The Litharions sent off Henry and his small party so that they could return to the Duke's Tower in little time. Irene was embraced by Arthur and, to Henry's surprise, he was given a gentle embrace by Rochelle who had grown fond of him during his stay at their home.
He felt like he was truly welcomed into the family. It was all he had ever wanted and nothing he had ever experienced before then.
When the duke, mage, and two knights were in front of the Litharion's home, there was a moment of pause after everyone had assured that their things were packed.
A crease formed between Henry's eyebrows. He wasn't satisfied with the way things had happened so suddenly. Before they could get onto their horses, Henry told the others to go ahead but he and Irene would catch up to them.
He felt Irene's green eyes on him the moment the words left his lips. Perhaps it was somewhat unusual considering they hadn't spoken much to one another in the past couple of days.
