Suzy rushed towards Ryan, her heart overflowing with relief. She gave him a tight hug, almost tripping him in her eagerness. Ryan hugged her back just as tightly, his arms enfolding her protectively. He kissed her forehead, his lips lingering for a moment. " Oh how I've missed you." He said , his voice a soft whisper as he inhaled her lavender scent.
He released her then turned his attention to Evan, his expression calm and composed, but his eyes held a hint of steel. "My apologies for my late arrival, my love," he said to Suzy, his voice soft and reassuring. "I was held up by some pressing matters." He then turned to Evan, his gaze sharp and unwavering. "Lord Evan," he said, his voice laced with a subtle warning, "I hope my duchess hasn't been troubling you."
Evan let out a polite, albeit slightly forced, smile. "Not in the slightest, dear cousin," he replied, his eyes flickering between Ryan and Suzy.