Sandy's POV
The restaurant appeared deserted when we stepped inside, save for a single occupied table positioned at its center. My pulse quickened as I sensed Charles freeze behind me, his entire body going rigid.
A row of waitstaff stood positioned near the table where Zayden faced our direction. His mouth twisted into that unsettling smile I was beginning to recognize.
Yet that wasn't what had affected Charles so dramatically. The woman seated with her back toward us drew my attention instead. Her silky hair cascaded down her spine in gentle waves, creating an almost innocent appearance from this angle.
This was the same woman who had shattered his son's existence under the guise of righteousness and compassion. Standing here now, surrounded by all the players in this twisted game, that justification felt increasingly hollow.
