Rejected and Pregnant Claimed By The Dark Alpha Prince novel Chapter 699

Chapter 699: Even in his innocence

The palace photographer clicked the final picture, capturing a candid moment of Amelie, Gabriel, and Noah for their pre-Christmas portrait. At his invitation, the family gathered around the small digital screen to review the shots. They scrolled through the images, finally selecting the perfect poses that balanced royal elegance with the warmth of their small family.

"I’ll need these finalized as soon as possible," Gabriel noted, his gaze lingering on a shot where Noah was mid-giggle.

"Of course, Your Highness! I will prioritize the editing immediately," the cameraman assured him with a respectful bow.

Noah, fascinated by the shiny lens and the clicking sounds, babbled loudly. He lunged forward from Gabriel’s side, his tiny, uncoordinated hands reaching high as he attempted to snatch the expensive equipment for himself.

Laughing, Gabriel scooped the restless pup securely into his arms to prevent any royal property damage. With a nod to the photographer, he and Amelie turned toward the grand corridor, heading out.

"Noah certainly enjoyed the limelight," Gabriel said, a tired but fond smile tugging at his lips as he glanced over at Amelie.

"He really did. He looked so genuinely happy," Amelie agreed. She paused to adjust the small knitted cap on Noah’s head, which had slipped sideways during his attempt to conquer the photographer’s camera.

"Tomorrow is the full family photoshoot. I only hope Nick decides to return in time for Christmas," Gabriel sighed. "So far, he hasn’t shown the slightest interest in coming home. Dad was trying to get a hold of him all morning, but he’s staying completely out of reach."

Amelie stayed silent for a moment, her gaze fixing on Gabriel. "Doesn’t that sound familiar? Isn’t Brother Nick just becoming exactly like you used to be?"

Gabriel let out a chuckle, realizing she had hit the mark. The stubbornness ran deep in their bloodline.

"My reasons were entirely different," Gabriel muttered, a flicker of defensiveness crossing his face as they walked the gilded hallway. "Nick’s relationship with Mom and Dad never soured the way mine did, at least with Mom. Last Christmas, I was out there searching for my mate, there’s a massive difference between us."

"The reasons might change, but the result is the same," Amelie countered, undeterred. She shifted Noah to her other hip and crossed one arm over her chest. "Brother Nick is deliberately staying away, Gabriel. Just like you did."

Her expression softened before a genuine concern took its place. "I’m worried for Carlos," she murmured, her gaze drifting toward the tall palace windows. "I have no idea how he’s fraying."

"I told you I could go and check on him myself," Gabriel suggested.

"There would be no use, Gabriel. Carlos never told us where he was going," Amelie replied with a heavy sigh. "He went back to his family home, but we have no idea if he’s even there. I did call Mona but she’s not responding either. It’s better to simply wait for his return and hope for the best."

Noah, whose small face had been resting comfortably against the warmth of Gabriel’s chest, looked up just in time to catch the flicker of sadness in Amelie’s eyes.

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