Not alone

A strange mood filled the room as only the sounds of Nero's fork and knife could be heard. Vanessa, who only had a modestly prepared plate in front of her, could not help but look at him. Didn't he feel any pressure at all?

Besides the grand display of wealth, this was also a display of power. To be able to afford such a luxurious house, Silas' family either had a great historical background, or had excellent connections. But as figures who were publicly well known, it was well established that both of his parents came from relatively humble backgrounds. With that in mind, their success over a single generation was even more impressive. As such, it was completely normal, and even expected that one would be nervous before meeting them. But Nero was solely focused on eating as quickly as possible.

"Who's staring now?" Nero said between bites, as he flashed her a smile. 

"Don't you get food at home?" she attempted to tease, but to no avail.