The moment Silvermist stepped inside the cafeteria, the lively chatter faltered.
Forks hovered midair, laughter died on lips, and heads turned—one after another—like a silent wave slapping against her cheeks.
Together with Adeline and Mila flanking her sides, she entered the large, sun-drenched hall, though somehow, the golden light filtering through the tall arched windows made everything feel colder.
Ahh how she missed eating the cafeteria foods. Silvermist breathed the aroma of the delicious delicacies she never thought what they are called.
Some expressions held scrutiny, thinly veiled behind slitted eyes and tight jaws. Some were painted with pity, as if she were a fragile glass doll mistakenly placed among warriors.
A few faces flickered with surprise—perhaps those who hadn't expected her return so soon. And then there were others who didn't even glance her way, too absorbed in their meals or in their own conversations, treating her like she didn't matter at all.
