Dinner at Franco's house was anything but lighthearted.
The dining room felt warm and welcoming. A chandelier hung overhead, casting soft light over the long mahogany table. The deep burgundy and gold walls gave the room a rich, cozy feel, and the velvet curtains were pulled back just enough to show the darkening sky outside.
The table was set with care. A roasted lamb sat in the middle, filling the room with its mouth watering scent. Around it were bowls of steamed vegetables, a platter of fresh fruit, and a few bottles of wine. The crystal glasses and polished silverware caught the light, adding a quiet touch of elegance without being too much.
Nova sat beside Lucia, her posture relaxed but her mind uneasy, sensing the tension that seemed to hover in the air. Chloe sat across from th
