章 103: Aloof, cruel and cunning

«My Duchess is beautiful,» my Duke begins, but a single glare from me is enough to make him understand.

He starts changing clothes while I pretend not to be affected by the easy way he undresses in front of me. I look around uninterested, and I launch a secret glance or two. Just a few times, though.

«All the local lords will be present,» he mutters while fastening the buttons of the shirt. «They're all curious to meet the Lady.»

«Thank you for reminding me how important this is,» I reply.

Alexander has been trying to make me anxious for the whole day. Still, I'm not a baby girl afraid to meet some new people.

It won't be the first time that a crowd openly stares at me. At least, here, I have a little advantage.

«Aren't you nervous, my Duchess?»

«What do I have to be nervous about?» I ask.

When the Duke shrugs, I walk to him and help him with the waistcoat.