Chapter 76: Chapter Seventy Six

Ryan's brow furrowed as he watched Suzy struggle for words. It was the first time she had addressed him as "HER HUSBAND." Usually, it was a formal "Duke," a respectful "Your Grace," or a casual, almost dismissive, "Ryan." This simple change held a weight he couldn't quite decipher.

Silence draped itself over the room once more, thick and heavy. Suzy fidgeted on his lap, her earlier bravado fading with each passing second.  "Well," she finally blurted, her voice barely a whisper, "that's..."

"Technically, Duchess," Ryan interrupted, his voice surprisingly gentle, "you haven't answered my question."

Suzy felt a prickle of heat crawl up her neck. Technically, what?  Technically speaking, it was none of his business why she chased Eleanor away.  But then, a different thought struck her.

He must have overheard her conversation with Eleanor.  The realization sent a jolt through her. Had he heard everything?  Her declaration of him being her husband?