ã€ŠI Won&#x27;t Go Back to My Family Who Abandoned Meã€‹


 Chapter 1 - I Was Abandoned By My Family

    <h4>Chapter 1 - I Was Abandoned By My Family</h4>

    Leticia Leroy was ordinary. Her face was neither pretty or ugly, her height neither tall nor short, nothing she could do or couldn¡¯t do particrly well, she was just nice¡­ However, Leticia was the ¡°naughty girl¡± and ¡°apple of the eye¡± of the Marquis Leroy family. And if that wasn¡¯t enough, she was the object ofparison with her siblings everywhere she went. Sadly, it was all toomon. She was not as pretty as her second sister Diana, not as smart as her third brother Emil, and not as good with a sword as her fourth brother Xavier, and she wasn¡¯t as talented for magic as her youngest sister Irene.

    But Leticia never once felt jealous or envious of her siblings. In fact, she was proud of them. And yet, she never knew that her family was ashamed of her. That was, until the moment her family abandoned her.

    ***

    ¡°That¡¯s how I told you to go meet people.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s shoulders slumped at the sharp look and cold voice. Unable to look at him properly, she lowered her head, he shouted even more harshly.

    ¡°I told you to stay away from the Duke of Achilles!¡±

    ¡°But he¡¯s really nice¡­¡±

    ¡°Look how your sister got hurt when you hung out with the Duke of Achilles!¡±

    Leticia raised her head in surprise at Marquis Leroy¡¯s words.

    ¡°Diana, what¡¯s wrong¡­..?¡±

    There was a bandage around Diana¡¯s wrist that wasn¡¯t there yesterday. Before Leticia could approach Diana out of concern, Marquis Leroy stood in front of her. It was as if he was trying to protect Diana from something inauspicious.

    ¡°Are you trying to bring misfortune to us by tangling with that ill-fated family?¡±

    [Misfortune is contagious.]

    So stay away from the unlucky and the unhappy. That was what Marquis Leroy always told Leticia. She had to be more careful because she was unlucky. But she didn¡¯t know why those words came to her mind now.

    It was then.

    ¡°Leticia Leroy.¡±

    Leticia stiffened at the sound of the voice calling her name.

    It was just a name call. But why was her heart beating so fast and she felt suffocating?

    The moment she locked gazes with the Marquis, thinking it was her imagination, Leticia seemed to be driven off the cliff. Her lips trembled at the somewhat ominous premonition.

    ¡°You¡¯re expelled from the Leroy family.¡±

    She felt a thud under her feet along with the sound of somethingrge falling on her head.

    ¡°Father¡­¡±

    She felt suffocated as she spoke, barely able to keep her voice together. She hoped the Marquis would tell her it was a lie, but there was no pity in his gaze.

    Leticia squeezed her trembling hands and turned to her family. She wished with all her heart that anyone would help her. But there was no one.? It was as if they had been waiting for this day toe. It was then that Leticia realized that her family was always looking for an opportunity to get rid of her. This was just an excuse to kick her out.

    ¡®My family is abandoning me.¡¯

    In the end, the tears she was holding back flowed down her cheeks.

    In fact, she faintly knew that such a day woulde. Her family always thought of her as a troublemaker, or something they wanted to get rid of quickly.

    But when she actually faced them in front of her, there was nothing she could say. Her family was everything to Leticia. She loved them even though she knew they looked down on her and ignored her. But what came back was contempt and coldness. Marquis Leroy turned away sharply as he spoke.

    ¡°From this day on, you are no longer my daughter, and do not even think of taking another step in this ce.¡±

    Leticia sank helplessly. Soon the Marquise and her siblings walked past her. She wept unceasingly at their cold appearance, not even looking back. That was how Leticia was abandoned by her family.

    ¡°I feel better now that we have finally gotten rid of this unlucky child.¡±

    The Marquis¡¯s mouth rose gently as he watched Leticia walk out of the mansion.

    ¡°Diana won¡¯t get hurt any more, and only good things will happen now.¡±

    Now that Leticia, who was associated with the ill-fated family was gone, only good things would happen in the future. However, on the same day that Leticia was exiled, the bronze shield with the Leroy family¡¯s emblem suddenly fell and broke.

    ***

    For generations, the three children of the Helios Empire were born with special abilities. First, the House of El had abilities rted to academics and knowledge, which were now perishable; second, the House of Erebos had abilities in swordsmanship and martial arts; and finally, the House of Leroy had abilities in various fields. However, the eldest daughter, Leticia, had not yet awakened any abilities, as if she was a stranger with no rtion to them.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s your child.¡±

    Marquis Leroy looked at Leticia with a disgruntled look on his face. Next to him, his wifeforted the Marquis.

    ¡°But I¡¯m d there are other children.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Father, Mother¡­.¡±

    Whenever they said this, Leticia couldn¡¯t look her parents in the eyes, as if she had be a sinner. As she bowed her head deeply, the Marquis¡¯ deep voice descended from above her head.

    ¡°Are you sure there is none? Not even something useless?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­.¡±

    ¡°Can you stop saying sorry?¡±

    ¡°Honey, calm down.¡±

    ¡°It is frustrating to look at the ashes. Frustrating!¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t know how she came to be inferior to her siblings.

    ¡°Please be patient for tomorrow.¡±

    His wife gently wrapped her arms around him, and he nodded with a more rxed look on his face.

    ¡°My wife is right. Our second daughter¡¯s birthday ising up soon, so we have to be patient.¡±

    Marquis Leroy and his wife loved Diana the most, even though her abilities were far more unsightly than those of their other children. It was because as soon as Diana was born, everything mysteriously fell into ce at a time when they were poor and went through hardship that they had to lower their titles.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to go see if everything is ready for the party.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯lle with you¡±

    When his wife rose from her seat and the Marquis naturally followed her. Leticia, who was left alone, could only stare silently at their backs.

    ¡°My birthday has passed and yet¡­¡±

    Leticia cared so much for her brother¡¯s and sister¡¯s birthdays, but not even a single small gift was given to her on her birthday. Not only that, they forgot about it every year and looked at her pitifully when she told them it was her birthday.

    [How old are you already to talk about your birthday?]

    Her father¡¯s voice rang in her ears that her birthday was not that big of a deal. Beside him, her mother didn¡¯tin, but she didn¡¯t say anything, as if she felt the same way as her father.

    ¡°A disaster¡­.¡±

    Now, she stopped expecting any gifts. She just wanted to hear them say ¡®Happy birthday¡¯.

    However, her parents and siblings never congratted her. It was as if even that was a luxury. If her ability had awakened, her parents wouldn¡¯t have disapproved of her, nor would her siblings have ignored her. So this was all her fault. Leticia then let out a shallow sigh and was about to head back to her room when a presence came right in front of her eyes. Diana stood there with a frown on her face.

    ¡°Can you please move out of the way?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°Do you know you¡¯re blocking the way?¡±

    Hearing Diana¡¯s annoyed voice, Leticia quickly stepped aside with a panicked look on her face.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to.¡±

    But Deanna didn¡¯t even pretend to hear her. Suddenly, Diana stopped abruptly and approached Leticia again. Before Leticia could ask if she had anything to say, Diana spoke first.

    ¡°How long are you going to embarrass us?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You know how embarrassed we are because of your ipetent?¡±

    ¡°Diana¡­.¡±

    ¡°You should live in shame.¡±

    The only stain on the prestigious Leroy family, Leticia Leroy.

    No matter how good the other children were, the ipetent Leticia Leroy always dragged the family down.

    The nobles admired and envied the Leroy family, but ridiculed them behind their back because Leticia¡¯s ability did not awaken. Rumors circted that she was an illegitimate child, a mutant, or a cursed child.

    ¡°Do you really have no ability?¡±

    ¡°I¡­.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re pathetic.¡±

    Diana, who stared at Leticia, walked away as if she was speechless.

    Standing still for a moment, Leticia trudged back to her room.

    ¡°Huu¡¤¡¤¡¤¡¤¡¤¡¤¡±

    As soon as she came into the room, she took a long sigh andy down on the bed. She just wanted to fall asleep, but the words she heard today kept ringing in her ears.

    [Are you sure you¡¯re not capable of anything, even something useless?]

    [We have to make sure the party is perfectly prepared.]

    [How long are you going to embarrass us?]

    Just as she was about to cover her ears, she heard someone knocking on the door.

    ¡°Come in.¡±

    As soon as she spoke with a drooping voice, the door opened and someone approached her.

    ¡°Miss.¡±

    Leticia turned to the soft voice. There stood Mary, looking at her pitifully.

    Mary quickly brought the tray of food near the bed, but Leticia shook her head.

    ¡°I want to go to bed early today.¡±

    It was a tiring and depressing day and she wanted to forget it if she fell asleep. As Leticia turned to her side again, Mary gently sat on the edge of the bed.

    ¡°Did something happen, Miss?¡±

    Despite the worrying question, Leticia kept silent and closed her eyes tightly.

    However, the voice that she was trying to ignore stuck deeply in her ears.

    [Pathetic.]

    [Pathetic.]

    Leticia buried her face deep in the pillow. But it didn¡¯t stop her from crying.

    ¡°Mary.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Miss.¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t I have any ability?¡±

    ¡°Miss¡­.¡±

    ¡°Diana, Emil, Xavier¡­.and even my youngest sister, Irene. Why am I the only onecking it?¡±

    She always wondered. Why was she the only one without the ability? Why, of all people, she was the odd one?

    ¡°Diana said I¡¯m pathetic.¡±

    ¡°How could she say that?!¡±

    ¡°But I couldn¡¯t say anything.¡±

    ¡°Miss¡­¡±

    Mary tapped Leticia gently on her shoulder, but her deeply submerged mind was hardly lightened.

    ¡°I¡¯m pathetic too.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°I was born this way not because I wanted to¡­ I couldn¡¯t choose to be born with or without abilities¡­¡±

    She was sad, but no one understood how she felt. And she couldn¡¯t say anything because she felt like she was to me for all of this.

    ¡°Yes, It¡¯s my fault.¡±

    Leticia bit her lips and curled up further,?¡®If I had the ability, none of this would have happened.¡¯

    Mary, who was watching her from behind, spoke cautiously.

    ¡°You may already have it, Miss. Maybe you just can¡¯t see it.¡±

    ¡°You think so?¡±

    ¡°Well, I mean¡­¡±

    It didn¡¯t ur to her to think that far, and Mary gave her a troubled look and fumbled with her words. Leticia couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at the sight.

    ¡°How is your brother, Mary?¡±

    ¡°Oh, he¡­.¡±

    Mary, who paused for a moment, answered with a bitter look on her face.

    ¡°He doesn¡¯t get better or worse. They say to use another medicine, but it¡¯s too expensive.¡­¡±

    Leticia, who was quietly listening to Mary¡¯s words, went over to the dressing table. Mary, who noticed that she was picking up the most expensive jewelry, grabbed Leticia¡¯s arm.

    ¡°The Marquis will be very angry if he finds out.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll take your sincerity, Miss.¡±

    Last time Leticia was scolded badly by the Marquis for something simr. So Mary shook her head more firmly and refused.

