Scene 3 — Family Dinner with Mr. Hayes (≈1000 words)
The dining room was set with care. Emilia had arranged roasted chicken glazed with herbs, bowls of rice, and vegetables sautéed with garlic. A bottle of wine stood at the center, glasses already poured. Isadora sat beside Kane, her posture composed, her eyes steady. Emilia moved between the kitchen and the table, nervous but determined to make the evening feel whole.
The door opened late, and Mr. Hayes stepped in. His suit was immaculate, his smile thin, his eyes sharp. He greeted Emilia with a polite nod, then turned his gaze on Isadora.
He took his seat, cutting into the chicken almost immediately. "You've taken quite a seat at the company," he said, his tone edged with disdain. "Unexpected, for someone preparing to marry."
Isadora lifted her glass, her voice calm. "I can balance both. My work doesn't vanish because I'm getting married."
