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“This is me being natural.”

“Well, it’s unsuitable for company.”

Eryx puts his back to me.

“Do not fret. We will work on it.”

I’m simply dreading the forthcoming lessons. While they were the only thing I could think of to get the money I needed, I’ve no doubt Eryx means to fight me the whole way. I don’t know how much of this forced proximity I can take.

At least Eryx transferred the money I requested, and I don’t think anyone has noticed that Kyros has made himself scarce, visiting Mr. Tomaras with his requested sum.

Things are finally underway.

That knowledge has to be enough to get me through the rest of today.

When the tailor returns, he presents a display of fabrics on the tables before us. “These might help to expand the duke’s options, Your Graces.”

I’m impressed. Mr. Asker has found fabrics that combine the best of both our tastes. Deep black brocade with silver designs. Navy blue with bronze. Gray with a faint green sheen to it. Browns with purple stitching. Rich dark swatches, with mere hints of color. Tasteful, yet reserved. Endless varieties that even Eryx can’t turn his nose up at.

“Yes, these will do,” I say. The tailor and I both turn to Eryx.

“Very well,” he says. “Just nothing in pink. I’ll take—”

“All of it,” I finish for him, lest he say something about requesting only two outfits. “We require full formal attire, including shirts, jackets, vests, cravats, and dress pants. He will need day clothes for less formal events, as well as evening attire for when he’s entertaining.”

Without waiting for any input from Eryx, I step forward to help Mr. Asker put together fabrics for different outfits. The tailor takes Eryx’s measurements, and then informs us the clothing will be done in three weeks’ time.

As we exit the shop, Eryx asks, “Where to next?”

“The cobbler’s. You’ll need shoes to go with your new attire.”

“I have—”

“One pair already. Yes, I know. And you may wear that pair to your heart’s content while traipsing about the property on one of your stomping rampages. But in polite society, you will wear what I deem appropriate.”

Eryx’s fists clench so tightly his fingers turn white. I watch his eyes closely, but I don’t see a change there.

Still, Dyson takes a step forward, as though to intervene. Does he think the duke might actually strike me? I had thought that if the man were the violent sort, he would have already done me bodily harm by now.

Argus puts a hand on the other man’s shoulder and pulls him back. I look between the two of them questioningly before returning my attention to the fake duke.

“We can be done with all of this now, you know,” I remind him. “If you’d rather leave the estate and let me resume my role as sole owner of the dukedom, we can go our quiet, separate ways.”

He forces his hands to relax. “No. To the cobbler’s. We must attend the wedding. I’m hopeful you might meet someone you like. Twenty thousand necos are just waiting for you.”

“Why don’t you try holding your breath until I accept them?”

AFTER WE RETURN FROMthe city, I wait eagerly in my rooms for Kyros. When he arrives, it is late in the evening, though the young man doesn’t look tired at all.

“My errands went well, Your Grace,” he says. “I was able to deliver the offers for immediate rehiring, and Mr. Tomaras says he will start right away and will provide an update as soon as he can.”

“Perfect. I hope you know how much I appreciate your loyalty to me, Kyros.”

“I am happy to serve.”

Still, I tip the man, placing a coin into his hand. His fist closes, trapping my fingers against his palm. I look up from the contact, a question in my eyes.

“I’m sorry about Sandros and the others. Really. I know that your… visitors made you happy, but… I can’t help but wonder if there is someone else who could make you happier? Someone who didn’t need payment, for your presence is reward enough.”