At dinner time, Lucy's arrival had the palace maids bustling about.

Theodore had gone all out and prepared a lavish banquet to celebrate Lucy's long-awaited visit.

A selection of pricey fruits, freshly flown in from the tropics, adorned the table.

Lucy felt a bit out of place.

The table was heaped with food she could not possibly eat alone, but the invitation was too generous to refuse.

Theodore wanted to give Lucy the very best.

He carefully offered her slices of steak and a platter of the fancy fruits.

"Lucy, try this steak. I cooked it myself just for you. It's a sirloin steak, brought by a visiting noble. I've tasted it-it's really tender and delicious," Theodore said as he served her, making sure to check in on her. "Lucy, I've heard that Matthew's company has run into some trouble recently. Is that right?"

Lucy smiled at Theodore, saying, "Thank you. I haven't kept up with Matthew's company lately, but I'm sure he can handle any challenge. Don't worry about it!"

that with

late and sat

you

mother always knew her daughter best. Seeing Lucy's cheeks a bit hollowed, Juliana felt

finally back in the palace now, Juliana regretted not

been so busy with my drawing that I

Juliana frowned at that.

your husband? Why hasn't

It's on me. Matthew

to sleep in, which ended

Matthew was growing

her mother would think that, but she knew exactly how Matthew felt

have

е

moon if he could. Lacy was

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