Unexpectedly, Sharti’s complexion turned pale at the mention of the unexpected protagonist of the rumor.

It felt like hearing the low, undulating voice that echoed through the dark Kriannet palace, which was nothing but darkness, five years ago.

“According to the townspeople, Duke Gwendhil, who was about to attend the welcome ceremony upon his return, was exposed for planning rebellion. He was executed with the rebellious group, causing concern for the chaos it might bring to the empire. The emperor seems to be secretly pleased with the duke’s death for a while.”

Sharti swallowed dry saliva.

It was too heavy and distant a story for her.

‘Rebellion… A person like Duke Gwendhil?’

Above all, wasn’t the duke supposed to be an aide to the current Newton Emperor?

Was their friendly relationship just an external one?

Sharti quickly brushed away unnecessary thoughts.

‘I don’t need to care.’

Whether the Duke of the Newton Empire committed treason, went missing, or died, it was of no concern.

On the contrary, it might be something to rejoice about. After all, he was the one who ordered the burning of the Kriannet palace along with her.

However, strangely, there was a feeling of tightness in her chest.

“Oh, by the way, Miss, do you have any thoughts about marriage?”

At the sudden question, Sharti blinked her eyes rapidly.

When Sharti didn’t answer immediately, Manmulsang looked at her with hopeful eyes, expecting a positive reaction.

“In this day and age, the atmosphere in the world is harsh. Actually, it’s difficult to live alone in the mountains like this, and it can be scary, right?”

“…….?”

“Especially since these mountains are famous for having many wild beasts. It must be tough for a lady to live alone here.”

Sharti’s eyes narrowed.

“If you want, I can introduce you to a man.”

“…….?”

Lately, it seemed that Manmulsang was also working as a matchmaker.

Although Manmulsang didn’t seem to have any ill intentions, it was still an intrusive overstep.
Sharti firmly shook her head, as if she didn’t need to hear more.

“If it’s because of my face, don’t worry. There are plenty of guys with peculiar tastes, so I’ll handle it myself…”

Living with a hidden face seemed to be a peculiar taste for someone.

It was when Sharti was about to express her discomfort.

“I can’t listen to this.”

The door opened abruptly, and Ren came out of the room.

Sharti turned around in surprise and looked at Ren.

‘Towels?’

Ren had a towel covering his face.

Then, Sharti’s gaze swiftly moved downwards.

‘Wait, why is he undressed?’

He wore the pants she had made for him, but there was nothing on top.

Ren, shaking the towel as if drying his hair, took confident steps.

As the sudden appearance of the muscular man approached, Manmulsang’s cheeks trembled. Even though the face was not visible, Manmulsang, who was frightened by Ren’s angry muscles, hugged his bag tightly.

“Not necessary.”

“Yes, yes?”

“Isn’t that right?”

Ren turned his head abruptly and called Sharti.

Sharti, caught off guard by his striking turquoise eyes, involuntarily shuddered.

“Do you need two men, or is it not enough with me?”

“……?”

For a moment, Sharti’s thoughts came to a halt at his question.

Sharti, who was contemplating his words, suddenly grasped her senses.

Wasn’t there a considerable possibility of misunderstanding in his words?

“Oh, goodness, you have a husband!”

“……?”

“……!”

“I heard you were single last time… Are you newlyweds?”

Apologizing while bowing continuously, Manmulsang, unaware of the bewildered looks of Sharti and Ren in front of him, didn’t realize the changing expressions behind the hood and towel.

“I haven’t seen your husband until now, so I misspoke. I apologize, Miss. No, ma’am.”

“…….?”

“Uh……”

Sharti and Ren, who belatedly regained their composure, blushed red.

It was a rather decent title to be called a husband instead of a runaway slave.