The duchess's words hung heavy in the air, but Linnea, who had been silent all this time, suddenly lifted her head. Her hollow eyes sparked with something fragile and burning. Without warning, she fell to her knees, her voice breaking as she cried, "My Lord, please… take me to the General's mansion. I can feel it—my son is alive. My Sandoz…" Her voice cracked, and tears fell freely from her eyes while her hands clawed at the hem of his robe.
Connor stared at her, heart pounding painfully in his chest. His hands trembled as he reached down, pulling her to her feet. "Stop crying," he said, voice softer than he intended. "Freshen up. I won't have you seen in such a state at the General's estate."
He cast a stern look at the two servants. "Dress your Madam properly and fix her hair well. If she arrives at the mansion looking like a beggar, do not bother coming back."
