Brooch
The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, illuminating Maverick's side of the bed. He stretched, his hand instinctively reaching out, but the space beside him was empty. He frowned and sat up, rubbing his eyes. The quietness of the room felt unusual.
Maverick rang the bell, and soon enough, Henry entered with his usual composed demeanor. Bowing, he said, "Good morning, my lord. How may I assist you?"
"Where is Julius?" Maverick asked, his voice still groggy from sleep.
Henry maintained his calm tone. "His Highness is leaving earlier today. He specifically asked me not to disturb you, my lord."
Maverick's brows furrowed, a pang of guilt creeping into his chest. Is he upset about last night? he wondered.
The events of the previous evening replayed in his mind. After Henry whispered a rather detailed series of "tips" regarding intimate matters, Maverick had been left deeply unsettled.