His words caused Lady Emilia's eyes to soften as she expressed her gratitude for his steadfast support. Her voice was scarcely clear above a whisper as she said,Thank you to Duke Matheo. "Knowing that you're here for me means more than words can express."
Duke Matheo smiled tenderly and bent to give her a soft forehead kiss. "Always," he whispered in a sincere tone of voice. "Now, try to get some rest. I'll keep to watch over you tonight."
He stayed by Lady Emilia's side, a reassuring light in the shadows as she reclined against the pillows. And as they both dozed off, they found comfort in the warmth of one another's embrace, prepared to take on whatever trials the day ahead may come.
As the sun rise up, Lady Emilia's gaze softened as she watched Duke Matheo sleeping peacefully beside her, his features relaxed in the soft morning light. A fond smile graced her lips as she reached out to gently brush a stray lock of hair from his forehead, her touch feather-light so as not to disturb his slumber.
Her heart became fonder of the man who had become her constant friend in good times and bad.
She observed his calm sleep. She had never felt so secure and at ease as she did in his company.
Lady Emilia sighed with satisfaction as she bent down to give Duke Matheo a gentle kiss on the cheek, taking a time to enjoy the sensation of his skin on her lips.
Grateful for every moment they had together, she couldn't help but be amazed at how much she loved him.
Lady Emilia leaned back against the cushions as Duke Matheo started to wake up, her heart full of appreciation for the simple pleasure of waking up next to the man she loved.
She understood that no matter what difficulties were ahead, as long as they tackled them together, their relationship would only get closer by the day.
With a gentle grin on her lips, Lady Emilia said, "Good morning, my love," as Duke Matheo's eyes fluttered open.
Duke Matheo grinned back at her, his eyes fixed on hers with a mix of admiration and affection. "Good morning, my dear," he said, sounding shaky from lack of sleep. "Did you sleep well?"
Lady Emilia nodded, remembering the serenity of her sleep, a slight flush Red in her cheeks. "Yes, I did. And you?"
Duke Matheo giggled softly and reached to clasp her fingers in his. "Like a log," he smiled teasingly and acknowledged.
"There's something about waking up next to you that makes every morning feel like a gift."
At his words, Lady Emilia felt a warmth course through her chest, her heart exploding with love for this guy who loved her so much.
Her look softened as she met his, "I feel the same way," she admitted. "Being with you brings me more joy than I ever thought possible."
With their hands holding together, they enjoyed the simple pleasure of one other's company during a sweet moment.
With the soft light of dawn and the warmth and love all about her, Lady Emilia realized she was right where she belonged.
A wave of dizziness swept over Lady Emilia as she attempted to get out of bed, causing her legs to buckle beneath her and blurring her vision. She fell back onto the mattress with a faint gasp, breathing quickly and shallowly.
Duke Matheo raced to her side, his hands shaking slightly as he gave her a gentle shoulder shake, his heart clenching with worry. With a worried tone, he speak out, "Emilia, can you hear me?"
However, Lady Emilia remained motionless, her face pale and strained, and her breathing shallowly. Duke Matheo felt a flash of panic and went for the bell rope, pulling it desperately to call for help.
After a little period, Joseph showed up at the door, his demeanor indicating that he realized how serious the situation was. With a worried tone, he asked, "Your Grace, what happened?"
Duke Matheo said, "She fainted," his voice tense with concern. "Quickly, fetch the doctor."
Joseph nodded and raced out of the room to follow Duke Matheo's instructions. Duke Matheo, meantime, stayed by Lady Emilia's side, praying for her quick recovery while his heart raced with anxiety.
The doctor hurried to Lady Emilia's side, his footsteps resonating through the room. He felt her pulse, heard her breathing, and felt softly for any symptoms of disease or damage. He examined her with a trained hand.
Duke Matheo eagerly waited for the doctor's findings, his heart racing with anxiety. The room was silent, which only made him feel more uncomfortable as each instant seemed to drag on forever.
The doctor finally straightened up after what seemed like an age, his face solemn but composed. "Your Grace," he said in a measured tone. "Lady Emilia appears to have fainted due to a combination of exhaustion and stress. However, there is something else..."