The Ducal Detective (Ducal Detective Mysteries Book 1) by Burr Sarah E

Author:Burr, Sarah E. [Burr, Sarah E.]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Published: 2017-06-08T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter Six

Jax and Perry spent much of the day together, getting to know one another and touring the castle grounds. She wanted Perry to feel free to roam as he pleased, and felt that a guided tour would help him grow accustom to the layout. She joked that she still got lost these days, since she’d spent so much of her life away from the palace.

“Why?” Perry asked, genuinely interested. “Why did you stay away from home so much?”

Jax gnawed on her lip considerately, trying to voice her thoughts. “I suppose that I didn’t want much to do with the life of a ducal daughter. All the balls and public appearances, it got rather old. I convinced my father that I wanted to be a scholar, that going to the Academy would help me grow into a more just and fair ruler. He agreed, and off I went. When I excelled in political science and duchy relations, my father thought that my work as an ambassador would strengthen our nation. And it did. I’m very proud of the work I have accomplished for my duchy, even before I became Duchess.”

Perry watched her intently. “Do you regret it?”

She looked at him, her façade beginning to crumble. “I don’t know, honestly. If I had known what little time I would have with my parents, I might have gone a different route. But I was a difficult child, too, lashing out at my mother, and sending me to the Academy mended our relationship in many ways because we were no longer at each other’s throats. And I’ve learned so much and have the confidence to be sovereign. Without my training, I’m not sure I would have been suitable for the position.” The callous nature of her honesty shocked her, but Perry did not flinch.

“You will be a great ruler,” he reached out and took her hand in his. “Of that, I am certain.”

Blushing, Jax turned away and noticed Arnie approaching. “Lord Pettraud, I’d like to officially introduce you to my lady-in-waiting, Aranelda of Sephretta.”

Arnie bowed low, Perry taking her hand and bringing it to his lips. “It is most excellent to meet you, Lady Aranelda.”

“Please, call me Arnie. Aranelda makes me sound like a wicked old witch,” her friend chuckled, tossing her hair over her shoulder. “Lady Jacqueline tells me you are an artist. I hope my paint collection will suffice until more can be brought up from the market.”

“I’m sure your assortment will put mine to shame. My father was never one to approve of this little hobby, and thus, I had to make due with creating my own dyes in secret.” Perry winked at his companions.

“Arnie, why don’t you get Lord Pettraud set up whilst I attend to some rather boring business,” Jax suggested lightly, giving both their cue to leave. She’d dallied with her future consort long enough for today. “I shall see you at supper.”

Perry looked moderately discouraged to be dismissed, but took it in stride. “Until then, my lady.

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