The Duke's Passion

I happily ate the breakfast he made himself. The taste was alright. It was not as exquisite as what the servants usually served. However, as a peasant who had survived eating potatoes for a long time, everything that could fill my stomach was all blessings.

But as a biased bride, today's breakfast was the best meal I had ever eaten. Sam made it, after all. I would eat it any day.

After that, Sam and I had agreed to make preparations. I informed Fabian about our today's plans. I knew he would help, and he did.

Thus, with Fabian's influence, he summoned the servants in the castle to help me with everything. From the local dress I could wear so not to stand out too much, to my hair, and just everything.

"This jewelry is one of the finest jewelry in the country. Lord Cameron had sent it this morning, my lady." The maid servant informed me.

My gaze fell on the set of jewelries on the table. The corner of my lips curled subtly. They were pretty, but I'm not the person who liked shiny things.

"Send my regards to Lord Cameron. However, I'll use it some other time." I glanced up and offered a gentle smile.

"If you say so, my lady." 

I nodded in satisfaction. To be honest, the preparation I've been through exhausted me. I got used to wearing men's clothes and just tying up my hair for the past three months. Thus, being treated as a lady once again felt like a hassle.

I stared at the mirror as they braid a part of my hair on the side. Sam liked it when I wear my hair down. 

A smile turned up on my lips as I stared at myself in the mirror. "I feel bad for complaining inside my head. But I can't even recognize myself."

"You're still as dazzling as ever, my lady." 

Only when the maid servant replied did I realize I spoke my thoughts aloud. Embarrassed, I bit my lower lip and glimpsed at her.

"Everyone here is relieved that you'll be finally having a day of rest with His highness. You'd been busy training with Sir Rufus." She added as her eyes softened.

Why did she have to look at me with regret? As if she pitied me?

Well, thinking of how Rufus tortured me in the first month of my training, it made sense. Even I pity myself. It was a miracle I'm still alive today.

"My lady." 

"Hmm?" My brows raised, chasing away the thoughts of those tormenting days of my early trainings.

"Please take care of yourself." She smiled, finishing up the braid before taking a step back.

Her voice was laced with worry. Why? I'm merely going out on a date with Sam. Did she have to make it sound like I'm joining a war?

"I will." Despite my thoughts, I nodded with a smile.

She smiled back. "His Highness is outside waiting for you. I will escort you, my lady." 

Before I replied, I glanced at myself in the mirror for the last time. It was my first proper date with Sam. Our first date back in Grimsbanne was, well… it was a bit strange.

"Alright. Please lead the way." But now, I didn't care how this date would turn out. As long as I'm with Sam, unexpected things would occur.

Deep down, I was looking forward to it.

*

As soon as we reached outside, Sam was standing in front of the carriage. He was pacing back and forth, looking restless.

I could not help but giggle, covering my lips to hide it. Sam had never cared about his appearance. Yet, even without brushing his hair or wearing a more fitting attire for a duke, his beauty still stood out.

That was why I called it unfair.

But today, his argent hair that was brushed neatly to his back, displaying all his charming features. His long curled eyelashes matched with crimson eyes; his thin pointy nose, his defined jaw, his lips that always appeared as if he was sneering.

Not to mention, wearing that local men's attire; a flock-coat with dark sleeves that were long and tight, the collar opened very deep in order to showcase the waist coat.

Such a fine man.

I felt like this wasn't Sam, whose hair and clothes often left unkempt. It made me giggle.

"Lilove!" Just then, Sam turned his head in my direction.

As soon as our eyes met, Sam's mouth fell open as he froze. I raised my brows in bafflement.

Didn't he like it? For some reason, I also froze under his intense gaze.

He peered at me from head to toe, then right back up. Sam looked conflicted.

I should've worn the jewels Lord Cameron sent me this morning. Well, compare to him, I had to make more efforts so I could stand by his side.

Unconsciously, I was fidgeting with my fingers. I looked away as I saw him approach.

'What is this feeling in my heart?' I wondered. Not pleased by how it slowly affected my mood. 

When I sensed his presence before me, I bit my lower lip. Who wouldn't feel insecure standing beside this man? He was just so perfect and fine and handsome.

I would never run out of compliments for his looks alone. That's why it felt more nerve-racking.

As I sighed, my brows twitched. Slowly, I shifted my gaze to the hand in front of me.

"Your beauty never ceased to enchant me, my bride." He uttered solemnly.

My breath hitched. Even his tone changed! He sounded so noble!

"Shall we?"

"Uh…" Not knowing what to do, I automatically followed the common courtesy.

Slowly, I raised my hand and slid it into his hand. The side of his lips tilted up, almost looking like a mischievous smirk.

Instead of escorting me, Sam bent over and placed as a kiss on my knuckles. As he did so, he kept his eyes on me.

"You're beautiful, Lilove. More than you think you are."

And with that reassurance, I really felt beautiful. I smiled, my heart racing as butterflies filled my stomach.

"You flatter me, Your Grace. I would say the same to you."