"Good morning, Julian."
"Good morning, Mother."
Her voice was calm and her eyes remained intently locked with him for few moments before she turned away.
Further down the table sat Liam and Marcus, both dressed in their finest coats and both doing a poor job of appearing at ease.
Louisa sat beside her husband. She met Julian's eyes briefly before lowering her gaze.
Before anyone could speak, the doors at the far end of the room opened.
Vanessa entered on the Crown Prince's arm, her cheeks flushed from the cold garden air and a few strands of hair escaping her braid. She was laughing at something he had said, but the sound faded when she noticed Julian.
The change was small. A tightening around her mouth.
Julian noticed it all the same.
The Crown Prince offered a perfectly measured bow.
"Julian."
"Your Highness."
Their exchange was brief and courteous.
