Charlton smiled back at Christopher even though he was feeling awkward. After all, he did take advantage of his sister's, Annalys Cross, feelings and when the war was through, he suddenly dropped her like a hot potato. Though, to be fair, it was initially Christopher who asked him to pretend wooing his sister for the purpose of not having the previous monarch match her with Leonard.
In any case, what made it more awkward was when he began dating Duke Ligeti's granddaughter, Larissa, less than a year after the war. Not that the timing was relevant, but he got wind that Annalys was talking about Larissa behind her back. He has been ignoring her almost rudely since.
The rest of the Cross ducal family did not react nicely about what he did either. He was officially uninvited to all their events and when he and duke Argent Cross have a chance to meet, whether it be in the house of lords, parties, or where else, the old man would blatantly ignore him.
Not that he minds, but that's the situation. So, though Christopher was still acting friendly towards himself, he never thought of directly asking him for a favor. However, since the man was standing in front of him now, might as well let him know. "I was here for Hugo's case."
Christopher raised his two brows, while thinking, 'oh, so that's why.'. "I see. It escaped me that it was his hearing that was scheduled here today. How is he by the way?"
Charlton sighed. He already expected Hugo's reaction earlier, but that didn't mean that he did not feel even the least bit hurt. In truth, he second doubted if he should even be present today. He felt guilty about Hugo's situation, especially that he also used his trust to gain information about the monarchist's movements. However, at the time, they were at war.
What made up his mind was the letter he received from the duchess dowager the other day. He caused them misery, but she bowed her head to seek his help for her son.
Christopher chuckled hearing Charlton sigh. "If he's still causing a ruckus, he must be doing well then. He would be thankful later when he realizes what you're doing for him." Then, he faced the prosecutor, "you should take care of his grace here."
Atty. Liam, finally being addressed by the minister was quick to bow his head, "of course, Sir."
Christopher nodded before facing Charlton, "He's not giving you a hard time, is he?"
Charlton shook his head, "No, he's doing a fine job so far. In any case, I believe there's another Hearing scheduled here in a few minutes. I should go." Then, feeling it a bit crude for him to just leave after gaining something from Christopher, he asked, "Will you be heading elsewhere?"
Christopher shook his head, "No, please go ahead. I came here to talk with the administrative law judge."
Charlton nodded, "Alright. I'll see you around then."
--
Emily watched Christopher and Charlton talk while impatiently waiting for her turn to speak to Christopher. She still didn't know what to do later! Anyhow, while looking at the two, she could only compare them.
Christopher Cross has a good built. He was tall and athletic with a pale complexion. His hair which was slicked back was auburn in color complimenting his deep hazel eyes holding a certain charm. His tall nose was slim, and his lips were thin. He was handsome and carried himself with such confidence exuding wealth, grace, and power.
Well, to be fair, Emily would not have dumped Leonard for Christopher if he wasn't all that. Ehem, ehem. Leonard was still more handsome though. She's just referring to the whole OUTER package since Christopher has had the unfair advantage of being the direct descendant of a powerful ducal family which has existed as early as when the first kingdom was established.
Anyhow, with Charlton and Christopher standing side by side, Emily can tell that physically, Charlton was still more handsome, but at their age, Christopher was more appealing. Well, not sure if she was just being biased, but it's not like she likes any of them. Handsome and attractive as they were especially with their deep pockets and connections, they had nothing to do with her. She's just looking at both because of Serena.
--
When Charlton left, Christopher finally turned to look at the back and recognized Emily who was wearing a scarf over her head while large sunglasses covered her eyes.
Emily knowing Christopher already saw her took no time to dally. She approached him and removed her scarf and shades. She gave him a curtsy in greeting.
"You have been here the whole time?" Christopher asked.
"Yes, I was curious about how a preliminary Hearing goes. Based on what I saw, I must say that I'm sorely unprepared. I only brought the documents you told me about last time. Would those be enough?" Emily asked straight-forwardly.
Christopher had a smile in his brows, but he did not comment. It was a fair transaction on both their end, so he's not saying anything until he hears what he wanted to hear.
Emily understanding his meaning could only say, "She will be attending Duke Ligeti's event on Friday evening next week."
"Oh." Was his only response.
"It's not easy to prepare a dress at short notice. We're working on them though." Emily further explained. Hoping that she didn't sound like a female pimp.
Christopher hummed in response, catching the word, them. So, they were preparing more than one. There's a certain implication which he liked but did not want to assume more.
"I understand. You don't have to worry about what you brought, that would be enough." The words 'given that I am here' were in the air but he had no need to elaborate as they both understood that.
Not long after, the Bailiff stood up to announce the entrance of the Administrative Law Judge.
--
TBC