A Peaceful Morning

The clinking of silverware against fine china was the only sound filling the private dining room. Scarlet shifted in her seat, carefully slicing her steak while sneaking glances at Ezra and Elaine. The tension sat thick between them, so heavy it practically made the air harder to breathe.

Elaine, ever the composed woman, sipped her wine slowly before finally breaking the silence.

"Harvard and Carly's wedding is just around the corner," she said, her voice smooth yet pointed. "I want you both to arrive on time and be in your best attitude that day."

Scarlet paused mid-bite, glancing between mother and son. Ezra remained silent, his expression unreadable as he continued to cut through his meal with precision.

Unsure why he wasn't responding, Scarlet decided to fill the awkward gap. "When's the date again?"