    ¡°It really is fine, Miss.¡±

    Mary put the trinket in Leticia¡¯s hand back in ce and poured the tea. But, Leticia¡¯s eyes were still on the trinket.

    ¡°I wish money would fall from the sky.¡±

    ¡°Mary.¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll pick it up right away.¡±

    Leticia smiled, realizing the joke was meant to change the subject.

    ¡°I think it would be faster to pick up the money on the street.¡±

    ¡°I know. I¡¯d like to pick up some money on the street.¡±

    Leticia drank all the tea that Mary poured and before she knew it, it was evening.

    When Leticia saw that the sky was getting dark, she said to Mary,

    ¡°You¡¯d better get going before it gets any darker.¡±

    ¡°But there is still time.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m worried about your brother.¡±

    Mary had to take care of her sick brother and wasmuting to work. It wasn¡¯t time for her to leave, but Leticia wanted her to.

    ¡°Thank you, Miss.¡±

    Mary bowed her head and was about to leave when Leticia called her. When Mary turned back, their eyes met, and Leticia smiled and said,

    ¡°Mary, I hope you¡¯ll pick up money on the street.¡±

    ¡°Oh, Miss.¡±

    Mary chuckled and closed the door behind her.

    ****

    When she had finished all the preparations for going home and left the house,

    Mary gave a long sigh when she left the mansion ready to go home.

    ¡°My poor Lady¡­¡­ ¡°

    She had never seen anyone as kind and thoughtful as Leticia before. However, Marquis Leroy tended to ignore her, and it was always heartbreaking.

    ¡°Tomorrow I will prepare a sweet dessert.¡±

    As she was walking home, reminding herself, Mary saw something sparkling in front of her.

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    She picked it up carefully with her hands.

    ¡°Gold coin? Gold coins in the middle of a road like this!¡±

    Mary blinked several times to double-check that she wasn¡¯t looking at the wrong thing. By all ounts, it was a gold coin.

    At that time, Leticia¡¯s cheerful voice crossed her ears.

    [I hope you¡¯ll pick up money on the street.]

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ***

 Chapter 2 - Todays Luck Doesnt Seem So Bad

    <h4>Chapter 2 - Today''s Luck Doesn''t Seem So Bad</h4>

    ¡°Can you help me prepare to go see brother Levion?¡± (*Brother* in this situation is for someone older, but not an actual blood rted brother.)

    Levion was hard at work training for his uing entrance exam for the Imperial Knights. Leticia wanted to be of any help to her fiance.

    ¡°Please get my handkerchief.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Mary?¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­.? Oh, what did you say?¡±

    When Leticia called her name, Mary raised her head in surprise as if she came to her senses. The moment their eyes met, Leticia said with a worried look on her face.

    ¡°Is something wrong? Could it be that your brother has been more ill?¡±

    ¡°No, I was just thinking about something, My Lady.¡±

    Even though she said there was nothing wrong, Mary couldn¡¯t getst night¡¯s incident out of her mind.

    It was gold coinsying in the middle of the street on her way home after leaving work.

    And what Leticia said right before she left the mansion.

    [I hope you¡¯ll pick up the money on the street]

    It must be a coincidence.

    It just so happened to be an odd coincidence.

    Mary held out a handkerchief to Leticia, thinking so intently.

    ¡°Is there anything else you need, My Lady?¡±

    ¡°No, this will be enough.¡±

    After Mary gave her the handkerchief, Leticia came out and walked down the corridor.

    But before she could walk far, she met someone.

    It was Diana.

    ¡°It looks like you¡¯re going somewhere?¡±

    Diana asked, looking at Leticia up and down. Despite the unpleasantness, Leticia didn¡¯t frown once and nodded lightly.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to see brother Levion.¡±

    Diana¡¯s expression hardened at the words. Soon her hateful voice came out.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°Why do you have to go?¡±

    Leticia felt frustrated, as if she was being interrogated. After a moment of confusion, Leticia gently tilted her head.

    ¡°It¡¯s not right for me to go to support him?¡±

    Before they were engaged, Leticia and Levion had been close friends since childhood. He was her fianc¨¦, but she thought of him as family. Diana¡¯s gaze grew even higher.

    ¡°That¡¯s very encouraging.¡±

    Diana nced at Leticia fiercely, then smirked and walked past her.

    ***

    ¡®What was wrong with her¡­.?¡¯

    On the way to see Levion, Leticia couldn¡¯t get Diana¡¯s reaction out of her mind for a long time. I called Diana to turn around, but she just walked away.

    ¡®What¡¯s the matter?¡¯

    No matter how much she thought about it, Leticia couldn¡¯t find the answer.

    However, something was strange.

    Leticia tightened her grip on her dress, feeling anxious that something was about to happen.

    ¡°Miss, we¡¯re here.¡±

    Leticia decided to think about itter and got out of the carriage. But when she actually got off, she was at a loss as to where to go.

    While she was fidgeting, unable to take a single step, she heard a familiar voice behind her.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    It was Leticia¡¯s fianc¨¦, Levion. His silver hair shining brightly in the sunlight and his clear purple eyes looked dreamy.

    ¡°Brother!¡±

    Fortunately, she ran into Levion at recess time.

    it was just recess time, or I would have met Rivion right away. However, unlike Leticia, who approached him with a cheerful smile, Levion looked somewhat ufortable.

    ¡°I¡¯vee to cheer you on.¡±

    ¡°You didn¡¯t have to do that.¡±

    ¡°Oh ¡­¡­ I¡¯m sorry if I¡¯ve been a burden. I¡¯m leaving now.¡±

    Levion had never looked so tantly inconvenienced, even if he didn¡¯t say it.

    As Leticia turned to leave with a panicked look on her face, Levion said with a sigh.

    ¡°Follow me.¡±

    ¡°Please wait for me.¡±

    Leticia carefully grasped Levion¡¯s arm as he turned away. It must have been a hard day of training as there was sweat on Levion¡¯s forehead.

    The moment she took out her handkerchief to wipe off his sweat, a sorrowful voice came out of Leticia¡¯s mouth. It was a handkerchief that she had made and ruined for embroidery practice.

    Still, she wanted to wipe it with this handkerchief, but the expression on Levion¡¯s face wasn¡¯t so pleasant.

    ¡°What is your ability?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Hasn¡¯t it awakened yet?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­.¡±

    Embarrassed to answer, Leticia nced away and lowered her head.

    Her family was always unhappy with her for not being awakened to any abilities.

    And then there was another one.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, brother Levion¡­¡±

    Like a fool, shepletely forgot.

    Her fianc¨¦ didn¡¯t like it either.

    Unable to raise her head, Leticia grimaced and grasped her hands. At that moment a chilling voice rang in her ears.

    ¡°You seem to have a lot of time.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    His dry, purple eyes went to the handkerchief. As soon as he saw the stitches sticking out, Levion frowned.

    ¡°Make something like this.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s¡­¡±

    The moment she was about to say something, she felt strangely suffocated.

    However, Levion sighed as if he was frustrated looking at her.

    ¡°I¡¯ll leave you to it.¡±

    ¡°What? You¡¯re leaving already?¡±

    Surprised, Leticia¡¯s eyes widened, but Levion only looked at her unsympathetically.

    ¡°Then is there any reason why I should stay here longer?¡±

    With thosest words, Levion left as if he didn¡¯t need to be there any longer. And he didn¡¯t even look back once.

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    Augh suddenly came out.

    Leticia felt miserable as she was left behind.

    Eventually, Leticia lost confidence in staying here any longer and turned away. No, she wanted to leave. If only she didn¡¯t bump into a man who was passing by.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir. I wasn¡¯t looking ahead properly¡­¡±

    The moment when a bewildered Leticia looked up to apologize, something red dropped on the floor. She was surprised to see a cut on the man¡¯s bloodied hand.

    ¡°Are you hurt, sir?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, Young Lady.¡±

    The man tried to pass by with a casual smile. But Leticia grabbed his arm without realizing it.

    Facing the man, who opened his gray eyes wide in surprise, Leticia cautiously offered him the handkerchief.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, use this¡­.¡±

    However, her hand, which held out a handkerchief to the man, stopped as if it was suddenly frozen.

    [You seem to have a lot of time on your hands. Making something like this.]

    Levion¡¯s voice that sounded judgmental at the sight of her handkerchief echoed in her ears in a tormenting way.

    In fact, to say it was sloppy would be an understatement by anyone¡¯s standards. It was only today that the stitching seemed to stick out particrly well. Then, Leticia tried to retract her hand in embarrassment. However, the man smiled faintly and epted the handkerchief that Leticia offered him.

    ¡°Thank you, Young Lady.¡±

    But instead of wiping the blood off with the handkerchief, he put it in his pocket.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I gave it to you to wipe off the blood.¡±

    At Leticia¡¯s words, the man rather asked with a quirk.

    ¡°Then wouldn¡¯t that be offensive? It¡¯s got blood on it.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡±

    Leticia smiled a little at the way the man cherished her handkerchief, and put out her hand.

    When the man realized that Leticia wanted it back, he gave it back to her.

    Then, Leticia suddenly grabbed his hand as he handed it to her. Before he could be surprised by the careful yet soft hand, Leticia began to wipe his bloody hand with the white handkerchief.

    ¡°It got blood on it now.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You don¡¯t have to give it back.¡±

    Leticia answered with a smile and wrapped the man¡¯s injured hand with the handkerchief.

    ¡°May I ask for your name?¡±

    As soon as Leticia raised her head after being satisfied with wrapping his injured hand, their gaze intertwined.

    His ck hair was as dark as the winter night sky and his gray eyes were reminiscent of thick fog. His eyes were nted up and sharp.

    The man gave off a great impression. Somehow Leticia hesitated to answer. But the way he looked at her, staring straight into her eyes, somehow tickled her heart.

    ¡°Leticia¡­.¡±

    Strangely, her fingers trembled lightly.

    ¡°My name is Leticia Leroy.¡±

    ***

    Enoch Achilles.

    It was a name known to all those who had their sights set on bing members of the Imperial Knights.

    He appeared as if he had fallen from the sky, and his ability to lightly subdue the knight candidates and his elegant swordsmanship were truly monstrous.

    However, those who were jealous of Enoch, gossiped.

    ¡°He is only a Duke in name who hasn¡¯t gone through a session ceremony.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s hard to call him a Duke when he hasn¡¯t gone through a session ceremony.¡±

    ¡°Even if he wants to hold a session ceremony, he can¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°His house doesn¡¯t have the money to do so.¡±

    The only stigma was wealth.

    Since the previous generation of Achilles family mismanaged the business and incurred huge debts, their situation was not good. Perhaps because of this, Enoch underwent various training in order to be a member of the Imperial Knights.

    However, the problem was he always flunked the entrance exam.

    When people saw him, they said this about Enoch.

    ¡°No money? No luck.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. So what if you were good? It¡¯s not your lucky day.¡±

    Unlucky Enoch.

    His sword skills were better than anyone else, but on the day of the entrance exam, he always had an unexpected ident.

