Chapter 405

Hayden had been granted the title of duke, and lived a relatively comfortable life in his fief.

It wasn't that he desired to return alone to the capital to spend his old age in solitude. He had hoped to have his descendants around him. However, as he grew older, he longed for a return to his roots. It was also partly to show the king that with his presence in the capital, it ensured his children and grandchildren would remain loyal.

Hayden wasn't concerned about his own family, but he had noticed some troubling signs. He feared that ambitious individuals might try to win over the various local princes and dukes. That was why he anxiously returned to the capital and retired, to keep a closer watch on things.

Tonight, he had taken Rafael aside. Hayden wanted to pretend he was drunk to speak his mind—whether as a warning or a hint, it was the most he could do.

Before parting, he patted Rafael on the shoulder. "I must say, I quite like your wife. Bring her to visit me sometimes."

Raf