The Duke nodded in response. He was silent for a long moment as if something heavy was running through his mind. Finally, with a slightly apologetic expression, he spoke.
"I know I am placing a burden on you, Kraven," the Duke said, his voice lower now, almost weary. "I also know that you are not ready to bind yourself in this marriage."
He paused and rubbed his temple as if the weight of leadership had suddenly grown heavier.
"But… at least give it a chance. Speak with her. Learn who she truly is. Ask her what she thinks of this arrangement. You don't have to rush into anything, but please… do not make her miserable the way you once did."
The Duke's eyes held a rare vulnerability as he looked at his son. There was no anger in them — only the hope of a father who had seen his family nearly torn apart by past mistakes and now desperately wanted to see a different path.