    The first time he took the test, the Duchess who had been suffering from illness, died. And the second time, a loan shark came and made a fuss.

    And now, there was going to be a third tryout soon. People even made a bet on what reason Enoch would be disqualified this time.

    There was no way that Enoch didn¡¯t know about those bad things they talked about him. Although it struck a nerve, he ignored it and just concentrated on his practice.

    However, perhaps because the entrance exam was approaching, he felt more tense than usual. He even made a mistake and his hand got cut by a sword.

    ¡°Am I really that unlucky?¡±

    He thought it was absurd, but when he recalled what happened in the past, it didn¡¯t seem that absurd. Somehow, all the efforts he had made so far seemed useless, like sandcastles on the waves.

    ¡°I¡¯m tired.¡±

    Lately he had been wondering if his choices, the path he was on, were right.

    He had doubts, but he never showed it to his siblings. Because he knew they believed in him more than anyone else.

    ¡°It¡¯s pathetic.¡±

    Enoch muttered to himself as he made his way to the infirmary.

    No matter how hard he tried, he couldn¡¯t get the results he hoped for. He was getting more anxious and frustrated as he failed every entrance exam for reasons that were not entirely his fault.

    That¡¯s when it happened.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir. I wasn¡¯t looking ahead properly¡­¡±

    It was the same for Enoch, who walked without looking properly. As soon as he was about to apologize, the woman¡¯s eyes turned to Enoch¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Are you hurt, sir?¡±

    Her eyes widened in surprise and her gaze intertwined with his.

    Blue clear eyes. The moment he looked at them, he felt a strange urge to look at them more closely.

    Standing without saying a word, Enoch, who came to his senses after a moment, shook his hands lightly, saying it was okay.

    But the woman held out something.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, use this¡­¡±

    However, her hand froze in midair. At the end of his gaze, there was a handkerchief. Enoch naturally looked down at the handkerchief on her white hand.

    ¡±Did you make it yourself, Young Lady?¡±

    The stitches sticking out made it seem like she wasn¡¯t very good at it. But Enoch found it cute in its own way.

    ¡°Thank you, Young Lady.¡±

    Enoch stopped for a moment, thinking that it was offensive to wipe the blood with something that he might have to return.

    So he put it in his pocket, but the woman took the handkerchief back and took care of his hand.

    When the woman was wrapping his hand with the handkerchief, Enoch looked at her silently. Somehow, he couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the pretty, meticulous tie.

    ¡°May I ask for your name?¡±

    He was curious about the name of such a sweet and lovely woman.

    Her blue eyes painted on the small, white face blinked gently. Eventually, a small voice came from between her thin lips.

    ¡°My name is Leticia Leroy.¡±

    Leticia smiled gently and walked away. Enoch stood alone and stared at Leticia until she disappeared. Her back to him like a pink bud that had not yet bloomed.

    ¡°Leticia ¡­. Leticia Leroy¡­.¡±

    He hesitated to call her name out loud.

    ¡°My luck isn¡¯t so bad today.¡±

    Enoch looked down at the handkerchief tied neatly on his hand. The handkerchief was embroidered with a clover with four green leaves. The green threads were a little jagged and pointy, but strangely, it made him smile.

    Somehow it was a pleasant feeling.

    And that day, Enoch passed the knighthood test for the first time.

 Chapter 3 - Theres No Way Sheâ€™s Incompetent

    <h4>Chapter 3 - There''s No Way She¡¯s Ipetent</h4>

    ¡°Miss, you¡¯re back.¡±

    When Leticia arrived at the Leroy residence and entered her room, Mary, who was cleaning the room, greeted her with a happy face. But that was short-lived. As soon as she saw the blood on Leticia¡¯s hands, she froze.

    ¡°Miss, did you hurt yourself?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Leticia, who was confused for a moment, looked down at her hand and sighed. It seemed like she got blood on her hand when she used the handkerchief on the man¡¯s injured hand.

    ¡°How did you get injured? Please be careful.¡±

    Before Leticia knew it, Mary had brought a towel and wiped her hands. Not wanting to make Mary worry any longer, Leticia spoke quickly.

    ¡°It¡¯s not my blood.¡±

    Mary looked at Leticia with curious eyes, then Leticia exined the story briefly. After listening to the story, Mary heaved a long sigh of relief.

    ¡°I was worried that you were hurt. I¡¯ll wash the handkerchief.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s¡­¡±

    Leticia scratched her head with a troubled expression, and then a low voice echoed in her ears.

    [It will get blood on it.]

    She remembered the man who cherished the ugly handkerchief which had a lot of stitches sticking out.

    Unlike his cold impression as if he was standing alone on an icyke blooming in the middle of winter, he was kind and sensitive. Leticia¡¯s heart felt warm somehow, and she said with a faint smile.

    ¡°I gave it to someone who needed it.¡±

    ¡°Wasn¡¯t it your prized handkerchief, Miss?¡±

    Mary¡¯s eyes widened as she asked the question, but Leticia couldn¡¯t say that she had taken the wrong handkerchief.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. There¡¯s another one.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you said that.¡±

    ¡°Anyway, I¡¯ll have to prepare a gift for Diana in advance.¡±

    ¡°What will you get?¡±

    ¡°You want to know?¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    Mary waited for Leticia¡¯s reply with a twinkle in her eyes. But Leticia only smiled.

    ¡°It¡¯s a secret.¡±

    ***

    ¡°Happy birthday, Young Lady Leroy.¡±

    ¡°I wish you a happy birthday.¡±

    That night, on Diana¡¯s birthday, the most prestigious nobles and their families came to celebrate.

    ¡°Thank you very much. Thanks to you, I¡¯m going to have the happiest birthday of my life.¡±

    Dressed in a fancy dress and the most fashionable essories, Diana was smiling brighter than ever.

    Leticia, who was watching from a distance, slowly approached Diana.

    ¡°Um¡­.Diana.¡±

    Diana, who was having a pleasant conversation with the guests, looked back.

    As soon as their eyes met, Diana¡¯s face turned sour. However, she quickly smiled and asked,

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, sister?¡±

    ¡°I want to wish you a happy birthday.¡±

    ¡°Oh, really? Thank you, sister.¡±

    ¡°Here¡¯s your present.¡±

    Immediately, Leticia presented the gift she had prepared. However, as Diana looked at the gift box, herplexion wasn¡¯t good. Leticia noticed it immediately and asked,

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you open it?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m very curious.¡±

    ¡°Would you mind showing it to us?¡±

    The nobledies by Diana¡¯s side said with expectant looks on their faces. They urged her to show them quickly, and Diana had no choice but to open the box. As soon as she opened it, a sigh escaped her lips.

    ¡°Ah ¡­¡­.¡±

    Inside the gift box was an emerald brooch crafted in the shape of a four-leaf clover. It was a simple but pretty design. The nobledies covered their mouths with fans to stifle theirughter.

    ¡°Did you choose it yourself?¡±

    ¡°I think it was popr ten years ago.¡±

    ¡°But still. I think it¡¯s pretty.¡±

    It seemed like friendly remarks, but there were sharp thorns embedded in it. As Leticia tried to speak, Diana snapped the box shut.

    ¡°Thank you for the gift, sister. I¡¯ll use it well.¡±

    However, contrary to her words, her expression was cold.

    A Young Lady, who was watching the scene, said with a sigh of disappointment.

    ¡°If I knew this would happen, I would have brought another gift.¡±

    ¡°Huh? Why?¡±

    ¡°I remembered Young Lady Leroy said my brooch was beautiful, so I prepared it for her birthday.¡±

    The gift box the nobledy presented contained a brooch full of gorgeous jewels, borately crafted that was far better than the one Leticia had.

    ¡°Oh, my God! The brooch is so beautiful! How can you make such a fine brooch?¡±

    Leticia shook her head helplessly as she watched the scene. It was the moment when she thought she chose the worst looking brooch in the world. She had the urge to hide it right now. Trying to hide her mixed feelings, Leticia was thinking about taking her brooch back.

    Diana, whose eyes immediately met Leticia¡¯s, smiled brightly and said to the Young Lady.

    ¡°Thank you so much for the gift. I¡¯ll cherish it.¡±

    The Young Lady nodded in satisfaction as she hugged Diana tightly in her arms. Leticia¡¯s head dropped even lower as she watched them.

    Diana suddenly crossed her arms as she looked at Leticia and spoke.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to go to my room with my sister to drop off some souvenirs.¡±

    Behind them, everyone saw the image of the two sisters who were very close.

    ***

    As soon as they walked out into the hallway, Diana looked around to see if there was anyone there. Seeing it was empty, she shook off Leticia¡¯s hand and threw Leticia¡¯s gift back to her.

    ¡°Next time, don¡¯t do this to me. Who asked you for it?¡±

    Her sharp tone naturally made Leticia unable to answer. It was a meaningful gift that she had chosen herself, but she didn¡¯t expect Diana to hate it so much.

    ¡°But it¡¯s your birthday and I wanted to give you a present.¡±

    ¡°Then give me the right one.¡±

    ¡°Diana¡­¡±

    ¡°Who gives something like this these days?¡±

    The moment Diana saw the gift that Leticia had given her, she was so embarrassed that she even felt the urge to throw it away on the spot. However, she had no choice but to endure it because of the stares of those around her. Eventually, thinking that she couldn¡¯t go on like this, Diana spoke about what she was holding back.

    ¡°Don¡¯te to my birthday party next time.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s blue eyes widened as she looked at Diana. Diana¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change, as if she didn¡¯t say anything wrong. Leticia grabbed the gift tightly in her hand and said,

    ¡°I¡¯m your sister. I¡¯m your family. But you don¡¯t want me to celebrate your birthday?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Diana!¡±

    ¡°Family?¡±

    Dianaughed as if she was listening to a funny story. At first, she didn¡¯t doubt that one day Leticia¡¯s ability would be awakened. She was a kind and proud sister who took care of her siblings more than herself, even during the times when the family¡¯s financial situation was tough. But as time went by, Leticia¡¯s ability was nowhere to be seen, and people¡¯s buzzing only increased.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you shame the family enough?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Are you asking because you really don¡¯t know?¡±

    How could she not know? The look in Diana¡¯s eyes said as much.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have the ability, haven¡¯t you noticed? I¡¯m very anxious to get stuck here and there somehow¡­..¡±

    ¡°You¡­.¡±

    ¡°I feel sorry just looking at you. No, I¡¯m embarrassed.¡±

    With that, Diana passed by with a pat on Leticia¡¯s shoulder. Leticia looked down at her present. It was a brooch that she had prepared months in advance for Diana¡¯s birthday. But it got thrown away, and came back to her.

    ¡®It¡¯s embarrassing¡­¡¯

    It was a fact she already knew. But when she was asked directly, it felt different.

    She nodded her head helplessly in misery and wretchedness.

    ¡®It¡¯s okay.¡¯

    Leticia bit her lip tightly to swallow her tears. But she couldn¡¯t bear feeling this small and useless.

