Aldric's voice remained calm. "She is the light of our court, Duke. I'm sure you've heard the capital speak of her."
The Duke's mouth twitched. Not quite a frown. Not quite a smile either.
"I heard much," he said finally. "And I came to see if it was true… that the youngest daughter of House Florabelle had the kingdom eating from her hands."
His tone wasn't cruel. But it was sharp—like a blade disguised as courtesy.
Aldric's jaw twitched.
Seraphina's hand lightly tapped her fan against her palm.
Evelisse bent her knees into a perfect curtsy. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Your Grace. I hope your journey was safe and that the palace air agrees with you."
Fluffy whispered from her sleeve, "Ten out of ten. Noble enough to make your tiara sparkle."
The Duke inclined his head. "Polite. Well-coached."
"Careful, Duke," Queen Seraphina said with a smile. "She's sharper than she looks."
"I look forward to discovering that myself," he replied.
