Chapter 94: [Bonus - ] Family (1)
Rafael knew to move with caution and was prepared for any sly tricks his uncle might have. He expected his uncle would try to go after his weaknesses which would only be his mother. His father could take care of himself and Rafael would bet his manor that his father was already dealing with his relatives.
"This town was always sort of peaceful. I don’t need my brother, mother, or father to ruin it for any of us. Still, I can’t help but wonder if my mother has finally decided to stop following my father’s lead and see her grandchild. She disappointed me with some of the things she said over the years, but I have loved her dearly in the past," said Beatrice.
"Would you like to take a trip to visit a friend out of town?" River asked, taking a glass a maid placed on the table to start pouring Beatrice something to drink. With her gone, she would be out of reach from her brother visiting her when he came to see Rafael.
"That means you are looking to fight my family and you want me out of the way. I have done enough running away from them. I am no longer young and afraid of them. If I run, I have to leave the two of you to deal with it and I do not want that. Besides, neither of you knows my family better than I do. I know many of their secrets that should still be valuable today. The two of you must promise me that you will not do anything behind my back. Promise," Beatrice said, staring down Rafael first.
Beatrice lost her patience with Rafael looking away from her. "Look at me, Rafael!" She raised her voice. This was no time for them to be ignoring her.
Beatrice didn’t care that there was the present and former commander of knights sitting beside her. When they were at home with her, they were just her husband and son.
River reached out his right foot to step on Rafael’s shoe.
Rafael sighed, giving in to what his parents wanted and turned to face his mother. "I promise," he said.
"Good," Beatrice smiled, turning to River who nodded his head without any complaints. "We fight as a family and you will hear my voice for many days if you go behind my back. Now, no more talking about my family. They are not here yet, but they are already ruining my day. You need to drink and eat something," she said, pushing the glass of juice River poured for her to give to Rafael.