"Thanks," Theo replied, still looking overwhelmed as he took in the grand structure behind Sébastien. "It's... wow."
"Casey, good to see you again," Sébastien said, his voice gentling as he addressed Theo's brother. Casey smiled broadly in recognition. "Ms. Luzon," he added with a respectful nod to Janet, who returned the greeting.
"I trust your journey was comfortable?" he asked, seamlessly shifting back to his role as my right hand.
"As comfortable as a transatlantic flight can be," I replied.
"The château is prepared for your arrival," Sébastien informed me. "The east wing guest suites are ready as you requested."
“Excellent. Thanks, Sébastien.” I glanced at Theo, who was craning his neck to take in the intricate carvings adorning the entrance. “The east wing overlooks the lake and gardens. I thought you might enjoy the view.”
“I'm sure it's amazing,” Theo replied, breathless. “This whole place is... wow.”
I smiled at his genuine reaction, different from the practiced admiration I was used to from visitors with their own agendas.
As we entered the grand foyer with its soaring ceiling and sweeping staircase, I heard Casey’s soft gasp of delight. Sunlight streamed through tall windows, illuminating the marble floor and casting rainbows from the crystal chandelier overhead. Portraits of my ancestors lined the walls, their stern gazes following our progress.
“It's just like Beauty and the Beast,” Casey said, turning in a slow circle.
Theo laughed. “Case, I don't think that's—”
“Actually,” I interrupted, “the château served as inspiration for some elements in that film. A distant cousin of mine consulted for the studio.”
“Really?” Theo asked, surprised.
“Really.”
It was a perfect moment—light, joyful, full of possibility. Which perhaps explains why the universe chose that instant to remind me of the challenges ahead.
“Your Grace,” Sébastien said, his tone shifting to one of careful neutrality. “There are two matters requiring your attention once you've settled.”
The diplomatic phrasing put me on alert. “Of course, Sébastien. Could you brief me while our guests rest?”
“Absolutely,” Sébastien said with a deferential nod. “Mrs. Fournier has prepared a light meal that can be served in the sitting room when you're ready.” He gestured subtly to a nearby staff member, who stepped forward to escort Casey and Ms. Luzon away.
I noticed Theo's hesitation as he glanced between Casey and me, his brow furrowing in that way I'd come to recognize as his internal struggle. He wanted to ensure his brother was comfortable, yet I could see curiosity, and concern, in his eyes about whatever Sébastien needed to discuss.
“Go ahead with Casey,” I said softly, touching his elbow. “I'll find you once I've handled this.”
Theo bit his lower lip, a habit I found endearing. “Are you sure? It sounds important.”
Sébastien cleared his throat. “Perhaps Mr. Bennett should remain, Your Grace.”
The suggestion surprised me. Sébastien rarely volunteered such opinions, especially regarding personal matters. I studied his face, noting the subtle tightness around his eyes that signaled genuine concern.
Theo caught the look too. “I think I should stay,” he said, his voice firmer than I expected. “Janet will get Casey settled.” He squeezed his brother's shoulder. “I'll come check on you soon, okay?”
Casey nodded, seemingly unbothered by the separation. “I want to see my room.”
As Janet guided Casey away, Theo stepped closer to me, his shoulder brushing mine in silent solidarity. The simple gesture steadied me more than he could know.
“Well then,” I said, turning to Sébastien. “Let's discuss these matters.”
Sebastien nodded. “It concerns tomorrow's audience with Their Royal Highnesses. They have requested your presence at eleven rather than the originally scheduled afternoon meeting.”
I understood the subtext all too clearly. My parents were eager, perhaps anxiously so, to discuss recent developments. “I see,” I replied, keeping my voice steady despite the sudden tightness in my chest. “Thank you for informing me.”
Theo, ever perceptive, sensed the shift. “Oh.” His expression flickered with concern. “Is that... because of us? Because of me?”
