[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/GioCx6y.png[/img][/center][hr][indent][b]//Rhinecliff Estate[/b]
[sub][@Estylwen][@Click This][/sub][/indent]
The Duke’s mien remained implacable at the appearance of Duchess Agustria and Viscount Skybound, but he did turn to one of the servants in attendance. A look was all that was needed for the maid to stride briskly off to retrieve another chair for the surprise guest, while Laurent himself moved to stand up to receive them.

By right, two of the three chairs were owed to the Duke and Duchess in attendance, but it was cruel to let two children stand while the adults sat and ate, especially when they both already looked like a couple of brats who accidentally broke a vase or a window. Honestly, what was dear Evelyn thinking? Laurent repressed a sigh. Then, the corner of his lips twitched into a smile as he caught Mirie’s eye.

A two-for-one show, then.

[b]“What a devoted brother you are, Viscount Skybound,”[/b] he chuckled, leaning against the railing of the gazebo to reach up for one of the branches and pluck a ripe plum. Brushing away the dust with the sleeve of his jacket, he tossed it to the young lad. [b]“Two days travel without the benefit of a carriage must have been exhausting, though I see that like any [i]proper[/i] nobleman, you’ve nevertheless managed to remain presentable.”[/b]

He gave the boy a moment to try the fruit.

[b]“Alas, if you sought your sister, I’m certain that the footman who had let you in would have informed you that she was in the guest room with me, or perhaps at the courtyard, like we are now. Which brings to mind a story I’ve heard of lately…”[/b]

Laurent lifted his head up, a jovial light glinting off the rim of his glasses, as if he was sharing trivial, comedic news. [b]“Duchess Agustria, word is that a masterful thief has been plundering the homes of the aristocracy as of late, disdaining what measures we’ve taken to safeguard our estates. I don’t suppose any of the lords and ladies of that [i]social[/i] gathering you’ve been at recently have spoke of such incidents?”[/b]