Mr. Thomas shared stories from their recent trip. Mrs. Elizabeth inquired kindly about my studies. Luke sat beside me, and under the table, his hand found mine, giving it a silent, reassuring squeeze. It was then that the former Beta, Mr. Miller, turned his gentle gaze upon me. "Amelia," he said with a warm smile, his voice mellow and calming. "It"s a true pleasure to finally meet you." "I"m pleased to meet you too, sir," I replied politely. He nodded, but his eyes seemed to linger on my face a moment too long. A flicker of something—barely perceptible confusion, and… a distant sort of recollection—passed through those green depths. He gave his wine glass a slight swirl and spoke in a tone of mild reminiscence, almost as if to himself, yet audible to everyone at the table. "You know, it"s
