"And what are you boys talking about?" she asked.
The Crown Prince responded at once. He stepped closer to Julian and wrapped an arm around his shoulders, as if they were merely two young men sharing private conversations.
"We are just catching up, Grandma," he said.
The Queen Mother's gaze moved from her grandson's smile to Julian's face.
For a second it lingered there, as if studying them both deeply.
"Catching up," she repeated. "A broad phrase. It can mean anything from friendship to trouble."
"In this case, only conversation," the Crown Prince said lightly. "Lord Kraven has become far more interesting than the stories made him sound. I was making sure the man matched the rumors."
Julian bowed his head just enough to play along. "I hope I did not fall too far short, Your Highness."
"Not at all," the Crown Prince replied.
His hand remained on Julian's shoulder a moment longer than necessary.
"He recovers quickly. That alone makes him worth watching."
