The Archduke's Songbird-Chapter 164: Bernard’s Gift

Isadora read the beautiful scroll she was sent as she strolled around her room for the third time. It was the official declaration that she was the Grand Duke’s sister. She couldn’t contain her joy. Her heart swelled with pride and excitement, each word on the parchment feeling like a dream come true.

The scroll, adorned with intricate calligraphy and the Grand Duke’s seal, felt almost magical in her hands. She traced the elegant letters with her fingertips, her mind swirling with the possibilities this new title brought. The words "Grand Duke’s sister" echoed in her head, filling her with a sense of belonging and recognition.

Isadora approached the large, ornate box that had accompanied the decree. It was crafted from polished mahogany, with brass hinges and delicate carvings of floral patterns along its edges. She lifted the lid, her eyes widening as she beheld the treasures within.

The jewelry was a dazzling array of necklaces, bracelets, and rings, each piece more exquisite than the last. Diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires glinted in the soft light of her room, casting tiny rainbows on the walls. She gingerly picked up a necklace, its delicate chain holding a pendant of a single, perfect ruby. It was breathtaking, and she could hardly believe it was hers.

Next, she turned her attention to the fabrics. Silks and velvets in rich hues of royal blue, deep crimson, and emerald green lay neatly folded, their textures smooth and luxurious beneath her fingers. She could already imagine the stunning dresses that would be made from these materials, each one befitting her new status.

Her heart fluttered with excitement, and her steps became lighter, almost as if she were dancing around her room. The recognition and affection from the Grand Duke meant more to her than the material gifts themselves.

She now had a family!

Isadora held the scroll close to her chest, a radiant smile spreading across her face. She twirled around her room, her laughter filling the space, a melody of pure, unrestrained happiness.

She ran to the window to look for Bernard. He was there when she received the decree but had disappeared afterward. On their journey to Theodulf Castle, although Bernard was attentive as usual, he seemed lost in his thoughts. Something was nagging his mind, and at times he appeared distant. Isadora wondered what was bothering him. 𝐟𝕣𝕖𝐞𝐰𝕖𝚋𝐧𝗼𝚟𝐞𝕝.𝗰𝐨𝐦

Peering out of the window, Isadora spotted Bernard far in the garden, sitting under a tree in deep thought. His figure, usually so strong and assured, seemed unusually small and vulnerable in that moment. The sun cast dappled shadows through the leaves, creating a mosaic of light and shade over him. She could see the tension in his posture and the way his hands were clasped tightly together.

Without hesitation, Isadora rushed down the stairs and out into the garden. Her heart pounded not just from the exertion but from concern for Bernard. The fresh air and the scent of blooming flowers barely registered as she made her way to him, her mind solely focused on understanding his distress.

As she approached, Bernard didn’t immediately notice her. His gaze was fixed on the ground, lost in whatever thoughts consumed him. The closer she got, the more she could see the lines of worry etched on his face.

"Bernard," she called softly as she reached him, her voice filled with concern.

He looked up, startled out of his reverie. When he saw her, a fleeting smile touched his lips, but it didn’t reach his eyes. "Isadora," he said, his voice a mix of surprise and something she couldn’t quite place.

She knelt beside him, placing a gentle hand on his arm. "Is something bothering you?"

"Bothering me? No," Bernard’s smile deepened as he pulled her to sit on his lap.

Isadora yelped; her face turned red the moment his hand wrapped around her waist.

"How did you know I wanted to find you?" Bernard nuzzled her earlobe with his nose.

Isadora giggled and writhed as she felt a rush of warmth from his embrace. But Bernard’s hold only tightened, a playful smile tugging at his lips. Her laughter seemed to spur him on, and he teased her further with soft, lingering kisses along her neck and jaw.

"Bernard, stop," she managed to say between giggles, her breath catching as he continued his affectionate assault. Her protests were half-hearted at best, and he could feel her melting into his arms despite her words.

"Stop? Why would I stop when you’re enjoying this so much?" he murmured against her skin, his voice a low, teasing whisper.

Isadora’s giggles turned into breathy sighs as he nibbled gently at her ear, his warm breath sending shivers down her spine. "You’re impossible," she whispered, her hands clutching at his shirt.

"And you love it," he replied, his tone playful but filled with affection.

His teasing kisses became more tender, and Isadora’s laughter faded into a contented sigh. She relaxed completely in his arms, letting herself be enveloped by his warmth and love. Bernard’s heart swelled with happiness, knowing he could make her feel so cherished and joyful.

They stayed like that for a while, wrapped in each other’s arms, looking into each other’s eyes. Isadora could see that he was not upset anymore.

"Ah," Bernard exclaimed softly as he effortlessly picked Isadora up with one arm and moved her to his other thigh. He put his hand inside his pocket, searching for something.

"You’re carrying me so easily..." Isadora whined, her voice tinged with a playful pout. "...like a child..." She leaned on his shoulder, her head resting comfortably against him.

At times, he would carry her like this, making her feel both cherished and slightly exasperated by his strength. It was one of the many ways he showed his affection and his need for attention (he would expect her to comment on his immense strength), and despite her mock protests, she secretly loved the attention and care he lavished on her.

Bernard found what he was looking for and pulled out a small, elegantly wrapped box. "I have something for you," he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Isadora’s curiosity piqued, and she looked up at him, her pout quickly replaced by a smile. "What is it?" she asked, her tone now filled with anticipation.

With a grin, Bernard handed her the package. "Open it and see."

She took the box, her fingers deftly unwrapping the delicate bow. Inside was a beautiful, intricately designed bracelet fixed with emeralds.

Isadora was mesmerized by the beauty of the bracelet, its delicate design, and its shimmering stones catching the light perfectly.

"To match your eyes," Bernard whispered in her ear.

Isadora’s heart skipped a beat at the sound of his alluring voice. She continued to observe the bracelet, her smile gradually fading bit by bit as her thoughts wandered.

"Wear it... Let me see how it..." Bernard began, but paused, noticing the change in her expression. Concern etched across his face, he asked softly, "You do not like it?"