The grand dining room of the Sebastian mansion was tense. Chandeliers cast a soft light over the long, polished table where the Watsons and Sebastians sat in silence. The sound of silverware on fine china echoed in the large room.
Victoria fidgeted with her napkin, avoiding Louis's gaze across the table. She could feel his frustration and resignation. The weight of their shared predicament separated them from their families.
Margaret cleared her throat, her voice overly bright. "Shall we discuss the wedding date?" The forced cheerfulness did not hide the underlying tension.
Malcolm Sebastian's deep, authoritative voice replied, "I was thinking about next month. The sooner, the better." His eyes dared anyone to challenge him.
"Next month?" Victoria blurted, her composure shattering. Her
