Right now, I could manage the assets of the Blanchet Duke’s family because of internal affairs within the duchy. But I couldn’t carelessly embezzle the funds.

‘So, I have to go out into society and increase the means available to me.’

That way, I could prepare a fake identity for when I had to run away, and figure out a path to escape. Especially since deceiving Johann’s eyes made it a more difficult task.

‘First, I have to start by being a little less hated…….’

While scanning the information on the Blanchet Duke’s family, Betty suddenly clapped as if she just realized something.

“This time, the inspection of the duchy is specifically ordered to take special care of Madam’s health.”

“The Duke?”

“And this is something I found out secretly…….”

Betty whispered into my ear, mysteriously. It was unnecessary, as we were alone.

“The master warned the family not to treat Madam carelessly. So, Madam’s worries will be greatly reduced.”

“Goodness. To that extent?”

“Surely the master is clearly very concerned about Madam. Where else in the world is there a nobleman who does so much for his wife? I know very well.”

Somehow, it gave me a ticklish feeling in my chest.

‘But still, I must not let my guard down, Estelle.’

Johann still hadn’t told me any truth. He hadn’t even said he loved me.

‘I want to believe like Betty, wholeheartedly.’

But there were too many entangled issues for that.

“By the way, the cook is preparing your favorite dish before he leaves. Look forward to dinner tonight.”

Listening to Betty’s words, it felt as if all the people in this ducal house liked me. But I knew well that I was a being hard to love.

‘Does Madam know she’s hurting and yet acts like that? She’s a child, but really, she’s so heartless. She should know to be thankful if she’s loved so much.’

‘What’s an orphan with an uncertain origin doing here? Our Lady Stella was so adorable just by eating. How did such a thing come in…….’

‘She’s listening to our conversation now and pretending not to, right? How can she be so shameless?’

I was already despised by the Libertan, but Betty was too precious to me, even with all that.

‘Even if Betty is the future traitor.’

It was clear that I wasn’t suffering now and not hearing any bad words because of Betty’s efforts. Even now, she’s lying for me.

I grabbed Betty’s hands with a bright smile.

“Betty. Thank you for being strong for me. Without Betty, I would have had a hard time.”

Then, Betty’s eyes reddened.

“No, Madam. You don’t need to be so grateful to me.”

Betty confessed in a voice full of guilt.

“In the end, I didn’t do anything for Madam. I didn’t properly stop Patricia, nor did I persuade my brother.”

“I’m thankful for the feelings that Betty has for me. There wasn’t a single person who did that for me.”
The emotionally rich Betty started to shed tears, and I embraced her to calm her down.

“Thank you so much. And if you ever feel strained because of me, you can give up or take a break. Understand?”

Betty’s crying grew louder.

“My Lady.”

“Yes?”

“Anyone who treats My Lady disrespectfully, no matter who they are, I will not forgive them.”

Betty’s tearstreaked face was fierce. She looked as if she might attack someone on the spot.

Betty mumbled in a small voice.

“Even if it’s the master…….”

(This is a time divider.)

The day to inspect the territory had come. I was not feeling well, probably due to lack of sleep the night before. Johann noticed my condition and sent me a worried glance.

“My Lady. Are you not feeling well? Shall we postpone it to another day?”

“No. I think I’ll be fine in a while.”

Many people, including the knights, were mobilized for the move. Postponing it for a day could cause significant harm. At my refusal, Johann seriously stroked my forehead.

“I won’t be able to take you anywhere if My Lady is too weak.”

“Honestly, it’s not that bad?”

“I’m scared I can’t take you. I’m.”

Johann cupped both of my cheeks.

“My Lady is too careless about her own health. You think too lightly of yourself.”

He pulled my two cheeks together, pinching them.

My face became all crumpled. It’s not pretty at all. Johann was serious but couldn’t help smiling.

“Do you know how anxious I am every time My Lady moves?”

“I apologize…….”

“If you’ve done something wrong, what will be the punishment?”

Johann’s eyes sharpened a little. I flinched at the word “punishment.” It was a playful tone, but since it’s Johann, anything could happen.

“Honestly, punishment is a bit…….”

“That’s not the attitude of someone who admits a mistake.”

“Where in the world is a husband who punishes his wife? It’s too much.”

“Here.”

Despite my grumbling, Johann was unfazed, pressing his forehead against mine.

“It’s a big problem getting to the Duke of Blanched, but unexpected problems could arise.”

Johann’s voice softened.

“I will think of My Lady’s safety first, but My Lady herself must also be cautious. Understand?”