In the split second of the conversation, I looked around and carefully observed each person's expression.

Astonishingly, I discerned no abnormalities. Ben sat alone in the center, smugly, while Kent and I were seated on the other side of him. Gill had her arm linked with Lynne's, and the two girls sat closely together.

Gill had a somewhat irritated expression. However, it didn't seem directed at me. As for Lynne, from start to finish, she maintained a serene and gentle demeanor.

She radiated an aura of refinement every second of the day. Even after Kent and I arrived, she only offered a simple and polite greeting without even standing from...