Chapter 533
"My Lady, did my ways with words upset your comfort?"
"?? Uh? Pardon?" — To the sudden interruption of my thoughts from Duke Clemente, I straightened in my seat, a tad confused since I had started to forget the recent exchange while filling my thoughts with anticipation to meet my suitor. — "I-I do not seem to understand your question, your Grace."
"... I have been told my tone tends to be unattached... And the lady grew quiet, which although it was only natural before, even then your spirit showed a disposition to converse further unlike now."
"..."
"It might be that my answers were not to your liking is what I am saying."
With straightforwardness, not leaving behind said tone that I was already aware was not used with any sense of grudge or dislike... I ultimately puffed an entertained chuckle, dismissing the surprise it invoked to release some of the tension the mere question summoned.
"Well, the duke is someone who has always seemed severe while expressing himself, this ever since I met you. Nonetheless, I am certain that what is seen on the surface is not always what is inside... this I know very well from my own experience." — I told him, meeting the calm demeanour he was known for owning, listening attentively to what I wanted to convey. — "Many did not approach me for being mute after all."
"... Indeed. What you say is true... the lady’s lack of voice did seem what was not at first. I would have doubted any would or could mix with others with said condition. Much more when ignorant of the source."
"Yes... No one has said so as clearly as you have. Without ill intention, but logically saying so, that is how it is for any who does not know or is not willing to look more into it. Therefore, it is the very same reason why I have not mixed much with people. Solely with those that did approach me, overcoming what they ignored... In a different way this also applies to his grace." — I finally added wanting to make the point about why his attitude was not one I would find fault in and instead... I pretty much liked in its honesty.
His eyes seemed to dislike for a second what I could be implying, yet his lips did not let out a word, knowing that I was not about to make a statement without telling its motive.