For a moment she just stared up at him, her cheeks glowing with delight. Then, without another word, she wrapped her arms around him, clinging like a little squirrel that found its tree.
"I'm so happy you came!" she beamed. "Come on! I'll introduce you to my friends!"
Axelius blinked, caught off guard by how tightly she held on to him, but he didn't push her away. Instead, with a resigned sigh and a sheepish smile, he let her guide him across the garden.
As they walked past groups of nobles—men and women standing with grace, holding tea or wine, wearing tailored suits and gowns with glittering accessories—they all turned and bowed politely. Axelius did the same, giving short, polite nods, keeping his eyes steady and shoulders straight.
"Did you know the Duke had another son?" someone whispered as he passed.
"No… but look at him. He must be from the Dravenhart line."