    ***

    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time, Marquis Leroy.¡±

    Marquis Leroy was happily watching Diana¡¯s birthday party, which was going well. As soon as he turned around at the familiar voice, he froze. There stood a good friend of histe parents who had passed away. He was like a godfather to Marquis Leroy.

    ¡°Master Seos!¡±

    Since Marquis Leroy didn¡¯t really expect him toe since he didn¡¯te out of the magic tower very often, he was a little confused but couldn¡¯t hide his happiness. Seos approached with a gentle smile.

    ¡°Thank you foring, Master Seos.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s your precious daughter¡¯s birthday, shouldn¡¯t Ie?¡±

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s expression grew brighter as he said what seemed to be obvious. It was not long before he quickly looked around to find his daughter. Secondster, he spotted Leticia and Dianaing into the banquet hall and introduced them to Seos.

    ¡°Master Seos, this is my second daughter, Diana Leroy. ¡°

    ¡°Hello, I¡¯m Diana Leroy.¡±

    Diana pink hair, the symbol of the Leroy family, and brilliant eyes. And a confident and strong expression. Diana was as fresh and bright as a flower. A smile of affection spread across the Marquis¡¯s face as he looked at Diana.

    But the moment he looked at Leticia, his cheerful expression disappeared.

    ¡°Leticia, say hello.¡±

    It was apletely different voice than when he introduced Diana. It sounded cold like he was addressing a stranger, not a family member. What was more surprising was Leticia, who greeted casually as if she was used to it.

    ¡°Hello, my name is Leticia Leroy.¡±

    She said with a desperate smile and a slight tremble in her eyes. She looked pitiful with her deted appearance. After the greeting, Leticia looked at the Marquis and Seos, then said cautiously,

    ¡°Excuse me, but I¡¯m not feeling well, may I be excused?¡±

    Marquis Leroy clicked his tongue at her words, as if he was not pleased.

    ¡°You can¡¯t celebrate your sister¡¯s birthday? Get going then.¡±

    After getting? permission, Leticia nodded helplessly and left.

    As soon as she saw Leticia go, Diana said, ¡°Father, can I go too? I want to enjoy my birthday.¡±

    ¡°Of course, Diana. Go ahead.¡±

    When Seos saw the difference in treatment, he said,

    ¡°You seem to care for your second daughter a lot.¡±

    ¡°My family has been revived since the birth of that child.¡±

    ¡°But that kid is a problem.¡±

    ¡°You mean your eldest daughter?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m frustrated that her ability is still not awakened.¡±

    Seos swept his chin with a puzzled look on his face at Marquis Leroy¡¯s words.

    ¡®That¡¯s strange.¡¯

    He looked at Diana and Leticia again, wondering if he was looking at them wrong. If Diana¡¯s power was the faint sunlight leaking through the curtains, Leticia¡¯s power was the radiant sun itself.

    ¡®There¡¯s no way she¡¯s ipetent.¡¯

    He wondered why her ability hadn¡¯t awakened yet when her energy was so strong.

    ¡®I¡¯m gonna have to talk to that kid.¡¯

    ****

    It was a very long time ago. Before Leticia was born, Marquis Leroy had a very hard time financially because his new business venture was not going well. As if that wasn¡¯t enough, his wife was weak after giving birth to Leticia, and was diagnosed that she no longer would be able to conceive any more.

    However, the business that he thought was going bankrupt prospered, and the Marchioness became healthy andter gave birth to Diana and 3 other children. And good things happened in constant session. It was as if they receivedpensation for all the time they had spent in hardship. Then one day, the couple started discussing how things turned out the way it did.

    After much deliberation, they realized that after they had Diana, everything worked out remarkably well.

    ¡°How great a blessing Diana is to us! I¡¯m always grateful to God.¡±

    It was tea time with Seos after Diana¡¯s birthday party. Leroy had a small look of satisfaction on his face as he took a sip of tea. Seos, who was sitting on the other side, said nothing for a moment. He then suddenly became curious and asked,

    ¡°What is your second daughter¡¯s ability?¡±

    ¡°It rains flowers.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re very beautiful.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leroyughed and said he wanted to show Diana¡¯s ability to Seos next time if there was a chance.

    But Seos didn¡¯tugh, instead he drank his tea.

    ¡®He is too wrapped up with his second daughter.¡¯

    It was not that Seos didn¡¯t understand him, but it didn¡¯t look good.

    ¡°Your eldest daughter seemed really sweet and kind.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the use? She doesn¡¯t have any ability. It¡¯s a shame.¡±

    As soon as Leticia¡¯s name was mentioned, Leroy frowned with unpleasantness.

    Seos looked at Leroy and spoke in a slightly judgmental tone.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be too harsh. She¡¯s your child after all.¡±

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t like this at first. Ability or not, a child is a child.¡±

    However, as the other children developed their abilities, he started topare Leticia with them. He hoped she would develop any ability, even if it was something useless. But it seemed hopeless and he gave up. Marquis Leroy nodded his head firmly as if he had already decided.

    ¡°So I¡¯m going to break off the marriage between Leticia and Young Master Levion.¡±

    ¡°Break off the engagement?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t the second daughter better than the first who has no ability?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    For a moment, Seos was speechless. Then as if he realized something, a heavy sigh escaped his mouth.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be foolish. What if the child has a special ability?¡±

    Seos still didn¡¯t know what Leticia¡¯s ability was, but he was sure it was extraordinary. However, Marquis Leroy didn¡¯t even pretend to listen to Seos¡¯s words.

    ¡°As what I have seen until now, she¡¯s definitely ipetent.¡±

    Seos¡¯s expression hardened at those words. It seemed as if Leroy had already hardened his heart.

    Soon Seos said with a sigh.

    ¡°Marquis Leroy, don¡¯t just believe what you see in front of you, look wider.¡±

    He could see himself going into hell, so he spoke more sternly and bitterly than ever. Nevertheless, the little Leticia seemed to have no ability.

    ¡®Apparently not today.¡¯

    It was the moment when Seos tried to tell Marquis Leroy that his eldest daughter was indeed capable as well. But he didn¡¯t think the Marquis would listen to anything he had to say right now.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since you¡¯ve been here. It¡¯s a waste to sit still. I¡¯ll show you around.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like the first time I¡¯vee here. I¡¯ll look around myself.¡±

    The Marquis, who was watching Seos as he made his way naturally to the garden, let out a long sigh.

    ¡®When is she going to develop ability anyway?¡¯

    Everyone was envious of the Marquis. Starting with Diana, who grew up beautifully, his clever third son, Emil, his fourth son Xavier who excelled in martial arts, and Irene, who had magic talent.

    However, Leticia, who had not had any ability, dragged down the Marquis, who was the center of envy and admiration.

    [But your eldest still hasn¡¯t awakened her abilities, has she?]

    [Why aren¡¯t your eldest the same as the other children?]

    [You must be worried about the first daughter]

    He felt an unbearable anger at those words. He knew better than anyone else that it was a mockery under the guise of worry.

    ¡°I can¡¯t do this.¡±

    He thought it would be better for Diana to marry Levion, since his second daughter, who had more abilities would attract more good things than the first daughter, who had none.

    ¡°I¡¯ll have to talk with Marquis Levion soon.¡±

    He nned to break off the engagement of Leticia and Levion, and let Diana and Levion get engaged.

 Chapter 4 - Maybe Its Better To Break

    <h4>Chapter 4 - Maybe It''s Better To Break</h4>

    ***

    ¡°Diana, how did you spend your time today?¡±

    At the dinner table. Marquis Leroy asked, setting a finely chopped steak down in front of Diana. Diana nced at Leticia and smiled broadly.

    ¡°I had a chat with brother Levion over tea.¡±

    Leticia, who was silently eating, paused. Even though she was in the mansion, she didn¡¯t know Levion came. It meant that Levion came to see only Diana, and not her.

    Pretending not to see Leticia, who was frozen and still, Marquis Leroy continued asking Diana.

    ¡°Young Master Elle?¡±

    ¡°Yes. He even gave me a present saying he was sorry he couldn¡¯te to my birthday party.¡±

    The Leroy and the Elle family were close since childhood and werefortable calling each other informally.

    Diana held out her wrist, bragging about how Levion had given her a ruby bracelet.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it beautiful?¡±

    ¡°It looks good on you, dear. Do you like it?¡±

    ¡°Yes! I¡¯ve been wearing this bracelet for a while now.¡±

    She even waved it deliberately to show it to Leticia as if Leticia couldn¡¯t already see it.

    Leticia, however, just ate quietly. It was then when Diana lost interest and turned away with a sour face.

    Somehow, Leticia felt her throat burning, she took a sip of water and sighed.

    ¡®He came to give Diana a present.¡¯

    She tried to pretend to be fine, but she couldn¡¯t help but have mixed feelings inside.

    The reason Levion came to the mansion was not because of her, but because of Diana.

    There was something else she was upset about.

    ¡®You didn¡¯t celebrate my birthday. You said it¡¯s a joke.¡¯

    They didn¡¯t get engaged because they loved each other, but they still spent some time together, so she thought there was at least a hint of affection and minimal interest.

    But now, almost three years after they got engaged, Leticia was not so sure.

    As Leticia continued to nibble, the Marquis asked Emil.

    ¡°Emil, how is life at the Academy these days? Are your preparations for the Imperial Civil Service going well?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m working hard, so trust me.¡±

    Emil, the third son of the Leroy family, was smart to enter the academy, where only one in a hundred could get in, and the professors had high hopes for him.

    Later, the Marquis asked his fourth son, Xavier, if he should be a member of the Imperial Knights, and gave his fifth daughter, Irene, a worried look, wondering if it would be too hard for her to study at the Academy of Magic.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    Watching the scene, Leticia tried to swallow a bitter smile.

    The Marquis expressed his concerns for his children in a gentle voice, but he did not give Leticia even a single nce. It was as if he didn¡¯t need her.

    She felt like she was alone again. No, it was the moment when she realized once again that she was alone all along.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but may I be excused? I¡¯m a little tired.¡±

    Leticia asked cautiously, after all, she just couldn¡¯t get the food down her throat. The Marquis nodded insincerely and continued to whisper to the other children.

    As soon as Leticia was out of the way, the Marquis called Diana as if he had been waiting for this moment.

    ¡°Diana.¡±

    ¡°Yes, father.¡±

    ¡°What do you think of Young Master Elle?¡±

    ¡°Brother Levion?¡±

    Diana didn¡¯t know what the Marquis intended to ask, and instead of replying, she tilted her head. Soon the Marquis said a bit more precisely.

    ¡°As a marriage partner.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    The family, who had been eating quietly, looked up at the Marquis in surprise.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to talk to Marquis Elle about canceling the engagement between Leticia and Young Master Elle, and suggest an engagement with you.¡±

    Seeing Diana touching her lips, unable to answer immediately, the Marquis asked again.

    ¡°What do you think?¡±

    ***

    It had been a few days since then. Somehow, today was the only day Leticia felt strange.

    ¡®What is this uneasy feeling¡­¡¯

    She couldn¡¯t figure out what caused it, so with the thought ¡®it¡¯s probably nothing¡¯ in her mind, and left the room.

    Today was the day she had promised to have tea time at Elle¡¯s mansion with Levion.

