Chapter 44<strong>Chapter 44</strong>


    "Even if you''re an escort knight, she knew that we both grew up like a family, but this time Florence crossed the line."


    He referred to Iona as family,


    "You''re the only one who cane in and out of my ce without permission."


    They often sat across from each other like friends, sharing cigarettes casually,


    Iona, you know well who I cherish more.


    He acted as if she had priority over his fiancee.


    Richard became her family, friend, or lover whenever she needed it.


    How convenient was a rtionship that functioned only through obedience, unlike a real one that required various efforts?


    She could be satisfied with just that fake rtionship since she only experienced failure otherwise.


    However, if she keptcent like this, she would die without experiencing anything real in her life.


    Iona knew from experience that it was more futile than she thought.


    If you say that, Miss Florence will be very upset. She is engaged to Your Highness, after all."


    Iona politely pushed away Richard''s hand and said.


    He seemed a little taken aback by Iona''s refusal, but he quickly calmed her down in a friendly manner.


    You are very angry.


    Of course, it is true that I was angry when Miss Florence used violence, but I also took appropriate measures, so have no more feelings about it. It''s a thing of the past, so please don''t worry anymore."


    "How can I not worry when your cheek is like this?"


    Saying that, Richard looked down at Iona''s bruised cheek as if he felt sorry for her.


    It was a pretty usible look, but Iona didn''t feel like Richardwas genuinely angry at what had happened to her.


    If he was really worried about her, he would have called her earlier and asked about the situation.


    Tell me, Iona. what do you want...? Call her and make her formally apologize to you? Demanding substantialpensation from Lanzhovsmight not be a bad idea either. We could even spread rumors about Florence''s bad habits for everyone to know. Otherwise...


    I also have the option of breaking up with her.


    He spoke slowly.


    Iona fell into trouble for a moment as she smelled the fragrant tobo.


    What answer did he want from her by putting himself in this situation?


    Perhaps Richard was showing off how far he could go to appease his subordinates.


    Whatever it was, Iona''s answer was decided.


    "Then I''d like to take a vacation."


    what?"


    I dont think Miss Florence will be able to be more intrusive with me once I start being active in the social world. These days, I have been taking time out to attend many meetings, but since I have to go along with my work life, there are many things that I regret.


    Iona quickly sold Florence''sname to make sure he couldn''t refuse.


    In fact, it was not apletely wrong statement. The reason Florencecould treat Iona so roughly was because she was seen as a subordinate.


    If they had met as nobledies in a social gathering, even Florence wouldn''t have dared to raise her hand so easily.


    However, Richard did not readily ept Iona''s request.


    After a moment of thought with a cigar in his mouth, he turned to the bedside table next to Iona.


    He opened his mouth, lighting a cigar in the ashtray.


    "Good."


    Because the tobo leaves were forcibly crushed, a foul smell spread along with the smoke.


    It was an action that made Iona''s request to avoid the smell of cigars during work seem meaningless.


    He passed Iona and went back to his work desk.


    "But there''s a condition. Allow me to apany you once as a partner to a vacancy whenever I want during your vacation."


    "Yes?"


    At the unexpected condition, Iona looked at Richard with a puzzled face.


    Richard pulled a chair and sat down, picking up the papers he had thrown away earlier. Then he pointed out her attitude without even looking at Iona.


    When did you start disagreeing with me?


    If you understand, just leave now.


    Iona, who had been sitting still, soon got up after realizing that refusing the request to be his partner in this situation would be difficult.


    After politely saying goodbye, Iona left the room and her shoulders slumped as soon as the door closed.


    ''Did I just use the social gathering as an excuse?''


    Actually, she needed time to take care of other things, so she ended up making unnecessary excuses.


    Anyway, since Leroy had a history of doubting the rtionship between her and Richard in her past life, she felt the need to exin this in advance.


    "Surely he won''t be jealous."


    Recalling the absurd idea, Iona smiled bitterly.


    If anyone were to be jealous in this situation, it wouldn''t be Leroy, but her.


    As Iona crossed the hallway, Iona remembered Richard''sconfident words.


    ''I will convincethe Duke myself.''


    ''Where did his confidencee from?''


    Since the beginning of his push for the marriage between Leroy and Iona, Richard had a strong conviction that his n would be sessful.


    Considering that Leroy had been contemting rejecting the proposal, Richard''s reaction was somewhat curious.


    ''Given the circumstances, there is no other option.''


    Richard already knew the whereabouts of Leroy''s ex-fiance, Viviana, from then on.


    If so, it was necessary for Iona to advance her contact with her ahead of schedule. That way, before Richard touched Viviana, she could use her hand first.


    Even if the return of Leroy''s ex-fiance could shake Leroy, she didn''t care.


    Even so, Iona did not want to see him cry again. Especially if it was tears of grief for a woman he loved who had passed away.


    ***


    "oh  . Dame Iona. Are you here today?


    Simr to Iona, the woman who got off the carriage greeted her with a stunned expression. It was said that Iona''s appearance was very unexpected.


    While moving, Iona lightly brushed off her crumpled uniform and asked.


    Yes, do you have any problems?


    No, Oh no. People who don''t have hobbies in the first ce often quit. If you keeping, you will be fine.


    Saying that, the woman hurriedly waved her hand.


    When Iona asked why they were so flustered as soon as they saw her, it seemed that the attendance rate of the embroidery meeting was more sluggish than expected.


    ''Well, embroidery is a hobby that has no reason to go to groups and parties to enjoy it.''


    She couldplete it alone, and in fact, the result would be better that way.


    At thest meeting, Iona had misced the needle several times while talking to someone else.


    Iona ignored it and headed to the drawing room where the meeting was being held with the woman.


    The organizer, Viscountess Schiller, was waiting for the guests with simple snacks and tea.


    The Viscountess, who heard her, found her at the door and, "Oh." let out a small exmation.


    You are here, Lady udia. and  Dame Iona.


    Viscountess Schiller, who mentioned Iona in a somewhat ufortable tone, gave an equally awkward smile.


    Dane Iona, did you bring the handkerchief you embroidered the other day?


    Yes, I hope I can finish it today.


    Um, fine. Courageous attitude, I will cheer for you.


    Viscountess Schiller shook her head and pped slowly.


    Sitting inside with udia, Iona took out a handkerchief and sewing kit and put them on the table.


    Since it was already past the appointed time, the empty seats were quickly filled.


    A total of eight people attended the meeting, including Iona, all of whom were introduced once at thest meeting.


    Thest to arrive was Lady Erna of the Countess Disler family.


    Hello, Dame Iona...


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