Hector's voice cut through the tense silence. "What's really going on, Dana? I don't get it. Why are they asking to see Alina? Is there something I should know?"
Dana, standing by the window, turned her face away, her gaze fixed on anything but Hector.
"Dana," he repeated, his voice rising with a mix of impatience and concern. "I'm talking to you."
Still, she refused to meet his eyes, her silence speaking louder than words.
Irritated, Hector shifted his focus to Marcus and Alina, who stood nearby. "Alina, say something. Why would the Elders go the extra mile to summon you?"
Alina hesitated, her voice trembling as she stammered, "Well, it's because… um… my…"
Before she could finish, Marcus stepped forward protectively. "Alina, you don't need to say anything. Dad, take it easy on her."
Hector's stern gaze settled on Marcus. "Then you tell me instead, Marcus. Why would the Elders summon your friend?"
