2 Lingering Shadows on the Plate: Thomas's Unseen Intentions

The objects that once held familiarity now appeared unfamiliar, their features distorted by the shadows.

It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing a new side to the room that I had never noticed before.

The subtle creaks and whispers echoed through the air, adding to the mystique of the moment.

As I cautiously made my way through the room, my senses heightened. Every sound, every subtle movement, held an element of intrigue.

Amidst this atmosphere, a curious thought arose: why was this entire residence, housing over 300 students, so unnervingly quiet in the cafeteria? I couldn't help but wonder what stories these silent witnesses held.

The very essence of time appeared to suspend itself in that fleeting moment. Gathering my resolve, I ventured towards the main kitchen, driven by a fervent desire for clarity.

Abruptly, a hand grasped my shoulder, and I spun around to behold none other than Thomas.

His voice, laden with an air of exasperation, pierced the air as he admonished, "Why can't you grasp what I've conveyed? Was it not enough to dissuade you from venturing here?"

Meeting his stern gaze with a flash of anger, I retorted, "And why, pray tell, should your inexplicable warnings deter me? Enlighten me, Thomas."

A sigh escaped him, an exhalation that seemed to carry the weight of countless unspoken sentiments. Swiftly, he beckoned another presence forth, instructing them to reveal themselves along with the others.

A parade of individuals appeared, carrying platters packed with a concerning sight—bloody-red meat, its scarlet glow striking with the pallor of the room.

A perplexing uncertainty lingered over the flesh, masking its true character, whether raw or cooked, under a veil of mystery.

The odd combination pushed my assumptions, making me rethink the limits of the ordinary.

In the midst of this strange scene, Thomas turned to face me, his voice filled with an unexpected honesty. "I intended this feast to be a closely guarded secret, reserved only for our inner circle," he said, his words dancing like an invitation.

"But your persistent insistence has convinced me to change my mind. Would you want to participate in this feast of high-quality meat?"

We gathered around an old wooden table, a relic of bygone days that bore witness to our peculiar meeting, as a tentative camaraderie emerged as I met his gaze once more, my hesitation melting away under the allure of his proposition.

Without hesitation, I agreed, driven by a determination to share in the mystery that had been presented.

The platters once more made their appearance, loaded with meat that emanated a strange perfume, its flavor summoning a symphony of feelings beforehand experienced.

With each bite, a tapestry of tastes unfurled, exceeding the bounds of my palette.

The interesting repast became an event that transcended ordinary standards, defying norms and bringing in a renewed respect for the unusual.

We retired to our different apartments after the feast, Thomas joining me in companionable quiet.

Conversations faded as the weight of unanswered questions hung in the air. Exhaustion had settled over me, a witness to the night's mental and emotional tension.

I collapsed to the temptation of sleep, surrendering to the comforting embrace of darkness, eager to explore the depths of dreams once again.