Iris placed the lantern on the table's center and looked at Adolphus, who reclined on the chaise. "Your Grace, I didn't see Sir Anthony around," she stated.

"I fired him from my service," Adolphus replied.

"What? Why?" Iris was completely shocked this sudden revelation.

"Do I need to explain?" Adolphus said and tilted his head to look at her. "Come here," he gestured with his finger then.

Iris dropped her hands to the side and walked up to him. Adolphus gently grasped her wrist and pulled her down on his lap as he sat up. His hand possessively rested on her lower back, keeping her firm at her place.

"So,...