Chapter 125 - Hundred And Twenty Five
The carriage pulled up into the familiar courtyard of Eric’s private residence, the crunch of the wheels on the gravel the only sound in the quiet night. The long day, filled with the tensions of the preparation for the upcoming business trip, was finally over.
"Your Grace," Aiden said from the seat opposite him. "I will come to pick you up very early tomorrow morning, before sunrise. We need to be at the port to board the ship on time."
" How many days are we spending there?" He asked, his voice a soft murmur.
Aiden replied. " Two days at most if everything goes smoothly."
Eric, his mind already elsewhere, just nodded. He got down from the carriage, and the vehicle drove off, carrying Aiden with it back into the sleeping city.
Mr. Rye, who must have been waiting for their return, came out from the main house to greet him. "Welcome back, Your Grace."
"Thank you, Mr Rye," Eric said, his voice tired. He looked up at the grand house, his gaze immediately finding the windows to Delia’s room. A soft, warm light flickered behind the drawn curtains, and for a fleeting moment, he saw her silhouette pass by the window. The simple sight, the knowledge that she was in there, safe, in their home, sent a wave of warmth through his weary body.
"I am going on a business trip tomorrow, Mr Rye," he said, his eyes still fixed on her window. "I will be back in a few days. Please, take good care of her while I am away."
Mr. Rye bowed his head, his expression one of absolute loyalty. "I will protect the Duchess with my life, Your Grace," he vowed.
Eric patted the older man on the back, a gesture of deep trust and gratitude, and then went into the house. He climbed the grand staircase, his steps quiet on the thick runner, and went straight to Delia’s room. He knocked softly on the door.