Damian turned around to see Maurice standing with a grave expression, one the Duke hadn't seen on the bodyguard's face in years.
"What is it?" Damian asked with the morning's irritation.
"I heard your argument with the Duchess last night," Maurice said softly. He glanced toward the closed doors of the hallway. "Can we talk in private, Your Grace?"
Damian heaved a weary sigh and began walking toward the front of the cottage, Maurice following at a respectful distance. They stepped out onto the large stone balcony, where the morning mist still clung to the trees. Damian stopped at the balustrade, his fingers locking tightly behind his back as he stared out.
"Do you want to lecture me as well?" Damian asked, his tone defensive.
"No," Maurice replied, stepping up beside him. "I don't dare to."
"Then?" Damian asked, his fingers twitching restlessly against his back.
