69. A run towards the wedding

AT THE SAME TIME

ISABELLA'S POINT OF VIEW:

The towering castle loomed ahead, its presence undeniable even through the veil of night. As we crossed through the massive gates, I felt the shift in the air this was their home. A place where Michael and Terrence had come from. A place of power. It was also the place that Xavier for all those years thought of being his home. Yet, despite the intimidating structure, there was warmth waiting inside. The second we stepped into the grand hall, queen Clara moved first.

"Michael. Terrence."She said.

The authority in her tone was undeniable, but the tremble in her voice gave her away. Before either of them could react, she had crossed the distance and pulled them into an embrace.

"You're home." She said.

Michael stiffened, his body unused to the touch, but his fingers twitched slightly, as if some part of him wanted to return it.

Terrence, less willing to show emotions, sighed.