"Yes, have these gifts delivered to Mr. Vitiello's estate," Mabel instructed firmly. Lester bowed in acknowledgment and signaled to the servants behind her to move.
Just then, her gaze landed on Casaio, who was crossing the main hall.
"Casaio," Mabel called, her voice halting his steps instantly.
The servants paused, uncertain, but Mabel gave a subtle wave of her hand, silently dismissing them. Casaio turned and approached his mother, his movements unhurried. His hair was tousled, and there was a faint trace of fatigue, or carelessness, on his face.
"Where were you yesterday?" Mabel asked with a sharp look.
"You already know the answer, Mom," Casaio replied, folding his arms behind his back as he stood before her.
Mabel's lips pressed into a thin line. "So it's true," she said at last. "You've chosen to follow in Gabriel's footsteps and be a rebel."
