Feeling slightly awkward, Catherine tucked her hair behind her ear. Rashid rid himself of his laid-back posture and sat up straight. Catherine.
The banquet I had ntioned before, and the hunting festival, Catherine paused before continuing, May I follow Your Majesty to the event, if it is held? Her voice was filled with anxiousness as she went behind her words.
She reiterated herself, seemingly not wanting to back off from it. I know that its ridiculous of to bring this up again . . .
Yes, it is ridiculous. Rashids cold tone made the Duchess let out a soft sigh and lowered her head. Her slightly depressed expression made Peyton fidget. He tried to console the Duchess but Rashid was there.
Lets go, Ill hear you out, though Im unsure whats the reason for this request.
No, Your Majesty doesnt have to do this if its uncomfortable for you.
Get out. He didnt specify exactly who should leave, but everyone in the hall knew. His Majestys ice-cold expression and tone, along with the Duchesss regretful look.
It was soon a common sight at the royal villa, but it felt different this ti.
Right, why are you still here? The serious-looking Rashid suddenly turned toward Viscount Dion.
Pardon? Viscount Dion flusteredly looked up at Rashid, who continued, Didnt you say ti was tight? Why arent you working on the preparations?
* * *
[His Majesty really let you attend the hunting festival? Really?] Selene asked in disbelief.
Yeah, he did, I replied to her rhetorical question. I recounted the entire conversation I had with Rashid as soon as I arrived ho. He wasnt the type to agree so readily, but I was thankful that he allowed my attendance.
This is too sudden . . . Hoo. You really catch by surprise every ti. Rashid sighed, seemingly in a tight spot.
I see. Please forget that I asked. Ill be taking my leave, so Your Majesty should also I was about to excuse myself when he continued, I guess theres no choice then. You may do so.
. . . Really? I asked, surprised at his decision.
If I stopped you here, theres no knowing how many more others youd inconvenience going forward, Rashid stated.
I was speechless back then. What wrong had I committed?
I have never thought from this perspective, so I was quite surprised. However, I was still thankful as he agreed, albeit doing so slightly begrudgingly.
Anyway, there are a few more days left until the hunting festival, so he said I could also attend the first banquet as well.
[. . . But Madam. Just what are you planning to do?] Selene asked.
Hmm? What do you an?
[I an, are you really alright?] Selene asked again, with a concerned expression.
Selene walked over beside , feeling more lancholic than ever. I then sat down, fully aware of what she was worried about.
As I watched Haniel, who fell asleep in the cot while waiting for my return, a smile crept across my face.
Selene, you saw it for yourself. Lania will do whatever it takes to get to her goal.
[. . . But . . .]
I reached over, helping Selene tighten the bandage on her ankle. She had suffered a huge humiliation from Rebecca that day.
Not only did Selene get a couple of her feathers plucked off by Rebecca while protecting Haniel, but she also suffered a sprain and was still limping until today.
Just imagine how much she looked down on for finding fault with in every way possible? I said, frustrated.
[You should be more careful then. If you attend the first banquet after the recent episode . . .]
Well, shell be able to see for herself who else is supporting from behind, I said.
Plus, everything happened because I hold no power here. Were neither family nor related by blood. Plus, Ive been staying in this villa ever since arriving at this household and have never expressed any discontent. She definitely finds easy to deal with.
[What? Madam, you definitely dont look that way . . .] Selene was about to refute my claims but held back.
. . . What did you say?
[Nothing. I said Madam is pure and innocent.] Selene reiterated, then continued to add that I look frail and would even be blown away by the winds.
It was her exaggerated words that then made realize how tough I actually was. And it was because of that, that I have been trying my best to hide it all this ti.
I didnt want things to be too complicated, and thus had been fooling myself into drawing a line at what I deed to be sufficient.
That day . . . I felt that everything would be on when I imagined not knowing what would happen to Haniel. I confessed.
[Why is that your fault? It should be on the two evil sisters!] Selene exclaid.
Its foolish when I know full well their personalities, yet still act weak, I replied, dejected. Ive steeled my resolve ever since that day, even though it was sothing I knew from before. I had to protect Haniel and must gain more power in order to do so.
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