Chapter 1121

The next morning, before the sun had fully crested the mountain peaks and long before Frederick or Hazel stirred from their bed, a mute servant was already stationed quietly outside their courtyard. After yesterday’s episode, it was clear that today’s attendant had been thoroughly briefed. He stood with his head bowed and eyes averted, not daring to so much as shift his weight past the threshold of the gate. Not a single toe crossed the boundary. Inside the courtyard, Riley leaned lazily against the gate’s inner frame, arms folded across his chest, radiating calm vigilance. As long as the young master and mistress were still resting, he wasn’t about to let anyone disturb them. That was non-negotiable. Secretly, though, Riley was lost in a far more pleasant train of thought. He was already imagining a little one toddling around the estate—preferably a girl, plump-cheeked and bright-eyed, just like the young mistress had been in her childhood. A little princess would be perfect. Then aga