Chapter 61: The Duke’s Lessons
Corvin’s days were passing in relative ease and rare relaxation, though the ease was usually dependent on one variable: whether or not Valyne decided to invade his schedule. But today, for the most part, was peaceful. The sky was clear, painted in soft blues, and the ravens above the valley flew in wide, lazy circles, their caws echoing like lazy chimes.
In the formal dining hall, Corvin sat alone, enjoying a rare occasion: a perfectly seared steak, tender and rich, paired with something far more exotic, Ranch Sauce.
Yes, Ranch. Of all things.
It had taken days of experimentation, some tragically bad tastings, and more than a few maids who were convinced he had lost his mind. But he’d done it. The flavor was smooth and tangy, creamy with a hint of herbs. It reminded him of something faint and distant from his former life, a taste that should’ve been forgotten, comforting, absurd, and strangely personal.
He didn’t often take joy in such small things, but in this moment, he was almost... satisfied.
That was, until the door opened and trouble in the form of Valyne entered.
She walked like she owned the world, her long silver blonde hair in a braid that danced over one shoulder, robes clinging to her curves in all the wrong ways to be ignored. She didn’t speak immediately. Instead, her eyes went straight to his plate.
She approached slowly, stopping just short of the table, her gaze narrowing at the sauce.
Corvin, already cutting a slice, gave her a sideways glance. Without a word, he extended the fork toward her.
She accepted it without comment.
Dipping the slice into the sauce, she brought it to her lips. Cherry red, soft and plump. He had to look away for a second as she bit in and chewed thoughtfully.