A Rose For A Rose

Chapter 10

LPOV

The hood of my cloak concealed my face just enough to not be recognized. Andre didn't say anything about me approaching him, per se, but I didn't want to risk anyone noticing me here.

There were many people in the market today and I used that as my cover. But he also wasn't hard to find, towering over everyone else and had his long hair pulled back to rest at the nape of his neck.

I could see why Rose was so drawn to him. He had an air of confidence that was expected from a Grand Duke, but he was also very dashing.

I slipped between two ladies and approaches him at the booth where he was buying flowers. They were odd-looking flowers but it was vibrant nonetheless. Who were they for?

"Your Grace," I said, adjusting my hood. He looked up as he set the coin in the merchant's hand, looking surprised to see me. Not that I was shocked, it was unlikely to see me in the Fisher's district market.

"Miss Dragomir," he said taking the flowers, "Are you alone?"

I nodded. "Yes. I needed to speak with you."

Duke Belikov took the wrapped flowers and canted his head for me to follow him.

I followed him until we were in a quieter part of the market near the fountain and pulled my hood down.

"You remember the layout of my home, yes?"

Duke Belikov raised a brow at me before nodding.

"And the pergola that rested just below the window of Andre's bedroom? He used to use it to sneak out and run amuck with you, Aslan and Ivan?"

Again he nodded but with a hint of hesitancy.

I took a breath and smoothed my hair nervously.

"Rose is staying in Andre's old room now that he is Viscount. Andre and I will be attending the Ozera residence for a dinner late this evening and will be staying the night. Rose will not be attending," I said quietly, checking to make sure nobody was close enough to hear the words I said.

The Duke looked at me for a few moments before his face changed with understanding.

"Why are you telling me this?" he asked.

I sighed. "Because I do not know the extent of what has come between you. But I know that my friend is heartbroken. With it being the last days of August and her parents to return soon, she would want to see you," I explained, "But if you are caught, there is nothing I can do for you."

The Duke nodded and gave me a ghost of a smile. "Thank you, Miss. Dragomir."

I smiled at him. "I don't know what you are thanking me for," I said with a laugh and gestured to the flowers.

"What are those?"

He lifted the pink and yellow flowers towards me to smell. "Gladiolus."

I nodded and stood up straight. "They're lovely, who are they for?"

There was a slight blush to his ears and cheeks. "I'm afraid I cannot tell you. For I cannot risk you being caught in my involvements."

"Rose received a similar flower for Lord Zeklos," I stated.

"Yes. He is a messenger of sorts," the Duke said, "But I believe I will not need his services tonight."

I nodded and took a glance around again, spotting a servant I recognized.

"I must depart, but I hope that my dear friend is in better spirits tomorrow morning," I said quietly. The Duke canted his head and bid me good day while carefully tucking his parcel into his arm.