[Third Person].
Draven sat beside Meredith, his presence steady and unmistakable, as the women and children ate and drank to their satisfaction.
Laughter rose in small pockets, children clustered together with flushed cheeks and sticky fingers, the earlier tension finally dissolving into something warm and real.
Meredith watched it all quietly, her hands folded in her lap, heart still taut but slowly easing. When the last bowls were set aside and cups emptied, she rose to her feet.
"Before you leave," she said gently, drawing the women's attention back to her, "I want to remind you about the gift bags you will be taking home today."
She lifted one slightly. "Each item is labelled. Please follow the instructions as written. The teas are for headaches and digestion, and the balm is for wounds, joint pain, and tired hands. Use them carefully, and if something doesn't suit you, stop."
Her tone was calm but firm, practical rather than indulgent.
