As the car came to a halt in front of the palace, Noah's eyes widened. He pressed his small hand against the glass, pointing at a figure standing near the entrance and calling out to his mother.
Amelie looked through the window and saw Denzel. He was standing perfectly still, but his expression was heavy with a visible, lingering trouble.
Gabriel opened the door, stepping out first to let Amelie and Noah exit.
"Denzel," Amelie said softly, acknowledging his presence.
"Caca!" Noah chirped, squirming in her arms. She walked toward him, encouraging the toddler to say hello, trying to break the heavy tension.
Gabriel remained by the car, his hands shoved deep into his trouser pockets. Karmen moved to stand beside him, his voice barely a murmur. "You have to forgive Denzel," he whispered.
Gabriel offered no reply. His gaze was fixed on Denzel, and for a long moment, their eyes met, an unspoken weight passing between the two men.
