Chapter 27 - Twenty Seven
A heavy sigh escaped Suzy’s lips as she pushed open the study door. The air inside was thick with the scent of books and something else, something cold and unyielding – the essence of Ryan himself.
He sat behind his desk, engrossed in a pile of parchment. At the sound of the door creaking open, he glanced up, his eyes devoid of any warmth.
"Duchess," he acknowledged curtly, his voice as cold as the winter wind. "Take a seat."
Suzy felt a shiver crawl down her spine despite the warmth of the summer evening. She walked towards a plush armchair by the fireplace and sank down, her back stiff with forced formality.
"I presume you know why I called you here," Ryan said, his voice flat and emotionless.
Suzy bit back a retort. Did he truly believe she was omniscient? Instead, she simply nodded, unsure of what to expect.
"There will be a ball held here next month," Ryan continued, his tone clipped and businesslike. "The Carleton Ball. It’s a traditional event, one that has been held at this estate for generations."
Suzy’s stomach lurched. A ball? She had never organized anything so grand, so intricate. Panic clawed at her throat.
"As Duchess," Ryan continued, his gaze unwavering, "it is your duty to oversee the event. You will be responsible for sending out invitations, liaising with caterers and decorators, and ensuring the smooth running of the entire evening."