stare. Suddenly, he was uncomfortable, his ability to engage in conversation evaporating. He dared to glance at her, but her cold expression left him speechless. He had no idea how to respond.
