Awakening Love: Reborn to Be His Duchess Chapter 542: No Way Back

Second, within the royal family, a prince who does not aspire to the throne cannot be considered a worthy prince.

Moreover, if he failed to claim the throne, neither he nor his mother would survive under the Queen and the Crown Prince.

They had no alternative.

Recently, the Crown Prince's influence at court had been rising steadily. Caelan and his mother had discussed it in private, both sensing that something was off.

Now, Caelan was completely certain.

Everything traced back to Iris.

The invitation he had extended earlier had been sincere.

He did not lack loyal guards, nor servants to handle daily affairs. What he lacked was someone like Iris, someone sharp-minded, observant, and able to read a room the moment she stepped into it. She knew how to move through complicated situations without drawing unnecessary attention, adjusting just enough to stay ahead without ever losing control. She wasn't about brute force. She was more like a finely balanced blade, subtle, controlled, and precise, the kind that didn't need strength to break through a stalemate, only the right angle and perfect timing.

He wanted her.

He needed her.

Iris received Leonhart and brought him back to the Crown Prince's Wing, where he settled into a warm chamber to admire calligraphy and paintings.

As usual, Iris stood by to attend to him.

She knew his preferences well. From time to time, she offered a few comments, never overly elaborate, yet always insightful.

Leonhart nodded repeatedly, clearly enjoying himself, growing more fond of her with each exchange.

After about two hours, as the time for the evening meal approached, Leonhart reluctantly prepared to leave.

At that moment, footsteps sounded outside, followed by a servant's announcement.

Alaric had returned.

"Alaric!"

Leonhart greeted him with a bright smile, stepping forward. "You're finally done! These pieces today are incredible!"

Alaric still carried a faint trace of ink from the Ministry of Rites. He was in good spirits. Seeing Leonhart so pleased, he allowed a slight smile. "If you truly like them, choose one. I'll give it to you."

Leonhart's eyes widened in delight. "Really? I can actually take one?"

Even as he spoke, he had already moved toward the long table, carefully selecting a piece.

"Of course."

Alaric paused briefly before adding, "But once you take it, you'll run an errand for me."

Leonhart, fully absorbed in choosing, replied without looking up, "Where to? What do you need?"

Alaric's voice remained even. "Hale Manor. Go check on your aunt."

Leonhart blinked, finally looking up in confusion. "Go see her? Why?"

Alaric slowly rotated the signet ring on his thumb. "I've heard that she's recently offended several noble families in Vanelle over minor matters, even drawing criticism from court officials. As her nephew, and a member of the royal family, it would be appropriate for you to visit and show concern."

Leonhart paused, slightly taken aback.

Alaric continued, "Also, I've heard that Caelan went to Hale Manor today. Officially, to consult his uncle about the proper protocol for receiving Nordia's envoy."

At the side, Iris was pouring coffee for Leonhart.

At those words, her fingers trembled slightly.

The stream shifted just a fraction, though no coffee spilled. She steadied her hand immediately.

He really went... just as I suggested.

But he had been careless.

If the Crown Prince's Wing already knew, then his movements had not been concealed at all.

Alaric let out a faint, amused scoff. "That Caelan. When he was younger, he was frail, like a sickly stray kitten, always avoiding people. Now he's different. Excelling in both study and martial training, speaking more confidently before Father, earning plenty of praise."

His eyes narrowed slightly, a dangerous glint appearing. "Putting in this much effort... perhaps he's starting to eye this position as well."

Leonhart was startled. "Alaric, I think you're overthinking it. Caelan has always been calm and well-behaved."

Alaric scoffed. "You think everyone is harmless."

He waved a hand dismissively. "Enough. Pick your painting. Just remember what I told you. If you forget, don't expect any gifts from me again."

Leonhart rubbed his nose awkwardly, a little embarrassed.

Iris placed the cup back over the small brazier to keep it warm, then lowered her gaze to check the coals carefully.

Once finished, she gave a silent curtsey and quietly withdrew from the room.

Halfway down the corridor, a thought struck her suddenly.

If Alaric already knew Caelan had gone to Hale Manor...

Did that mean he also knew about their encounter earlier along the palace path? If he knew about Caelan's visit, then her meeting with him might also be known.

Given the Crown Prince's temper, an outburst would be the least of her concerns.

No... I can't afford a single mistake right now. Not at a time like this.

A thin layer of cold sweat formed on her forehead.

"Iris."

Alaric's voice suddenly sounded from behind her.

Her entire body stiffened. She forced herself to stop, then slowly turned around.