I watched Evelyn's face soften as she looked at Zara across the elegant dining table. The warm glow of the Golden Phoenix's chandeliers cast gentle shadows, creating an atmosphere of intimacy that seemed to encourage reconciliation.
"I'm willing to try," Evelyn said quietly, reaching across the table to touch Zara's hand. "We were friends for too long to let Sebastian's schemes destroy everything."
Zara's eyes filled with fresh tears. "Thank you, Evelyn. You don't know what this means to me."
I remained silent, observing every micro-expression, every calculated pause. Something about this entire evening felt orchestrated, but I couldn't deny that Evelyn needed this closure.
"There is one more thing," Zara said suddenly, her voice dropping to barely above a whisper. "Something I need to ask you both."
Evelyn leaned forward encouragingly. "What is it?"
"It's about Felix," Zara said, her hands trembling as she reached for her wine glass. "My boyfriend. He's in serious trouble."
