The atmosphere changed dramatically upon Charlie's entrance. Her anger saturated the air, set teeth on edge, and, for Elias, became the catalyst for something just as potent: disgust. When the fire of her fury turned itself on Elias, he met it with dark, cold iciness. The stone that had been making its way in his expression then solidified, but his eyes stayed violently expressive -- seething with contempt. The lids dropped a fraction of an inch as Charlie challenged him. He didn't turn away immediately, but after it was made clear that he both heard, and then ignored, her question, he looked back to Dov.
And at that moment, something changed in him. It was subtle. It was nothing so detectable as his expressionless face or shouting eyes. It began as a tugging in the center of his stomach, rose into his chest, then opened his mouth for him. "When did you last eat, Dov?" he asked. And then, swiftly checking the understated bit of metal on his wrist, he continued, "It's about that hour anyway. Let's grab something to eat. My treat. Ben, you're welcome to join us."
And only after he stood, did he look back at Charlie. "Apologies," he said, tonelessly, "For interrupting you. I see I was mistaken."