The dining room at the Voss estate was warm and lively, filled with the clatter of plates and the rich aroma of roasted chicken and garlic mashed potatoes. The long oak table was set with care, candles flickering in the centre, casting soft shadows on the walls. Elias sat quietly at one end, his plate barely touched, his eyes fixed on the food as he tried to blend into the background.
Across from him, Jace kept stealing glances, his expression a mix of concern and frustration. Leo, the blue-haired Voss sibling, lounged in his chair, smirking as he tossed a roll from hand to hand. Ethan sat stiffly, his jaw tight, while Mr and Mrs Voss chatted lightly, trying to keep the mood upbeat.
"Elias, you're not eating much," Mrs Voss said, her voice kind but probing. "Is the food okay?"
Elias forced a smile, poking at his chicken. "It's great, ma'am. I'm just... not that hungry."
Jace leaned closer, his voice low. "You sure you're okay? You've been quiet all night."
