CHAPTER 86

Emma's POV

I stood at the head of the table, surveying the dinner setup. Everything was perfect, but the atmosphere was far from it. My triplets, Camilla, Rosaline, and Lucien, sat in their usual spots, each radiating distinct energies.

Rosaline's icy demeanor pierced through me. Her eyes seemed to hold a thousand unspoken words, her jaw clenched in a tight line. Lucien's sadness tugged at my heartstrings. His usual bright smile was nowhere to be found, replaced by a somber expression. Camilla appeared lost in thought, her gaze drifting off into the distance.

Gabe, my partner, stood at the window, his back to the room. His siblings, Augustine and Carly, exchanged venomous glances. The tension between them was palpable, their animosity infectious. April, Gabe's sis, looked scared, her eyes darting between her feuding siblings.

"Dinner's ready," I announced, trying to sound cheerful despite the heavy atmosphere.

Gabe turned, his expression guarded. Augustine and Carly continued their si