Chapter 100
Turning to his wife’s voice, Orland answered with kindness despite his cold attitude.
"Yes, wife? Speak comfortably."
"May I assume that... This is a Royal Order?"
"... It is not an official order. Nonetheless, after receiving persistent letters from His Majesty over the last weeks, I believe it would not be polite to continue to decline their invitation. Being invited to the Royal Palace is already a great honour in itself, therefore, as you know, it is not something we can take our leisure with." — Said Orland to his wife, assuming a business-like posture at the head of the table.
"Indeed. I understand... However, Husband, I believe it would not be wise to send Marianne on her own."
"..." — Orland glimpsed at Elenaide, wondering where did this seemingly thoughtful suggestion come from, when it had been made clear that his respectful wife did not like their second born in the slightest. Yet, her comment had a foundation. One the Duke had already taken into account. — "Yes. I have thought so too since our daughter has only recently recovered from her ailing. Consequently, I had decided to accompany her on her stay as I also have pending matters at the Main Palace to attend."
"That is a reasonable idea, honey. Yet, I believe... Our... child will still be lonely, for my husband must attend to these work-related matters that have been taking the property of your days on end."
’Sigh... Now I see where this woman is going...’ — Thought Orland, deciphering the Duchess’ machinations.
Regardless, although her true motives were selfish and truly directed to benefit their youngest child, in the end, her suggestion would be a beneficial one for Marianne, who was his main concern.
At least, that was the naive Duke’s thought.
"That is true... Honey. Then, please tell me, what does my wife wish to suggest?" — Ultimately Orland answered, asking for his wife to go to the point without running in circles.
Transmitting with the slightly lifted corners of his lips along his intense gaze directed to the woman beside him, the Duke sent the confident message that he recognized what she intended to achieve with her advice, clearly aware of the ambitious ways her mind worked with, and lastly... That he would let her scheme go this time since, in hindsight, it would supposedly benefit all of them.