    Not wanting to ruin the pleasant mood, Leticia was determined to let go of the strange feelings. However, a short timeter, she ran into Diana in the hallway. As soon as Diana saw Leticia, she frowned and asked,

    ¡°Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°I have an appointment with brother Levion.¡±

    ¡°Haha.¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    Diana quickly covered her mouth, but theughter had already flown out. Then she nervously waved her hand as Leticia stared at her suspiciously.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing.¡±

    ¡°What is it? Why are youughing?¡±

    ¡°Nothing, really.¡±

    ¡°Nothing at all?¡±

    Contrary to Diana¡¯s words, something felt strange.

    The moment Leticia turned away, Diana walked up to her. Then she whispered quietly.

    ¡°I feel sorry for you.¡±

    ¡°What¡­..?¡±

    Before she could ask what the hell that meant, Diana¡¯s mouth twitched up in a grin.

    ¡°Please have a good time.¡±

    More than ever, Leticia was hardened at Diana¡¯s bright smile.

    ***

    ¡®What did she mean¡­?¡¯

    On the way to Elle¡¯s mansion, Diana¡¯s words lingered over and over in Leticia¡¯s ears.

    It was as if that moment would be theirst.

    Leticia wondered for a long time what Diana¡¯s intention was in saying such a thing. But before she had time to think deeply about it, the horseman announced their arrival at Elle¡¯s mansion.

    Cautiously getting off the carriage, Leticia was led by the butler of the Elle mansion to the reception room.

    Levion was already there waiting.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time, hasn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°Yes. How are you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m always the same.¡±

    Levion answered indifferently and took a sip of tea.

    In fact, the moment she saw Levion, the words she was holding back came up to her throat.

    ¡®Why did you only go to see Diana that day? Didn¡¯t you want to see me?¡¯

    She was disappointed, but she didn¡¯t want to ruin this moment that they were sharing together after a long time, so she deliberately kept herposure.

    ¡°Brother, is the training hard?¡±

    Leticia asked with a worried look on her face, but Levion was still looking at Leticia with the same miserable look he had when they met in the training hall.

    ¡°You¡¯re still carefree, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Do you know what is being said at home?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s expression hardened as Levion stared at her coldly.

    She didn¡¯t know exactly what they said, but she could easily guess that it was not good.

    ¡°There¡¯s some talk going around¡­¡­¡­.?¡±

    Leticia asked, squeezing the hem of her dress in a somewhat anxious manner. A deep sigh came out of Levion¡¯s mouth as he looked at Leticia indifferently.

    ¡°They are talking about canceling our engagement.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Leticia asked.

    In disbelief, Leticia looked at Levion nkly. However, Levionughed briefly and raised the corners of his mouth.

    ¡°You really don¡¯t know anything, do you?¡±

    Letisha¡¯s mouth closed spontaneously at the sound of his voice, which was devoid of any emotion.

    Levion was the only person who was able to help andfort her among her family members who ignored her when her ability was never awakened.

    At some point, she knew very well that Levion was not happy with her, but his indifferent attitude that he wouldn¡¯t care if the engagement was canceled made her eyes burn.

    All she could do was to try her best to keep it from falling apart.

    However, Levion¡¯s eyes as he watched Leticia grew colder by the minute. Soon he sighed in frustration and got up. Then he walked past Leticia. No, he tried to walk past her.

    ¡°How about brother?¡±

    Her low voice stopped both of them in their tracks.

    He turned around and his eyes met Leticia¡¯s, who was looking up at him with moist blue eyes.

    ¡°What do you want to do brother? Do you want to break up with me?¡±

    Unlike her cautious appearance, her intention to ask was direct. Still, she was nervous and her lips quivered.

    ¡°It¡¯s up to you.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    At the pitying look that prompted him, Levion fell silent instead of replying.

    At first he felt sorry for her looking like this and wanted to protect her. For a time, neither of them had awakened their abilities, and they were able to help each other.

    But now, it was different. He was sick and tired of it.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t say, ¡®I¡¯m not making any efforts¡¯.¡±

    Leticia cried out and tears seemed to fall at any moment.

    Nevertheless, Levion retaliated again.

    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s better to break up.¡±

    Even though he was facing Leticia, who was crumbling miserably in front of him, he did not falter. In fact, he turned away, as if he did not want to see her any longer.

    ¡®I¡­.did I do something wrong?¡¯

    The unreachable words came incessantly to her mouth. She thought that nothing would change if her ability was not awakened. Not the rtionship with her family, not the rtionship with her fianc¨¦.

    However, she was foolish to realize just now that everything was wrong from the beginning. What she believed to be solid could easily be flimsy at any time.

    The engagement was called off and she was the only one who didn¡¯t know.

    Laughing bitterly and helplessly, Leticia slowly got up from her seat. It was obvious that the warm sun was shining down, but her body shivered like her mood.

    Barely able to stand up and leave the parlor, Leticia climbed into the carriage that was already waiting at the main gate.

    ¡®Break the engagement¡­¡­break the engagement¡­.¡¯

    On the way back to the Leroy residence, Leticia mumbled as she looked out the window.

    It never urred to her that her engagement would be canceled. She never expected that Levion would want to break up.

    ¡®Why¡­¡­¡­?¡¯

    Leticia gripped her hands tightly on herp. She couldn¡¯t understand why there was such a sudden break-up.

    However, she had some ideas. Because she didn¡¯t have the ability?

    She was so frustrated by this fact that it made her eyes burn.

    In order not to embarrass her family and her fianc¨¦, Levion, Leticia looked for a way to awaken her ability. She went looking for rare books on abilities, and she tried in every direction, including looking for records of the Leroy family¡¯s abilities that were written down for generations.

    But her efforts copsed in vain like sandcastles on the waves.

    ¡®I¡¯m like this, not because I want to.¡¯

    Eventually, Leticia buried her face in herp to hold back her tears.

    She felt more hurt thinking about her family than Levion, who wanted to break off the engagement.

    At first, they were a close-knit family that had a difficult time with the economic situation, but they still took care of each other. She never doubted that they were happierter when the Marquis¡¯s business was picked up.

    But that was just her illusion, and as her siblings¡¯ abilities awakened, they began to change more and more. Her parents¡¯ discrimination and the neglect of her siblings.

    It was heartbreaking when they stared at her coldly, but the sad part was that she was the one who got used to their eyes.

    ¡°Lady, we¡¯ve arrived.¡±

    At the sound of the horseman¡¯s voice, Leticia lifted her head from her knees. She tried to get off, but for some reason, her feet wouldn¡¯t move.

    ¡®My whole family knew?¡¯

    The thought drove her crazy, and she wasn¡¯t confident to face her family.

    Eventually, Leticia gave a shallow sigh and said to the horseman,

    ¡°Excuse me, but can we go to the square? There are some things I need to buy.¡±

    ¡°Yes, My Lady.¡±

    The carriage drove towards the square again.

    There was nothing much to do in the square, but now she needed time to calm down those feelings that were raging inside her. Her mind, however, was filled with Levion¡¯s words.

    ¡®If it¡¯s true that you¡¯re trying to break up a marriage¡­¡­¡­¡­.¡¯

    Her breath caught in her throat at the thought.

    Leticia managed topose herself and get her head around it again.

    ¡®Let¡¯s just pretend I don¡¯t know first.¡¯

    She exhaled, sping her hands together. But the anxiety wouldn¡¯t go away.

    ¡®But what if my parents tell me they broke off the engagement first? What should I do then?¡¯

    The more she thought about it, the more she seemed to be trapped in a corner.

    And yet, at this moment, there was nothing she could do.

    ¡°My Lady, we¡¯ve reached the square.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°My Lady?¡±

    ¡°Oh, yes. Thank you.¡±

    Leticia, who heard the horseman¡¯s voice a littleter, came to her senses and got out of the carriage.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be back in an hour.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have a maid. Will you be okay?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be okay.¡±

    It was a ce she had wandered many times before, alone.

    Leticia went to the square after handing a single gold coin to the horseman as a sign that he should go somewhere to rest.

    Many people were passing through the square. Children walking side by side taking their parents¡¯ hands, friends joking andughing happily, and lovers gazing adorably at each other¡­

    Walking alone in the midst of all these people, Leticia felt lonely. Whether she was in the mansion or elsewhere, there was still no one by her side.

    ¡®It¡¯s the same after all these years¡­¡¯

    Leticia smiled bitterly as she walked around the square. But instead of her spirits sinking, they seemed to be calming down.

    It was then.

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s¡­¡±

    Leticia, who was looking at things sold on the street, stopped walking. In front of the store, people were ying a game where they had to throw a coin in a small target hole and get a prize if they won.

    ¡°Come on,e on. If you put it in that target, you get a bag of flour!¡±

    Passersby were interested in the game and threw coins into the target, but they all missed. It seemed that the target was too far away and the hole was too small to seed.

    ¡°That¡¯s a game I yed before.¡±

    Leticia, who was hovering in front of the target, stared at it and thought. It brought back memories of when she was with her brothers and sisters when she was little.

    At that moment, a girl and a boy whispered to the tall man towering in front of Leticia.

    ¡°Did you hear that, brother? He says it¡¯s a bag of flour. Do you have a single penny?¡±

    ¡°No. Let¡¯s go home.¡±

    The man pulled his sister¡¯s arm but the girl didn¡¯t want to leave.

    Leticia, who was watching them from behind, cautiously called out to them.

    ¡°You can use this¡­.¡±

    ¡°Huh..?¡±

    The moment their eyes met, Leticia stopped speaking in surprise. Perhaps it was the same for the other person, his dark gray eyes opened wide. It was Enoch. The man Leticia met once before.

    But his sister, who knew nothing about it, looked at the small coin in Leticia¡¯s hand and asked,

    ¡°Are you sure we can use it?¡±

    As soon as his sister tried to get the coin, Enoch stopped her. But his sister pushed Enoch away and got a coin from Leticia.

    ¡°Thank you! Let¡¯s go, Ian.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll give you half a bag of flour if I seed.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    Leticia waved her hand lightly, but the girl and the boy went ahead, saying they would do it.

    Enoch, who was watching his siblings disappear quickly before he could catch them, let out a long sigh.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my brother and sister are still immature.¡±

    ¡°No, they¡¯re very active and good looking.¡±

    Leticia smiled at Enoch as she looked at Enoch¡¯s siblings.

    ¡°They look alike.¡±

    ¡°Yes. They are twins.¡±

    ¡°You all seem very close.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for tolerating us.¡±

    Enoch, who was smiling awkwardly at Leticia¡¯s words, slowly held out his hand.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I¡¯mte in greeting you. My name is Enoch Achilles.¡±

    ¡°My name is Letisha Leroy.¡±

    ¡°Yes. Yes, I remember you.¡±

    Leticia was about to take Enoch¡¯s hand but looked up at him with her eyes wide open. She wondered how he remembered her when they only encountered each other once briefly.

 Chapter 5 - I Wish I Had A Family Like This

    <h4>Chapter 5 - I Wish I Had A Family Like This</h4>

    Leticiaughed a little without realizing it, but as soon as she let go of his hand, she asked.

