Tobi’s POV
The palace vehicles were lined up neatly, gleaming in the morning light. Four black sedans—one for us, the others for guards and the staff accompanying us—and two transit vans packed tight with luggage. Twenty in total: twelve guards, two ladies’ maids, two valets, Lila and myself, and of course, Matthew and a very excited Mariah, who had started an official countdown to her wedding.
“Promise you’ll call at each packland. Promise!” Mother said, clutching Lila’s hands like she didn’t want to let go.
“I promise,” Lila said, pulling her into a tight hug. I watched them quietly, feeling privileged to witness these small, tender moments between them. Their bond had become something special—something I couldn’t touch. Lila often disappeared at random, only to be found in deep conve
