Of course, the moment they came back home they were met with the disappointed looks of both Iris and Soren. Fayt had immediately darted himself behind Axel as the two approached them as the group entered the lobby. Maybe. Just maybe they wouldn't notice. A man could dream, right?

“Welcome back.” Iris greeted with a smile. “I see you were able to bring back... I'm sorry dear, I do not know your name. I was expecting someone a lot older, not one of the same age as my children.”

“Your Majesty, I am Kai. My father is out on business in another country, so I am afraid you will have to make do with me.” The man deeply bowed.

“Pleasure to meet you. I'm sure Axel told you why we asked for you, and I hope you'll accept. Well, rather I hope you’ll find yourself comfortable for the next year since you do not exactly have a choice in the matter.” The two nodded as Kai rose from his bow. “I'm sure Axel can show you to a room suitable for you to set up as your own.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” To Fayt the reply sounded forced, but he still couldn't understand why.

“And as for you-” Soren walked over to the boys, reaching behind Axel to grab his son by the hood of his robe. What was it with people and grabbing him today? “You are late for our lessons. Come with me.” Not giving him a choice, the King hauled his son off.

“Hey! I can at least walk on my own! Stop pulling me!”

***

“Ugh, this is so borriinngg.” Fayt cried out and leaned back in his chair. Now he and his father were in the royal library, going over history lessons and proper manners befitting a future king.

“If it were fun you wouldn't be learning.” The prince heard footsteps approach from behind him, relaxing as Soren placed a hand on his son's shoulder and leaned in. “Here, this book tells about all the different trading ports and how to handle disputes for different areas. This is very important. Depending on the rise and fall of prices each season you may have to visit them yourself to settle things.”

Nodding, Fayt turned his head and smiled towards his father, who was rather close to him, hand still placed on his shoulder. To Fayt, the closeness wasn't at all weird. Rather, it was comforting. Sure, sometimes he was very touchy but weren't some parents like that? A little more touchy-feely than others?

However, unbeknownst to Fayt, Soren’s touching had a completely different meaning behind it. And never had he really took the time to notice the glimmer in his father's eyes when they were by themselves. He had never noticed the desire the older man held himself back from.

But for how long until the bond of family would break?