242 Plea for a swift union

"Mother, what are we doing?" Adela whispered in bewilderment.

"Shush now," the Archduchess chided, pressing her back further against the tree. "I have urgent matters to discuss with your father as well," she replied in a hushed tone.

Adela's mouth fell open, her mother's words caught her by surprise. It was clear that the Archduchess was being secretive and not entirely truthful. At least when the Princess of Kolhis invited her to eavesdrop, she did it openly, without any pretense or deception.

"Did you pull me all the way here to eavesdrop on Egon's conversation with Father?" Adela whisper-shouted, her frustration evident.

"What nonsense!" The Archduchess feigned innocence, trying to mask her true intentions. "Now shush and wait here until he comes inside. You don't want him to know that we are after him, now do you?"