"I'm sorry, Your Majesty. Please forgive my momentary loss of composure."
Lina chuckled lightly to show that she did not take his behavior to heart. She then turned to the assembled nobles, her expression becoming serious. "Everyone, what Julian said just now was merely a joke. I hope you won't take it seriously. The Duke of Anjou is a shrewd and capable minister. Although I have entrusted him with many matters of state recently, I did so because I trust his abilities. There is nothing improper between us, much less any question of jealousy."
As she spoke, she turned toward the Duke of Anjou and gave him a gentle smile. "Isn't that right, Your Grace?"
The Duke of Anjou managed to maintain his composure, though it took him a moment to respond under the scrutiny of the people around him. "Indeed."
