The table was set perfectly, but silence filled the air.

Maggie forced a smile. “How was everyone’s day?”

No answer.

Lena sighed. “Just another great day in our dictatorship.”

James didn’t look up. “If you put effort into school instead of sarcasm, you’d be top of your class.”

Tension thickened. Ethan stayed quiet. Noah poked his food. Maggie reached for her wine.

Just another night in the Holloway household. It was your first night having dinner with them and you’re on edge. Everyone’s on edge. What do you do from here.