Protectiveness

The Duke shifted his gaze to Dimitri, his expression stony. "Dimitri, was it?" Taking one step forward, "Perhaps you forgot your place in the household?"

"And what is his place? Your Grace?" Adeline interrupted. She strutted towards Dimitri and stood before him with confidence. Her arms were crossed.

Her gaze challenged him. 

The Duke's brow furrowed slightly, surprised by her intervention, but Adeline continued before he could speak.

"It seems to me, Your Grace," she said, it was surprising to hear such sharp words from a child.

"That Dimitri is exactly where he belongs- as a valued representative of the Western Marquess and a guest invited personally by the Duchess. And as the daughter of the Western Marquess, I have every right to ensure he is treated with the respect he deserves."

"As a Duke, I must oversee those who cause a ruckus in my house." His eyes narrowed.