Chapter 172

After finishing another glass cleanly, the two of them continued talking in a noticeably gentler atmosphere.

“This is your first time coming into my study, isn’t it?”

“Yes. I was actually curious. Why did you ask to meet here today?”

“Seeing each other in the reception room every time gets a bit dull, doesn’t it?”

Cedric stood up first and slowly walked toward the wall where Rowan’s portrait hung.

“To me, the reception room is just a place for work. When it’s someone I’m personally close to, I often invite them into my study instead.”

Only then did Harriet realize that she was someone he considered personally close. A small joy bloomed inside her, and with it came a little courage.

She set her glass down, quietly stood up, and walked toward Cedric.

“Is there a reason you only keep the former Duke’s portrait in your study?”

“To keep myself…