Jadie held onto Zach's arm as they walked. He apologized, "I'm sorry. There was a jam, so I was delayed a little." Jadie followed behind Zach timidly. She did not speak and dared not look around. She merely followed Zach carefully to the table.

Evelyn was the last to arrive and sat at the main table with Hayson. Hayson stood up to welcome her, "Mrs. Arnold Sr., what an honor it is. Are you doing well these days?"

Evelyn responded to him out of respect for him being an in-law, "I'm doing fine. At least I'm not dead yet. Everyone must be anxious. Let the feast begin."

When everyone started to eat, Evelyn took a carne frita and gave it to Madelyn. She then said, "You've gotten skinnier these days. All these dishes are your favorite. Eat more of it."

Madelyn thanked her, "Thank you, Evelyn."

Evelyn smiled and said, "When I arrived here, I consulted the abbot of the Linos Monastery for an auspicious date for your engagement with Ethan. Based on what Ethan said, the third day after you