The next morning, Gabriel took Noah for a stroll through the palace gardens. The toddler was lively in his carrier, kicking his legs and reaching toward the vibrant clusters of hydrangeas lining the path.
Gabriel's quiet moment was interrupted when Carlos stepped out from the shade of a stone archway to join them.
"Finally decided to show yourself," Gabriel muttered, his gaze remaining on the flowers.
"I was around," Carlos replied easily.
"Liar," Gabriel remarked, finally cutting a sharp look toward him. "I didn't see you at the wedding yesterday. You disappeared almost as soon as the ceremony started."
Carlos offered a small, knowing smile, sensing Gabriel's irritation. "A witch needed my help," he said simply.
Gabriel halted in his tracks, his eyes widening. "So, you've actually decided to go down that path?"
"I have," Carlos replied, his expression turning serious. "The former Moon Goddess gave me the guidance I needed."
