The rectangular table had eight chairs. One chair was placed at each end of the table, and the remaining three chairs were arranged facing each other on each side. Gerald sat at one end of the table, and Rosaline sat at the opposite end. Ariana sat to Gerald's right, and Axel sat to Ariana's right, leaving one chair empty. Meanwhile, on Gerald's left, Karenina, his mother, and Ariana's mother were seated.

"It feels like a complete family, doesn't it?" Mrs. Caitlyn exclaimed loudly. It was clear ...