Chapter 227: The Arch Mage
At the bottom of the grand staircase, the atmosphere was warm and lively. The family was gathered, waiting for Adeline. Her father stood tall, a quiet yet proud presence in the room. Beside him were her brothers- Alaric and Aaron.
She knew that Isabelle and her brother were going to get married soon, so she kind of expected her presence. But she quickly understood that Victoria graduated too! And she probably was welcoming her younger sister.
Adeline smiled. The maids who raised her, her father and brothers... Everyone she held dear to her heart was here. It was a proud moment for all of them.
"Congratulations, Linny," Alaric said with a proud smile as she descended the steps. The nickname made Adeline’s heart swell with affection. He looked every inch the Western Marquess now, having officially taken over their family’s title and responsibilities.
Her father, who had recently retired, stood beside him. Though he had stepped down from his duties, it was clear that leisure didn’t sit well with a man like him.
War and strategy ran through the Kendrick family’s veins, just like blood, and without the constant activity, he’d taken it upon himself to personally manage their intelligence guild.
Aaron stood off to the side, arms crossed and a teasing smile playing on his lips. "I was afraid I was going to spoil the surprise," he said, his pearly white teeth glinting as he grinned at her.
Seeing her so glum he wanted to reveal that they planned this for her. He tried his best not to. After all this surprise would mean so much more to her than him just telling her.
Adeline couldn’t help but laugh softly as she reached the bottom of the stairs. Her father stepped forward to meet her, offering his hand. She took it gratefully, and he guided her down the last step with care, his expression tender.
He placed a warm kiss on her forehead, his large hands cupping her cheeks gently. "Welcome home, Linny," he said softly.
Adeline looked up at him, seeing the pride shining in his eyes. He didn’t cry—he was too stoic for that- but the love and emotion were on display.