[Third Person].
Breakfast the next day unfolded under a strained calm.
Everyone was already seated when the servants finished setting the table. Cutlery clinked softly, the air filled with the muted sounds of eating until Randall lifted his gaze to Meredith.
"I've heard," he said evenly, "that you've been visiting my wife these past few days." Then, with a measured nod, he added, "That is commendable of you."
Meredith felt a ripple of unease crawl up her spine. The compliment sat wrong, heavy with something she couldn't quite name. Still, she smiled politely and inclined her head.
"Thank you, father."
Before the moment could settle, Draven set his cutlery down.
"Father, Mother has been underground for years," he said, his voice calm but firm. "It's time she comes up. She needs fresh air and sunlight."
The temperature at the table shifted instantly.
