Julian rose to his feet, brushing the dust from his coat. "Well, I guess I'll have to take my leave now," he said, offering the group a friendly nod.
Elder Uncle bowed slightly and said, "Your grace, thank you for spending your time with us."
Hugo laughed, his grin wide. "Yes, your grace, be sure to come by again! We don't mind a little noble company every now and then."
Charles rolled his eyes and gave Hugo a playful shove. "Racking up points with his grace, aren't you, you son of a bitch"
Julian couldn't help but laugh, the banter feeling light and genuine. As he glanced toward Rose, he caught her watching him, and she quickly looked away, a soft blush coloring her cheeks. She managed a quick nod, her expression flustered yet warm.
Feeling a rush he couldn't explain, Julian nodded back, his heart beating just a bit faster as he took his leave, already thinking about the next time he'd see her.
