Duke Icarus of Winchester approached, his navy and silver mask hiding his expression, but his tone dripped with mockery. "I see the rumors were true."
His gaze raked over Min-jae, lingering in ways that made admiration sound like an insult. "A man in a dress. How... elegant. Aldoria's has always loved its spectacles."
The guests nearby laughed uncomfortably, waiting to see how things would play out. Min-jae didn't flinch. His voice was soft, factual. "It's just fabric, Duke Icarus. It hangs better when one isn't insecure."
The laughter that followed was delighted.
Icarus blinked, caught off guard. Meical's eyes warmed, though he didn't smile. Icarus recovered, bitterness tightening his lips. "So bold. Tell me, Kaizar, does pretending to be a wife make you feel..."
Meical interrupted, his voice low but weighted. "Icarus, you're speaking to my spouse. Address him with respect."
