Chapter 123: Return

Baron Frederick simply smiled. “I know. But my place is there.” “Did Ariel tell you something?” he asked, unable to help but ask. “She did. She told me I needed to go back home. Back to where everything started for me. In a way, I wanted to go back with you. I would have preferred to stay with her, watch over her, and be the brother I never was.” Baron smiled. “You were a brother. Otherwise, you wouldn’t have come to find her when you heard of the terrible things I committed.” Frederick smiled and then grimaced. “And the one who suffered for it,” he said almost proudly. Frederick nodded, giving Talia a gentle smile. “Take care, Talia. I’ll see you all soon.” He walked closer and gave his sister a pat on the head, whispering, “I love you,” before leaving. Talia didn’t stir, and Baron was slightly troubled by her stillness, but he told himself she needed to rest. By the time they reached the car, he had cuddled her close as he settled into the box seat. He tried to calm himself