The morning sun poured through the large windows of the dining room, casting a warm glow that contrasted sharply with the tension hanging in the air.

Everyone was seated around the table, but the plates remained mostly untouched, a stark reminder of the emotional turmoil weighing on us.

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and cooked bacon filled the space, yet it did little to stir our appetites.

Audrey and Jax exchanged worried glances, their concern evident.

They watched as I picked at ...