Chapter 30

Emily's POV

"Good morning," I greeted, ignoring the tension in the room upon my entrance.

Eric settled in a chair in front of the numerous delicacies that lay on the table while I stood awkwardly for a moment, taking in the layout. Cecilia, as usual, was seated at the head of a table with her nose raised. Alicia sat to her left while Eric sat to her right.

The scene reminded me of how I stood awkwardly years years after preparing those meals while they left rude remarks here and there.

Cecilia nodded in response to my greeting while Alicia scoffed softly, stabbing her food with the fork. Peharps, she imagined it to be my face.

"You can take a seat, Emily," Eric offered, drawing me out of my reverie.

I blinked multiple times before returning a warm smile to him, suppressing the depressing thoughts.

The looks on Cecilia's and Alicia's faces spoke more words than they would. They were beyond irritated by my presence, and they did not fail to write it on their faces.

"Thank you for you