The snide remarks were whispered and veiled. Lu Xia didn't hear them, nor did she pay any attention to these scions of the Rafaelde family.
Her purpose for visiting today was simply to bring Smelian to see Lady Rafaelde. Everyone else was secondary.
Lu Xia smiled and had Smelian present the gift they had brought. "I should have brought Smelian back sooner, but I've been terribly busy lately. I hope you don't mind."
"You're too kind, Duke. Your presence alone graces our humble home. Please, come in. The meal is ready, so we can talk while we eat. These are Smelian's brothers and sisters. They happened to be free, so I called them back to meet you and Smelian. I hope you don't mind."
"Not at all. The more, the merrier." Lu Xia glanced at the group, noting that the members of the Rafaelde family truly lived up to their reputation for beauty. Every single one of them was exceptionally good-looking.
