Author's point of view

The moment Zerina stepped out of the dining room, it felt as if the air itself grew colder. The silence she left behind wasn't peaceful—no. It was heavy. Like the whole mansion was holding its breath because she wasn't there to soften the atmosphere anymore.

Darkling watched her go before he sat down, pushing his plate aside.

Lysander's gaze followed Zerina until she completely disappeared from view. Only then did he turn back. The softness he had shown ...