He stood at the doorway, a stark figure in a dark blue frock coat. Military regulations mandated uniforms within the palace walls – an edict Cesare himself had implemented to bolster the army's image. Their success on the battlefield had seen a surge in recruitment, a testament to that strategy. Yet, here he stood, a symbol of the Empire out of uniform. This was no official visit.
Perhaps this wasn't on the Grand Duke's schedule today…
Eileen stared at him blankly. Cesare looked at Eileen as he slowly walked inside. He paused near the sofa, his red eyes fixed on Eileen.
"Not doing it today?"
Eileen blinked in confusion, not understanding his question. He added with a slight smirk.
"Not saying I'm not your husband yet."
Her face flushed at the man's casual use of the word "husband." But the embarrassment was only hers.