Luna then fell silent, yielding to Violette's plea.

Humiliated, Melissa decided she couldn't linger any longer. Without partaking in the tea, she rose and donned her coat. Approaching Marcus, she murmured, “I'll take Matthew home."

The atmosphere grew tense, with a subtle sense of unease Lingering in the air. Even though Matthew was young, he could tell something wasn't right.

He looked sad.

Waylen, feeling sympathy for Matthew and Melissa, directed a stern gaze at Marcus and urged, “Speak up."