The Archduke's Songbird-Chapter 239: Care And Affection

Could she be conspiring with them?

The thought crossed Jerrick’s mind, but he quickly dismissed it.

Observing closer, he noticed one of the men pinching her waist and trying to pull her closer. Lady Celena’s displeasure was evident, her attempts to wriggle free growing more desperate with each passing moment.

Regardless of her intentions, no woman deserved to be treated with such disrespect.

His jaw tightened. That was not acceptable. He glanced around the room, searching for allies who might assist him. His eyes met Bernard’s, who immediately understood the silent command. With a slight nod, Bernard began moving toward the scene as Jerrick subtly adjusted his position to intercept the group.

Taking a deep breath, Jerrick approached the huddle, his imposing presence casting a long shadow over the Altanian men. "Gentlemen," he said, his voice calm but carrying an undercurrent of authority. "It appears that Lady Celena is not enjoying your company. Perhaps it’s time to give her some space."

The men turned, their bravado faltering under Jerrick’s steely gaze. "We were just having a bit of fun. We just want to dance with her," one of them muttered, though he released his grip on Lady Celena’s waist.

Jerrick’s eyes never left the man’s face. "Fun should be mutual. Clearly, she does not share your sentiment."

The men gulped seeing his towering figure and with Bernard by his side, he looked more menacing.

Jerrick’s voice hardened. "I trust we will not have any more misunderstandings tonight."

The Altanian men mumbled their apologies, dispersing quickly under Jerrick’s watchful eye. Satisfied with their retreat, Jerrick sent Bernard back to his guarding position by the door that led to the resting room of the ladies.

As he scanned the area, he noted the mixed sentiments of the Ayberian people. Many didn’t like Lady Celena and treated her like filth. Yet, despite his initial disdain, Jerrick felt a twinge of sympathy for the ambitious woman who was respected by none.

Lady Celena stepped back, her face flushed with a mixture of relief and gratitude. "Thank you, Your Grace," she said softly, her voice trembling slightly.

"You don’t have to be here," Jerrick said, his eyes shedding the usual menacing scowl he showed that woman often.

With that, the nervousness on her face dissipated, and she strutted closer to Jerrick to stand toe to toe with him.

Jerrick, the warrior who rarely retreated, took a couple of steps back to maintain a respectable distance between them. His action, however, caused an intrigued smile to form on her face.

"You saved me, and now you’re feeling shy?" Lady Celena smirked, her seductive eyes fixed on him.

Jerrick scoffed and turned to leave, regretting he had ever listened to her speak.

The tinkling sound of her jewelry accompanied her hurried steps as she moved closer. "I can become a vestal virgin tomorrow if I want to. Why am I treated with such disgust by you when your own wife had slept with another man before you?"

Jerrick stopped, his fists clenched. She had to bring up his wife in such a derogatory manner. The urge to crush her neck and throw her out as the trash surged within him, but he restrained himself, not wanting to cause a scene in the midst of the ball.

"You show your lowly upbringing with every word you speak and every act of yours. Your lack of principles and vileness is what disgusts me. You might not have slept with the King, but we all know how you got to him. Do not get carried away and compare yourself with my noble wife, mistress!" Jerrick said, his face void of any emotions.

His words cut through the air with precision, making it clear that he saw no value in engaging further. He need not fight with such a lowly woman to show how precious his wife was. They were on different levels entirely. He refused to lower Jessamyn to Celena’s level by dignifying her with a prolonged argument.

"Lowly upbringing? You’re bringing up my upbringing?" The alluring smile on her face was replaced with anger.

"Stop!" Lady Celena shouted seeing him turning. "You’ll eat your words!"

Jerrick turned away with a scoff, leaving Lady Celena to stew in her own disgrace, as he moved to rejoin the festivities, his heart once again focused on protecting those he held dear.

-----

Jerrick entered the ladies’ resting room following Isadora. His lips curved into a smile upon seeing Jessamyn sound asleep on the fainting couch. Lady Cordelia stood up, acknowledging his presence.

"I’ll take it from here. Thank you for looking after her," Jerrick said to Cordelia, his tone polite.

Lady Cordelia bowed her head with a smile.

Jerrick picked up Jessamyn, carefully covering her with her coat. She was so deeply asleep that she didn’t stir. "You aren’t leaving?" Jerrick’s attention turned to Isadora, his tone becoming more casual.

Isadora pouted. "William is busy."

Jerrick let out a deep breath. William was indeed occupied, entertaining the ladies. "Come with us, then," he said. Isadora followed with a wide smile and a skip in her step.

Cordelia watched the interaction between Isadora and Jerrick with her mouth agape. Isadora, once a maid to Lady Jessamyn, could speak so casually with the Archduke. It was a testament to the love and respect Jerrick had for his wife.

Cordelia smiled from her heart. A few years ago, the difference in status between her and Isadora would have bothered her immensely, and she might have perceived Isadora as an enemy of the aristocrats of Ayberia.

However, one night had changed her perception entirely.

She was now grateful for the terrible incident that had befallen her, as it had reshaped her understanding and opened her heart. She now felt more suited for the role of the future queen of Ayberia, appreciating the bonds and the love that transcended status.

Cordelia looked toward the door and saw Prince Louis standing with his knights. Hesitant to enter the ladies’ room, he remained at the threshold. She walked to him with a warm smile.

He gently took her hand. "You look tired," he said, brushing away a lock of hair from her forehead. "It’s getting late."

"I was told they had a room ready for me. I’m planning on retiring there," Cordelia replied, delighted by the care Prince Louis showed for her.

"A room?" Louis echoed, surprised.