Meanwhile.
Javier arrived at the antechamber just before the throne hall, where Alf, Erinette, Hesbeirn, and the other attendants were waiting calmly outside the massive doors.
He exhaled from a distance, slowing his steps.
Looks like Father is still in there… Probably getting an earful from Mother. Why did he have to bring up that topic when he already knows Mother is sensitive about it.
Sigh… now Mother is surely in a bad mood.
He stopped a few paces away, rubbing the back of his neck.
And I have a feeling something is going to happen to me soon. She's going to corner me, or guilt-trip me, or give me that sweet, dangerous smile. Worst of all, she might punish me for it.
Javier exhaled again, glancing around the grand hallway.
Well… whatever… even if I try to run, there's no escaping her. She'll find me eventually, and it'll only make things worse.
He straightened his posture and walked forward, his footsteps echoing softly against the marble floor.
