My Bratty Wife

Suzy wandered into the kitchen, her mind occupied with a burning question. Mrs. Madelyn, the oldest and most respected worker in the castle, seemed like the perfect person to ask. As she entered, she saw the kitchen bustling and Mrs. Madelyn overseeing the preparations for dinner.

"Your Grace, what brings you here?" Mrs. Madelyn asked, her eyes wide with surprise.

Suzy smiled, "I was a bit bored and wanted to see how the people who prepare my delicious meals are doing."

Mrs. Madelyn blushed, a rare sight on her usually stoic face. "Oh, stop teasing an old woman, child," she chuckled. "What would His Grace say if he saw you here? It’s not proper for you to come here often."

Suzy giggled. "Would you prefer I visit you in your quarters then?" she teased.

Mrs. Madelyn’s eyes widened. "No, no, child. That would be even worse. His Grace wouldn’t approve."

Suzy smiled knowingly. "Then permit my frequent visits here," she declared.

Mrs. Madelyn softened, a warm smile spreading across her face. "It’s been a long time since someone cared about the workers. After the Duchess’s passing, His Grace simply pays our wages and nothing more."

Suzy listened, her heart heavy.

Mrs. Madelyn nodded, her eyes filled with gratitude. "You know, he has changed a lot since marrying you. I think you’ve filled the void his mother left. He seems to care more now."

Suzy’s expression softened. "I see," she murmured. She hopped onto a freshly cleaned table, her skirts swishing around her legs. Mrs. Madelyn’s eyes widened in alarm. "Child, let me get you a chair. You’ll ruin your dress!" she exclaimed.