“Could we modify the use of the term ‘Madam’?”

Edmond’s brow twitched sharply.

“…Are you saying my form of address is offensive? There should be no mistake in etiquette.”

“It’s theoretically correct, but hearing ‘Madam’ makes it sound like I’m your wife, which is a bit…”

As I added awkwardly with a sheepish smile, his eyes widened. A flicker of confusion crossed his agitated pupils.

A suffocating silence followed.

I nervously averted my gaze and bit my lip, regretting speaking out.

“…Is that so.”

Returning to his usual impassive gaze, Edmond spoke politely.

“I will correct it as you suggest, Countess Buell.”

“…Yes, that would be better.”

Fortunately, he accepted my suggestion willingly.

Another awkward silence enveloped us, but this time, Edmond broke it.

“I heard your residence burned down and you have no place to stay.”

“Yes, I’ve been imposing, unfortunately.”

“Do you have a place to stay?”

“I plan to seek shelter with my uncle. I can’t ignore Lady Lirien’s kindness, so I’ll leave right after breakfast…”

“Stay at this residence.”

“…What did you say?”

“I suggested you stay here until you find accommodation after your divorce.”

I thought I misheard. Never did I imagine such a turn of events.

My plan was to eat quickly and escape from his discomforting presence.

‘But stay here…?’

I felt a chill, like my jasmine tea gone cold.

Swallowing hard, I hastily spoke.

“I can’t impose any further. I’m still legally bound to my husband.”

“I was informed by my sister that you are preparing for a divorce.”

My forced smile almost crumbled. How much had Lirien revealed while I was freshening up?

“But divorce preparations will be cumbersome. I can’t be a burden. If my guests visit, it will disrupt the peace of the residence…”

“It’s a welcome change for someone leading a life as uneventful as mine.”

…The reticent man from a forced blind date seemed to have vanished, now as smooth as flowing water.
I couldn’t discern why he was so intent on keeping me here, but I instinctively felt the need to escape. The gaze he fixed on me mixed the predatory look I saw at dawn.

‘How about this?’

I appeared troubled, eyebrows furrowed.

“Staying at the residence of an unmarried Duke like yourself could spark unsavory rumors.”

Meaning, this could negatively affect the Mipidian family’s reputation, especially for Lady Lirien, who hadn’t even had her debutante yet. A situation Edmond would most likely want to avoid.

Contrary to my expectation of his agreement, Edmond’s lips curled into a chilling smirk, as if amused by my excuse.

“Don’t worry about that. Anyone who dares to utter baseless gossip will be taken care of by me.”

Taken care of…? What does he mean? As I pondered this frightening thought, Edmond added,

“Besides, if Countess Buell leaves in such a hurry, wouldn’t it seem like I chased you away?”

His tone was threatening, implying he didn’t want to be seen as a ruthless man.

I bit my lip, pondering my next move.

There were plenty of excuses I could make to avoid this situation – claiming ill health or outright refusal.

But against a warrior who survived the brutal battlefields, my stratagems would likely be futile. Edmond, who had the audacity to offer his life as collateral to the Emperor for the return of his title at such a young age, was not someone to be trifled with.

Moreover, having returned from the Jedder Forest alive, he was scheduled to be appointed a Duke after the upcoming celebration. A Countess like me stood no chance against him.

His unwavering gaze made it impossible to ask why he was so insistent on keeping me here. I feared the malicious intent hidden behind those earnest eyes.

“Then… since the Duke insists, I’ll reluctantly accept your hospitality.”

Ultimately, I gave in instinctively. Survival was the priority, even if it meant plotting an escape later.

Edmond nodded indifferently, a faint hint of satisfaction at the corner of his mouth.

I watched him continue drinking his tea, lost in thought.

‘Whatever his reasons for keeping me here…’

Ha, ha, ha.

‘I’m in trouble…’

It felt like being caught by the neck in a tiger’s den while seeking shelter from the rain.

Why She Is Still Unmoved (Female-dominant)

One-line summary: He uses various methods to seek her affection, but she remains unmoved.

Synopsis:

Si Qingyu is a doctor who has saved countless lives and enjoys tranquility.

Luo Shaoxuan is ruthless, deeply scheming, and the top young master in the capital. He admires Si Qingyu.

Luo Shaoxuan: I want to be the only one in your eyes and heart.

Features a cold and calm female lead vs A noble and scheming male lead.

There will be both sweetness and torture towards the male after their marriage.