He sat still.

His body was rigid, but in his heart, Mark's warm presence lingered.

He could almost feel Mark beside him, sitting next to the fireplace with him, their laughter filling the room as they played with blocks and shared tales.

Yet, despite the illusion of Mark's company, a palpable emptiness pervaded the hall.

Cecilia observed her son from a distance and was well aware of the weight of his thoughts.