Chapter 51 - Sunlit Awakening

Emerging into the sunlight, Ludwig felt the warmth of the sun and the cold breeze playing with the stray strands of his dark hair. He blinked against the brightness, his amber eyes slowly adjusting to the vivid colors of the world outside—a stark contrast to the dimness of his recent existence.

"Isn't this better than brooding over ledgers and letters?" Friedrich's voice held a note of triumph, his broad shoulders relaxed as he guided Ludwig down the steps and into the open embrace of nature.

The Duke's loyal friend, Friedrich, had spoke up with a gentle yet firm voice, urging him to rest after they has worked tirelessly the past few weeks. But Ludwig's mind was consumed by the responsibilities of leading his duchy. It had taken a moment for Friedrich's words to sink in, reminding the exhausted Duke that he, too, was human and needed rest in order to govern effectively. With a weary sigh, Ludwig reluctantly agreed and made his way to the garden.

"Perhaps," Ludwig admitted, though his words were undercut by the sight of his son, laughing freely as he played with the wet nurse. A pang of guilt shot through Ludwig's chest; he had been absent from these simple joys, lost in his own grief for too long and now he was far too busy and soon he would leave.

Holding the young master, Amelie moved with an effortless grace that belied her station, her nurturing presence a balm to the boy's lively spirit. Her hair, today styled in a practical braid, caught the sunlight, giving her an ethereal glow against the cold winter. Her eyes met Ludwig's, and there was a depth to her gaze that spoke of shared understanding.

"Good morning, Your Grace," Amelie greeted him, her voice a melody that seemed to resonate with the very essence of spring. "It is heartening to see you join us." For a long time, she had been attempting to persuade the Duke to join them for their walks. For now, she was content with the brief moments he spent with his son in the study since he was so busy. She had taken it upon herself to stay by the young master's side and comfort him when needed while he spent time with his father. This routine had also become a ritual of sorts, as Amelie would divulge every detail of the young master's day to his father without fail.

"Thank you, Miss Huber," Ludwig replied, feeling a rare ease settle over him. There was a wholeness to this scene—the laughter of the both of them, the sight of his estate harboring of those who sought nothing but his welfare—that began to fill the void left by his wife's passing.

"Come, let's walk together," Friedrich suggested, his demeanor casual as he subtly positioned himself beside Amelie. Ludwig noticed the slightest brush of Friedrich's hand against hers, a fleeting contact that spoke volumes.

They ambled along the gravel paths, the soft crunch underfoot marking their passage through the blooms.

"Tell me, Miss Huber, have you always had a fondness for horticulture?" Ludwig queried, seeking to engage in the light conversation that once came so easily to him. He had observed her frequent indulgence in books, but what intrigued him was her particular interest in literature regarding plants.

"Indeed, I have," Amelie responded, her face brightening with passion for the subject. "There is much to learn from plants—their resilience, their ability to flourish under care, and their quiet beauty."

"Resilience," Ludwig echoed, the word resonating within him. He pondered the parallel between the delicate strength of the roses and his own journey of healing. Perhaps he too could learn to thrive again, with the proper care just as his son did.

"Your Grace," Friedrich interjected, his tone tinged with a mixture of respect and camaraderie, "a victory celebration awaits your presence, but until then, moments like these are precious. They remind us of life's fleeting pleasures."

"Indeed, Friedrich," Ludwig agreed, the advice hitting closer to home than he'd anticipated. He glanced at his son, whose youthful exuberance filled him with a sense of hope, and then at Amelie, whose mere presence seemed to anchor him to a brighter future.

"Would you mind if I stole Miss Huber away for a moment?" Ludwig asked, his words directed at Friedrich but his gaze locked with Amelie's.

"Of course not," Friedrich granted with a wave of his hand, understanding the unspoken longing that drove his friend's request. Friedrich had hoped to spend more time with Amelie after trying so hard to convince his friend to take a break. However, he also knew that his friend had to prepare for his departure.

Ludwig leaned down, his ember eyes gazing tenderly at his son. The child tugged at his father's hand, babbling and giggling in pure joy. With a warm chuckle, Ludwig scooped up the little one into his strong embrace

"Very well, my boy," Ludwig said, allowing himself to be led by the child's cheerfulness. And as they walked together, the duke felt a whisper of joy threading through his heart, a fragile thing but growing stronger with each shared smile and every sunlit step.

The duke's voice carried a grave undertone as he commanded, "Henceforth, you shall accompany Maggy on your walks. She will assist with the child." Amelie was aware of the strain on her pregnant body and had no choice but to obey. "Moreover, during my absence, I'd like you to inform me about Adrian through regular correspondence. Don't hesitate to ask Anna for anything you need."

Ludwig keenly observed her responses as he gave his instructions. She absorbed everything with a serious demeanor, almost as if she was taking mental notes. But when he reached the final sentence, she seemed to pause. Her brow creased with worry and she averted her gaze. "Is something amiss, Amelie?"

"No, don't mind me your highness" she answered trying to wave off his concern. "If there is something that can make you more comfortable, while you are caring for my child please don't hesitate."

"My mother inquired, expressing her desire to visit around my expected delivery date. I wanted to broach the subject, but I also understand if it is not feasible."She was well aware of the impropriety of having visitors while the homeowner was absent, but she needed her mother's assistance during the birth of her child, so she had to ask.

Ludwig hesitated, weighing his responsibilities as a duke against Amelie's needs. "Very well," he finally relented, "inform me of your mother's arrival date, and I will make the necessary arrangements. In my absence, Anna and Ulrich will ensure that you both want for nothing."

A wave of relief washed over Amelie's features as she thanked him profusely. "Your Grace, I am forever grateful."

"Think nothing of it," Ludwig said gruffly, his cheeks flushing under her warm gaze. "It is the least I can do."

As they resumed their walk, a comfortable silence fell between them, broken only by the rustling leaves and the soft cooing of the young master. Ludwig was relieved to entrust his child with Amelie, for however long it may take. But he still yearned to return before she delivered the baby.