Chapter 82: I like you
Mia stood at the grand gates of the Duke’s estate, her fingers brushing her lips in an absent-minded gesture as she wrestled with the weight of her decision. To retreat now would be an act of cowardice, unworthy of her spirit. She must confront the truth and accept whatever consequence lay ahead. After all, there were many men in the world, surely, if fate proved unkind, she could find another to love.
With a final deep breath, she raised her hand to knock. Yet, before her knuckles could meet the iron, the gates groaned open, revealing Klaus and Ray astride their horses, looking prepared to depart.
"Mia!" Klaus exclaimed as his gaze alighted upon her. Without hesitation, he dismounted and approached with haste.
"Klaus," she murmured, her voice scarcely audible. She had not anticipated meeting him so soon. Her heart wavered, unsure of how to proceed now that he was striding toward her with such purpose.
"What brings you here? Has something happened to the Duchess...I meant your lady?" He inquired, his tone earnest as he halted before her. His presence alone seemed to dismantle her resolve. How could she not fall for him? Klaus, with his unwavering care and noble heart, was every inch the man she had dreamed of. If he was not her destined mate, what hope had she of happiness?
"No... Nothing has happened to my lady," she began, faltering. "But something has happened to me."
Sensing her unease, Klaus placed a steady hand upon her shoulder. "Take your time, Mia. I am in no haste," he assured her, his voice a soothing balm to her nerves.
"I... I must speak with you, Klaus. Might I have but a few moments of your time?" She said at last, her voice trembling yet resolute.
His expression softened. "Of course. Allow me to bid Ray depart so that we may speak without interruption."