Noon eventually arrived.
As usual, the Virellano family gathered for their customary meal, a tradition carried out with a certain solemnity that was unique to their household. The atmosphere was filled with the usual light chatter, sprinkled with trivial gossip and mundane remarks that helped smooth over the stiffness of formality.
Yet today's lunch carried a subtle difference. Edward himself, the head of the family, was present, and so was Aurielle, the eldest daughter. Both of them had decided not to leave for the office due to the issue that had emerged earlier in the morning, and thus they unexpectedly joined the table.
Fani, who had also been invited to the meal, quietly sat among them. Her eyes wandered to the long dining table, taking in the sight of everyone enjoying their lunch—everyone except one.
