Chapter 5
This was the highest honor, but it also meant Mallory would be fully exposed to the eyes of every influential figure in the Capital.
That included Andy.
I was just about to open my mouth and politely turn him down when suddenly a chilly, all-too-familiar voice echoed from behind the King. "Your Majesty, you mustn't."
My whole body went rigid.
I couldn't know that voice any better.
It was Andy.
He wore a crimson robe, standing tall and proud, and stepped out from the crowd with quiet confidence.
Five years had passed, but he seemed unchanged.
His features were still refined and handsome, though now his gaze carried a calm, unshakable depth.
He approached the King and gave a deep, formal bow.
"Greetings, Your Majesty," Andy said.
The King's face lit up when he saw him.
"King's Tutor, you're just in time! Come see this promising young talent I've discovered for you!"
Andy lifted his head, his gaze sweeping over with a cool detachment.
When his eyes landed on Mallory's face, they lingered for just a heartbeat.
But it was only for a moment.
He quickly looked over at me.
His expression stayed calm and unreadable, like he was seeing a total stranger.
My heart suddenly dropped.
He didn't recognize me.
Well, it's been five years. I'm no longer that frail, insignificant girl I once was.
Years of living in luxury and managing responsibilities have transformed both my appearance and my aura.
It's only natural he wouldn't recognize me.
A strange feeling—part disappointment, part relief—swept through my heart.
Andy turned to the King and said, "Your Majesty, Mallory may be clever, but his origins are unclear. He's still young and hasn't found his footing yet.
"Bringing him into the palace right away may not be wise. Why not let me evaluate him first? If he proves himself, I'll take him as my student and teach him well. So, he'll be able to serve the nation in the future."
He wanted to take Mallory as his student?
I nearly let out a snort right then and there.
What a ridiculous twist.
He was actually planning to take his own flesh and blood as his student?
The King paused for a moment, then nodded. "Andy, you make a good point. It's settled then."
He turned to me with a smile. "Ms. Chasey, isn't it? You've raised a remarkable son. Tonight, I'll host a party in the palace to welcome you and your son, and to celebrate your son becoming the King's Tutor's student in advance."
The King's words left no room for refusal.
I could only express my gratitude.
"I thank Your Majesty for your great favor," I said.
From beginning to end, Andy never once looked my way.
His eyes stayed locked on Mallory, like he was sizing him up, curious and assessing.
It was as if he'd found some priceless gem.
I hugged Mallory tight, dropping my gaze to keep all my feelings hidden.
Andy, you'd never guess in a million years.
The "prodigy" you're so eager to make your student... is actually my son.
And he's the very "problem" you once swore you'd handle yourself.
*****
The invitation to the party arrived at our place soon enough.
I knew tonight would be the first time we'd truly meet again after five long years.
An unavoidable showdown was about to kick off inside the palace.
The party was set in the largest and most magnificent hall in the palace.
Glazed roof tiles sparkled under the moonlight, and inside, the hall was ablaze with light—so bright it felt like daytime.
I dressed Mallory in a sky-blue silk robe, which made him look even more charming and innocent.
He was clearly nervous, his little hand gripping the sleeve of my robe tightly.
"Mom, are we really going in? The people inside all seem so big" he whispered.
By "big," he meant their official ranks and the intimidating way they carried themselves.
I crouched down, straightened his collar, and spoke softly, "Mallory, don't be scared. Just remember, no matter who we meet, we don't have to bow, and just pay your respects.
"You're the King's personally appointed attendant to the crown prince, and I'm an honored guest at the Merchant Summit."
This was the dignity I'd fought for, for both myself and my son.
It was also the strength that let me face Andy head-on.
"As long as I'm here, no one can ever bully you," I said, locking eyes with him, every word clear and firm.
Mallory nodded, still a bit confused, but his little face relaxed a lot.
I took his hand and strode confidently into that sea of gold and splendor.
As Southbank's wealthiest woman and the mother of the "prodigy" the King himself had praised earlier today, the moment I walked in, all eyes were on me.
Countless gazes, some curious, some envious, some downright sycophantic, zeroed in on us.
Officials and merchants alike approached with wine glasses in hand, offering compliments left and right.