Fernando’s POV The dining hall was too quiet, save for the clink of silverware against porcelain. I had hoped that tonight, at least, the sound of Michael’s voice would bring some life into the room, but he barely touched his food. He pushed the roasted meat around his plate, toyed with the glass of wine Anabelle had poured, and let silence sit between him and Henry. I ate slowly, deliberately, though I had little appetite myself, but unlike Michael, I had learned long ago that appearances mattered. Even at my own table, especially at my own table, I never allowed the mask to slip. Michael’s eyes, though, told the truth. They were shadowed, weary, red at the edges as though he had been holding back tears. His broad shoulders sagged as if the very weight of the mansion rested there. But he was here. That mattered more than anything. He had come back, not for me, not directly, but because of Henry. Finally, Henry spoke, his voice barely above a whisper. “Michael, will Ashle
Last Updated : 2025-09-06 Read more