Grandpa Ben stared at me for a long time before he sighed. He turned back to Laura, “Go inside and get to your station.” 
Laura nodded. Without looking back, she rushed into the bakery. 
Grandpa Ben stepped closer to me. “No need to worry, Robert,” he put a hand on my shoulder. “I won’t gravely punish her. However, I need to be firm with the both of you.” 
I nodded. Inside, I was relieved. I was comforted that Laura won’t be punished for a wrong that I did. 
“You and Laura should never do picnics during midnight. I understand that you’re an Immortal. And by all means, you’re well-capable to protect her,” he continued as he lowered his voice. “But you don’t know how the world works. Anything can happen and the very last thing I would want is to see you both killed because of recklessness.” 
I nodded. “I understand, Grandpa Ben. You’re only looking after our safety. And as a father, I know how much Laura means to you,” I replied with a slight smile. “But I would like to apologize again for sneaking her out that late. I didn’t mean to cause any trouble between the two of you.” 
“I accept your apology, young one,” he lightly tapped my shoulder. “You must head home now. Your family might notice your absence. I’m certain they’ll be harder to convince.” 
“I will take my leave,” I answered. “Again, my deepest apologies.” 
He smirked, looking at me with a teasing stare. “Robert, I understand the feeling of love. It’s something not everyone can fight. But that doesn’t mean we’ll throw our common sense just to fulfill our longing for someone,” he replied. 
I nodded once again. “Thank you, Grandpa Ben. Have a nice day.” I walked further into the marketplace and found a narrow alley. I hid in a dark corner and turned myself to air. I danced through the air and prayed that my family hasn’t noticed my silent room or unmade bed. 
♔♔♔ 
I walked through the halls with caution as soon as I arrived back home. I returned the basket to the kitchen without taking my time. I didn’t want any attention on me, especially from Nana. To my delight, it seemed that everyone was still asleep. I won’t need to think of an excuse, especially when it’s James or Gonzalo. 
“Your Highness?” 
I spoke too soon. 
An all-too familiar voice spoke from behind me. I slowly turned around and was greeted by Gonzalo. He was already in his working uniform. The usual black coat and everything. 
My jaw clenched as I tried to keep myself calm. “Good morning, Gonzalo,” I smiled. 
He walked up to me and bowed. “You’re quite early today, young prince. Too early, if I say so myself,” he replied. “That’s a bit odd for you.” 
“Thank you for your morning greetings, Gonzalo,” I said with a hint of sarcasm. Lately, Gonzalo hasn’t been acting his usual self. In all moments, he would greet me before he asked his questions. But for some unknown reason, he didn’t today. “I was at the hills. I had an early picnic with Lady.” 
“You went on a morning picnic?” he asked, baffled. 
“Yes,” I put my hands behind my back. 
His brows remained knitted together. “On your own? At this time in the morning?” 
I looked around me and replied, “You don’t see anyone around me, do you?” 
He raised a brow and said, “You might have gone with someone else. Someone not from this castle.” He stepped closer and added, “Someone not from our realm.” 
I chuckled and stepped even closer. Our breaths hit our faces. “Gonzalo, I. Went. On. My. Own,” I repeated, stopping at each word. I stepped back and continued, “Now, if you’d excuse me, I’d like to get some more rest before I continue with my day.” I walked past him. Not far along, I stopped and turned my head back to him. “As you said, being awake this early is highly unnatural for me. I shall see you later.” I proceeded to my room. And I hope no one would disturb me this time. 
♔♔♔ 
“He is not to be disturbed.” 
“This is urgent and does not concern the both of us.” 
I was awakened by a faint argument on the other side of my door. And though my senses were already awake, I kept my eyes closed in an attempt to ignore it. 
“Nana Olsa, I understand that he needs his rest. But Prince Benjamin is making a scene outside the castle doors,” Gonzalo protested. “If we don’t handle this now before the royal family returns, it will be chaotic. It must be taken care of before it explodes.” 
“You saw what happened to Robert yesterday. He has been through enough already. He’s exhausted in all aspects,” Nana argued. “He would prefer to stay within his room and recuperate. These sorts of things don’t matter to him at the moment.”
I sighed as I sat up and gave myself a bit of a stretch. If Benjamin has made the ruckus outside our home, then Gonzalo and Nana shouldn’t be bothered by it. From the moment I heard what Benjamin did, I knew instantly why he’s here, unannounced. 
I headed to the door and as soon as I appeared, they both bowed. 
“We’re deeply sorry for disturbing the peace, Your Highness,” Gonzalo started as they kept their heads low. “However, Prince Benjamin is acting scandalous at our front door. It has affected the overall mood and productivity of the household.” 
“I’m aware of everything, Gonzalo,” I replied as I helped Nana stand. Gonzalo stood as well. “I already heard your little discussion with Nana.” I smiled at Nana and gave her a quick hug. 
“I did my best in stopping Gonzalo from waking you. But as you can see,” she briefly pointed at him, “He couldn’t handle Benjamin alone.”
“There’s no need to apologize, Nana. I understand where Gonzalo’s coming from.” I turned to Gonzalo and gave my instructions, “Kindly bring Benjamin here. Make sure he’s in his best behavior once he stepped one foot inside the castle.” 
“As you wish, Your Highness,” he bowed and quickly went on his way. 
I then turned to Nana and gently held her by her arms. “Nana, you may return downstairs. Thank you for taking my side. But you shouldn’t stress yourself about these things.” 
She cupped my face with one hand and smiled, “You’re like a son to me, Robert. And I’ll always look after you even in my old age. Now, I shall prepare your food and have it delivered here.” She lightly tapped my face and went on her way. 
I returned to my room and headed to my writing table. I moved the curtains to the side, allowing the sunlight to enter the room. I then took a seat and waited patiently. 
I already had the feeling that this visit won’t be like the usual. Our conversation would probably be about Laura and why she chose me. I wished that this wouldn't create a gap between me and Benjamin. He was the brother I never had. I never wanted for our relationship to turn sour all because we loved the same girl. 
But was it truly my fault that Laura chose me? I did my part. I helped Benjamin as he asked for Laura’s heart. I even told Laura to choose him. I was willing to lose her just so I could make Benjamin happy. However, Laura has her own heart and mind. She made the decision, not met. 
I looked out to the window, buried deep in my thoughts. The silence accompanied me, only to be interrupted when my doors swung open.