The castle’s stone corridors echoed with the sound of the boys’ footsteps as they made their way toward King Markus’s office. Henry walked beside Kaius, his hands clenched into tight fists at his sides, his mind a whirlwind of doubt and anxiety. He’d come so far to escape his past, and now he was willingly walking toward what felt like his own undoing.
Kaius glanced at him, sensing his turmoil. “Trust me,” he said softly, his voice a steady anchor. “All will be fine. Come with me.”
Henry wanted to believe him, but his heart pounded as though it were trying to break free from his chest. When they reached the door to Markus’s office, Kaius paused, looking at Henry with a reassuring smile before knocking firmly.
“Come in,” Markus’s voice rang out from inside.
Kaius pushed the door open, a
