“From what I hear they deserved it and more,” the Duke chortled somewhat cynically.
“I do agree with you, Varin, but at the same time, while she has grown older and has lost a great deal of her attractions, she still finds it impossible not to desire every tall, dark, attractive man she sets eyes upon.”
She was quiet for a moment.
Then the Duke enquired quizzically,
“Are you really saying that although the Empress must now be at least sixty, she might still make advances to me?”
“Looking as you do, I am perfectly certain that she will make a great fuss of you and it will be very difficult for you not to agree to everything she asks.”
“You astound me, dear Violet. In fact I still find it hard to believe that any woman – ”
“The Empress is not just any ordinary woman,” interrupted Lady
