"Idris, there's no need to be afraid of us," Mabel said gently, a soft smile gracing her lips. "We've accepted your sister wholeheartedly. The last time I saw you, you weren't nearly this tall. It's wonderful to see how quickly you're growing."
"How is school going for you?" Raidan asked. "I imagine you've already made plenty of friends."
"It's been fun, Your Majesty," Idris replied, his nerves easing slightly. "And yes, I've made many friends." Still, he couldn't help but notice the Queen's warmth toward him, so different from what he had once imagined, and it left him quietly bewildered.
"Your Majesty, the sweets have arrived," Lester announced, stepping forward with a tray.
Gabriel set his coffee mug down, took a piece of sweet, and stood. Walking over to his mother, he knelt gracefully before her and held the treat to her lips.
