Zilayefa asked Duke Larry where her mother was and why she hadn't returned. Not that Zilayefa was interested in marrying the Duke, but this was an opportunity for her to finally see her mom. "Your mother will be here in a few days," the Duke told her. "I've already sent people to bring her and your brother."
Duke Larry's expression was unreadable, but Zilayefa sensed a hint of skepticism behind his words. He seemed to believe she was using him, and the thought didn't sit well with him. Though he had never thought of marrying her, he had recently realized his feelings for her went beyond mere tolerance. However, he suspected she was only interested in him because of the King's command to see her family and discuss their marriage.
Zilayefa's eyes narrowed as she studied the Duke. This man had made her and her siblings live miserably when they first arrived at Ralston Castle. She still remembered the pain of losing her baby brother Bernard after his wolf pet, Fire, attacked him. The memories of those difficult times still lingered, and she wasn't sure if she could ever forgive him.
Despite her reservations, Zilayefa couldn't deny the attraction she felt towards the Duke. Every woman in the kingdom of Nero seemed to be drawn to him like honey. He was rich, handsome, and confident, with an air of authority that commanded attention.
"All my brothers are here with me in the castle," Zilayefa said, her voice calm. "So, who are you speaking of?" She searched his face for answers, and the Duke met her gaze with a confident smile.
He knew this day would come sooner or later. Fire had indeed bitten Bernard that fateful day, but his butler had rescued the young boy and taken him to see a doctor. After Bernard's recovery, Duke Larry had discovered Zilayefa's singing could calm him down, and he had decided to keep Bernard's survival a secret. He wanted Zilayefa and her brothers to fear him and obey him.
As it turned out, Bernard proved to be a valuable asset. He was skilled with wine and had a natural talent for brewing. Duke Larry, being a lover of clever and skillful people, had put Bernard in charge of his brewing company.
"Your brother Bernard is alive," Duke Larry said, his voice measured. "He's working for me now, and he's doing quite well. You'll see him soon, but for now, let's focus on preparing for the ball and your engagement to me."
Zilayefa's eyes widened in shock. Bernard was alive? Working for the Duke? A mix of emotions swirled within her – shock, anger, relief, and confusion. She felt betrayed by the Duke's deception, yet a glimmer of hope emerged, knowing her brother might still be alive.
"What about my mother?" she asked, her voice firm. "You said she'd be here in a few days. What's going on?"
Duke Larry's gaze never wavered. "I've sent men to fetch her. She'll be here soon. As for your brother, you can see him once you're married to me."
Zilayefa's eyes narrowed, a spark of defiance igniting within her. "I want to see him now," she said, her voice unwavering. "I want the truth about everything."
The Duke's expression remained calm, but a hint of amusement danced in his eyes. "I'm afraid that's not possible, my dear," he said. "But don't worry, you'll see your brother soon enough. And your mother will be here soon, too."
Zilayefa's mind reeled as she processed the Duke's words. She knew she had to tread carefully, but she couldn't help feeling a sense of unease. What secrets was the Duke hiding? And what did he plan to do with her and her family?
As the days passed, Zilayefa found herself torn between her desire to see her mother and brother and her growing unease about her engagement to the Duke. She knew she had to make a decision, but what would it be?
Would she accept the Duke's proposal and risk losing herself in the process? Or would she find a way to escape and reunite with her family on her own terms? The ball was just around the corner, and Zilayefa's fate hung in the balance.
The Duke's words echoed in her mind: "You'll see your brother once you're married to me." Zilayefa knew she had to be careful. She couldn't let her desire for her family cloud her judgment. She needed to think clearly and make a plan.
As she walked away from the Duke, Zilayefa felt a sense of determination. She would see her brother and mother, no matter what it took. And she would uncover the truth about the Duke's secrets and intentions.
Duke Larry watched Zilayefa walk away, he couldn't help but feel a sense of intrigue. What was going through her mind? Would she remain obedient once she saw her family, or would her demeanor change? Did she harbor any feelings for him beyond mere tolerance?
He knew he hadn't been kind to her from the start. His nature was rough, and he hadn't bothered to soften his edges around her. Yet, despite his harsh treatment, Zilayefa had caught his attention in ways he hadn't anticipated.
The Duke's thoughts lingered on Zilayefa's calm exterior, wondering what lay beneath. Was she plotting her escape, or did she genuinely believe their arranged marriage could work? He pondered these questions, his mind racing with possibilities.
As he turned to leave, a hint of anticipation crept into his thoughts. He looked forward to seeing how Zilayefa would react when her family arrived. Would she stand by her agreement to marry him, or would she rebel?
The Duke's eyes narrowed slightly, a mixture of curiosity and caution swirling within him. He knew one thing for certain he would not be swayed easily. His path was set, and he would see this arrangement through to its conclusion.
With a final glance in Zilayefa's direction, the Duke disappeared into the corridors of his castle, lost in thought. The game of power and emotions had begun, and only time would reveal its outcome.
(ZILAYEFA AGELE)