Madam and the Stable Keeper (Completed Main Story) - Chapter 78

Cassius, who had been standing a step back, organized the relationships among the three people in his head as he watched them.

‘So. Whether by magic or by the duke’s attitude, Walter seems to indeed be of Lexion blood. The duke touched the lady, so even if he doesn’t know about the pregnancy, Walter surely despises him.’

Cassius felt he needed to revise his phrasing. “Despises” was far too mild.

Judging by his current gaze, if Walter saw someone lay a hand on Edith—even if that person were the family he’d longed desperately to meet—he’d likely kill them. His eyes flashed with the predator’s promise to trample anyone who threatened her, so long as he could keep her safe by his side.

Meanwhile, the duke appeared deeply, painfully regretful about everything he’d done over the past few days.

‘Wow. It really isn’t easy for things to get this tangled up, Your Grace.’

Cassius had seen that exact expression on Duke Lexion before—at the Portrion estate.

It was the disappointed look elderly retainers wore when they tried to offer their grandchildren one extra snack, only for the children to refuse, utterly uninterested. The duke, reputed as cold and unfeeling, evidently wasn’t so indifferent when it came to his own bloodline.

Watching the duke’s despair made Cassius feel strangely satisfied.

‘He must know that since he’s locked in a power struggle over succession with the Empress Consort, having Walter officially join the house would be a great help.’

Still, to win over a wild card like Walter, the duke would need to grovel a bit more.

“…Then I’ll take my leave. If you ever feel like having tea, please come by anytime—it’s no trouble at all.”

The duke departed like a withered old grandfather, guilt heavily shadowing his face.

Edith and Walter didn’t even spare a glance toward the retreating Duke Lexion, but the Emperor and Helen observed the entire scene from afar.

“This is the first time I’ve ever seen the duke wear such a conflicted expression.”

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