There Is No Paradise Where I Ran Away To (14 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 43

Autumn’s might, seemingly intent on crushing even the faintest hint of summer warmth, was formidable. Rodinia, battered by storms at mere days’ intervals, gave Edwin a premonition that just as heat had arrived early, so too would the cold.

Edwin set down Baron Zimmermann’s letter and calmly turned his gaze toward the rain streaming down the windowpane.

Vivian’s diligent efforts had paid off. After repeatedly approaching Charlotte, the baron had written, declaring that Charlotte had finally responded to his affections and asking—should it be agreeable—if they might begin wedding preparations.

He earnestly pleaded that if her feelings had changed, he wouldn’t covet the dowry or any additional opportunities previously offered; all he wished was permission to marry her.

He professed with fervent sincerity that he now loved Charlotte more than life itself, that he would love her until his dying breath, and that her name was already etched into his very soul.

Though it remained unclear precisely what Vivian had instructed Charlotte to do, judging by Charlotte’s discerning taste—evidenced by her focused reading of the romance novel “Emily of Francis Manor”—most concluded she had effortlessly guided the composition of the love letters.

Yet, they hadn’t even hoped he’d be so utterly deceived by such fabricated letters as to pledge his life.

Still, since this posed no harm to Charlotte, Edwin decided to let go of his disappointment toward the baron.

Loic, who had come to see Edwin, stood before the unlit fireplace, facing a coffee table densely covered with documents. Edwin gestured with his coffee cup, silently instructing Loic to read the papers laid out before him.

Loic sat down and began scrutinizing the documents closely. Edwin, having emptied his cup, now stood behind the sofa where Loic was seated.

“How are Corbin’s movements?”

The question caught Loic off guard—he hadn’t heard Edwin approach. Yet showing no sign of surprise, Loic set the papers down.

“No unusual activity. Corbin doesn’t seem to have other intentions. Since he’s genuinely committed to reform, he won’t act rashly.”

“Even so, keep tailing him. If he does harbor ulterior motives, we’ll need to eliminate him as swiftly as possible.”

“By the way, it seems Corbin is searching for someone.”

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