Chapter 2: The Silent Symphony

The grand piano, polished to a mirror sheen, dominated the music room. Liliana's fingers moved effortlessly across the piano keys, the familiar notes filling the space.

The melody flowed, flawless in execution yet empty, devoid of any real emotion.

Her teacher, a stern woman with a perpetually furrowed brow, sat beside her, her gaze fixed on the music sheet.

"The allegro section," the woman instructed, tapping a specific section of the music sheet.

Liliana adjusted her fingers and repeated the section without complaint, her fingers retracing the familiar path. It was the only thing she knew.

The lesson continued in the same manner—playing, correcting, playing again—until the hour ended.

At last, the lesson concluded, the final chord echoing through the silent room.

Liliana rose from the bench, smoothing the hem of her skirt before turning to her instructor. She lowered her gaze slightly, her voice soft yet formal.

"Thank you for your guidance, Miss Dawson"

The woman gave a curt nod, gathering her music sheets. "Focus on the staccato, the clarity. Next time, not a single note shall be out of place."

"Yes." She dipped her head in acknowledgment before stepping out.

Liliana stepped out, her footsteps light against the polished floor as she made her way to the dining hall.

It was time for lunch, a ritual structured and unyielding as her piano lessons.

The dining room was a vast, opulent space.

The long mahogany table was already set, filled with silverware and exquisite dishes.

Everyone deemed qualified to dine together was present.

Liliana took her seat quietly.

At the head of the table sat her grandfather, his presence both majestic and oppressive.

His movement dictated the pace of the meal. When he ate, the silent symphony of cutlery against porcelain began.

No one spoke.

Liliana carefully sliced into her food, bringing it to her lips. Just before as she lifted her fork to take another bite, the faint sound of silverware resting against plates filled the air.

A soft click.

Her grandfather had set down his knife and fork.

Without hesitation, everyone followed.

Liliana lowered her utensils, her fingers barely brushing the silver before pulling away. The meal had ended.

Such was the way of the Hill family.

The plates were cleared, but no one moved just yet. Only after tea was served did voices finally break the silence.

Theodore seated a few seats away and dabbed his mouth with a napkin before turning to Liliana. His expression was gentle as always.

"Liliana," He said, reaching out to hand her a napkin. "You should be more mindful when eating."

Liliana lowered her gaze faintly, accepting the gesture without protest. "I will, Brother Theodore."

"I'll be meeting with a client later," Theodore continued before leaning back. His gaze shifted to Evelyn, who sat nearby. "Evelyn will accompany me."

Their grandfather, who had been drinking his tea, finally spoke.

"Liliana, you will accompany them as well."

Liliana's heart skipped a beat, a rare moment of surprise.

"It is time you began to familiarize yourself with the family's business," her grandfather continued. "As you mature, you will be expected to contribute."

Liliana's expression remained docile.

"Yes, Grandfather," She replied without hesitation.

Across from her Evelyn's lips tightened, a flash of annoyance in her eyes.

Theodore, however, maintained his gentle smile, though Liliana detected a hint of something else hidden beneath the surface.

"Of course, Grandfather," Theodore replied. "It will be a pleasure to have Liliana join us."

Liliana followed them from the dining room, her mind racing. 

She had never been included in such meetings before.

Was this a test? A sign of her grandfather's favor or something else entirely?

As they reached the waiting car, a sleek black sedan. Theodore opened the door for Evelyn, then for Liliana. 

As she settled into the plush leather seat, she felt a sense of unease, a feeling that she was stepping into an unfamiliar territory where rules were different and the stakes were higher.

Meanwhile, at an exclusive restaurant across the town, overlooking the cityscape.

The interior was dimly lit, the air heavy with the scent of priceless wine and finely prepared dishes. 

The waiter poured vintage wine into a crystal glass, the deep red liquid swirling as Nolan leaned back in his chair, fingers lazily twirling the stem. His posture was remarkably fine and charming.

His assistant, positioned discreetly to his side, flipped through a tablet, listing updates about an upcoming deal.

Nolan barely listened as his gaze shifted, catching a familiar figure through the glass.

Through the distorted reflection, he saw her entering the restaurant.

She stood obediently behind someone, greeting the people opposite her with a demure smile. 

Their eyes met briefly, fleeting.

She merely averted her eyes, her expression blank, as if he were a stranger.

Liliana and her companions were ushered into a private room, the heavy doors closing behind them.

Nolan smiles faintly, exhaling softly.

In the private dining room, the conversation revolved around business, news, and stocks. Evelyn sat beside Theodore, her voice smooth as she occasionally chimed in, while Theodore led the conversation with ease. 

Liliana sat quietly with her hands folded neatly on her lap, her expression was calm.

She played her role well, silent and unassuming.

When the moment was right, she placed down her teacup and excused herself.

"Excuse me for a moment."

Evelyn briefly glances at her, lips twitching. "Don't take too long," she remarked, light yet laced with condescension.

One of the men chuckled. Theodore, however, nodded, permitting without comment.

Liliana smiled vaguely, offering a small bow before she stepped out of the room.

The moment the door closed behind her, the slight smile faded.

She exhaled. 

A reason to leave was all she needed.

She walked down the hallway at a measured pace, her gaze drifting toward the main dining area. Her steps slowed slightly as she caught sight of a familiar figure.

It was him.

Liliana's lips curved slightly.

She adjusted her posture, smoothing down the fabric of her dress before she walked his way.