I Am Home
Edward stepped into his grand mansion, a suitcase in hand. The moment he entered, the familiar scent of home surrounded him—warmth, elegance, and a sense of belonging.
Before he could take another step, two small figures dashed toward him.
"Father!" Jonathan and Julian called out, their eyes gleaming with excitement as they threw themselves into his arms.
Edward chuckled, embracing them both. "Welcome back, my lord," the butler greeted, taking the suitcase from Edward's hand.
Cassandra approached with a soft smile. "Welcome back, Edward. How was your business trip?"
"Good," he responded smoothly.
Jonathan and Julian tugged at his sleeves, their voices playful. "Father, we missed you!"
Edward smirked. "Oh? Did you really? Well, I'm back now." He ruffled their hair. "Go and play for a while. Once I freshen up, we'll spend time together."
"Okay, Father!" they chimed before running off.
Cassandra turned to the butler. "Prepare the meal," she instructed before following Edward with her gaze.
Edward made his way to his room, loosening his tie. He stepped into the bathroom, letting the warm water wash over him. His mind wandered—flashes of Charles beside him in the bath, the way his lips curled into a smirk, the touch of his skin.
Lost in thought, Edward didn't notice when Cassandra entered his room. She spotted his discarded suit on the bed, her fingers brushing over the fine fabric. Instinctively, she lifted it to her nose, inhaling the scent.
Her brows furrowed. This scent… it smells just like Charles's perfume.
Just then, the bathroom door opened.
Edward stepped out, a towel wrapped around his waist. His gaze landed on Cassandra, her expression unreadable as she held his suit.
"What are you doing?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Cassandra turned to face him. "Are you using my brother's perfume?"
Edward blinked. "Charles's perfume? No. I passed by a market stall, and a vendor was selling perfumes, so I gave one a try."
Cassandra narrowed her eyes slightly. "Really? This scent is exactly like the one Charles makes."
Edward met her gaze calmly. "It's not exactly the same, is it? Are you really that sure?"
She let out a small huff. "Of course, I'm sure. He's my older brother. I know his scent better than anyone."
Before Edward could respond, a knock sounded at the door.
"My lord," the butler announced, stepping inside. "Lunch is ready."
Edward nodded. "Alright. Let me get dressed."
Cassandra placed the suit back on the bed, giving him one last glance before leaving. Once alone, Edward exhaled slowly. He walked over to the closet, selecting a fresh suit. As he buttoned his shirt, his gaze flickered toward the bed, where his previous suit still carried the lingering scent of Charles.
A small smirk played on his lips.
Minutes later, he joined the family at the dining table. Jonathan and Julian were already seated, their excitement evident.
"Dad! After lunch, we're going to Ambrose's house to play. He invited us!"
Edward raised a brow. "Really? Then Cassandra will go with you as well."
Cassandra took a bite of her meal and nodded. "Yes, I'll be going. It's been a while since I visited my brother's house."
Edward set down his glass. "Then I'll come along too."
Just then, the butler approached, carrying a sealed envelope. He placed it on the table before stepping back. "My lord, we received a letter."
Edward reached for it, turning it over. His eyes narrowed when he saw the red marking along the edge of the envelope.
The King…
His fingers tightened around the letter.
Edward kept his expression unreadable as he spoke. "Take the letter to my office. I'll read it later."
The butler bowed. "Understood, my lord." He picked up the letter and left.
Edward leaned back in his chair, mind already occupied. If this letter was truly from the King, then something important—perhaps even dangerous—was unfolding.
Edward pushed his chair back and stood up.
"Edward, you should eat your lunch," Cassandra said, her tone laced with concern.
"I'm not that hungry," Edward replied flatly. Without another word, he turned and strode toward his office.
Once inside, he locked the door behind him. The quiet hum of the mansion faded, leaving only the soft rustle of paper as he unsealed the envelope. His eyes skimmed over the neatly penned words.
Dear Edward,
I hope you are well. I heard that you are planning to visit Charles's house. I wanted to let you know that I will be taking William with me for a few days.
I have already spoken with Charles, and he agreed to let me take him for three days. However, I was hoping you could convince him to extend it to at least a week. You know how much I love children, and I would truly appreciate it.
Your Sister, Edeline
Edward exhaled sharply, placing the letter on his desk. His fingers tapped against the wood as he leaned back in his chair.
Will Charles really listen to me?
A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. He stood up, unlocking it to reveal the butler standing there with a tea trolley.
"Lady Cassandra asked me to bring you tea, my lord. She was concerned since you didn't eat properly," the butler informed him.
Edward sighed but stepped aside, allowing the butler to enter. He sat back down as the butler poured a cup of tea, the soft clink of porcelain breaking the silence.
"Inform Cassandra that I will not be going," Edward said, lifting the cup to his lips.
The butler gave a small bow. "Understood, my lord."
With that, he turned and wheeled the trolley away.