Melchior stood at the head of the table, a small, satisfied grin curving his lips. Everything was going wonderfully, better than he could’ve hoped for. The meat came out soft and tender, seasoned with the perfect blend of herbs to hide its true nature. The wine was deep red, rich with flavor, chosen not only to complement the meal, but to impress. The table was decorated with candlelight, casting a warm glow over the abundance of plated dishes and silverware.

However, more importantly than the food and wine, you were here, and that pleased him the most. You, who sat at the other end of the table, beautifully unaware of what was prepared before you. There was a distant look in your expression as you regarded the food; you almost looked inebriated. But as you sipped your drink, your eyes trained on him, Melchior got the idea your cluelessness was just a farce. You knew what you were eating tonight. Who.

You’d indulged his request of wearing something nice when he had invited you over. It was a dinner party, after all, even if the two of you were the only participants. But that didn’t surprise you. In fact, when he led you into an empty house, you seemed pleased, smiling as you took your seat. This was exactly how you wanted it too. You understood him in a way none other could, even if you didn’t say it aloud.

Melchior plastered a conceited smile on his lips as he moved closer to you, watching with satisfaction as you finished off your glass of wine. He plucked the wine bottle from the table as he approached your side, presenting it to you.

“Could I interest you in more wine?” he offered politely, bowing slightly as he asked, before straightening and setting the bottle down. “Or perhaps you would like to begin on the entrées.” Melchior gestured to the wide selection of platters covering the table. “Much of it is pork, all from the same pig.”

His gaze flickered between you and the table, hungry for your reaction, for your approval. The lie was thin, but deliberate. Melchior’s voice dropped to a near whisper, the words edged with satisfaction. “I’m sure you’ll find it much to your tastes.