"You seem very serious about developing the duchy," she murmured, her voice low and teasing. "What's on your mind?"
Julian smiled, but instead of answering, he leaned forward and buried his face in her breasts. He lingered there, breathing her in, letting himself be comforted by her softness before slowly pulling back.
"The king gave me the title of archduke," he said finally. "It practically guarantees I'll be next in line for the throne. But still… He doesn't fully trust me. That's why he sent me back here—to rule as Duke again and watch me build, lead, and maintain control. He's testing me."
Lisa hummed softly. "And you plan to pass that test with flying colors."
"Of course I do," Julian replied. "I won't just pass it. I'll exceed it. He wants to see how well I can rule? Then I'll show him a duchy that rivals kingdoms. And when I return to the capital, it won't be as some promising heir…"
