Chapter 27

"Xiaoming, you should leave the Duke's household as soon as possible. Impersonating the Lindbergh Duke's name and acting as you please, tarnishing that name, is an act of hostility deserving of the severest punishment. I am doing you a favor by personally finding you a marriage partner, so consider this a lenient punishment."

Really, I could have had you sued for defamation. I have the confidence to win. After all, you are just a penniless viscount's daughter. The court would surely side with the Lindbergh Duke's household. At best, you'd spend your life in a convent; at worst, in prison. Either way, I think it's better for you to get married.

"Anyone? Are there any volunteers? If there are, I will provide a dowry from the Lindbergh Duke's household."

While pretending to have the backing of the Lindbergh Duke's household, the truth is, this is just a way to get rid of a nuisance. It seems beneficial but is actually harmful. Coming to this tea party with a light heart was the end of your luck. The men quickly turned pale and looked down. You are past the age of marriage, but you are still beautiful, so I think you can enjoy it. You can also be treated as an accessory to be shown off.

"Oh, what a problem... I thought there would be at least one person—... But it seems you are not very popular, Elise. However, I have consulted with my husband and found someone. They are very pleased."

Elise, who was being mocked, trembled with anger. Such a face will make men run away instantly. Look, they are scared. —Are they scared of me? It doesn't matter.

This was just a farce. I insisted that it was too cruel to push this bad deal onto a young man, and it was called off. My husband, understanding my stance, properly arranged another match for her.

"He is a bit older, but you are not young either. I think it will be a good match. He is Lord Gersch, who owns a mining city in the north. He recently parted ways with his fourth wife and was looking for a new one. He was very pleased when I told him about your appearance."

At these words, not only Elise but also the invited young ladies turned pale. Lord Gersch is a wealthy noble who owns a mining city, but his appearance is reptilian, and he has many mistresses. He is already over forty, and his son, who looks like him, is the heir. It is said that both have peculiar sexual preferences and take care of their new wives together.

Good for you, Elise. You will be pampered by a young man. I would absolutely refuse.

"What, what did you say!? There is no way such a ridiculous thing could happen! Lord Claude would never send me to such a man! And Lord Andre would surely oppose it!"

"Well, my husband and I searched hard. Hehehe, don't get so excited. Of course, we have Lord Andre's permission. Here?"

She pulled out a letter from her long sleeve and threw it to Elise, who snatched it and turned pale.

Finally, she seems to understand the reality. She muttered, "Lord Andre—," as if she couldn't believe it. I left Elise alone and turned to the other young ladies and gentlemen at the tea party, clapping my hands and smiling as if troubled.

"Oh dear, I shouldn't have treated Elise specially. I should find good matches for all of you... Since you are such good friends with Elise, it would be better if you all got married together, wouldn't it?"

"No, no, we cannot trouble the Duchess with our affairs! We will solve our own problems."

Upon learning about Elise's fiancé, everyone declined one after another.

I see, I see. You don't want to get married yet. You are all so young.

But I haven't forgotten that you all laughed at me with Elise. I will let it slide for now.

"Please do your best. I hope you find good husbands."

As I gave them a final smile, my husband approached from a distance, striding confidently.

So slow! Showing up after everything is over is definitely on purpose.

"Is it over?"

I glared at him out of the corner of my eye. He approached me and kissed my cheek, as if showing everyone that I was his beloved wife. For a moment, I almost slapped him with my fan but held back.

I am quite patient, and it has saved me, my husband. I know that look on your face means you are a repeat offender!

"Lord Claude!"

Elise clung to my husband as if he were her last hope. However, he said coldly to her,

"Elise, your escort will arrive today. Go back to your room and prepare. Ah, Lady Miriam can also go with you as an attendant. It's good that you don't have to part with your mother—take her to her room. Watch her until the escort arrives and don't let her out."

He ordered the servants, who supported Elise and left the scene. Incidentally, Lady Miriam was already being forced into Elise's room. They were planning to get rid of them all together. It's a good thing Lady Miriam is beautiful. Thanks to that, she was taken in. My stepmother was beautiful, but she is a shadow of her former self. I respect those who continue to work hard.

"By the way, what was this gathering for?"

"I don't know. It seemed to be a personal tea party with good friends, but I think it was good to say goodbye before heading north for marriage."

I made it clear that this gathering was not hosted by the Lindbergh Duke's household and threatened them that if they said anything bad, it would be their turn next.

"I'm sorry, but since Elise's marriage was decided suddenly, would it be alright if you all leave today? Oh, that's right, Michelle. Please come visit next time."

I really wanted to have a proper conversation with her. I felt bad for making her stand after she gave up her seat. She is very perceptive, and I think I will like her.

"It would be an honor, Duchess."

Michelle smiled confidently, bowed to me and my husband, and left. Following her example, everyone else made excuses and left, clearly terrified.

Most of them were older than me.

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