The following morning, Gabriel woke earlier. He moved with silence, gently tucking Amelie's foot back beneath the warmth of the duvet before crossing the room to check on Noah. The infant was deep in slumber.
After freshening up, Gabriel headed out for a stroll, needing the morning air to clear his head before the inevitable chaos of the day.
As he moved through the quiet palace corridors, his gaze drifted toward the expansive gardens. In the distance, he spotted his parents walking side-by-side, huddled in their warm morning coats. They were deep in conversation.
He turned to continue his walk, eventually encountering Zilia near the library wing. She was clutching several thick files to her chest.
"Oh, Gabriel, good morning. Did you sleep well?" Zilia asked, offering him a small but genuine smile.
"Good morning. Yes, I had a very restful sleep," Gabriel answered. He lingered for a moment, his eyes dropping to the paperwork she held. "You're starting early. What's all this?"
