Maria sat silently beside Bernard in the vehicle as they headed home from college. The atmosphere was tense—Bernard's uneasiness was almost tangible.
His body language betrayed his thoughts; he seemed nervous, shifting slightly in his seat, glancing at her occasionally. Her silence only made things worse for him.
He had no clue what she was thinking, and that uncertainty clearly unsettled him.
The moment they stepped into the house, Maria was surprised to find Beta Gilbert and Luna Victoria already in the living room. It was unusual for both of them to be home at that hour.
"Good afternoon," Maria greeted politely, forcing a calm tone.
"Afternoon," Bernard echoed right after her.
They exchanged pleasantries quickly, and Maria began making her way toward the stairs, eager to retreat into her room and escape the awkward tension.
"Bernard," Beta Gilbert called out suddenly, halting her steps. "Quickly go and freshen up. We have something very important to discuss."
