As Liam stepped into the cafeteria, he was struck by the eerie silence that filled the expansive space.
Rows of tables and chairs sat empty, the usual chatter and commotion absent. The only sounds came from the far end, where the kitchen staff—ladies of varying ages—were engrossed in a lively conversation.
Liam's eyes scanned the room, confirming what he already suspected. Not a single student in sight.
'Everyone must've left for the instructor-led training,' he mused. A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. 'Good. I prefer the quiet anyway.'
He approached the counter with his usual unhurried pace, his footsteps the only noise cutting through the stillness. The ladies, initially oblivious to his presence, stopped mid-conversation when they heard his calm, measured voice.
"Good afternoon," Liam greeted, his tone polite and composed.
