As soon as the Duke saw me, he pulled me into a tight embrace.

"My son-in-law! You’re looking as impressive as ever. You’ve grown even more distinguished in just a few months!"

We were in my estate, after all, but was it really necessary for him to put on this kind of display in front of all the servants? I silently prayed he would keep it short, but he showed no sign of stopping, singing my praises as enthusiastically as ever.

"Before I chose you as my son-in-law, I used to worry day and night that some scoundrel would come …