Breaking barriers

The dining room was as elegant as the rest of the estate, its tall windows framed by heavy velvet drapes that let in the soft glow of the afternoon light.

The table was set with fine china and gleaming silverware, and the faint scent of lavender lingered in the air, likely from the arrangements of fresh flowers placed at intervals along the table.

Lady Elara sat at the head of the table, her posture straight and composed, but I could see the hint of tension in her movements.

Her hands, delicate and pale, rested on her lap, and though she offered a polite smile, her guarded expression made it clear she wasn't one to let her guard down easily.

It was going to be a bit more difficult than exepted but I had time and patience.

I decided to tread lightly. "The meal looks wonderful," I said, my tone warm and genuine. "Your staff must be incredibly talented."