Since I was carrying a child and couldn't take alcohol, I lifted my teacup and turned toward Benjamin. "Benjamin, happy birthday. May you always be blessed."
My words eased the lines on his face. A warm smile spread as he raised his glass in return. "Thank you. May everyone here be blessed as well. Cheers."
As the meal continued, laughter and light conversation filled the dining hall. Everyone seemed at ease, their moods lifted by the occasion. Only Marcus remained distant, his silence steady and unreadable, as if he stood slightly apart from the rest of the room.
By the end of dinner, Benjamin had clearly overindulged. Sally guided him upstairs with practiced care, supporting his steps as she led him to rest. In the meantime, Ashton stayed behind and sat across from Marcus, the two of them facing a chessboard in quiet competition while waiting for the cake.
