Chapter 209: Blood cake
Emily was pleasantly surprised by Julius Ardolf’s unexpected presence as he walked to where she and Raylen were standing. She hadn’t anticipated having such an early visitor, not that she minded it, and she smiled when the man offered a polite bow to each of them.
"It’s a bit too early to be gracing us with your presence, Julius. Emily here might start thinking you have nothing better to occupy your time than to seek opportunities to come see her," Raylen remarked.
Julius was gazing at Emily’s face when he discerned the subtle hint of sarcasm. However, when he shifted his attention to the king, he found it difficult to reconcile it with how kindly the blue-eyed man looked at him. Feeling perplexed, unsure if it was just his imagination, he returned the smile and said,
"I was at the Ruiz Mansion when I heard about Lady Emily falling ill. I was concerned for her health, especially since she wasn’t feeling very well when we met yesterday. That’s why I decided to come and inquire personally." Julius’s words were earnest, and the tips of his ears turned pink as he finished speaking. "I hope my visit isn’t a problem."
Before Emily could respond, Raylen asked the earthling, "Have you had breakfast?"
Julius nodded and replied, "I did, King Raylen. Thank you for as—"
"Good, because there is no more breakfast food left," Raylen said with a smile, and Emily turned to look at him with a questioning gaze.
"Of course, please do not hesitate to let us know if you are hungry. I am certain we can arrange for some snacks," Emily offered, wanting to be hospitable to Julius, who had shown genuine concern for her well-being, unlike the other men who only paid her attention when she happened to pass them by.
"That is very generous of you, Lady Emily. I am full for now, thank you. I didn’t get the chance to inquire about your health. How are you feeling today?" Julius asked her.
"I am much better, thanks to Lauren and the King taking care of me," Emily replied. "I should be able to regain my strength soon."
Julius nodded before inquiring, "Lady Emily, do you never address the king as your uncle, even within the castle?"