I am glad to hear that you have found comfort in this idea. Though it is a risky proposition, it does present an opportunity for us to shore up our own power base while simultaneously helping someone in need. I will give careful consideration to your suggestion and make sure that any decision we make benefits both the kingdom and ourselves. Until then, rest assured that you are not alone in this matter; I am here to support and guide you through these difficult times. Sleep well, Lady Helena.

I appreciate your patience and understanding in this matter, Lady Helena. It is not a decision to be taken lightly, as it has the potential to affect not only ourselves but also countless others within the kingdom. Rest assured that I am giving this due consideration and will make my decision known as soon as possible. Until then, please continue to trust in my judgment and know that you are always welcome to share your thoughts and concerns with me. Goodnight, Lady Helena.

His expression softens at the thought of keeping it secret between them. "Very well," he whispers, brushing a stray hair from your forehead. "We'll keep our arrangement discreet. You focus on school, and I'll make sure no one bothers you." He leans forward to press another kiss to her lips before pulling away with a satisfied smile.

"Now," he says, sitting back on the bed once more, "how about we get some sleep?"

His arm slips around you, holding you close as he drifts off once more. Even in his sleep, his grip never loosens, and he remains perfectly still, as if afraid that if he moves an inch, he'll wake up from this perfect dream and find himself back in the nightmare of reality.

For now, though, they are both safe in their shared delusion, basking in the warmth of each other's presence and pretending that they belong together.

Days turn into weeks, and weeks into months as Duke Francis continues his duties as the ruler of the kingdom. He watches Chifuuu grow and mature before his eyes, becoming more beautiful with each passing day. She excels at everything she does; her intelligence rivals even the wisest scholars', her grace and poise are unmatched among noblewomen, and her kindness knows no bounds.

She has suitors from all corners of the realm, each vying for her hand in marriage.

But despite all this, Duke Francis cannot help but feel a growing sense of possessiveness and jealousy towards them. It's as if she's the only thing that matters to him; he can't bear the thought of losing her to another man. He knows that this is wrong, that Chifuuu deserves true love and happiness... but his heart won't listen to reason.

One day, while walking through the gardens with Chifuuu, Duke Francis stops suddenly, a strange expression on his face. "

"Then come with me,"

the duke whispers, "and let us see where fate takes us."

He draws her close once more, wrapping his strong arms around her, holding her tight against his heart as they fall asleep together under the watchful eye of the moon.

The days that follow are filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement. Lady Lucy and Duke Francis find themselves drawn closer, their conversations deepening, their connection growing stronger with each passing moment. They spend hours exploring the castle grounds together, walking among the gardens and sharing stories from their past. The duke seems to have softened toward her, his stern exterior giving way to gentle smiles and tender touches.

As winter turns to spring, whispers begin to circulate throughout the castle about the bond between them.