Amelia and Alister stepped into the restaurant, the warm, inviting ambiance instantly wrapping around them. The soft lighting and the gentle hum of conversation created an intimate atmosphere, perfect for their special evening.
A maître d' greeted them with a deep bow. "Your Grace, Your Ladyship, welcome. We have prepared a private table for you."
Alister nodded in acknowledgment, his hand resting lightly on Amelia's back as they followed the maître d' to a secluded corner of the restaurant. The table was elegantly set with fine china and crystal glasses, a single candle flickering in the center.
Amelia sat down, glancing around with curiosity. "This place is lovely. How did you find it?"
Alister smiled as he took his seat. "A friend recommended it. He said it's the perfect spot for a quiet, romantic dinner."
Amelia blushed slightly at the word "romantic," but she was pleased. They perused the menu together, discussing the local dishes with interest.
"I think I'll try the roast duck with plum sauce," Amelia decided.
"And I'll have the venison stew," Alister replied.
As they waited for their food, their conversation flowed easily. Alister told her stories about his childhood, sharing memories of his sister and brother with a mix of fondness and sadness. Amelia listened intently, feeling a deeper connection with him as he opened up about his past.
Their meals arrived, and the rich aromas filled the air. Amelia took a bite of her duck, savoring the perfectly cooked meat and the sweet, tangy sauce. "This is delicious," she said, her eyes lighting up.
Alister smiled, pleased by her enjoyment. "I'm glad you like it."
Just as they were settling into their meal, a tall, well-dressed man approached their table. Alister's expression shifted to one of polite recognition.
"Your Grace," the man greeted, bowing slightly. "It's been a while. How are you?"
Alister nodded. "Mr. Fredericks, good evening. I'm well, thank you."
Mr. Fredericks turned to Amelia with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "And you must be the Duchess. A pleasure to meet you."
Amelia offered a tight smile. "Likewise."
Mr. Fredericks didn't take the hint to leave, instead launching into a conversation about a recent business venture. Alister tried to respond courteously, but Amelia could see the irritation building in his eyes.
Feeling a surge of protectiveness and a touch of jealousy, Amelia decided to intervene. She leaned forward slightly, her voice smooth and polite. "Mr. Fredericks, while it's always interesting to hear about Alister's business affairs, we were hoping for a quiet evening together. Perhaps another time would be more suitable for such discussions?"
Mr. Fredericks blinked, clearly taken aback by her assertiveness. He glanced between them, his smile faltering. "Of course, Duchess. I didn't mean to intrude."
Alister's lips curved into a smile as Mr. Fredericks made his awkward retreat. He reached across the table and took Amelia's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Thank you for that," he said softly.
Amelia smiled back, feeling a warmth spread through her. "I just wanted us to have a nice evening without interruptions."
Their moment of intimacy didn't go unnoticed. Across the room, a group of noblewomen whispered and giggled, their eyes darting towards the couple. Amelia noticed the attention but decided to ignore it, focusing instead on Alister.
Alister leaned closer, his voice low. "You were quite charming back there."
Amelia's heart fluttered. "Well, I can be protective too."
He chuckled, bringing her hand to his lips and kissing it gently. "I like this side of you."
As the evening progressed, they shared more stories and laughter, the earlier awkwardness dissolving into a comfortable companionship. They leaned closer together, their conversation becoming more personal, more intimate.
At one point, Alister brushed a stray hair from Amelia's face, his fingers lingering on her cheek. "You're beautiful," he murmured, his eyes locked onto hers.
Amelia felt her breath catch. "And you're... amazing," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
Their gazes held, and for a moment, the rest of the restaurant seemed to fade away. The noblewomen continued to whisper and giggle, but Amelia didn't care. She was lost in the moment, in the connection growing between them.
As they finished their meal, Alister signaled for the bill, still holding Amelia's hand. "Shall we go for a walk before the opera?" he suggested.
Amelia nodded, a smile playing on her lips. "I'd like that."
They stood up, Alister placing a protective arm around Amelia's waist as they made their way to the door. The night was still young, and there was so much more to share, to discover, to feel.