The next morning, Casaio awoke later than usual. He sat up in bed, resting his head against the headboard as a dull ache throbbed behind his eyes.
Flashes of the previous night replayed in his mind, his drunken rambling in front of Gabriel, and a wry laugh slipped from his lips.
"I really do act like a fool at night," he muttered under his breath.
A knock sounded at the door, drawing his attention. He straightened slightly as the door opened and Lester stepped in, bowing respectfully.
"Good morning, Your Highness," Lester greeted. "Your mother has sent a special tea for you." He signaled to the servant behind him, who quietly entered and set a tray on the bedside table.
As the servant discreetly stepped out, Lester's eyes scanned the room with his usual thoroughness. He saw only a single bottle of alcohol stood on the table near the sofa. It was a small improvement, but Lester noted it all the same.
