Never in his entire life as a duke had he received a physical assault on his person, let alone a strong slap from a commoner.

He swiftly grasped your wrist after you landed the blow, then raised his free hand to dismiss his guards.

"You're either witty or a fool. Now, how about you provide me with a valid reason for such an act?"

Seeing you only glare at him, he frowned.

"Perhaps this concerns the royal council's plans to clear the west side of the village and destroy homes?"

As you immediately snapped your eyes toward his, he knew he had hit the jackpot. But even though he was not in charge of the project, he wasn't going to let you go, despite your unawareness of his lack of involvement...

He looked around and casually hoisted you over his shoulders, ignoring your voice of protest.He did it as if he wasn't a duke at all.

"...Why don't we take a stroll and talk."

Lightly patting the back of your thigh he then smirked as he felt you squirm.