The Golden Feather ( 178 )

As they walked out of the classroom, Francesca clung to Javier's arm, her bright smile never fading. Liana followed closely behind, her expression calm and composed, while Francesca's personal maids trailed in perfect formation.

Javier glanced down at his mother, his eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Umm, Mother?"

"Yes, honey bun?" Francesca replied sweetly, looking up at him.

"You came here alone?" he asked, tilting his head.

Francesca chuckled softly, gesturing behind her. "Hmm? I'm not alone. I have them with me," she said, pointing to her group of personal maids, each moving with quiet confidence.

"No, I mean... you didn't come with Father?"

Francesca's smile turned playful as she laughed. "Oh? He's been with us the whole time."

Javier stopped in his tracks, blinking in confusion. "Huh? What do you mean?"