A Lesson In Treachery

In the duke's palace,

Cotlin knocked on the door and entered the room after getting permission from Evangeline.

He entered with a big smirk on his face. 

"Your grace, how have you been?" with the look of his face, it was clear that he knew more about her condition that she herself could describe. He held her hand and squeezed it as he curtsied. 

"I am faring well after getting your advice, Lord Cotlin. Thank you for coming here." She stood up and offered him a seat. As a commoner, it was a great respect but the man looked completely at ease as if it was normal for the dukes and duchess to stand up for him and offer a seat for him.

"I would have loved to sit here with you. But your husband would not like it. How about we take a walk in the garden." as if reading her hesitation, he added, "lady Diana had already left for home." Evan smiled and followed him.