I Will Live for Your Death (20 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 21

Claudius looked at Celina with a disinterested gaze as she wore an aggrieved expression.

“I know.”

A plain, utterly unembellished reply slipped out. Stunned by the blunt affirmation, Celina stammered, unable to find words.

“You clearly promised to ensure the Empress Consort’s faction couldn’t lay a finger on her. Then why…?”

“Empress Consort. The former Empress merely recommended her for Head Maid—she belongs to no one now.”

Strictly speaking, it was Claudius who had placed her in that position, making her closer to the Emperor’s own.

Claudius set down the documents and fixed his eyes on Celina. Faced with his unusually resolute gaze, Celina could only shrink back and study the pattern of the rug beneath her feet.

“She may come from a fallen noble house, but her personal abilities are outstanding—that’s why I brought her. Having lived long within the palace, she has much for you to observe and learn from. Watch closely and learn well.”

Were all those sweet words whispering she was on his side nothing but lies? Though she had ascended to the position of Empress Consort, nothing was truly done for Celina herself.

Noticing Celina’s rigid expression, Claudius let out a short, dry laugh. Unable to grasp the Emperor’s true intentions, Celina could only steal cautious glances his way, too timid to step forward first.

“Your Imperial Majesty?”

“But now, that Head Maid belongs to the Empress Consort’s quarters. Which means…”

Claudius flicked a finger toward Celina. It was an undeniably rude gesture, yet Celina, as if entranced, approached the Emperor.

“It means you may do as you please with her.”

Celina’s small hand was easily caught within Claudius’s grasp. A tiny measure of power, personally placed in her hand by the Emperor.

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