As we arrived at Eldham Square, the capital of the Dukedom, I was struck by the bustling atmosphere. Commoners went about their daily business, carriages rattled down the cobblestone roads, and knights conversed with one another. The smell of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, enticing me to explore the local shops. I made my way to a boutique to purchase new clothes for Young Lord Ethan, who had been wearing the same attire for far too long.

Inside the boutique, Madame Eva greeted me warmly and offered her finest garments. "Greetings Your Grace, you look as beautiful as ever," she said, circling around me to admire my appearance. I smiled politely, deflecting her flattery as I browsed through her collection. "Please show me your clothes for children, Madame Eva. My son is growing rapidly."

Madame Eva's eyes widened in surprise. "You have a son? Duke Claude and you had conceived a child? Oh my heavens, this is big news!" I laughed it off, downplaying the significance of the news. "It's not that big of a deal, Madame Eva. Just show me the clothes."

As Madame Eva presented her designs, I was impressed by the intricate details and fine fabrics. I selected a few pieces that caught my eye, including a red vest that I thought would suit Young Lord Ethan perfectly. "Your design is very excellent, Madame Eva. This red vest would probably look good on Ethan. I also want to take a red brooch with a black cravat to complete the outfit."

Madame Eva smiled, pleased with my selection. "I'll get everything ready for you, Your Grace. It's been two years since we heard big news from the Duchy. How is Duke Claude nowadays?" Our conversation turned to my marriage with Duke Claude, and I couldn't help but share my struggles with Madame Eva. "My husband is the same as ever, cold to me and rarely showing affection. Maybe this is my punishment for forcing a marriage to him."

Madame Eva's expression turned sympathetic. "Here you go again, Your Grace. It's not your fault that His Grace is cold. Endure it a little bit and show the duke how beautiful you are." She held my hands, offering words of encouragement. I felt reassured thanks to her kind words.

As I prepared to leave the boutique, Madame Eva handed me my purchases. "Here's your order, Your Grace. You should go now; your son must be lonely because our talk is too long." I smiled, thanking her for her understanding.

Next, I visited a pastry store to buy some of Duke Claude's favorite pastries, hoping his taste remained the same even in his child form. The aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air, making my stomach growl with hunger. I allowed Sir Permio to look around the store and choose a gift for his sister, Edyth. "Sir Permio, you should look for a gift for Edyth. Go look around the store; I'll pay for it."

Sir Permio hesitated, unsure if he should leave my side. "No, it's fine, Your Grace. My duty is to be on your side, so how can I leave you?" I smiled, reassuring him. "Just go on, Sir Permio. I'll be fine. It's an order from your duchess, so go look around and treat yourself and get a gift for your sister."

Sir Permio nodded, relieved, and began browsing through the store. I selected a few pastries, hoping Young Lord Ethan would enjoy them. After completing our shopping, we rode back to the Duchy, the carriage wheels rattling over the cobblestone roads.

As we arrived at the manor, Edyth greeted us warmly. "Welcome Back Your Grace, you too, brother. You arrive quite late, Your Grace. How was shopping in Eldham?" I smiled, replying that it had been peaceful. "It's peaceful, I suppose. It went well. I assume the young lord is still sleeping."

Edyth nodded, taking some of the packages from me. "That would be the case, My Lady. We should go inside faster; the sun is fading, My Lady." I followed her into the manor, feeling a sense of relief wash over me as I entered the warm and cozy atmosphere of our home.