“You look wonderful, my dear,” the Duke said, embracing his wife. “Don’t be nervous; it’s not the first time you’ve met.”
“But this is the first time she’s visited so suddenly!” the Duchess lowered her voice. “I don’t want to be discourteous during the reception.”
“She’s here to see Albert. This isn’t a formal visit.”
“Very well,” the Duchess reluctantly agreed.
Albert hurried into the sitting room. Wilhelmina was examining a portrait above the fireplace.
She saw Albert still wearing his dinner napkin and burst out laughing.
“I’m truly sorry. I forgot it’s dinnertime,” Wilhelmina said, helping Albert remove his napkin. “Have I interrupted your meal?”
Albert laughed, tucking the napkin into his pocket. “What brings you here?”
“Actually, it’s not urgent,” Wilhelmina replied, looking apologetic. “I’m sorry. I don’t know what came over me. I’ll leave right away. Please continue your dinner.”
“Please, Willy,” Albert insisted, pulling her back. “You can’t seriously think we’ll continue eating after this?”
Wilhelmina rubbed her forehead. “I’m sorry, Albert. I don’t know what came over me…”
Albert helped her sit on the sofa, kneeling before her and cupping her face. “Look at me, Willy. This is nothing. After adrenaline subsides, people go through a phase. You’re just recovering from today’s excitement.”
“But this isn’t my first life-or-death experience,” Wilhelmina said.
Albert placed his hand over her mouth. “Shh…” he whispered. “This isn’t the palace.”
Wilhelmina nodded, taking a deep breath. “Thank you, Albert. I was really out of sorts today.”
“It’s okay, dear,” Albert replied gently. “About Rockston, I’ve regretted it. It should have been done by someone else. Your noble hands shouldn’t be tainted with such filth.”
“Overprotection will only make me more fragile. Next time I encounter something like today, I’ll probably scream.”
Albert chuckled, “You won’t. You’re tough enough to withstand half a regiment.”
“That’s not a compliment,” Wilhelmina laughed, lightly pushing him.
“So, would you like to dine with us?” Albert asked.
“Another time. I actually came to ask for your help.”
“I’m all ears.”
“I want to check some materials in the intelligence bureau’s archives. I need a male companion, and I thought of you.”
“Sounds interesting. Shall we go now?”
