His father regarded him with a measured gaze, his expression unreadable. "And what exactly did she do to provoke such animosity from you, Gabriel?"

Gabriel hesitated, the weight of his father's scrutiny bearing down on him. He knew he couldn't reveal the true extent of his feelings, the jealousy and resentment that simmered beneath the surface. Instead, he chose his words carefully, masking his true emotions behind a facade of righteous indignation.

"It's nothing specific, Father," ...