The next morning, after hours of sorting scrolls, summarizing court reports, and preparing documents for the next council meeting, Seraphina finally let out a quiet sigh of relief. With the stack of papers neatly arranged on the desk, she stepped toward the crown prince's chamber.
Kael looked up from the open book in his hand when she entered.
"I've finished the paperwork for the upcoming court meeting," she said. "So… I'd like to request a half-day leave."
His gaze sharpened instantly. "That depends," he said, closing the book with a soft thud. "What's the big plan behind this request?"
Seraphina offered him a small smile. "I'd like to visit Prince Aven."
For a moment, his expression turned unreadable. Then, after a quiet sigh and seeing the determination in her eyes, he gave a reluctant nod. "Fine… but I'm coming with you."
---
A few minutes later, they stood outside a polished wooden door, where behind it, silence reigned.
Prince Aven hadn't come out since the incident yesterday.
"Aven," Kael called out, his voice firm. "Open the door."
No answer.
He knocked once more. "Aven."
Still nothing.
Then Seraphina stepped forward, placing a gentle hand on the door. "Aven? It's me, Seraphina."
A moment later, the lock clicked, and the door creaked open.
Kael blinked, jealousy flaring in his chest. Seriously? His own cousin ignored him but responded to her voice instantly?
Inside the room, Aven stood awkwardly, eyes cast downward. Seraphina stepped in with a warm smile. "I came to see how you were doing. About yesterday… I wanted to apologize."
Aven shook his head quickly. "You don't need to apologize. It wasn't your fault. The one who should be saying sorry is..." His small hand lifted and pointed directly at Kael. "Big bro Kael."
Both Seraphina and Aven turned to stare at him.
Kael looked away with a dramatic sigh, arms crossed. "Tch… fine. You can go outside." He glanced at Aven with a side-eye. "But don't harm anyone."
Aven's lips curled into a tiny smile, satisfied. Seraphina chuckled softly.
Then, Aven turned to her and asked with unexpected boldness, "Will you come with me to the market?"
Seraphina glanced at Kael in surprise. His golden eyes narrowed slightly.
Kael answered before she could. "Fine," he said stiffly, "but I'm coming too."
His expression remained composed, but inwardly, Kael's mind swirled with suspicion and annoyance. First she calms him down. Then he opens the door for her. Now he wants to take her to the market? What's next? Holding her hand? No. Not happening.
And worst of all… the irrational fear tugged at the back of his heart—What if she starts preferring the brat?
He silently vowed to keep both eyes on them the entire time.