Chapter 94: Protectiveness
The Duke shifted his gaze to Dimitri, his expression stony. "Dimitri, was it?" Taking one step forward, "Perhaps you forgot your place in the household?"
"And what is his place? Your Grace?" Adeline interrupted. She strutted towards Dimitri and stood before him with confidence. Her arms were crossed.
Her gaze challenged him.
The Duke’s brow furrowed slightly, surprised by her intervention, but Adeline continued before he could speak.
"It seems to me, Your Grace," she said, it was surprising to hear such sharp words from a child.
"That Dimitri is exactly where he belongs- as a valued representative of the Western Marquess and a guest invited personally by the Duchess. And as the daughter of the Western Marquess, I have every right to ensure he is treated with the respect he deserves."
"As a Duke, I must oversee those who cause a ruckus in my house." His eyes narrowed.
"If you want to talk about ranks, then you might have to start with that child over there. Is he not a commoner? I’ve come here to learn etiquette, perhaps you should join me too." She laughed mockingly.
"If I were to talk about ranks, Miss Adeline, you would have to bow before me. You are simply the daughter of a Marquess, while I am a Duke."
"Since you are a Duke, you must know that not just titles, but also influence matters in society. Are you sure you are valued more than my father?" She simply came to the point. Straightforward.
The Duchess might have called her behaviour vulgar. But, she wasn’t here so who cares? Adeline shrugged. She looked straight into the Duke’s eyes fearing nothing.