Chapter 5

When I heard that, I couldn't help but think it was some kind of joke or a dream.

I even wondered if someone had slipped me a drug or if it was some kind of punishment game, but no one could fathom the true intentions of the person above the clouds.

"That's an honor, but why is the person—well, why is it Reisha...?"

Regarding that question, the handsome man in front of me seemed to twist his lips in a mocking way.

"Then, who would the Count of Berdig have been satisfied with?"

Although he is younger, the Duke's way of speaking is respectful to his elders, but his posture, with his legs crossed and his question directed at my father, who doesn't understand the situation, is clearly condescending, as if it's his natural right.

He would probably say something like, "This is why incompetent people are a problem" if he opened his mouth.

"Of course, it's my eldest daughter, Agnes, who has become the heir to this earldom! After all, Agnes is renowned for her beauty in society, and she has so many marriage proposals that she's at a loss. In contrast, my second daughter, Reisha, is as you can see, not a suitable match for the Duke of Lindbergh!"

Indeed, my half-sister Agnes is objectively beautiful.

After all, she looks just like my young stepmother who charmed my father.

That's why I can't help but think there's something to it. I don't miss the Duke's glance that briefly turns to my stepmother.

"You do resemble your mother. I'm sure you must have attracted a lot of male attention in your youth."

It's a strong insult.

In fact, my stepmother, who entered as a second wife, has become quite plump due to her indulgent lifestyle.

The future image of my sister, who looks exactly like my stepmother, is right in front of us. If appearance is the deciding factor, it's questionable whether this Duke would choose her.

At the very least, a normal man would think twice.

Honestly, I can't help but wonder where her former beauty has gone.

"By the way, I believe I mentioned, Count, that I see no mystery in marriage because of my ancient lineage. Nobles, especially high-ranking nobles, prioritize lineage. Therefore, it's only natural to want to welcome a more distinguished lineage. I don't want to mix in bloodlines of unknown origin."

The Duke of Lindbergh, who said this, was clearly exasperated with my clueless father.

And my half-sister, who was explicitly told that her lineage is inferior and not considered for marriage, looked at the Duke of Lindbergh with tears in her eyes.

"How can you say such terrible things!? I have studied diligently as a noble. I never thought the Duke of Lindbergh would be someone who only looks at lineage... At least, please evaluate my abilities properly! I have the ability to support my husband well!"

She seems to be thinking about the reprimand she just received.

At the very least, it's extremely impolite for a mere girl to interject in a discussion between heads of households.

The Duke of Lindbergh was clearly offended.

My half-sister, who only knows men who will side with her when she cries, must think that she can easily win over the Duke of Lindbergh with tears.

However, the Duke is not the type to be swayed by such common tactics.

"Count, would it be alright if I ask you to get rid of this impolite person quickly? Perhaps you've been a bit too lenient?"

"I'm very sorry!"

"Also, I would like to speak with Miss Reisha alone, if that's alright. Of course, it's not proper for an unmarried man and woman to be alone, so I would like to keep the butler here."

It sounds like a request, but it's essentially a command.

It seems he has decided that talking to this family won't get him anywhere.

My clueless father, my air-headed stepmother, and my impolite half-sister.

I doubt the Duke of Lindbergh has ever dealt with such terrible people.

Most people are perceptive enough to read the Duke's mood and act accordingly, so I don't think he gets this frustrated often.

I start to feel a bit sorry.

My father, stepmother, and half-sister don't seem convinced, but they reluctantly leave the room, leaving only the butler of this earldom.

As soon as we are alone, the Duke of Lindbergh, without hiding his frustration, starts to vent his frustrations.

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