When they walked into the family dining room, the king was waiting. Grayson led Ari to their seats and held the chair for his wife.

The king stood, waiting for her to sit. Then he looked over at Xavier. “Oh! Did you bring a friend?” He offered Quinn his hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“The pleasure is mine, Your Majesty.” Quinn shook his hand, but held back, bracing himself for reality to set in.

Xavier took a deep breath and released it. “Father, this ...