Carlos stood beside the bed and was ready to go to the door that had knocked as if the world was going to fall. And Carlos knows that Kave is going to push the door and come into the room if Carlos' response cannot be heard again.
Carlos chest tight, but he forced the breath through it, slow and measured. He could have crumbled now.
Not in front of him.
Not in front of Kave.
Then Carlos straightened his shoulders, and every trace of grief, guilt and memories was sealed behind the steel of his expression. From beyond the door, the voice called again, gentle and familiar. And frustrating.
"My Lord, I am coming in."
Oh hell, no. Carlos though rushed to the door and opened it ... .as expected from Carlos, Kave was trying to push the door using his full body. And Carlos was able to stop it at the last second.
When Kave saw Carlos, he straightened into his knight self and stood as if nothing had happened, though the edge of concern hadn't left his face.
Carlos offered him a command with an emotionless face that he had always got used to. The kind that didn't reach his eyes—but it was the face that Kave had always trusted and used to see.
"Tell His Majesty I'm Fine." Carlos said smoothly, voice steady. "The palace doesn't need to worry over a little noise."
Kave studied him for a beat too long,and searched if Carlos had any injuries, his brow tightening. But he nodded.
"Understood."
As he turned to him, Carlos watched him go—each step a remainder of a sin reborn. His best friend, his brother, and his family.
And yet, now his shield once again.
Carlos turned to his room and closed the door softly, then he heard the echo of boots again. A pause, then the sound of someone turning back.
He opened the door before the knock could be heard.
Kave stood there, half hand raised, his expression shocked and thoughtful. As if he'd just remembered something important.
"One more thing, my lord." He said with a smile as both of them watched each other.
"The king wanted me to remind you—the birthday event begins tonight."
"Your Majesty asked that you escort him personally" Kave continued ."He'll be waiting for you in the garden."
A beat passed.
Kave hesitated again, eyes narrowing faintly—not suspicious, but searching.
"He said…it wouldn't be the same without you."
Carlos didn't answer right away. He kept his face unreadable, fingers flexing at his side.
Then, with a calm nod,"Of course. I'll be there."
Kave held his gaze another second. Then with a soldier's bow and a smile on his face, turned and left down the corridor.
Carlos closed the door again, slower this time, and let the silence pass in.
The god is watching him, Carlos doesn't know from where. The past was knocking and the king–his family—his brother was waiting.
And tonight, Carlos would have to stand beside him, into the light like in the past. With the memories flowing, he had an advantage and he had to use it fully.