The Duchess

chapter 11

Chapter 11: The Garden of Peace

The morning sun streamed through the large windows of Hanna's study, casting golden patterns across the polished wooden desk. Hanna sat with her quill poised, the newly signed treaty before her. For the first time in months, the weight on her shoulders felt lighter. The peace treaty was done, but her mind whirled with thoughts of how to implement it effectively.

A knock at the door broke her concentration.

"Come in," she said, expecting her steward.

Instead, Prince Allen strolled in, a confident smile on his face. He carried two steaming cups, setting one down in front of her. "You work too hard, Duchess. Consider this a peace offering."

Hanna raised an eyebrow. "I didn't realize there was a war."

Allen leaned casually against the desk, sipping his tea. "There's always a battle when it comes to your focus. But today, I thought we might take a break. Tour the estate, perhaps?"

Hanna hesitated, but his playful expression melted her resistance. "Fine. But only if we talk about how the treaty can benefit my people."

The crisp air was a welcome change as they walked through the sprawling grounds. Hanna pointed out the areas she planned to develop now that peace had been secured: expanded farms, repaired roads, and better housing for her workers.

Allen, however, seemed more interested in her. "You've managed all this since you were a child. It's impressive."

Hanna glanced at him, her defenses rising. "I did what I had to."

"That's an understatement," Allen said, his tone softer. "Losing your parents so young, taking on the responsibilities of a duchess-most would have crumbled under that weight. But not you."

Hanna slowed her steps, the rare sincerity in his voice catching her off guard. "It wasn't easy," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I couldn't let their legacy fall apart."

Allen stopped and turned to her. "You didn't just preserve their legacy-you built on it. That's why your people love you. That's why I..." He trailed off, looking away.

By evening, the estate was alive with celebration. Hanna had arranged a small feast to commemorate the treaty, and Allen sat by her side at the head table.

Toasts were made, and laughter filled the hall, but Hanna couldn't shake the lingering warmth from their earlier conversation. Allen had a way of getting under her skin, peeling back the layers of her defenses without her realizing it.

When Allen stood to make his own toast, the room quieted.

"To the Duchess," he began, his voice commanding. "For her vision, her strength, and her unwavering commitment to her people. You have done what many deemed impossible-securing peace for us all. Elarion is stronger because of you, and I am honored to stand by your side in this moment of triumph."

The hall erupted in applause, but Hanna barely heard it. His words, spoken with such sincerity, left her heart pounding.

The feast eventually wound down, and Hanna stepped out into the garden for a moment of solitude. She didn't expect Allen to follow her, but his presence was unmistakable.

"You disappeared," he said, his voice light.

"I needed some air," she replied, her tone cooler than she intended.

Allen chuckled, stepping closer. "You always put up such a strong front. But you don't have to-not with me."

Hanna turned to face him, her breath catching as their eyes met. "What do you mean by that?"

Allen hesitated, his usual confidence faltering. "I mean...you don't always have to be so strong, Hanna. Let someone else share the burden."

He reached for her hand, brushing it lightly. The warmth of his touch sent a shiver through her. For a moment, the world around them faded, and all she could see was him.

But just as he leaned in, Allen stopped. His gaze lingered on her for a heartbeat longer before he pulled back, a soft smile on his lips.

"Goodnight, Duchess," he said, his voice low and full of meaning.

Hanna stood frozen in the garden, her heart racing. As the night air cooled her flushed cheeks, one thought echoed in her mind: she was beginning to trust him-and that terrified her.