Chapter 290: Rise of a Phoenix
Linnea and Sandoz were ushered into the duchess’ chamber beneath the glittering light of crystal sconces. The doors thudded shut behind them, the echo ringing like a judge’s gavel.
"Sit down, Linnea," the Duchess commanded, her voice a whip-crack.
Linnea remained upright, her spine like steel, her eyes cool but defiant.
Eloisa’s voice sliced through the air like a blade, its sharpness demanding attention. "Are you truly going to defy me now?" Her eyes glinted with a mix of challenge and simmering fury, every word laced with an electric tension that charged the atmosphere around them.
There was a thick pause. Then, with heavy reluctance, Linnea and Sandoz sank into the carved velvet chairs.
Eloisa’s sharp gaze darted to a waiting servant, who immediately swept forward with exaggerated deference.
"Young Lord," she said with forced sweetness, "come, I’ll assist you with your bath. Your father is on his way—he’s expecting you at dinner, and you should have dressed by then. The Duchess had prepared clothes for you."
Sandoz cast a furtive glance at his mother, his heart racing with apprehension. Linnea, sensing his unease, reached out gently, her hand gliding across his shoulder like a soothing breeze, radiating warmth and unwavering support. Her soft smile, combined with a reassuring nod, seemed to whisper a silent promise: I will be okay.
As the servant and Sandoz left, Linnea silently watched the duchess as she sat elegantly on the cushioned seat opposite her.
"Aren’t you going to pour tea for me, Linnea?" Eliosa asked condescendingly.
Linnea pursed her lips. Indeed, it was her duty to serve the primary wife. She stood up, picked up the ceramic teapot, and poured a cup before placing it before the duchess.