    ¡°Come to think of it, is your hand okay?¡±

    ¡°Thanks to you, I recovered quickly.¡±

    ¡°Thank God.¡±

    ¡°But why don¡¯t you try it yourself?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    As she tilted his head, Enoch naturally winked toward his younger siblings.

    Only then,?did Leticia touch her cheek embarrassingly when she realized?that?he meant to y the game.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m unlucky.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°But people around me are good at things like that.¡±

    It was a fascinating thing.

    Oddly enough, she?always?failed?when?she yed such games, but her family always won. Perhaps that¡¯s why the Marquis loved his other children more, and he alwaysmented that she was an unlucky one.

    It was then.

    ¡°Oppa!¡±

    ¡°Brother!¡±

    At the same time as the sudden cheers, Enoch¡¯s younger siblings ran over with a big smile.

    ¡°We won a bag of flour!¡±

    The owner was preparing a bag of flour with a mixed expression when the kids screamed with excitement. Enoch¡¯s sister approached quickly as Leticia pped her hands saying they did well.

    ¡°Oh, where are my manners? I have to say hello first. My name is El. Elle Achilles.¡±

    ¡°And I¡­¡­.¡±

    ¡°This is my spoiled twin brother, Ian Achilles.¡±

    Ian red at El, who intercepted his introduction. However, El, who ignored him, just stared at Leticia as if waiting for something.

    Recognizing?what?that meant, Leticia slowly opened her mouth.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m Leticia Leroy.¡±

    ¡°I see, thanks to Miss Leroy, I got a bag of flour! I¡¯ll give you half a bag¡­.¡­¡­.¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine.¡±

    Right away, Leticia hurriedly waved her hands and refused. Elle then pursed her lips in disappointment.

    Enoch, who was quietly watching the three, said to Leticia.

    ¡°But it¡¯s true.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I mean, people around you are lucky.¡±

    At first, he?didn¡¯t believe what she said was true, but now he believed it.

    When Enoch?nced?at her with a curious look, Leticia?smirked?as if she understood.

    ¡°See? I¡¯m right, right?¡±

    They?had?met for the first time today, but Enoch¡¯s younger siblings treated her as if they had known her for a long time. Thanks to this, Leticia didn¡¯t feel awkward?about all?the time she spent with the three.

    ¡°Come visit our mansion sometime. I¡¯ll make you a tart. I¡¯ll make it with the flour I got thanks to you, so make sure toe,¡± said El. But next to her, Ian disagreed.

    ¡°You¡¯ll get sick if you eat what she makes.¡±

    ¡°Who are you to interrupt? I¡¯m making it!¡±

    El was annoyed, lightly pushing Ian¡¯s arm away.

    At?this?point, Enoch?felt?ashamed of his siblings who started arguing. Leticia, who quietly alternated between the three, beganughing without?even?realizing it.

    The three naturally turned toward Leticia.

    Smiling brightly, Leticia wriggled her hands with a bewildered look on her eyes.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I offended you. I¡¯m just¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m jealous.¡±

    Even if they looked at each other disapprovingly, she could feel?the?affection.

    They were so close that she felt like a part of the family.

    ¡®What I want is?something?like this¡­¡­¡¯

    A rtionship?that when they get into a fight, they would quickly make up andugh again.

    A family that can get close?together.

    Unknowingly, Leticia?became?depressed?again.?She lowered her head,?but?then she heard a?slight?chuckle. When she?lifted?her head in surprise, she met Enoch, who smiled lightly.

    ¡°You cane and yfortably.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°If you feel burdened¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    ¡°Oh, no, no! Never, it¡¯s not a burden at all!¡±

    Leticia, who answered btedly, waved her hands.

    Enoch¡¯s mouth went up smoothly when he looked at Leticia as if she had made a promise.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±

    ¡°Yes, thank you¡­¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    Somehow, a corner of her heart tickled, Leticia gently lowered her eyes and held her hands tightly.

    The gentle gaze she hadn¡¯t felt in a long time was unfamiliar, and somehow she felt embarrassed and ashamed.

    ***

    The sun was setting and before she knew it, it was evening?so?she had no choice but to say goodbye to Enoch and his twin siblings.

    The carriage ride back to the mansion was strange, she found herself smiling constantly.

    ¡®It¡¯s been a long time since I have had this much fun.¡¯

    She wondered if it was because she was too used to being ignored for so long.?Perhaps,?that¡¯s why she felt touched and her heart only kept getting excited.

    ¡®She was talking about tarts the whole time. Does she like tarts?¡¯

    Leticia thought, recalling El¡¯s words, invited her toe to eat tarts.

    A picture of a well-baked tart appeared in her mind.

    ¡®Come to think of it, I think my siblings would really enjoy it.¡¯

    The memory of baking cookies for her siblings, who loved sweet desserts as children, came to mind. At first, she didn¡¯t know how to make them and it took her a long time to finish. However, the moment she saw her siblings eating them?with so much delight, she forgot all about her hardships and felt inexplicably full of joy.

    ¡®There were times like that.¡¯

    Laughing helplessly, Leticia looked out the window.

    A nostalgic time that could no longer be captured or returned.

    ¡°Miss, we¡¯ve arrived.¡±

    And now it¡¯s time to face the merciless reality.

    It was?simr to?having cold water poured over her head.

    Leticia swallowed a sigh, took the horseman¡¯s hand, and slowly got out of the carriage.

    A momentter, as she was about to enter the mansion, she stopped dead in her tracks.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    A huge, magnificent mansion, and her family living in that mansion.

    ¡®Is it okay for me to be here?¡¯

    Suddenly, she felt suffocated by sudden doubts. The way Enoch and his siblings had joked around with each other today, one after the other made her heart ache.

    ¡°I wish I had a family like that¡­¡±

    Then as if knowing it was nonsense, Leticia stopped thinking.

    ¡°What am I saying? My family is here.¡±

    Leticia sighed slowly and entered the mansion.

    ***

    Incidents always hit like an unpredictable storm.

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that you¡¯re close to the Achilles family.¡±

    Leticia barely swallowed the sigh that was building up to the edge of her neck, and was questioned by Marquis Leroy.

    Marquis Leroy clicked his tongue.

    ¡°Why are you associating with such an unlucky family?¡±

    When the?former?sturdy Duke of Achilles died suddenly, the Duchess could not endure for several years and passed away due to illness. And all that remained were the eldest son Enoch Achilles and the twin siblings El and Ian Achilles.

    However, strangely enough, when the duke and his wife left the world, the status of the Achilles family dropped as if it were a lie.?Now they were struggling with huge debts. So, nothing was ever good enough, and people looked at the Achilles family and whispered that it was an unlucky family.

    One of them was Marquis Leroy.

    ¡°Misfortune is contagious. You should be more careful, especially since you have no luck.¡±

    ¡°But father, I¡­¡±

    ¡°Keep that in mind.¡±

    Marquis Leroy cut off Leticia¡¯s words as he didn¡¯t need to hear them. He immediately got up from his seat and walked away, as if she wasn¡¯t worthy to converse with.

    Left alone, Leticia held her hands tightly as she slumped down.

    ¡®Misfortune is contagious. So stay away from people with bad luck.¡¯

    That¡¯s what Marquis Leroy always said. But today was the only time she didn¡¯t want to hear those words.

    ¡®What is it¡­.?¡¯

    Why does he think that misfortune is like a contagious disease? Leticia?tightly?gripped her teacup, which had gone cold.

    In fact, she had heard rumors about the Achilles family. They said that if you spend too much time with them, you will be unlucky.

    But unlike the rumors of bad luck and bad fortune, they treated her more humanely than her own family. She even wished she could be a part of their family.

    Enoch¡¯s eyes were neatly folded between his disheveled ck hair.

    Unlike his cold and sharp impression, his gaze on her was like the sunshine of spring.

    It was warm and soft.

    ¡®I don¡¯t want to be far away.¡¯

    They were the first people she wanted to be close to.

    However, it was obvious that Marquis Leroy would not leave her alone when she wanted to spend time with them, and all she could do was sigh.

    Eventually, she walked out into the hallway alone and saw a familiar face.

    ¡°Hello.¡±

    It was Seos, the Godfather of Marquis Leroy.

    Leticia immediately greeted him. However, Seos looked at Leticia with an unknown expression.

    ¡°Can I have a moment of your time?¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d like to talk to you.¡±

    Somehow, his words scared her, but she couldn¡¯t reject him. Eventually, Leticia followed Seios to the parlor.

    ¡°What would you like to talk about?¡±

    As soon as she sat down, the maids served her hot tea and a sweet dessert. But that didn¡¯t make her feel better.

    Leticia, who was looking down with uneasiness, popped her head up. But Seos seemed to be watching her from the beginning, and their eyes met immediately.

    Before she could react, Seos said in a calm voice.

    ¡°There is nothing to be nervous about. I just want to talk to you about your ability.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    ¡°Have you experienced anything strange or strange happening around you?¡±

    At Seos¡¯s? words, Leticia touched her lips and searched her memory.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think I have, sir.¡±

    She had been thinking about it, but she couldn¡¯t think of anything that she found strange or odd about it.

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure.¡±

    ¡°Please feel free to talk to me about even the most trivial things.¡±

    Seos said again, as if he thought there must be something. Reluctantly, Leticia went back a little deeper into her memory.

    Then another thought urred to her.

    ¡°I have no luck.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Compared to my family, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve had any good things that happened to me.¡±

    Seos could not hide his disappointment, as he had expected something in those words.

    There must be something. But there was no way to know what it was, and it was frustrating.

    Leticia, who was watching Seos¡¯s frustrated face, spoke carefully.

    ¡°I did my own research on my abilities, but I couldn¡¯t find anything.¡±

    She was more desperate than anyone else, because she believed that if only her ability could awaken, she could restore the rtionship with her family and her fianc¨¦.

    She thought there was something wrong with her body that prevented her from awakening, so she visited a famous doctor and tried all kinds of folk remedies, but to no avail.

    In the end, when Leticia bowed her head in disgrace, Seos said.

    ¡°There is no need for you to be awakened.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°Because you already have the ability.¡±

    ¡°Are you certain?¡±

    Thump. Thump.

    The beating of her heart thudded in her ears. Unbelievably, Leticia couldn¡¯t even breathe.

    ¡°Then do you know what my ability is?¡±

    Her hands were trembling with anticipation, so Leticia grabbed the hem of her dress tightly, trying to calm down.

    But apparently Seos¡¯ expression was gloomy.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I don¡¯t know that well either.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s an excellent ability. I assure you.¡±

    Seos¡¯ face was filled with sincerity. At once, Leticia smiled faintly.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    She felt a little relieved to have someone assure her?of?having an ability even though it was unknown.

    But she didn¡¯t realize that someone was secretly listening outside.

 Chapter 6 - â€˜No Luckâ€™ Is An Ability

    <h4>Chapter 6 - ¡®No Luck¡¯ Is An Ability</h4>

    ¡®Do I really have an ability?¡¯

    If so, what is it? Why can¡¯t I see it?

