42. Wren's royal introduction

AT THE SAME TIME

XAVIER'S POINT OF VIEW:

The journey back to the castle felt like an eternity. The castle that once felt like a home now felt like a prison, a place I had run from, a place I never wanted to step foot in again. I left with Wanessa and I was happy and I wasn't planning to stay there for a long time. Wren walked beside me, her expression unreadable, but I could feel the anxiety radiating from her. She knew just as well as I did that this wouldn't be easy. If anything, it would make things harder. The King, Queen, Michael, Terrence none of them were going to understand. I wasn't just returning for political reasons. I was returning because Wanessa, my mate, was in trouble. And I needed answers. As we approached the castle gates, I felt the familiar weight of eyes on me. The guards, standing at attention, exchanged confused glances, clearly surprised by our sudden arrival.

"My prince." One of the guards said.