Gabriel pushed open the door to the nursery to check on Noah. He found David and Samyra seated on the floor amidst a sea of colorful wooden blocks and plush toys, their attention entirely captured by the small boy in their midst.
"Your Highness!" David and Samyra exclaimed in unison. They scrambled to their feet, smoothing their clothes as they offered deep, respectful bows.
"Papa! Papa!" Noah squealed. His little face lit up with a grin, and he began to squirm, kicking his legs as he fought to escape Samyra's gentle hold.
Gabriel stepped forward, a smile carving on his lips. He reached down and scooped the toddler into his arms. Noah immediately settled against his father's chest, his tiny hands becoming busy as he gripped the lapel of Gabriel's shirt, clutching and unclutching the expensive fabric.
"When did you two arrive?" Gabriel asked as he adjusted the boy's weight.