    The next morning, the talk with Seos flickered in Leticia¡¯s mind.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need to be awakened, because you already have?an?ability.¡±

    ¡®It would be nice if I really did.¡¯

    But at the same time, there was a contradictory wish that she didn¡¯t want to have the ability.

    ¡®If I really had the ability.¡¯

    What?about?the discrimination and the neglect she has suffered so far?

    ¡®No, I still need the ability, so that my family won¡¯t be ashamed of me any more.¡¯

    Leticia wanted to tell her family that she had?an?ability, but she didn¡¯t know what it was,?so?she?decided?it was better to keep quiet. They wouldn¡¯t believe her if she told them anyway.

    ¡°What on earth is this ability?¡±

    What kind of ability?is it for it to not?awaken?

    ¡°Miss.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Miss?¡±

    ¡°¡­Oh, sorry. Did you call me?¡±

    Leticia, who?nkly stood?there, turned in surprise. There, the baker was enthusiastic and readily to teach her how to make tarts.

    The image of El and Ian, who fought with each other the day about making tarts, came to mind, and Leticia paid a visit to the kitchen. Fortunately, the baker who worked at the mansion said he would help.

    As she made it, she thought about getting close to her siblings while giving them dessert like before.

    ¡°How about figs on top of the tart?¡±

    ¡°Yes, thank you.¡±

    With the help of the baker, Leticia rolled out the dough with a stick, put it in a mold and baked it in the oven. She spread fig jam on top of the freshly baked tart to bring out the vors, and also ced the chopped figs on top of the jam.

    ¡°Well done, youngdy.¡±

    At first nce, the fig tart looked delicious.

    The fig tart was better than she had expected and Leticia was very proud.

    ¡°Thank you for your help.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d I could be of help, Young Lady.¡±

    After expressing her gratitude to the baker, Leticia cut the tart into quarters and separated them on a clean te. Then the baker asked,

    ¡°Are you not going to eat it, Young Lady?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I can make another one and eat itter.¡±

    Leticia said thank you again for today and left with a te of fig tarts.

    Soon the first ce she went was Diana¡¯s room.

    ¡°Diana.¡±

    Leticia knocked on the door of Diana¡¯s room. When there was no response, she spoke again.

    ¡°Hey, can Ie in?¡±

    But there was still no answer. Leticia knocked on the door and went in, but Diana seemed to be out.

    ¡®She¡¯s not here.¡¯

    As she left the room, she ran into a passing maid. It was the maid who was assisting Diana.

    ¡°Miss, what¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s ¡­¡­.¡±

    After a moment of hesitation, Leticia handed the maid a te.

    ¡°Can you pass this to Diana when shees back?¡±

    ¡°Yes, of course.¡±

    It was a pity that she couldn¡¯t see Diana in person, but it was okay.

    Leticia gave her regards to the maid and then went to Emil¡¯s room. Fortunately, this time Emil answered.

    ¡°Come in.¡±

    As soon as the permission was granted, Leticia carefully opened the door and entered.

    A brilliant mind, Emil always excelled at the Academy of Sciences and earned the fullest expectations of his professors and the family. He was now in the midst of preparing for the Imperial Civil Service exam.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, sister?¡±

    ¡°Oh, I have something for you.¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    Seeing the curious expression on Emil¡¯s face, Leticia ced the tart te she was holding on the table.

    ¡°¡­this is ¡­¡­.¡±

    ¡°I remember you used to like desserts, so I baked?for you.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I hope it¡¯s to your liking.¡±

    She beckoned him to try it quickly, but Emil only looked at Leticia silently.Then he quickly said with a sigh.

    ¡°Sister.¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m a little busy right now.¡±

    Leticia immediately understood what he meant and managed to smile.

    ¡°Sorry, then work hard.¡±

    As soon as she left the room with an embarrassed look on?her?face, she let out a long sigh. She didn¡¯t have high expectations, but she didn¡¯t expect such ack of response.

    Next she went to Xavier¡¯s room? and gave him the tart. It was obvious that he didn¡¯t like it, but Leticia was just happy that he epted it.

    Then, she immediately went to Irene¡¯s room to?hand?her?a te of??tart.

    ¡°Sister, I don¡¯t like tarts. I don¡¯t even like figs.¡±

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s ¡­¡­.¡±

    A sigh naturally escaped from Leticia¡¯s lips.

    However, Leticia managed to smile and rmended it again.

    ¡°Still, try one bite to see¡­.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t like it.¡±

    With that, Irene turned her face away as if she didn¡¯t want to look at it any longer. Leticia couldn¡¯t convince her to eat any more at that sight.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    She didn¡¯t expect Irene to be so ufortable, and she couldn¡¯t hide her embarrassment.

    Back in the days when even a small dessert was a luxury, Irene ate the burnt cookies without hesitation and even said it was delicious. That Irene was longer there.

    Leticia left Irene¡¯s room immediately and went back to her room, suppressing her mncholy. In her room stood Mary, who was preparing tea.

    ¡°Miss, are you here?¡±

    ¡°Yeah¡­¡­.¡±

    Leticia, who came in with a trudge and no strength, set the tart she was holding down on the table and sat down in a chair. Mary, who approached her with a worried look on her drooping face, looked at the tart and asked.

    ¡°Where did the tarte from?¡±

    ¡°Oh, I made it¡­¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    The tart, loaded with ripe figs, looked amazing at first nce.

    ¡°It looks delicious.¡±

    Leticia, who was sitting sadly, looked up at those words.

    ¡°Would you like to try some?¡±

    ¡°Yes? Can I really eat it?¡±

    ¡°Yes. Please try it and let me know if it¡¯s good.¡±

    Leticia quickly put a fork in Mary¡¯s hand. After a moment of panic, Mary meekly did as Leticia said and took a bite of the tart.

    However, as soon as she put it in her mouth, her expression hardened.

    ¡°Miss¡­..¡±

    ¡°What? Does it taste bad?¡±

    ¡°Whoa ¡­¡­.¡±

    Leticia naturally tensed up from seeing Mary¡¯s expression. She looked at Mary with a stiff face and their eyes met immediately.

    ¡°If it¡¯s bad, just spit it out¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s so good!¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s very good. Did you?really?make this yourself?¡±

    Mary took another bite of the tart, her eyes twinkling. Leticia felt her nerves rx as she saw how Mary enjoyed it.

    ¡°I¡¯m d you like it.¡±

    It was a pity that Irene didn¡¯t eat the tart, but she was relieved that it still suited the taste to the others.

    ***

    At first it was just a coincidence.

    ¡°Are we really allowed to eat this?¡±

    ¡°Master Xavier told me to eat it.¡±

    The next day, on her way through the corridor, Leticia heard the voices of the maidservants through a crack in the open room, but something didn¡¯t seem right, so Leticia stopped in her tracks and concentrated on their conversation.

    ¡°This tart is really good.¡±

    ¡°Yes, it is. By the way, I heard that it was made by the First Lady.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    Thump.

    She could hear the faint beating sound in her heart. She hoped it was just an illusion, but they mentioned ¡®Leticia¡¯.

    ¡®You didn¡¯t eat it, you gave it to the maids.¡¯

    Leticia bit her lip as she felt somethingplicated.

    ¡®Did the others eat it?¡¯

    Suddenly remembering? something, Leticia went to Emil¡¯s room. There was no answer to her pounding on the door, so Leticia entered cautiously. But the room was quiet, no one was in it.

    ¡®Where did you go?¡¯

    Just as she was about to leave, she saw something. Leticia nced at it and slowly approached.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    The tart she had given Emil was still on the table.

    It looked as if it was abandoned.

    No, it couldn¡¯t be.

    ¡®Sometimes you can¡¯t eat when you¡¯re busy¡­¡­¡­.¡¯

    Leticia came out of the room feeling bitter and burning in her eyes. She bit her lip hard to hold it in.

    ¡®Irene didn¡¯t want it, Xavier gave it to others, and Emil didn¡¯t eat it¡­¡¯

    She went straight to the garden to calm herself down. But the dialogue between the maids and the tart that was ced untouched on Emil¡¯s table did not leave her mind.

    ¡®It¡¯s all right. It happens.¡¯

    Leticia finally calmed down and headed towards the fountain when she stopped. Strangely, there were many birds gathered there today.

    It looked as if they were eating something.

    ¡°No way, it¡¯s ¡­¡­.¡±

    She had a bad feeling about this, but she kept approaching it as if she was possessed.

    And the moment she saw the birds eating the discarded tarts, Leticia couldn¡¯t say a word.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    She felt like her heart was broken in pieces and shoved into a trash can.

    ***

    ¡°The first youngdy.¡±

    After the meal was over, the maids rested for a while. In the middle of gathering and eating the remaining dessert, one of the maids began to look around. As soon as she saw that no one was around, she whispered in a small voice.

    ¡°She has an ability.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Yes. I heard it myself.¡±

    On the day that Leticia and Seos had their conversation in the reception room, the maid sensed something unusual and, unable to contain her curiosity, secretly eavesdropped from outside.

    The maid spoke more covertly, recalling what she had heard at that time.

    ¡°By the way, do you know what they were talking about?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Thatck of luck seems to be her ability.¡±

    The maids, who were listening intently, asked back with expressions of dismay.

    ¡°Is there such an ability?¡±

    ¡°Well, ¡­¡­the seconddy can make?it?rain flowers. So, the firstdy¡¯sck of luck can?also?be an ability.¡±

    The maid shrugged her shoulders lightly and everyone started nodding.

    ¡°But I feel sorry for her. She¡¯s been ignored by her family.¡±

    ¡°Well, yeah. I feel sorry for her.¡±

    ¡°Wait a minute.¡±

    One of the maids, who was quietly listening to the conversation and eating her dessert, suddenly continued with an anxious expression.

    ¡°Ifck of luck is an ability, shouldn¡¯t it be avoided?¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°She can make others have bad luck as well.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s obsession with luck, ronin, and superstition exerted his influence not only on his family but also on his servants. So as soon as the other maids heard?of this, they?immediately?turned pale and looked at each other in bewilderment.

    ¡°What shall we do! I even ate the tart that she made.¡±

    ¡°I ate it too.¡±

    ¡°So did I.¡±

    ¡°What are we going to do now¡­..?¡±

    Everyone was solemn because they couldn¡¯t think of a better way.

    Then one of the maidservants said with a tragic look on her face.

    ¡°Let¡¯s avoid her from now on.¡±

    ¡°Then what about meals and refreshments prepping?¡±

    ¡°What are we supposed to do?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll leave it to Mary.¡±

    ¡°Yes. That¡¯s better.¡±

    They were sure that Mary would notin about taking care of Leticia and would dly ept it.

    The maids breathed a sigh of relief as they were thinking the same thing.

    ¡°Phew¡­ that¡¯s good.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. We were about to get unlucky too, weren¡¯t we?¡±

    The maids decided that from now on, they should not approach the eldest Lady who had bad luck.

    ***

    ¡®What am I? What have I been doing all this time?¡¯

    After escaping from the mansion anding to the fountain in the square, Leticia sat in a daze and reflected on the days that had passed.

