Two weeks later, The Worth family was making their way down the tree-lined driveway of the Duke’s estate, marveling at the fancy sculptures and foreign plants and calculating the amount of money each item must cost. By the time they pulled up to the front gate they were all laughing at their differing calculations and had to quickly compose themselves as the door was opened by the coachmen. As they descended the steps from their carriage, the family was quickly overwhelmed to discover a long line of servants, all impeccably dressed and in perfect formation, all of whom quickly proclaimed a greeting to the little group. 

Hesitating under the sudden pressure of having so many people in front of them, the group shared a glance before a man who could only be the Head Butler approached them with a welcoming smile, the wrinkles on his cheeks and at the corner of his eyes showing his warm demeanor. Giving the group a bow of his head, the Head Butler introduced himself as Jerome, and directed the family to follow him into the estate. 

As the family followed Jerome, they were astonished to find that the lavish theme from the entryway had only been a warm up to the glamor and extravagance that the inside contained. Everywhere the family looked, there was gold and finery established. Fancy paintings, bright chandeliers, and countless staff (all who bowed immediately upon seeing the family) graced each corridor. Thoroughly overwhelmed at this point, the Worth family huddled closer together, Emilia grabbing both her parents hands for reassurance with wide eyes. Eventually they reached the dining hall, and with a grand gesture of his arms, the Head Butler threw the doors open and announced their arrival to the waiting occupants of the room.

Upon entering they noticed three prominent figures waiting by the table that was set with the best plates and silverware and covered in countless dishes. The Duke came forward at this time and extended his hand to Count Worth, who quickly reached out as well to clasp their hands in a firm handshake. Pleasantries between the men done, the Duke then turned his head to Countess Worth and immediately gave her a deep bow to the shock of everyone in the room. The Countess quickly bid him to raise his head, stating such an act was not needed. The Duke shook his head firmly but not unkindly. The Duke reminded her that she had saved his beloved wife's life and the life of their unborn child. The Worth couple gave a gasp at the revelation and looked the the Duchess who gave a warm smile to the family and held a delicate hand to the slight bulge in her stomach. Speaking of children, the Duke quickly waved a hand to his son who was standing next to his Mother, calling him forward so that he could be introduced. Seeing the signal the boy slowly approached his Father, looking at the family with curious eyes, especially the little girl standing in between her parents, who was staring back at him with a similar expression on her little face.