To welcome his "return after completing his studies," Benjamin's "parents" and "old friends" had meticulously prepared a family gathering.
The familiar living room, the warm lighting, the dining table laden with dishes he had "remembered" liking.
His "parents" beamed with pride and affection, "Amy" chattered away about recent events, while "Victor" listened quietly as always, nodding now and then.
The atmosphere was lively and warm, filled with the joy of a reunited family.
Benjamin ate quietly, a gentle smile on his face as he listened to them talk.
Yet deep in his eyes lay waterlike coldness as he meticulously observed every detail, every subtle shift in expression.
At last, he set down his utensils.
Metal struck porcelain with a crisp sound. It was not loud, yet it strangely brought the lively conversation at the table to an abrupt halt.
Everyone's gaze turned toward him.
Benjamin looked around at the four "family members" before him who "cared for" and "loved" him. His gaze was as calm as a deep pool, yet sharp enough to pierce through appearances.
He slowly opened his mouth. His voice was not loud, but it carried an unquestionable, penetrating force. "All right. Stop acting."
"Come out. Let's talk."
The four people at the table froze at once, the smiles on their faces stiffening for an instant.
Amy reacted first. She forced out a smile, her confusion perfectly measured. "Benjamin? What are you talking about? What acting—"
Benjamin shook his head, cutting her off. His gaze seemed to pass through her skin and stare directly at the invisible existence behind it. "You've been controlling them all along, haven't you?"
His finger swept lightly across the table, encompassing his "parents," Amy, and Victor.
"Though—I don't know what to call you."
The instant his words fell—
It was as though