The sharp clatter of broken glass shattered the serene atmosphere of the banquet hall, causing Seraphina to flinch and shut her eyes tightly. In an instant, she could envision the disapproving glares of the guests and hear the Count's inevitable reprimands.
"You must be exhausted."
The Duke's voice broke through her thoughts, replacing the imagined jeers. When Seraphina opened her eyes, she saw him set the now-empty glass on a nearby table.
"Otherwise, you wouldn't have made such a careless mistake."
He wiped his wet hands with a napkin, his expression one of mild irritation as he tried to rid himself of the sticky sensation left by the champagne.
"You're tired, aren't you?"
"Ah, yes."
Seraphina responded quicker than she intended, her voice surprising her with its urgency. She looked at him, not considering whether he perceived the overwhelming energy of the crowd around them.
"As I thought."
His expression softened, seemingly pleased with her answer.
"I think we should take a break."
"Yes."
Seraphina knew Count Alaric would chastise her for leaving before the reception ended, but surviving the Duke of Everwyn's scrutiny took precedence.
"My wife seems to be fatigued. May I escort her away?"
"Of course, Duke."
The ladies conversing with Seraphina excused her with polite nods. As she stepped out of the reception hall, thanks to the Duke's efficient escort, the cold air bit at her cheeks.
"There's a room here."
The Duke's words puzzled her, and his slight frown indicated he noticed her confusion.
"We can rest there for a bit."
"Oh, yes."
As Seraphina moved to follow him, pain flared in her feet, reminding her of the earlier discomfort. She took several steps, trying to appear composed, but ultimately had to stop.
The Duke, noticing her absence behind him, turned back.
"What's the matter?"
"That…"
Seraphina hesitated. He had threatened her only hours earlier, and it was difficult to admit her feet hurt.
As her silence stretched, the Duke sighed and approached her.
"What is it?"
"I remembered something I need to do. You go ahead, and I'll follow."
"Do you know where the room is?"
Seraphina fell silent again, and the Duke sighed more deeply.
"What do you need to do?"
"That…"
She hesitated, then lifted the hem of her skirt to reveal her swollen feet. The Duke's eyes widened at the sight.
"Who did this to you?"
"No one. It's the new shoes."
New shoes caused this? The Duke's brow furrowed. He had worn new shoes many times and never experienced anything like this. He crouched down to inspect her feet, moving her back a step.
Her white skin made the wounds stand out starkly, especially the blistered and peeled heel.
"You were walking with these feet?"
A small crease appeared on the Duke's forehead. How such delicate feet could support her was beyond him.
Realizing it would take them forever at this pace, he made a decision and stood up.
"Ah, wait!"
As he rose, he scooped Seraphina into his arms. She made a small protest, but he silenced her.
"I don't think so. Just hold on."
His firm tone ended any argument. She couldn't find the words to object to the Duke's resolve.
He carried her swiftly to the lounge, a journey that would have taken her an eternity. He opened the door, found a soft-looking sofa, and gently placed her there.
"Thank you…"
"There must be some emergency supplies here."
Ignoring her thanks, he turned away and began searching the lounge. Shortly, he found a medicine box and brought it over to her.