Chapter 328: Preparations (Katelyn's POV)

(Katelyn's POV)

As we reached David’s office door, Tyler knocked, and my breath hitched, bracing myself for whatever news lay beyond. When David’s calm voice called for us to enter, the door swung open, and I was met with an unexpected sight.

His office was empty. It was just David, sitting there alone behind his desk, just as he usually was.

A wave of relief washed over me, but it was quickly overshadowed by the uncomfortable realization that this only delayed the inevitable. The Elders were still coming. This was just a temporary reprieve.

“Good morning,” David said in greeting, looking at each of us in turn before his eyes settled on me. He gave a small nod, his lips curling into the faintest hint of a smile. “How are you holding up, Kate?”

Clearly my anxiety was etched all over my face. I took a deep breath and tried to look braver than I felt, straightening up my shoulders as I replied, “I’m okay.” My voice sounded confident enough, but his knowing look told me he wasn’t buying it