The Crown Prince Palace was quieter than the restaurant had been.
By the time their cars passed through the private gates, Theo had recovered from his brief sleep and apparently decided the night was still young enough for additional entertainment. He climbed out of the car with the wooden dragon tucked beneath one arm, accepted Sebastian's hand without protest, and immediately began looking toward the illuminated gardens beyond the entrance.
Dean noticed.
"You are supposed to be tired."
"I slept."
"For twenty minutes."
Theo considered that sufficient.
Nero came around the other side of the car, his long white-blond hair loose now after removing the clasp he had worn to dinner. He handed something to one of the household staff before taking Theo's small overnight bag himself.
Arion watched him.
"You should practice."
Nero glanced over.
"With luggage?"
"With succession."
Dean stopped beside Sebastian.
Nero's expression became very still.
Arion smiled.
