The carriage came to a halt in front of Julian's house, and the guards promptly opened the door for the Duchess. She stepped out first, then turned back to carefully guide both of the young boys down onto the path.
Before they could take a single step toward the entrance, the estate's butler stepped forward and bowed deeply to Eilika.
"Your Grace, please, this way," the middle-aged man requested politely. He led them through the front doors and into a well-appointed drawing room. "Please take a seat here. The Madam will arrive shortly," he added, casting a quick glance at a nearby servant, who hastily scurried toward the kitchen to fetch some water.
"Mama, I am going to Julian's room to play with him," Roman said, looking up at her with bright eyes.
"Sure. Go ahead," she agreed, watching with a fond smile as the two boys eagerly dashed up the stairs.
Just then, the sound of a weak voice from the doorway drew her attention. It belonged to none other than Julian's mother, Amaira.
