Earlier That Day – Before Everything Unfolded
Alf and Erinnette stood just outside the door, their expressions unreadable. Surrounding them were rows of elite guards and Lord Garius' personal maids—the elite battle maids, each one standing like an unbreakable wall.
The moment they noticed him, every gaze locked onto him.
Javier stopped in his tracks. Even without words, their silent watchfulness pressed down on him, making the weight on his shoulders feel heavier.
He swallowed hard, then finally spoke. "Is Father inside?"
Alf gave a small nod. "Yes. But Lord Garius said he wanted to be alone for now."
Javier clenched his fists. Inside his mind, a storm raged. "This is my fault." "If only I had made a decision faster—if I hadn't hesitated—none of this would have happened."
He exhaled slowly, feeling the frustration burn in his chest. But now wasn't the time to dwell. He had to make things right.
