Chapter 30

MELVIN’S POV

I got home feeling elated and settled. My heart felt light knowing that Ariel was safe and still very much out of the clutches of Father.

I was in such a light mood that I strolled into the castle whistling.

I decided not to go in through the throne room. I was in a good mood and I didn’t want Father to ruin it for me.

He was definitely still sulking about yesterday.

I was walking across the yard when Mother’s voice startled me.

“You spent the night out, Melvin?”

I jumped a little before looking up to see where her voice came from. I used my hand to shield my eyes from the sun so I could see Mother, who was standing on the verandah. She was smiling down at me.

“Mother, you startled me,” I called back to her.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to,” She waved at me, “come up, come to me.”

I went in through the entrance that led to the yard and made my way up to the verandah to meet her.

“Good morning, Mother,” I greeted as I got to her side.

She turned to me, her lips still curled