241: A tea of declarations

A tea of declarations

In the early hours of the morning, Egon von Conradie made his way to the Archduke's manor, in prompt response to the Archduchess's invitation for a tea meeting in her private garden.0

"Please, proceed, Sir Egon," Bernard gestured graciously, guiding him towards the garden's entrance.

As Egon stepped into the secluded portion of the garden, Adela's heart skipped a beat, the tug of affection becoming even more pronounced as she laid eyes on him. Grace had chosen this spot specifically for intimate gatherings, and the significance of the setting was not lost on Adela.

As Egon took in the peculiar seating arrangement among the flower bushes and ancient statues that conveniently separated this section of the garden from the rest, a feeling of unease settled within him. The Archduchess sat between Baroness Frieda, her expression warm and welcoming, and Adela, whose subtle look of concern didn't go unnoticed. This arrangement left him with the individual seat across from them.

It looked every bit like a court of law, and Egon couldn't shake the feeling that he was being positioned as the accused, left to face judgment in this intimate gathering.

"Your Excellency," he greeted formally and rather dryly, but when his eyes met Adela's, they twinkled with happiness.

As Egon settled into his seat, the Archduchess began the conversation with a tone of polite curiosity. "Thank you for joining us, Sir Egon. I hope you find this tea to your liking. My daughter specifically chose it for you."

Butterflies tickled Adela's insides as he gave her a loving look.

The tea served for Egon was a jasmine-scented brew, its captivating aroma filling the air around him as the teapot was placed before him. The teacup's fine porcelain surface glowed with a pearly sheen, its handle looking almost too small for Egon's large palm as he cradled the cup.

He took a sip then nodded appreciatively, his gaze lingering on Adela. "Jasmine is my favorite," he said, his voice warm and tender.

Grace took a moment to study him, her eyes searching for any signs of insincerity, but she found none.

"Let's get straight to the point, shall we? I came across your poem, the one meant for Adela, and it left me wondering why you didn't approach the Archduke before proposing to my daughter."

Egon looked directly into Grace's eyes, his expression resolute. "I intended to follow tradition, but when I arrived at your estate that night, I saw Adela's distress through the window. I couldn't ignore her well-being, so I entered her chambers to ensure she was safe," he explained, his voice steady and sincere.

Grace raised an eyebrow, seemingly unconvinced. "And you expect me to believe that you had no ulterior motives?"

Egon's typically predatorial eyes melted as he spoke, "I assure you, Your Excellency, my intentions toward Adela are pure and serious."

Grace regarded Egon with a thoughtful and composed expression, her tone measured and diplomatic, "I trust that you understand the paramount importance of my daughter's well-being and security. Given the circumstances surrounding the recent events, I am naturally concerned about Adela's safety."

"I would willingly, without hesitation, offer my life if it meant ensuring her safety. She is my most important person."

Adela gulped, her chest rising up and down rapidly as she heard his words echoing loud and clear in the garden.

Silence reigned over the next few moments. The only sound that broke the stillness was Adela's heart, thumping loudly in her ears. Grace appeared to be taking her time to absorb Egon's words, her expression still thoughtful and composed. On the other hand, the Baroness looked visibly approving of Egon's devotion.

After a moment's contemplation, it became apparent that the sincere declaration was not enough to please the Archduchess.

"Offering one's life… My daughters are surrounded by plenty of men who share the same state of mind."

Egon's eyes flickered with a hint of jealousy as he continued, "While there may be others around Adela, I can assure you that my protection surpasses all of them combined. I will be her shield, her support, and her partner in all endeavors. I want to build a life with her, and I promise you, Your Excellency, that she will be safe and cherished under my care."

Grace's sigh weighed heavily with the burden of her concerns.

"Andreas von Conradie's actions have made me wary," she admitted.

Egon's brow furrowed , and he spoke with earnestness. "Our families may have their differences, but you do not have to become relatives if you don't want to. My marriage to Adela doesn't necessarily mean that our Houses should merge."

Adela tensed at his words; she knew that nobles in Emoria viewed matrimony quite differently, and what Egon suggested was an unconventional approach.

Grace looked at her daughter, her expression emotional, her heart clouded with worry. "I don't think I can tolerate Andreas's presence in my home."

Baroness Frieda, who had been observing the conversation attentively, interjected gently, "Your concerns are valid, Your Excellency. Perhaps to avoid any discomfort, any ceremonial events can be held in a neutral place, like my fief. This way, both families can come together to celebrate the union of Adela and Egon without any undue strain."

Egon and Adela exchanged glances, appreciating the Baroness's thoughtful suggestion. Egon spoke up, "That sounds like a reasonable compromise, Baroness."

Grace considered the suggestion, her expression receptive to the idea. "Perhaps that could work." She smoothed out invisible wrinkles from her dress. "Well, that is settled. Now if you would please allow us some time to contemplate your proposal."

Egon nodded firmly as he stood up. "If you would excuse me, I would like to meet with the Archduke now."

Grace slightly frowned but nodded to Egon nonetheless, while Adela, unsure of his sudden urgency to meet her father, gave him a lingering, longing look.

He gave her a soft smile that warmed her heart and took the two other women around them by surprise.

As he turned around to leave, Grace pressed her hand fan to her mouth and leaned towards the Baroness.

"So the man is capable of smiling. I thought otherwise."

The Baroness stifled a giggle with her own hand fan, while Adela gave them an exasperated look, feeling the familiar tug in her heart urging her to follow Egon, a clear sign that he too was reluctant to put any distance between himself and Adela.

She closed her eyes, yearning to become Egon's bride in the sweet, sure embrace of the present moment, rather than waiting for the distant promise of an uncertain tomorrow.

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