The dining room was alive with the faint clink of porcelain and the gentle hum of family chatter as Vivian, Ellie, and Emma moved around, setting the table. The glow of the overhead chandelier bathed the room in a soft, warm light, casting shadows that danced against the polished wooden walls. Plates were carefully placed, each spot adorned with a steaming bowl of mashed beef rice. The rich aroma filled the air, a mouthwatering blend of savory spices and tender sliced and mashed beef mingling with the faint scent of lavender that always lingered in their home.
Emma’s stomach growled softly, a sound she quickly tried to stifle as her eyes lingered on the dish. Her mouth watered, but she restrained herself. Waiting was a matter of discipline, and her mother wouldn’t tolerate impatience at the table.
When everything was ready, the family gathered. Vivian sat at one end of the table, her long, dark blonde hair neatly tied back, revealing her striking white eyes that gleamed with a quiet happiness. Across from her was Derrick, her husband, his silver-white hair catching the light as his deep blue eyes surveyed the table with a proud satisfaction.
Ellie took her seat beside Emma, her dark blonde locks framing her face as her own blue eyes twinkled with mischief, a trait Emma was well accustomed to. Ethan, Emma’s twin, dropped into his chair next to Derrick, his silver-white hair slightly tousled, giving him a carefree look that mirrored his usual demeanor. And finally, Emma herself, her long silver-white hair cascading over her shoulders, her unique white eyes glowing faintly in the light, sat quietly, feeling the warmth of family settle over her like a comforting blanket.
The table was set, the bowls steaming, each one a testament to Vivian’s meticulous cooking. The family paused, a moment of quiet reverence for the meal before them.
“Thank you for the food,” Emma murmured softly, her voice barely audible. Around the table, the others echoed her sentiment, and soon the clinking of utensils filled the room as they began eating.
Ellie was the first to speak, her enthusiasm breaking the quiet. “This food is amazing!” she exclaimed, her eyes lighting up as she took another bite.
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Derrick chuckled, a warm, hearty sound that always made the room feel brighter. “It truly is,” he agreed, his voice deep and steady, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
Ethan, as usual, was less vocal. He nodded vigorously, his focus entirely on his plate as he shoveled another spoonful into his mouth. Emma couldn’t help but smirk, thinking, It must be so good he can’t even talk.
Vivian, ever the modest one, simply smiled, her white eyes softening with appreciation. “Thank you, everyone,” she said, her voice gentle but sincere. “I’m glad you like it.”
After that, the conversation dwindled. Vivian had always insisted on minimal talking during meals, a rule they all followed without complaint. The sound of utensils scraping against plates and the occasional murmur of approval was all that filled the room.
Once the meal was finished, Ellie and Emma took it upon themselves to clear the table. Vivian hesitated, her hands halfway to a plate before Emma gently stopped her.
“Mom, you’ve done enough,” Emma said firmly, her voice leaving no room for argument. “Go rest.”
Vivian opened her mouth to protest but closed it again when Ellie chimed in, “She’s right, Mom. We’ve got this.”
Reluctantly, Vivian nodded, a small smile gracing her lips as she stepped away from the table. “Alright,” she said softly, “but don’t stay up too late.”
Ethan lingered, grabbing a few plates to help, though his efforts were minimal. “Don’t want anyone calling me lazy,” he muttered, casting a pointed look at Emma.
Emma grinned, unable to resist. “Too late,” she teased, darting out of his reach.
Ethan narrowed his eyes, a mischievous glint flashing in his deep blue gaze. “Oh, you’re asking for it,” he said, dropping the plates onto the counter before chasing her around the dining room.
Emma squealed slightly, her laughter echoing through the house as Ethan pursued her. They wove between chairs and around corners until his stamina finally gave out, and he collapsed onto the couch, panting.
Ellie watched the chaos unfold with a bemused expression before stepping in. With surprising ease, she scooped up both Emma and Ethan, carrying them like they weighed nothing. “Alright, you two, that’s enough,” she said, her tone firm but lighthearted as she deposited them onto the living room couch.
The three of them settled into the cushions, their laughter subsiding into a comfortable silence. The house was quiet now, their parents having retreated to their room. The faint hum of the night settled over them like a calming presence.
Ellie sat upright, a sly smirk tugging at her lips. “Before Mom comes out and drags us to bed,” she began, her voice carrying a hint of mischief, “why don’t we play a game?”
Emma’s eyes lit up, her heart skipping a beat with excitement. “What game?” she asked eagerly, leaning forward.
Ellie’s smirk widened, her eyes glinting with anticipation.