After my conversation with Lord Elesten regarding the border, I strolled through the garden to unwind. The sun's warm rays and the gentle breeze soothed my mind. As I walked, I spotted a small figure lying on the ground, tears streaming down his face. It was Young Lord Ethan, the little duke. His cries echoed through the garden, and my heart went out to him.

"Oh my, what happened to you, Lord Ethan?" I knelt beside him, concern etched on my face. "Are you hurt?"

Lord Ethan sniffled, his big red eyes welling up with tears. "The stone made me trip, and my knees got hurt," he sobbed.

I gently lifted him into my arms, and he wrapped his tiny hands around my neck. "Don't worry, I'll take care of you," I whispered.

As we sat in the garden's pavilion, I examined his scraped knees. "Let me apply some magic to heal it," I said, smiling reassuringly.

Lord Ethan's eyes widened, and he looked up at me with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. "Magic isn't real, Lady Wyrmsley," he said, his voice laced with doubt.

I chuckled and raised my hands, letting a soft green glow emanate from my fingers. Green butterflies fluttered around us, their wings sparkling in the sunlight. Lord Ethan's eyes grew wide with wonder.

"The butterflies! They're so pretty!" he exclaimed, his face lighting up with joy.

As the magic worked its wonders, Lord Ethan's wounds began to heal. He gazed up at me with gratitude in his eyes. "Thank you, Lady Wyrmsley. You're kind."

In that moment, I felt a pang of affection for this little duke. I realized that he had been through so much, and it broke my heart. "You're safe now, Lord Ethan," I whispered. "I'll always be here to care for you."

As Lord Ethan drifted off to sleep in my arms, I felt a sense of responsibility wash over me. I would protect him, no matter what challenges lay ahead.

Just then, Lord Elesten appeared beside us. "Lady Wyrmsley, let me carry the young lord," he said, gently taking Lord Ethan from my arms. "You've been quite busy, haven't you?"

I smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Lord Elesten. "It's been a pleasure, Lord Elesten. I think Young Lord Ethan is starting to trust me."

Lord Elesten nodded, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I've noticed. You're good with him, Lady Wyrmsley. He needs people like you in his life."

As we walked back to the manor, I felt a sense of purpose growing within me. I would be there for Lord Ethan, to support and care for him, no matter what the future held.

I made a silent vow to myself: I would be a source of comfort and strength for this little duke, and I would do everything in my power to help him heal and thrive.