Gabriel gazed at the alcohol in the glass he had poured.
Karn, who was in the mansion, ca to him and sat by his side on the counter chair. "Why are you drinking at this hour? Is Alie asleep?" He grabbed the bottle, pouring a glass for himself.
"Yeah, she’s in a deep slumber," Gabriel replied, his voice quiet. He lifted the glass and took a sip. "Why aren’t you asleep?"
"I was working," Karn answered, settling comfortably in the chair. "Prince Dominick sent over a copy of the report Erson Vitiello compiled. It’s troubling. Several minor cases have surfaced, betas disappearing without a trace. So were eventually declared dead. What’s strange is that it’s been happening over a span of almost two years."
Gabriel humd low in his throat. "You work hard," he muttered, finishing the last drop of his drink. He refilled his glass without hesitation.
Karn studied him. "What’s bothering you? And why the sudden decision to leave the palace? I thought you planned to stay at least another week, especially until the pact with Luke was finalized."
Gabriel gave a dry chuckle, though there was no amusent in it. "Alie grew close to my mother," he said, eyes fixed on the liquid in his glass. "She thinks my mother wants what’s best for . But she has no idea, the only thing the Queen cares about is proving so damn prophecy from a witch right."
Karn glanced at him sharply, confusion knitting his brows. He wondered silently if the Queen had pulled another stunt, one serious enough to push Gabriel to this edge again.
"Well, I’m staying awake because Alie’s friend will shortly be here. I’ve sent a driver to the airport already," Gabriel said, lowering the glass after taking a long sip.
"Who?" Karn curiously asked.
"Carlos," Gabriel answered. "He’s a witch’s son. Alie said she saved his life a long ti ago and from that mont onward, they both beca friends."
"That’s quite interesting to know," said Karn, smiling. "But why is he suddenly visiting her?"
"Well, I’m staying awake because Alie’s friend will be arriving shortly," Gabriel said, lowering his glass after a long sip. "I’ve already sent a driver to the airport."
"Who?" Karn asked with a hint of curiosity.
"Carlos," Gabriel replied. "He’s the son of a witch. Alie said she once saved his life, and they’ve been close ever since."
Karn raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "That’s quite interesting. But why is he suddenly coming to visit now?"
Gabriel leaned back slightly, letting the glass rest on the counter. "Because both Alie and I carry marks. My mother told mine exists above my head, sothing invisible, yet tied to a prophecy. Alie thinks we need answers from soone tied to the magical world. She’s been getting premonitions lately. I told her not to stress over it... but I can see the fear in her."
Karn nodded slowly. "Since Carlos is a witch’s son, he might have a better chance at uncovering the truth. Louis also ntioned the witches. I thought you might eventually go to them. Didn’t he suggest speaking with one directly?"
"Not yet," Gabriel said. "According to Louis, even the witches don’t fully understand these marks. All they know is that they’re bound by a curse, one that’s forbidden. Sothing ancient... and dangerous. To find it out we need the help of a trustable witch."
"Hm. I hope you both uncover the truth soon," Karn said.
Gabriel stood up from his chair. "You should head back to your room. Get so rest. Goodnight."
Karn nodded silently, watching as Gabriel walked away.
Stepping outside the mansion, Gabriel stood on the foyer, the night air brushing against his face. The only sound being the occasional rustle of wind through the trees.
A few monts later, headlights cut through the darkness as a vehicle approached. Gabriel watched as it rolled to a smooth stop in front of the steps.
The back door opened, and a tall figure stepped out.
"Hi!" Carlos raised a hand, waving as he stepped out of the vehicle. Behind him, the driver was already unloading the luggage from the trunk.
"Welco, Carlos," Gabriel said, walking over and exchanging a friendly handshake.
"Sorry for arriving so late," Carlos said, pulling his hand back. "I did suggest staying at a hotel for the night, but you insisted I co straight here."
Gabriel offered a small smile. "Yeah. I felt it would be best."
"Alright then," Carlos said with a nod.
"Co inside," Gabriel added, turning toward the entrance.
The driver followed behind them, carrying a trolley suitcase and a duffel bag as they made their way into the mansion.
Gabriel pushed open the guest room door. "Here’s your room."
Carlos stepped inside as the driver followed, placing the luggage neatly on the floor.
"Thank you," Carlos said to him.
The driver gave a polite nod to Gabriel, bowed lightly, and exited the room in silence.
"Alie must be asleep, right?" Carlos asked, glancing around as he removed his coat.
"Yes," Gabriel replied, resting his hand on the doorfra. "We returned from the palace a few hours ago. I wanted her to rest, especially since she’s carrying a pup."
Carlos gave a quiet nod. "Hmm... I figured."
"You want sothing to eat?" Gabriel offered.
"No, I already ate on the plane," Carlos said with a small smile. "I’ll just get so sleep now."
Gabriel gave a curt nod. "Alright. Rest well. We’ll talk in the morning."
"Good night, Gabriel," Carlos said.
With a hum, Gabriel pulled the door halfway closed behind him, leaving Carlos alone to settle in.
As Gabriel returned to his bedroom, he shut the door behind him. Sitting on the bed, he brought his hand to Alie’s head. Then, removing his slippers, he slid inside the blanket and snuggled to Alie.
Her pheromones wrapped around him, making him wonder why she released them when she was asleep. His lips found her forehead as he pressed a tender kiss on its center.
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