Chapter 490: The World of Courtship
Josef was dressed in a finely tailored suit. While of excellent quality, it was not from any extravagant designer. The materials were finely spun, and the craftsmanship was perfect but Bruno was never the kind of man to throw money at a name for recognition alone.
Among Bruno’s eight children, Josef was one of two who had inherited the rare but ever-present red hair that traced through the family’s bloodline. It was neatly styled and combed. His teal eyes glistened in the mirror as his mother ensured he looked perfect for his upcoming meeting.
Heidi, ever the doting mother, gently patted his shoulders, brushing invisible dust from the fabric of his beige three-piece suit. His wine-colored silk tie and matching pocket square had been perfectly placed, though she continued to fidget with them out of reflex.
Josef barely recognized himself in the mirror. He seldom wore such formal attire, except during major holidays or family events. Yet here he stood, groomed like a miniature gentleman; because this was not just another dinner.
As Heidi straightened his tie for the fifth time, she whispered in his ear, voice gentle but serious.
"Now, Josef... The young lady you’re about to meet may be a bit older, but she is the Duchess of Hohenberg, and your fiancée. You’d do well to remember that she lost both of her parents in a terrible tragedy. So act with tact, as the little gentleman I know you are."
Bruno, standing in the doorway in a plain but well-fitted civilian coat, raised a brow with mock impatience.
"Heidi... The boy looks clean enough. His fiancée has been waiting five whole minutes. Is he finally presentable to your liking?"
Heidi turned sharply, glancing at the nearby grandfather clock. Her expression turned sheepish as she realized time had indeed flown by. She gave Josef one last pat and stepped back.
"I’m sorry, I didn’t realize. Go on, darling. Behave yourself."