Chapter 28. The Table Set Before the Enemy

The dining hall was quiet, filled only with the soft clinking of cutlery being arranged and the scent of roasted chicken, steamed vegetables, and freshly baked bread. Five people sat around the long table.

Zayn sat at the head, his expression calm but unreadable. The way he leaned slightly back in his chair gave off a powerful air, as if he was always in control, even in silence.

Vera was beside him, to his right. She sat with her hands neatly folded on the table, glancing sideways at Zayn every now and then, her eyes unreadable, but clearly watching his every move.

Amy, the youngest at the table, sat beside Vera, her tiny hands resting near her plate.

Opposite her sat Arnold, looking fresher than usual. He had a gentle smile that warmed the coldness in the air.

Next to Arnold sat Daisy. Her expression was calm but distant, as if her mind was wandering far from the table. Her makeup was light, and her dark green gown gave her a graceful, mature look.