After Geoffrey spoke those words, it took Charlton all his self-control not to react negatively. He knew that he was still powerless to lay any claim on Serena. So, he just laughed it off and responded with an 'of course.' 

It was the first time that Geoffrey warned him directly and feelings of anger intermixed with guilt surfaced within him. Anger, because although Geoffrey was the crown prince, he was still not the king. Although his station was above him, he still needs his support in the future. Guilt, because he already did what he asked him not to do but again, he already made his choice.

He knew that Geoffrey will not let Serena go without a fight, but it was not him that he needs to convince. The engagement was political in nature, thus, so long as he can present his uncle, the king, a greater benefit in exchange for Serena's hand, he still has a chance for plan A to work. 

Anyway, after that exchange, Geoffrey asked Charlton about the details of their job at Columbia's. Since there was nothing to hide regarding their work, he explained everything to Geoffrey with ease.

When all was said, Charlton excused himself, saying that he was tired and still have to work on his assignments. So, if there was nothing else, then he will get going.

Geoffrey knew that his words must have offended or made Charlton uncomfortable. He did not regret it though. It was good to ascertain that his cousin was only an innocent bystander. Nevertheless, he did not apologize, said his thanks, and let him leave. 

--

The days passed quickly after that Sunday. Serena and Charlton both did not discuss their conversation with Geoffrey not wanting one to worry over the other. They did however begin to act with more prudence in school. Thankfully, summer was just around the corner, and they did not have to interact with Geoffrey for quite some time after.

Anyway, it was again Friday, and it was the last day of their music class. Since Serena and her friends were already done with their evaluation, they just came to class to watch the other performances.

-

"Do you think that the song later would be effective? I mean, I wish Via would think of me all summer. Oh, by the way, I heard that Gizel's parents' will be having their wedding anniversary on the 28th. Do you think we can get an invitation? You're chummy with Serena's friends, aren't you?" Kylo asked as he looked in the mirror applying some wax on his hair. Since fencing class has already ended last week, they only had the music evaluation for the day.

"How did you learn about that?" Charlton asked back as he raised his left eyebrow. He was sitting on the sofa in Kylo's room waiting for him to finish fixing his hair, that mind you, has already taken over 30 minutes.

Anyway, he of course, knew about the wedding anniversary. In fact, he already asked Gizel for an invitation when Serena was not around. Saying that he wanted to greet her parents as he also met them during the signing event from last time. Gizel who was with Milly and Via that time did not want to say yes. But with Milly's coaxing, and being tempted to surprise her parents, coz her mom really liked Charlton, she finally agreed. 

"Well, I did ask Via what she's up to this summer and she kinda mentioned that. I think you should know about it, coz your girlfriend is also going. Come to think of it, I bet you already found a way to get there. Come on spill."

Charlton groaned, as usual, Kylo is always up to date with this kind of stuff. "Yes, I already have an invite, but I would only be staying there for 3 nights. I will be leaving here on the 26th and will be arriving in Militeia just in time for the event. Anyway, don't you need to go home to Alighieri?"

"I can go home sometime in July, besides, it's not like I am needed there. It's actually better for me to be away so that I won't get embroiled in any court politics."

Charlton sighed, the invitation he has includes a plus 1 so might as well. Anyway, at least this way, it would be easier to escape his mother's clutches. "Fine. Then, do you want to come along?" 

"Oh Charlie! I thought you would never ask. Hehehe… By the way, I like how planned our itinerary already is. I'm so excited for summer!" Kylo said in a high-pitched voice. 

Charlton just smiled as he shook his head. Bringing Kylo was no trouble, he won't get in the way, and he would even serve as a good alibi. 

--

 "Very good!" Felix praised after Geoffrey finished his performance. He opted to play a solo with a song he composed through his violin. When he was done, he smiled taking a glance at Serena, as he took his seat. 

Serena just pretended that she did not notice him looking her way. She chose to talk to Milly as if she did not pay him any attention at all. She told herself, just a little more Serena. The school year is already coming to an end.

Geoffrey knew that Serena did notice him and was only pretending not to. Like he always does, he misinterpreted her actions as her just feigning to be unaffected by him. Thinking it through from last time, he realized that he was over acting. 

"Now, can we have the next volunteer?" Felix asked, and this time, another group volunteered to go next. 

After everyone was done with their performance, Felix looked at Charlton and Kylo and announced jovially, "Charlton, Kylo, it's just the two of you left. Please go up the stage." 

Charlton nodded as he prodded Kylo, "Hey Kylo, let's go, it's our turn now." 

"I… I… I don't think I can do this…" Kylo said in a voice so low it was akin to a whisper.

Charlton chuckled, "Yes you can, come on." He said as grabbed Kylo's arm to make him stand.

TBC