Chapter 7

"Father"

"What is it?"

As I glared at him, Father averted his gaze like someone with something to hide. He must have been aware that his approach this time was rather forceful.

"Why didn't you tell me beforehand about introducing me to him? It seems that it was already a done deal, not just an introduction. You told me to find a husband, but can you explain this to me?"

"Well, you see..."

Father clasped his hands together and took a step back.

"I felt bad about it, but I didn't know when the Earl might change his mind. Anyway, we can still get you married, and this will clear up those strange rumors about you. I know you're concerned about the age difference, but the other party is also quite old. If you can endure for a while, you should be able to receive a fair share of the estate."

It seems that Father is determined to get me married and, at the same time, aim for the inheritance by having me marry the Earl.

"But the age difference is too great. It's unlikely that we can have children, right?"

Given the Earl's age, he must already have an heir. Even if he doesn't, he would have designated an heir from his relatives. Still, he must need a wife for public appearances. Since the heir is already decided, it's uncertain whether I would receive any inheritance. If there were children, it might be different... but Father says something outrageous.

"Children are fine. Once the estate is divided, you can return home. The house will have to be inherited by Mariella's child."

I understood Father's thinking and couldn't find the words to say more.

Father wants me to return home with the wealth I gain from marriage and make it the family's asset.

I can understand that much. Many families do such things.

But I feel uneasy.

I'm being asked to live as a widow, contributing only money, without being involved in raising Mariella's child.

Didn't Father insist that I should marry for my happiness?

I bit my lip, unable to voice those words.

Moreover, if I'm not just a nominal wife, it will be a significant hardship for me. If the result of enduring and getting married is this, it's too disappointing.

Our family's finances are such that they won't give me a house to live quietly on my own in the territory.

I'll have to spend my remaining years in a corner of the manor, unnoticed.

Raising children will be Mariella's responsibility, and she understands me, so she might overlook my growing vegetables, but what if the child raised to be a noble, as Father has educated them, disapproves of a home garden? I won't be able to ignore the head of the household's orders. Then I won't have any enjoyment in my old age.

Father is only concerned about my reputation. But even though he raised me, this is too much.

On the other hand, it's difficult to live in this country without a father, husband, or support from my family.

I might have to prepare for a life as strict as a commoner nun and run to a convent. But I'll surely be brought back.

As long as the Earl is willing to marry.

"Alright, I understand. I'll go get something to drink."

I answered and moved away from Father, heading to the garden to wait for Serian.

I wanted to think of a plan after a good night's sleep.

Stepping out onto the balcony, I rubbed my chilled skin, thinking I should have brought a shawl.

Summer is still a while away, but even though it's been warm during the day, the air gets quite cool at night.

My party dress exposes my shoulders, making me feel cold.

But if I go back and Father retrieves me, I'll be sent home quickly, so I have to endure.

"Still, where in the garden should I wait?"

Serian only said "the garden."

But I think he suggested a secret meeting because he understood my situation, so I should go to a place that's not easily visible but not too hard to find. I walked to the back of the garden.

A place not immediately visible but not too hard to find.

As I was thinking about where such a place might be, I spotted wooden chairs for about three people near a fountain that sparkled in the moonlight.

From their placement, they seemed to be for quietly admiring the fountain and the surrounding flower beds.

This would be perfect for a meeting.

As I approached, I finally noticed someone standing next to the chairs.

"Serian"

He was already waiting there. He raised a hand in response to my voice.

"I thought you'd come around here."

"I'm glad my prediction was right. It would have been a hassle to search if we missed each other."

As I walked closer, Serian smiled.

"Your logical thinking is very helpful."

"Huh? How so?"

I was puzzled. Had I said something that helped Serian? He explained.

"Most people find it creepy when you predict their actions and show up."

"Oh, I see."

I understood. Serian does indeed read people's actions and act accordingly.

Like when I want carrot seeds, he puts them in my hand without me saying anything. When I want a spade, it's already in my hand when I look for it. When I want to water the plants, Serian is already watering them with a watering can.

It's very convenient, and it helps me get my garden work done.

"I think it's efficient."

I don't see what's wrong with it.

"It's fine, Livia. But let's go to a place where we won't be seen."

Encouraged by him, we moved to a spot even further from the fountain.