"Would you like anything? Or does your mask uncle Briareus prepare for you something special instead?"
He looked at me for a moment as though he was thinking deep, but I could tell he was just putting on a font.
I urged the maid, and soon on a small table amidst the fragrant roses were various delicacies she had seen both prince Briareus and Gabriel eat in the past.
I secretly thanked the maid, I could already tell Gabriel was eager to have a go at them, since they were delicately prepared dishes, looked enticing and mouthwatering.
As we sat down together, the sun's warm rays danced across Gabriel's face, revealing his innocence and youthful curiosity. I couldn't help but admire his resilience and tenacity, coming to the castle in search of his beloved uncle.
We took a moment to appreciate the beauty of the garden, the tranquility embracing us as we enjoyed the feast laid before us. The flavors were exquisite, each bite filling our senses with delight. The maids discreetly attended to us, ensuring our needs were met.
Between bites, Gabriel shared stories of his adventures around the palace, his eyes lighting up as he spoke of the treasured moments spent with Prince Briareus. It was evident that their bond ran deep, like that of a close-knit family.
"He even taught me how to ride a horse," Gabriel recounted excitedly, a grin spreading across his face. "And we would race through the meadows, feeling the wind on our faces. It was the best feeling in the world."
"My lady, please dont tell anyone that I came here."Suddenly he said and pleaded. "People from the other castle dont like me being here."
"Why not?"I couldn't help but ask curiously.
"They say mask uncle Briareus is a demon."He said as he furrowed his brow."Dont tell anyone I told you this, but I heard any time his angry he becomes a demon and swallows everything."
A demon? I couldn't understand why they would call him a demon.
"If he was a demon then why don't you listen to what the people from the other castle says? Afterall, he could hurt you if he becomes angry?" I asked filled with curiosity, as I treaded carefully.
"Because I know mask uncle isn't a demon like they say. Besides his the nicest person I know, even though he doesn't talk to me anymore."He said with teary eyes.
"Why did something happen?"
"I don't know, but each time I come the maids would always tell me he isn't there, even when most times I would hear his voice inside."Now he looked more hurt. Seeing his cute poor innocent expression I cursed at Prince Briareus inwardly.
"What about the people from the other castle, aren't they fun? Why don't you just play with them instead?"
"Because compared to mask uncle, they are too strict and dont like playing with me."
"Where the hell is Gabriel, didn't I tell him to stay away from this place!"someone shouted with a loud voice and shortly afterward a woman rudely barged in. The maids behind her wore an apologetic look on their faces, as they followed behind her.
I stood up from my seat, and the woman looked me up and down.
"Mother?"Gabriel said stiffly not expecting her, as he stood up.
"Come here!" She ordered, and he walked up to her. She put a hand on his shoulder. "What did I tell you about leaving the castle?" She scolded him. "Go back, your father is waiting for you."
Gabriel shivered slightly when he heard his father, but left running away quickly. Poor child, I thought reminding me of when I was still a little girl.
I kept my composure since I didn't want to cause any trouble between our families. Princess Selin looked at me with disdain. "Princess Maybelline, huh? I suppose you think you're quite special being the Briareus's wife. Well, let me tell you, you're nothing compared to me." Her words were sharp, but I remained composed.
"I understand your concerns, Princess Selin. But please know that I have no intention of taking your place or causing any harm to Gabriel. I simply stumbled upon Gabriel."
Her eyes narrowed at me, clearly not satisfied with my response. "We'll see about that," she sneered before turning on her heel and storming out of the room. The maids scurried after her, leaving me alone with my thoughts.
I couldn't help but feel a wave of sympathy for little Gabriel. It must be difficult for him to constantly be caught in the crossfire between his mother's tantrums and the people from the other castle.
*****
Author Note: Sorry for the short chapter