Chapter 112: Table Manners

**Olivia POV

I sat down at the end of the table, Ken propped up in a chair beside me. Joan had tried to usher Ellis near her at the head of the table but he sat firmly beside me, instead. I felt calmer with him here, even if he wasn’t feeling the same level of relaxation I wanted him to.

He had reason to be upset and anxious, but he would have to endure it either way.

The appetizers came first and while everyone was given a lovely array of fish and caviar, Ken and I were given some kind of mushy vegetable mix. I swallowed my concerns and just looked at my plate, I turned to help Ken as the squash flopped off of his fork.

“Mommy, I don’t like this,” he whispered to me, as though to not insult the chef. I reached for his plate, only to hear a scoff come from across the table.

“Little girl,” Joan spoke. I somehow knew she was referring to me and glanced over, her beautiful eyes catching mine. “Have you no etiquette?”