The words slipped out unfiltered.
And because of that, Asher went still.
He stared at Demian as if he had just heard something impossible. In all his years of service, he had known Duke Zarkiel as a man who never abandoned his duties not for a banquet, not for family, certainly not for a woman.
And yet now…
Demian was leaving his study because he couldn't rest easy.
"Very well, Your Grace," Asher said at last, though surprise still lingered in his voice. He bowed respectfully, but his eyes followed Demian with an expression he could not fully hide.
As the door nearly closed, Sean who had been standing quietly in the corner spoke softly, almost as if to himself. "It seems… His Grace has truly fallen in love with Lady Valerie."
Asher shot him a sharp look. "Sean."
But Sean continued, his voice calm, certain. "And yet he cannot let go of Lady Ivanka."
The words hung in the air heavy and honest.
