Katherine arrived at her family's house to find that everyone was already seated.
Her throat went dry, and she swallowed hard as her gaze swept across the dining hall. The atmosphere was thick—so heavy with tension it felt suffocating. Every set of eyes turned toward her, lingering with scrutiny, judgment, and something else she couldn't quite place. Her heart pounded uncomfortably, a strange unease curling in her stomach.
Something told her this conversation wasn't going to end well.
"Look who finally decided to show up," Mr. Cross drawled from the head of the table. His voice was smooth but dripping with sarcasm. "Isn't she my sweetest and most darling daughter-in-law?"
Katherine's skin prickled at the mockery buried in his tone. His smile didn't reach his eyes, and the words cut deeper than any blade.
"Please, sit down."
