NOVEL NEXT Chapter 4: Childhood
January 1st, 1804
Several years had passed since Xavier joined the family. Though he wasn't connected by blood, Violet and Aleksander had embraced him as if he were their own sibling, showering him with love and care.
Jonathan, their father, was a man of routine. Sundays were reserved for church, a tradition he held dear, followed by hours spent tending the fields of their farm. Occasionally, his children would join him, helping out with chores or simply enjoying time together in the open countryside.
At three years old, Xavier was proving to be exceptional—quick-witted, curious, and brimming with energy. Yet, despite his eagerness to follow Aleksander and Violet's footsteps, Jonathan hadn't yet enrolled him in school. It was a fact that didn't sit well with Aleksander, who decided one day to bring it up while helping his father check on the sheep.
"Father, can I ask you something?" Aleksander began, his tone measured but curious.
Jonathan glanced over at his son, a knowing smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "What's on your mind, Alek?"
"Why haven't you enrolled Xavier in school yet?" Aleksander asked bluntly. "He's ready. More than ready. He's a genius, like me and Violet."
Jonathan sighed, his shoulders sagging under the weight of the question. "It's not that simple, son."
"Why not?" Aleksander pressed.
Jonathan set free the sheep he was tending to, turning to face his eldest son. "Because I'm worried about him, Alek. About how the world will treat him."
Aleksander furrowed his brow. "What do you mean? He's just like us."
Jonathan shook his head. "You are right, Alek. But those celestial eyes of his—they're unlike anything people have seen. And with him being gifted... well, it's a lot for others to accept."
Jonathan's voice softened as he continued, "I'm scared the world will judge him, Alek. That they'll see his differences and not his brilliance. I don't want him to lose the joy he has now. I don't want him to feel the sting of hatred."
Aleksander's expression grew thoughtful. After a moment, he spoke, his voice steady and determined. "Then let him come to the Pennsylvania Royal Academy. It's the best place for him, Father."
Jonathan frowned. "That's a school for nobles, Alek. And sending you and Violet there already strained our finances."
"I know, but it's also one of the first academies to accept gifted students and help them hone their abilities," Aleksander countered. "They reduced tuition for me and Violet because we're gifted. They'll do the same for Xavier."
Jonathan folded his arms. "Even so, it's still expensive. And the world outside that academy isn't kind, even to gifted individuals."
Aleksander stepped closer, his voice tinged with both earnestness and confidence. "If Xavier's at the same school as me, I'll protect him. You won't have to worry about his safety."
Jonathan studied his son, pride mingling with apprehension. "You make a strong case, Alek, but it's not just about the money or the safety—it's about what's best for Xavier."
"Then think about this," Aleksander said, leaning forward. "If you don't send him, he'll miss out on the chance to learn, to grow, and to become who he's meant to be. Isn't that worth the risk?"
Jonathan sighed deeply, rubbing his temples. "Fine. I'll think about it."
Aleksander's face lit up with hope. "Thank you, Father."
But before Aleksander could say more, Jonathan held up a hand. "And don't even think about offering to help with the money. You're only thirteen, Alek. Your job is to focus on your studies and your future. Leave the rest to me."
Aleksander hesitated but nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "All right, Father."
Jonathan ruffled his son's hair affectionately before placing a gentle kiss on his cheek. "Now, go on. Get back to your books. Let me worry about the rest."
As Aleksander walked back to the house, Jonathan turned his gaze toward the horizon, a mix of hope and worry swirling in his heart. The thought of Xavier stepping into the world both excited and terrified him, but deep down, he knew Aleksander was right. The time to let Xavier grow was drawing near.