The morning sunlight streamed through the wide windows of the estate's dining room, casting a golden light over the table. The warmth should have been comforting, but I couldn't shake the low hum of anxiety that had followed me since last night.
The gathering had gone better than I expected—better than anyone expected, if Edward's wide smile and gleaming eyes were anything to go by as he greeted Mark and me for breakfast. His energy felt almost out of place against the strained silence that hung between Mark and me.
"Good morning, you two," Edward said, gesturing for us to take seats. "I hope you slept well. We have much to discuss."
Mark grunted a vague reply as he poured himself a coffee. I offered a small smile, knowing I'd need to steel myself for whatever was coming next.
