#Chapter 183: Beck and Call

Ava Just moments after Chris left to follow Bernard, Patricia quickly grabbed the seed from the table and excused herself, hurrying after them. I found myself alone with Clara, an awkward silence settling over the breakfast table. Clara cleared her throat and offered me a small smile. “More coffee, dear?” I nodded, grateful for something to focus on. “Yes, please. Thank you.” As she poured, I noticed her hands trembling slightly. The fine china clinked softly as she set the pot down. “I’m sorry about all this,” I said softly. “We didn’t mean to cause any trouble.” Clara shook her head, her silver-streaked hair catching the morning light. “No, no. It’s not your fault. Bernard... he wasn’t always like this, you know.” I raised an eyebrow, curious. “Oh?” She nodded, a faraway look in her eyes. “When we were young, he was so loving, so full of life. He still is, really. It wasn’t until the infestation hit that he became so… cut off.” Be