Amari’s POV
"I see you have graced us with your presence," the king's voice dripped with displeasure, to say the least. Not only were we late, but the evidence of our unplanned aquatic adventure carried itself in our appearance. As we walked into the grand meeting room, the cold drops of water still clung to our clothes, and a trail of sand followed us, marking further proof of our journey. The disapproving glares from the council did nothing to ease the tension that hung in the air.
I quickly followed Leo to his chair, my heart pounding with a mix of embarrassment and anticipation. The king's stern expression only deepened my unease. He had a reputation for being unforgiving when it came to punctuality, and we had undoubtedly tested his patience. The awkwardness of the moment intensifie
