Chapter 36: Measure of Worth
The tea house was quiet, dimly lit, and smelled faintly of cinnamon and old books. Cordelia Ross sat at a secluded corner table, one leg crossed over the other, her eyes fixed on the entrance.
A man entered moments later. He was tall and dignified, with streaks of silver in his dark hair and the family crest of House Ross embroidered discreetly on his lapel.
"Lady Cordelia," he greeted with a slight bow, placing a small enchanted box on the table. "Your stipend for the month. As always, your parents send their regards."
Cordelia picked it up and weighed it in her hand. "Mm. Feels heavier than last time."
He smiled gently. "They also sent a message. Word reached the estate... that you mentioned having a boyfriend."
Cordelia blinked once, her expression unreadable. "Did it now."
"Yes. And... they would very much like to meet him."
She leaned back, fingers tapping the box. "Let me guess. Black hair, red eyes, sharp tongue, zero patience, and a face that screams ’I don’t care’?"
The man tilted his head. "So the rumors are true, then."
She sighed. "I may have exaggerated a tiny detail to get a bunch of obnoxious nobles to back off. Didn’t think it’d make it across the continent."
"Well," he said with a warm chuckle, "your mother and father are curious. They trust your judgment, but they’re excited. They just want to see who’s captured your attention."