Gabriel and Amelie walked toward the mansion's entrance after having a run in their wolf forms.
"Why did you really ask my parents to stay here?" Amelie asked. "Mom mentioned you'd be busy with work, but is that the only reason? Or is it because you want them to love me the same way they love Flora?"
Gabriel stopped, turning to face her. He didn't offer a polite lie. "Because you still crave it," he stated firmly. "You don't say it aloud, but your eyes tell a different story whenever you're around them. You deserve to be their priority for once."
He intertwined his fingers with hers, a silent gesture of support, just as they spotted Karmen standing by the marble fountain. He was deep in conversation on his phone, but the moment he caught sight of the royal couple, he hung up abruptly.
"Good morning!" Karmen greeted them, snapping to a professional posture.
"Morning," Amelie and Gabriel replied in unison.
