Awakening Love Reborn to Be His Duchess (Elowen Hale) novel Chapter 541

Caelan let out a soft laugh. "Iris, do you feel like serving in the Crown Prince's Wing is a little too uncertain? Planning ahead, looking for a more secure place for yourself?"

The question was blunt.

Though phrased like a question, it sounded far more like a statement.

Iris's fingers tightened inside her sleeve, her nails pressing into her palm, the faint sting keeping her steady.

She lifted her gaze to Caelan, her tone still respectful and composed. "Your Highness overestimates me. I have no idea where such unfounded rumors came from. His Highness has always trusted me and treated me generously. Being allowed to serve at his side is already more than I could hope for. I have never harbored any divided loyalties, nor would I dare entertain thoughts of abandoning my lord for personal gain."

She dipped into a proper curtsey. "If Your Highness has no further instructions, I should go receive Lord Leonhart."

With that, she turned to leave.

Behind her, Caelan's voice followed, calm and unhurried. "Leonhart leads an easy life. The household affairs of Duke Roland's estate, finances, staffing, all of it, are managed by the Duchess. She appears gentle, but she runs a strict household. Careful, precise. They value clear backgrounds and proper lineage in those they employ, and they do not make changes lightly."

Iris's steps paused for the briefest moment.

Caelan continued, "Leonhart may be easygoing, but when it comes to staffing, he has no authority. You won't be able to enter Duke Roland's household."

A beat of silence.

Then he added, "If you're in a hurry to leave the Crown Prince's Wing, you might consider someone else."

A slight pause.

"For instance... me."

The single word landed softly, yet carried unmistakable weight.

Iris turned back almost instinctively.

The spring sunlight was bright, forcing her to narrow her eyes slightly as she looked at the young prince standing against the light.

His posture was straight and composed, his features blurred by the glow, but his eyes were strikingly sharp.

Their gazes met for a brief moment.

Then Iris looked away.

She drew in a quiet breath. "Your Highness must be joking. I am of low standing, hardly worth troubling you over. However, since Your Highness shares a close bond with the Crown Prince, and I serve at his side, I would dare offer a small suggestion out of respect for that brotherly relationship."

Caelan inclined his head slightly, as though listening attentively. "Go on."

Iris lowered her eyes. "I have heard that His Majesty has entrusted Your Highness with receiving Nordia's new envoy upon their arrival. It is an important diplomatic matter, and since Your Highness has not handled such affairs before, there may be unfamiliar details. In my humble opinion, Your Highness could visit Hale Manor and seek guidance from those with experience."

Caelan raised a brow slightly.

Iris continued, "Moreover, I have heard the Crown Prince mention that Hale Manor has recently had some tensions with several noble families in Vanelle. If Your Highness were to visit, it would be entirely appropriate, as a nephew showing concern for his uncle and aunt."

She finished softly, "I have spoken out of turn. Please forgive me. Lord Leonhart must be waiting, so I will take my leave."

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