"Our time is far more valuable than yours! Put away that petty, small-minded attitude," Charles said, his tone turning hard.
"When people converse, basic courtesy is required. Greeting each other, asking after one another's well-being; these aren't a waste of time. They're a mark of culture and consideration for social graces. And we are your elders; we should be treated with even greater humility and respect. Didn't your mother teach you even this most fundamental principle of how to behave?"
Sophie froze, stung by Professor Cadogan's words.
"You know nothing about my family. Please don't casually criticize my mother!" She was angry now, precisely because he had attacked her mother.
"I'm judging based on your behavior. That's not criticism; it's observation."
