Chapter 208: A Moment of Privacy
Lyria's POV
I knew why the table was bare.
The Queen had arranged it. Of course she had. Every detail of this date—the room, the time, the absence of refreshments—had been selected with care. Not to comfort. Not to facilitate conversation. But to remind me, quietly and continually, that I was not deserving of the same courtesies extended to Jacinta.
I did not say this aloud though; there was no need for that after all.
Duke Thorncrest sighed loudly, then he turned toward the maids.
"You three," he said pleasantly. "Be so good as to fetch some refreshments."
Diana blinked in shock.
The Duke continued before she could respond.
"I cannot spend time with a beautiful woman," he said, "and have nothing to offer her. That would not reflect well on my character."
He paused, then added,
"And besides, it is still morning. I very much doubt Her Highness has had anything sustainable."
The maids stared at him for a while. Not one of them moved.
