When Charlie began slipping back into her confrontational ways, Elias frowned. His shoulders squared, and under that suit of his, he seemed suddenly commanding and intimidating at the same time. But he said nothing to her directly to express his displeasure.
Even still, it was frustrating. She had no cause to continue to act poorly; he had clearly proven his intentions to her. He was not set on hurting her, so there was no need to be defensive. He was not being unkind to her, so there was no need for her to express displeasure at any perceived poor treatment -- there was none. He was trying to ensure her well being. He had made that clear. Frustrating, indeed.
But the next thing out of her mouth was what finally pushed Elias to sigh. "You and -- whom?" he prompted. Although his limits were being tried, he successfully managed to ask the question without allowing his frustration into his voice. "Charlie, if we are not both suffering from some form of mental handicap, then there must be something else at work. More information would be ideal."