Artemis stood in the castle's lush, ornate courtyard beside Tyler, the faint scent of Tyler's cherry-flavoured vape pen wafting through the air. Artemis crossed his arms, his brow furrowed.
"Do you think it's unfair that Lolita fired Maxwell?' Artemis asked, his tone tinged with frustration. "If Maxwell didn't say something, it would have been me."
Tyler shrugged. "I've just been promoted—now I'm earning more."
"So, you're happy he's gone because it benefits you?" Artemis crossed his arms. "How selfish can you be?"
"It's just a job. I'm sure he'll find something else." Tyler exhaled a cloud of vapour. "With his experience, it shouldn't be difficult."
"He was best at managing the country's investment portfolio. I know this, having worked with him for years!"
Axel entered the courtyard and approached Tyler. "Hey, what are you smoking?"
"We're in the middle of a conversation, Axel," Artemis said coldly.
"I'm just making small talk. Tyler, do you know I bought a new car for doing donuts? It was made in Catwerp!"
"Cars made in Jayland are better," Tyler responded.
"I'm going back inside. Tonight, I'll visit Isabella and Maxwell." Artemis.
"Don't waste your time, Maxwell won't be there," Axel said with a sneer.
"How do you know that?" Artemis raised an eyebrow.
"Just a hunch. Tyler, do you like cherry-flavoured pens?" Axel said.
Artemis stormed off and entered the hallway in the castle. To Artemis, Axel was like a drug; he could only handle Axel in small doses.