Faye brushed Tobias' shaggy blonde bangs back from his forehead so she could see his eyes. He had a promising smile that fell when he gazed at her expression. The little boy already knew the answer.
It was, no.
"I would love to take you." She explained, "However, I cannot. I am a new bride and my husband is not here for me to discuss these matters. It is a decision I cannot make on my own."
He retorted "B-but, you're the Duchess. You have the power to do anything."
Faye shook her head. "Unfortunately, I have no authority. Only the Duke can decide on these matters."
Tobias bowed his head and his shoulders slumped forward, as if the entire universe came crashing upon them. A deep sigh escaped his lips, and his eyes were glazed over with sadness. His fingers clenched and unclenched. Tobias was clearly upset, and the room was filled with a heavy silence as Faye waited for him to speak.
She could hear the dejected tone in his voice.
