Chapter 12: No Limits
Tillian moved silently through Aideen’s bedroom, his steps as light as feathers, allowing him to navigate like a skilled predator. Years of training and hunting various wild creatures had honed his ability to move almost soundlessly, a surprising skill for someone of his massive build. Little did he know that this skill would prove just as useful outside the battlefield or hunting grounds.
Carefully, he placed the sleeping princess on her plush bed, covering her with a thick, warm blanket. He then tucked her in to ensure her comfort.
With a gentle, almost hesitant motion of his large hand, the duke brushed away a few stray strands of Aideen’s soft, wavy hair from her forehead. After ensuring her peace, he quietly exited the room, leaving behind only the soft crackling of the fireplace.
As Tillian made his way back to his study, Stanis awaited him by his large wooden desk, resembling a loyal guardian hound. Despite his mature tanned face maintaining stoicism, an occasional twitch of the long, thick scar on his right cheek betrayed an irrepressible desire to smile.
Disregarding his assistant’s subtle expressions, Tillian sank heavily into his chair, the impact resonating through its back as he leaned back and stretched his tired legs beneath the desk. Stanis, though still silent, fixed his deep brown eyes on Tillian, and after a brief pause, the duke finally gave up,
"Is there something you wish to say, Sir Stanis?"
Fighting another urge to smile, Stanis masked his awkwardness with a nonchalant shrug of his broad shoulders. He then cleared his throat and inquired in a rather cold tone,
"When are you going to talk to her? Don’t you think it’s a bit cruel to bring that poor woman here and keep her locked in her room like a prisoner without even telling her why she was brought to this castle in the first place?"
As if expecting this question, Tillian brushed his blonde hair away from his eyes and emitted an irritated sigh before shifting the conversation in a slightly different direction,