The Duke's Reluctant Bride

Chapter 32: A Waiting Silence

Adeline began to walk in measured strides, knights flanking her on either side. As the carriage rolled away, Adeline cast a glance back through the narrow glass window and caught a glimpse of Lucien inside, his expression unreadable—cold, composed. He did not look back, not even once, as if already focused on the errands he was about to attend to.

Still, his words from earlier echoed in her mind—precise and steady, curling around her like the morning fog that veiled the hills.

"I believe you already know about that bridge," Lucien said, voice low and even. "Quentin mentioned it to you, didn't he?"

Adeline gave a small nod. "I'm aware. It's an old stone structure, but still essential. Easier access to town means faster movement for goods and patrols. Some merchants offered to sponsor the renovation when I reached out."

Lucien hummed in response—not dismissive, but thoughtful. His finger rested beneath his chin.

"A sound decision," he said. "However, merchants rarely give without expecting something in return. Influence, mostly. Not all of them, of course... but enough to matter."

She stayed quiet, letting him continue.

"There are things you should keep in mind," he said calmly, as if listing tools in a box. "Don't look too impressed. A little thanks is fine—just don't make them feel important."

He shifted slightly, glancing out the window. "Watch for corners cut—cheap labor, rushed masonry. They'll save coin where they can, if they think you're not looking"

Adeline's brows drew together in response, thoughtful.

"Then lastly," he went on, "if they flatter you or bring gifts, smile—but don't owe them anything. The renovation of bridge is your plan, not theirs."

"Be gracious. But be sovereign." Adeline muttered, almost to herself.

She met his gaze with a determined expression.

"I understand, Your Grace. You have my gratitude for this—though most of it is something I already knew. Are you perhaps worried for me?" she added, a hint of amusement playing at her lips

For the briefest moment, Lucien's composure faltered before his gaze returned to her with renewed firmness.

"Worried and warning are different," he said sternly.

Then silence filled the room once again.

After giving the matter a careful thought, Adeline finally came upon the workers—unfamiliar faces, roughened by sun and stone. She slowed her steps as their eyes turned toward her, some curious, others guarded. A flicker of nervousness rose in her chest, but she smoothed it over with practiced calm.

Her chin lifted slightly.

A few of them stepped forward and bowed. Their smiles were wide, practiced—polished like brass. But the warmth didn't quite reach their eyes.

One man approached her with deliberate ease. He stood out—cleaner than the rest, with a finely stitched doublet and fingers heavy with rings.

"Good afternoon, Your Grace," he said smoothly. "I am Richard Collen, the lead patron of this project. We are honored by your presence. Thanks to your proposal, the bridge was now well maintained."

Adeline studied him in silence for a moment.

So he's the lead patron.

"I accept the invitation out of curiosity," she replied, her voice cool but cordial. "I wished to see how things were progressing."