Private Talk

The tension in the air was almost suffocating, but no one said a word as they focused on their food. The clinking of silverware against fine porcelain plates was the only sound that fillthe silence, save for the occasional murmur of small talk. Most of the conversation came from Lydia and Delphinia, though neither of them said much of significance. Ashton barely spoke, only responding when spoken to, and even then, his answers were short. If Evander had any thoughts about the situation, he didn't show it. He simply ate, seemingly indifferent.

Delphinia, for her part, was relieved that things weren't as disastrous as she had feared, though she still felt an overwhelming sense of unease. Every time Lydia spoke, she felt the woman's gaze subtly flicker toward her, as if sizing her up, evaluating her. It was exhausting, and Delphinia found herself longing for this meal to be over.