A Father's Warning

"Alaric will join us shortly," Noelle says as the maids bring dinner into the dining room. They arrange the dishes neatly before leaving.

"Why is he not here yet?" Noelle whispers after Alaric doesn't arrive.

"You can eat. I'll go to his office." Noelle stands up and tries to leave, but Damien stops her.

"I'll call him. Don't worry," he says.

"Huh?" Noelle and I stare at him in surprise.

He stands