(Chapter 47)
Jonathan Faeloria grew restless as he noticed that Lorcan Frostborne, the Duke of the North, had arrived at the imperial palace without bringing Clarisse Faeloria 'Frostborne' with him. However, Clarisse herself seemed unbothered by it. She knew her husband well enough to understand that her presence would only slow things down. Lorcan always prioritized his duties, and that was a part of him that would never change.
"Doesn't it bother you that the Duke didn't bring you along?" Jonathan asked, his voice laced with curiosity as he observed how calmly Clarisse responded to the situation.
Clarisse only offered a faint smile, brushing away any lingering worries in her mind. With unwavering patience, she waited, knowing that what she longed for would soon come. A luxurious carriage, drawn by four black horses, pulled into the courtyard of the Faeloria estate.
Among the gathered crowd, many faces displayed anxiety and nervousness—except for Clarisse. Even Sasa, who stood beside her, had grown accustomed to such moments.
Lorcan's gaze swept over the guests, searching for one person alone. The moment he found her, a small smirk played on his lips—one Clarisse instantly recognized. It was the expression he wore when something had gone exactly as he intended. She knew that look well, as they had spent countless nights together.
Clarisse quickly shook her head, pushing away improper thoughts.
"Welcome, Your Grace," Jonathan greeted with formal politeness, maintaining a respectful demeanor before the nobleman.
"Yes," Lorcan responded curtly, though his eyes remained fixed on Clarisse.
Eleanor Faeloria, standing beside her husband, concealed a proud smile behind her fan.
My daughter is remarkable. She has truly captured the Duke's heart, she mused with satisfaction, pleased that all her teachings had not gone to waste.
With a subtle gesture, Eleanor signaled for everyone to step back. She lightly tugged at Jonathan, preventing him from engaging Lorcan in further conversation.
"What are you doing?" Jonathan whispered, confused by his wife's unusual behavior.
"Don't be foolish. Can't you see the Duke wants to speak with Clarisse?" Eleanor retorted sharply, her keen eyes fixed on her husband.
Jonathan fell silent, suddenly feeling awkward. Eleanor sighed and clicked her tongue, frustrated by his lack of awareness.
"Are you sure this is a wise decision? I'm afraid the Duke might take offense at what we're doing," Jonathan murmured, still hesitant.
"Oh, for heaven's sake. Have you grown older and duller, my dear?" Eleanor sighed dramatically. Jonathan could only offer a sheepish smile, feeling slightly embarrassed. He decided not to argue further and simply let his wife handle things.
As they walked away, Eleanor began discussing a particular magical device she deemed essential—one capable of soundproofing a room. Jonathan chuckled in disbelief, finding it absurd that such a tool would be necessary, especially considering Lorcan's notoriously cold and indifferent demeanor. However, Eleanor merely shot him a bored glance. Regardless, she would ensure the device was installed in Lorcan and Clarisse's chamber when the time came.
In the secluded palace garden, away from prying eyes and guards, Lorcan pulled Clarisse into his embrace with unrestrained passion.
"I missed you," Lorcan whispered against her ear, his voice deep and resonant despite their solitude.
Clarisse's face flushed, a soft blush spreading across her cheeks. Lorcan, both intense and gentle, pressed his lips to her neck, sending a shiver down her spine. This was more than mere longing. Every breath against her skin made her heart pound uncontrollably.
Clarisse tried to steady herself, despite the heat rising within her. "Your Grace, please… this is highly inappro—"
Before she could finish her sentence, Lorcan silenced her with a deep kiss, one filled with pent-up desire. Frustrated yet powerless against the overwhelming emotions consuming her, Clarisse found herself surrendering, returning his kiss with equal fervor.