Bound by the Mark of Lies (BL)
Chapter 71 - 66: Family Business (3)

Chapter 71: Chapter 66: Family Business (3)

The weight of the conversation lingered in the air, even as Gabriel shifted his attention to his phone. His mind raced with the ongoing tension between Damian, his mark, and the contract, which continued to haunt him. However, Anabelle’s message served as a reminder of the next steps. The Blue Ether Project moving forward was significant. He had hoped for this moment, but the timing could not be more complicated.

"Looks like we have a week to prepare," Gabriel muttered to himself as he responded to Anabelle. His tone was even, but he could feel the urgency growing. Will the meeting at the palace provide the answers he seeks, or will it only add to the already tangled web?

Theo leaned over the table, his voice low and wary. "What’s that? Another scheme? "Another project you are involved in?"

Gabriel cast a glance at his brother before returning his attention to the phone. "It’s nothing for you to worry about, Theo. It’s work." He had to say it, even if it wasn’t entirely true. "Much like everything else."

Theo did not seem convinced, but he did not press. Instead, he crossed his arms and looked at their father, clearly seeking reassurance.

Lucius, ever the strategist, spoke up again. "Gabriel, I wanted to talk to you about the rest of the coming-of-age ball and something else. You, like the other coming-of-age invitees, must attend the ceremony of formally meeting the Emperor. You are scheduled for the final day."

"I understand; Alexandra was kind enough to prepare me for that. She scheduled my next few days with teachers to teach me how to bow..." Gabriel’s voice trailed off, clearly frustrated. The Blue Ether meeting was so close to the ceremony that he had to juggle both lessons and work.

"What about the second thing?" Charles asked curiously. He’d been staying at the family manor longer than expected, as word had spread that the Emperor would be training today, and he had no intention of being targeted by Damian because of Gabriel. He was ruthless in his training.

"Well... It’s about your work, Gabriel." Lucius sighed, but the hint of pressure in his voice was clear. "I understand you have been busy, but your position—your role in this family—is much larger than you have been willing to admit. With everything going on with the Emperor, you should think about the upcoming civil examination.

Gabriel’s posture tightened as the weight of his father’s words fell on him like a thick fog. The civil exam. The mere thought of it was repulsive to his independent spirit. The exam was where everyone from the powerful families gathered, positioning themselves for the next step in their political careers. Gabriel saw it as a trap—a gilded cage promising prestige but providing little freedom.

"The civil exam?" Gabriel echoed, his voice cold. "Really, Father? You want me to throw away everything I’ve worked for—the Blue Ether Project—for a seat in a room full of overambitious bureaucrats?"

Lucius raised an eyebrow, unperturbed. "It’s not just about seating yourself at a table, Gabriel. It’s about taking your rightful place in this family’s legacy. And with Damian in power, you need to start thinking about your position—and what comes with it."

Gabriel’s eyes narrowed, and he was silent for a moment. Lucius’s words lingered in the air. Damian. The very idea of giving up his work for political games was infuriating, yet the reality of the situation clawed at his resolve. With Damian eyeing him as his mate, his Empress, Gabriel knew his future wasn’t going to be simple. Damian would never let him stay out of the political spotlight for long. The Emperor’s intentions weren’t to be taken lightly, but could he really bend to that will?

"Damian already has his eyes on me," Gabriel said, almost to himself. "If I’m not careful, I’ll be caught in a game I didn’t sign up for."

Lucius’s gaze sharpened. "Exactly. And you think you’ll be safe hiding away with your project? You’ve already seen how Damian has played with your life." He leaned forward, his voice dropping to a more serious tone. "You need to learn to navigate the stage he’s setting for you. It’s not just about power. It’s about survival."

Theo watched the exchange with a small smirk, clearly amused by the ongoing tension. "So, what’s the plan then? We get Gabe all suited up for the political arena, Father’s little pawn in the Emperor’s court?"

Gabriel shot his brother a look. "I’m not a pawn."

"Of course not," Lucius replied smoothly, as though the idea hadn’t even occurred to him. "But you’ll need the skills. This is bigger than just you and your project. We’ve all seen how dangerous Damian can be when it comes to the people he wants."

The words hit hard. Gabriel clenched his fists, trying to push down the anger that was rising in him. He could not deny Lucius’ point: Damian would pull him into this world whether he liked it or not. The real question was: would he bow to the Emperor’s will, or would he fight for his own path?

"I’ll think about it," Gabriel said, his voice tight with frustration. "But don’t expect me to play your game or Damian’s. I’m not going to let either of you decide my future for me."

Lucius nodded slowly, as though he’d expected this response. "I never expected you to take the easy way out, Gabriel. But at least you’ll understand the stakes when the time comes."

Elowen, who had been quiet for most of the conversation, finally spoke up. "Gabriel, just don’t lose yourself in all of this. You’re more than just a political tool for either of them."

Gabriel offered her a small smile, grateful for her support, but his mind was already on the path ahead. "I won’t forget who I am."

With that, Gabriel stood up and walked toward the door. He could feel the weight of his family’s expectations bearing down on him, but one thing was clear: Damian’s grip on him was tightening, and whether he liked it or not, the game had already begun.