Chapter 61

I feel it would be even harder to hide it now that it’s inside my body. Still, if it were Mabel, she would probably handle it well.

“Lady Eliza always said, ‘The most important things should be kept closest to you.’”

“Closest to you…?”

Though I can’t trust a word Mabel says, for some reason, I don’t think she’s lying this time.

If I had been carrying the magical artifact with me all along, it’s likely still at the Arkwright Manor.

“I wish I could somehow get in touch with someone.”

Just as I was sighing, I was informed of Gerald’s visit.

“Good morning. I’m glad you wore that dress. It suits you very well.”

“...Thank you.”

Gerald smiled contentedly at the sight of me, but being complimented on how well it fits, even though it’s not my body, doesn’t make me feel happy.

Still, I managed to smile and suggested he sit on the sofa, but Gerald shook his head slightly.

“I’ll make the tea. Saidie, you sit down.”

After dismissing the maid, he started preparing the tea, humming a tune.

He seemed unusually cheerful, and while I was trying to figure out if I could get any information from him, he suddenly said:

“The wedding date has been set. The first weekend of next month.”

“--What?”

My heart started racing, as it was only about a week from now, much sooner than I had expected.

“Preparations are being rushed, so I won’t be able to visit as often from tomorrow.”

“...I see.”

“Yeah. Here you go.”

Gerald placed the teacup in front of me and himself, then sat on the sofa.

“The change of clothes will be at the Haines Manor--”

Gerald started explaining the wedding, but I was filled with anxiety.

I had a strong feeling that if I missed this day, I would never be able to go outside again.

“--Dy? Saidie? Are you listening?”

“Ah, yes. Sorry.”

After that, I could only nod along, and nothing Gerald said registered in my mind.

After Gerald left, I collapsed on the bed and clutched the pillow tightly.

“What should I do?”

It would be nearly impossible for me to escape alone during the wedding, especially since I can’t use magic.

I need an ally, but in this situation, there are very few people I can rely on.

I really wanted more time, but there was no choice.

Determined to put into action what I had been thinking about desperately until today, I got up from the bed and called out to Matilda, who was tidying up the table.

“Hey, Matilda. I have a favor to ask. Is that okay?”

When I called out to her, she showed a slightly wary expression. I realized it might be too early, but I had no time left.

Pretending not to notice, I continued with a smile.

“You see, there’s a special flower that reminds me of Gerald. I want to make a bouquet for the wedding day, but I can’t leave here, so I was wondering if you could help me.”

“Why don’t you ask Lord Gerald?”

“I want it to be a surprise. He’s been so kind to me, and I want to thank him in some way.”

My request to make a small bouquet for my beloved fiancé on the wedding day, while being confined, should make me look like a devoted bride.

Perhaps judging that flowers posed no danger, she nodded after a moment.

“Alright. Could you write down the types of flowers for me later?”

I felt a deep sense of relief at her response but continued to smile.

“Yes, of course! Thank you so much.”

I clasped my hands in front of my chest and smiled as if I were genuinely excited, and Matilda also smiled, saying, “That’s right.”

I had thought that if I asked her this way, she might agree, being someone who loves her lover.

I feel guilty for using the kind-hearted Matilda’s goodwill, but I have no time or means to be picky.

“Hehe, I’ll write it down right away so I don’t forget.”

“Okay.”

I went to the desk and started writing. To avoid any mistakes, I carefully recalled each one and wrote them down meticulously.

“Fegui and Oaeris and...”

Matilda, who was watching, tilted her head slightly.

“I’ve never heard of these before. Lady Eliza, you know a lot about flowers, don’t you?”

“Yes. I used to be a bit of a hobbyist. I guess I remember these things well.”

Though they might be rare in this country, I’m sure I can find them all at the largest flower shop in the capital.

When I finished writing the note and handed it to her with a “Please,” Matilda took it with a smile.

– I hope everything goes well.

All I can do now is pray.

Suppressing my anxiety and sadness, I continued to act as if I was eagerly looking forward to the wedding.