August drew a deep breath as he stepped down from the carriage outside the Duke's estate. After the journey, he was relieved to be back.
He entered the estate and made his way into the drawing room, only to find it empty. Assuming everyone was elsewhere, he walked over and sat down on one of the sofas.
He had barely settled when a familiar voice came from behind him.
"August, you have returned!"
August looked over his shoulder and found Sylvian standing at the entrance. His expression showed genuine surprise, followed by what appeared to be relief at seeing his brother back.
"Yes, I have," August replied. He raised an eyebrow at him. "Were you hoping I wouldn't?"
"What? Of course not!" Sylvian immediately shook his head, looking almost offended by the suggestion.
Samir, who had been standing nearby, stepped forward and bowed respectfully to August.
Sylvian then walked farther into the room.
