𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐕𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒' 𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐓𝐇𝐅𝐔𝐋 𝐃𝐎𝐆 | 𝘷𝘢𝘥𝘵𝘥 𝘹 𝘔.𝘺/𝘯 |

(35) Two Places To Attend.

"........," 

Exhaustion weighed heavily on my eyelids as I slumped back in my chair, the never-ending mountain of paperwork a testament to the relentless demands of my ducal title.

"Where's Hans when you need him?"

I muttered, longing for my ever-reliable organizational expertise. 

Without him, the day-to-day management of the manor felt like an endless slog.

A soft purr and a gentle paw batting at my hand brought a smile to my lips. 

Bun-Bun, nestled comfortably on a pile of reports, was a picture of blissful serenity. 

His innocent facade, however, held a mischievous secret  – one I couldn't help but find endearing.

"You're the only one who gets me, aren't you, buddy?"

I whispered, scratching behind his ears.

Just as I was about to resign myself to another evening of paperwork, a gentle rap at the door shattered the peaceful solitude.

"Enter,"

I called out, expecting Hans or a servant with some urgent message.

Instead, the door swung open to reveal Alissa, a whirlwind of excitement filling the doorway. 

"Papa, look what I made!"

She exclaimed, her bright eyes sparkling with anticipation. 

Before I could respond, she was at my side, tugging at my sleeve.

Intrigued by her infectious enthusiasm, I chuckled. 

"Alright, little princess, show me what you've been up to."

Rising from my chair, I gestured for her to share her creation. 

Bun-Bun, sensing my diverted attention, cracked open one eye in disdain before flopping back down onto the reports.

Alissa skipped over to a nearby table where a small, intricately carved wooden box sat. 

With a flourish, she opened it, revealing a miniature doll meticulously crafted in my likeness. 

Down to the subtle scars adorning my body and the violet tinge of my eyes, the doll was an uncanny replica.

"Wow, Alissa, this is incredible!"

I exclaimed, genuinely impressed by the level of detail and skill.

Her face lit up with a triumphant grin. 

"I made it myself, with a little help from the maids,"

She confessed, her voice tinged with pride.

Kneeling down beside her, I took the doll from the box, examining it with a newfound appreciation. 

"You have a real talent, sweetheart,"

I said warmly, handing the doll back to her.

She cradled the doll carefully, her eyes shining with happiness. 

Just as I was about to send her off to bed, Ron entered the study, his usual stoicism momentarily compromised by a hint of amusement as he approached us. 

'See-through act much?'

I thought with a smirk.

"Your Grace,"

He began, offering a slight bow. 

"I've brought you some lemon tea and… an invitation."

He presented an envelope embossed with the royal seal, the sight of which triggered an internal eye roll.