Chapter 55: Then Kneel

Caro took a deep breath, trying to calm the turbulent emotions swirling within her. She forced a smile onto her face, though it barely hid the weight she carried in her steps. Her eyes scanned the room, finally locking onto a face that seemed slightly surprised. With every step she took toward her, it felt as though Caro was crossing invisible barriers. "Sister," Caro began softly, her voice laced with a mix of confusion and a touch of tenderness. "I didn't expect you to arrive so early today. But I’m curious—why don’t we head out together? It’d give us more time to talk on the way." As soon as she finished speaking, the atmosphere in the room seemed to freeze. The previously warm and harmonious mood plummeted to an icy chill. The expressions around them varied—some furrowed their brows, others pursed their lips, and a few even rolled their eyes. Almost simultaneously, everyone turned away, with hints of displeasure and detachment, returning to their seats. The only sound left in the