At that moment, Mr. Zakaria finally made his way to the elegantly carved chair at the center of the head table his seat of honor. The soft murmurs in the hall quieted slightly as all eyes turned to him. The air was thick with respect, curiosity, and the kind of tension that came when something or someone was missing.
Then Mr. Zakaria sat down slowly, his movements still recovering from the near-death experience that brought them all here. As he lowered himself into the seat, he took a moment to let his eyes scan the room. He looked at the guests one by one politicians, business partners, family members, and close allies. But still... no Mark. And most importantly, no sign of her.
His brows furrowed slightly.
