Chapter 53: Unspoken Turmoil
"Madam, where are you looking?" Alex’s voice cut through my thoughts, urging me to refocus on the present.
"Madam!" he called again, his tone growing increasingly urgent.
"I apologize in advance if my behavior appears disrespectful," I murmured, diverting my gaze back to the emperor. Without further ado, I broke into a brisk run toward the doorway. I knew my impulsive actions would raise numerous questions and possibly accusations of disrespect, but something within me compelled me to act.
"This is disrespectful!"
"Duchess, stop right there!"
Voices accusing me of disrespect echoed behind me, but I paid them no heed. My eyes were fixed on Vix, who stood frozen in the doorway. If that door swung open completely, everyone would see her. Although I wasn’t entirely certain why Vix had been prohibited from showing her face outside, I sensed that bringing her out in this manner would be a grave mistake.
"Madam! What’s happening? Please tell me!" Alex’s voice pleaded with genuine concern. As we approached the door, he ceased questioning and quickly draped his blazer over Vix’s head, shielding her identity from prying eyes.
"Duke—" I began, wanting to discuss the situation, but he didn’t respond. Instead, he urged us forward, running while firmly holding both our shoulders.
Observing Alex’s anxiety sent shivers down my spine. I couldn’t quite grasp why he was reacting so intensely. My initial fear had been that he would discover Vix here, but the unfolding situation was markedly different from what I had anticipated.
"Duke, please listen to me!" I implored, making another attempt to start a conversation.