    A good day with the family? Of course there was. When she was a child, her family was not rich and it was even in hardship, but they were rather closer and friendlier than now.

    ¡°But what about now?¡±

    The living condition was much better, but their rtionship was far from what it used to be. Now, her family always felt ashamed of her and ignored her.

    In the beginning, her family didn¡¯t treat her like this. They even worried about her for a while,forted and encouraged her.

    But since her ability never awakened, they gradually started to give up on her, and now¡­¡­..

    ¡°¡­¡±

    Leticia stared down at the ground incessantly. The thought of having to endure this misery alone suffocated her.

    That¡¯s when it happened.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    Leticia looked up as soon as she saw the shadows spreading at her feet. In front of her, gently tilting their head, El and Ian were looking at her.

    ¡°Are you sick?¡±

    ¡°Oh, no, no¡­¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t look so good.¡±

    El and Ian took turns?carefully observing?Leticia¡¯s face. They could see the worry in her eyes, and Leticia suddenly felt like crying.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m not sick.¡±

    She clutched the hem of her dress and managed to smile. El, who was watching Leticia with a strange look, tugged on Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Go somewhere with me.¡±

    ¡°El, where are you going all of a sudden?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Ian was perplexed by the sudden action and?questioned?El, but El replied without sincerity.

    ¡°Just be quiet and follow me.¡±

 Chapter 7 - Ive Been Waiting For You

    <h4>Chapter 7 - I''ve Been Waiting For You</h4>

    El brought Leticia to the Achilles mansion, of all ces. Leticia was so surprised that she let go of her hand and stood still.

    ¡°Why are we here¡­?¡±

    ¡°Why? I told you that you cane and y anytime.¡±

    El walked into the mansion as if it was a matter of fact.

    Leticia hesitated in front of the gate.

    ¡®Can I reallye in?¡¯

    Then Ian beckoned.

    ¡°Come on in.¡±

    After a moment of hesitation, Leticia entered and mumbled to herself.

    ¡®It¡¯s very¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡¯

    It was lonely. No, empty was the right word to describe it.

    It was a huge mansion but somehow it was strangely quiet and empty. It was as if she had walked into a big empty shell.

    Was it because she didn¡¯t see people around?

    Come to think of it, she didn¡¯t see a single servant passing by.

    Leticia thought it was strange, but El took her into the kitchen. Then she put a chair beside her and naturally made Leticia sit there.

    ¡°Now, sit here and watch me make it.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure you want to make it yourself?¡±

    ¡°I said I would make it for you.¡±

    After telling Leticia to trust her, El began to prepare the ingredients. But Ian¡¯s expression was somehow uneasy.

    ¡°I want to make tart too.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t interrupt me.¡±

    El pushed Ian toward Leticia as she was annoyed with Ian hovering around and bothering her.

    Finally, Ian sighed and stood beside Leticia. Leticia smiled and said,

    ¡°El really wants to make tarts.¡±

    ¡°I know. She¡¯s so stubborn when she¡¯s hooked on something.¡± Ian said.

    Sometimes Leticia was confused by the way Ian talked. She couldn¡¯t make out if he was an older brother or a younger one.

    Ian, who answered casually, nced at Leticia. Leticia, who didn¡¯t notice his gaze, smiled as she watched El prepare to make the tart.

    ¡°If you find her ufortable, I can talk to El for you.¡± Ian spoke.

    ¡°What?¡± Leticia said.

    ¡°My sister is a bit rough, but she likes people.¡±

    Ian seemed to be worried that Leticia was ufortable because El had forced her toe. At once, Leticia looked at the two alternately.

    Unlike the prideful and dour impression, El seemed to be very sociable and friendly. Maybe that¡¯s why Leticia didn¡¯t dislike El.

    ¡®I actually thought it was burdensome toe here, but not ufortable.¡¯

    No, rather she felt happy.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine. Thank you very much.¡±

    They¡¯ve only known each other for a short time. How could they be so nice to her?

    How could she hate it when they showed her great hospitality?

    Come to think of it, it had been a long time since someone did something like this for her.

    After a moment of searching her memory, Leticia heard a sigh beside her. As soon as she turned her head, Ian was smiling softly with a look of relief.

    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that. I was worried when you didn¡¯t look happy.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, I¡¯m fine.¡±

    Leticia gave a slight wave, but for some reason Ian just looked at her with an odd expression. It wasn¡¯t nothing, he thought.

    ¡°Ian,e here for a minute.¡±

    At El¡¯s call, Ian couldn¡¯t help but frown and approached El.

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Just a in tart is too boring.¡±

    ¡°I figured as much, so I got some apples. Let¡¯s make an apple tart.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s my brother!¡±

    ¡°Excuse me¡­¡±

    When El was patting Ian on the head, Leticia approached and said,

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, I¡¯d like to join you. It¡¯s boring just sitting there¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    ¡°Oh, but I can¡¯t ask you, you¡¯re a guest.¡±

    El tried to get Leticia to sit back in the chair. But Leticia shook her head and took an apple from the basket.

    ¡°Actually, I know how to make tarts.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­¡­ Shall we make them together?¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡±

    Eventually, they began to make the apple tart together.

    While El kneaded the flour, Leticia washed and shaved the apples, then cut them into appropriate sizes and put them in a pan. She poured in enough water to submerge the apples, added a ss of wine, and then simmered until it thickened, and before she knew it, the applepote was ready.

    ¡°You¡¯re a skilled baker, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°I used to make it for my siblings.¡±

    ¡°I am jealous of your brothers and sisters. They can eat delicious desserts anytime.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    Leticia fell silent at El¡¯s words.

    But she smiled again and began to peel the apples again.

    ¡°They liked it.¡±

    Not now, though.

    Bitterly, Leticia concentrated on making the apple tart again. She ced the dough into a mold and poured in the cooled pot of applepote. Finally, she put some sliced apples on top and baked them in the oven. And the final product was a delicious golden apple tart baked to perfection.

    As soon as he saw it, Ian said out loud.

    ¡°Sister Leroy, you made this?¡±

    ¡°El made the dough.¡±

    ¡°I only made the crust, and sister Leroy made the rest of it.¡±

    It was then.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    A low voice made all three of them turn around at the same time, only to find Enoch standing there with his eyes wide open.

    The moment their gazes met, Leticia greeted him with a faint smile.

    ¡°Hello.¡±

    ¡°Did youe to visit today? I¡¯ve been waiting for you toe.¡±

    Enoch did not hide his happiness and smiled gently.

    ¡°I wanted to see you again.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s voice rose at the unexpected words.

    But Enoch said all the while with an unconcerned expression.

    ¡°I¡¯m d you came. I have something to return to you. Please wait here for a moment.¡±

    ¡°Oh, yes¡­..¡±

    ¡®What kind of thing does he have to return?¡¯

    Leticia was about to ask, but Enoch was already gone.

    She stood there with an embarrassed look on my face, but Enoch¡¯s voice kept echoing in her ears.

    She couldn¡¯t believe Enoch had been waiting for her and wanted to see her again.

    His words might have been meaningless, but strangely they lingered in her heart, tickling her somehow.

    Just then, she heard a jostling voice behind her.

    ¡°It was the first one I made, and it turned out very tasty!¡± El said.

    ¡°It¡¯s because Sister Leroy helped you.¡± Ian said.

    Leticia smiled at the sight of the two fighting with each other again and cut the apple tart into quarters.

    ¡®Should I give it to him to try?¡¯

    She came out of the kitchen quickly, leaving behind El and Ian who were still bickering about how great Leticia was. Enoch¡¯s room was not far away.

    ¡±Excuse me¡­¡±

    Leticia tapped lightly on the door.

    ¡°It¡¯s Leticia¡­¡­¡­. May Ie in?¡±

    ¡°Pleasee in.¡±

    Leticia opened the door quietly at the sound of the low voice and stepped inside. Enoch was unbuttoning his sleeves.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯lle backter.¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s alright.¡±

    Leticia held out a te of apple tart in her hand to the staring eyes that wondered why she hade.

    ¡°It¡¯s the apple tart I made with Young Lady Achilles and the Young Master.¡±

    Just as she was about to ask Enoch to try it, an annoying voice echoed in her head.

    [I don¡¯t even like tarts. I don¡¯t like figs either.]

    For a moment, Leticia hesitated, thinking that Enoch might not like the tart just like Irene. However, unexpectedly, Enoch smiled and said,

    ¡°Thank you. Can I eat it now?¡±

    ¡°Yes, of course.¡±

    ¡®Please like it, it¡¯s delicious, it¡¯s delicious.¡¯

    On her face, Leticia appeared to be smiling serenely, but she was anxious inside. She cautiously stole a nce at Enoch.

    Enoch looked at the apple tart with a nonchnt expression and quickly took a bite. Leticia was somehow even more nervous and felt suffocated.

    ¡°How is it?¡±

    Leticia asked cautiously, hoping it wouldn¡¯t taste too bad.

    ¡°It¡¯s delicious!¡±

    As soon as Enoch answered, he took another bite of the apple tart. The moment she saw him, Leticia felt emotional.

    A tart that Irene refused to eat. A tart that Xavier didn¡¯t even touch. A tart that went to the servants¡¯ mouths. And a tart that was thrown away at the end and was eaten by birds.

    ¡°It¡¯s delicious, please join me¡­¡­Lady Leroy?¡±

    Enoch called out to Leticia with a worried expression, as she looked somewhat unusual. But instead of replying, Leticia shed tears.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m trying not to cry.¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t help but cry. She tried to wipe it with the back of her hand to control it, however, she could not stop crying.

    ¡°I¡¯ve never had such a delicious tart before. Let¡¯s go eat together.¡±

    Enoch tried to soothe Leticia by repeating the word ¡°delicious.

    But if anything, his words made Leticia cry even more.

    It was then.

    ¡°Brother, are you here? Can Ie in?¡±

    ¡°Hey, wait a minute¡­¡­¡­!¡±

    Before Enoch had time to stop the inconvenient visitors, who were about toe in, the door swung open. El and Ian came in with cheerful expressions on their faces, but when they saw Leticia crying, theirplexions immediately hardened.

    They looked at each other and then at Enoch.

    ¡°Did brother make sister Leroy cry?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that.¡±

    Enoch tried to exin the situation, but El already only stared at him as if to say, ¡°Are you human?¡±

    At that moment, Leticia spoke.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I wasn¡¯t trying to cry.¡±

    Letisha said in a choked-up voice as she finally calmed down. However, El was still ring at Enoch.

    ¡°What did brother say to make sister Leroy cry?¡±

    ¡°I just said it was delicious, that¡¯s all.¡±

    Enoch looked at El with pleading eyes. As soon as she saw his look, El turned to Leticia as if asking if it was true.

    ¡°Master Achilles didn¡¯t do anything wrong. I just cried by myself¡­¡±

    ¡°Why? What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Can you tell us?¡±

    Leticia hesitated as she squeezed her hands together tightly.

    She didn¡¯t know them that well, she wondered if it was okay to tell them about her situation.

    But the moment the three of them looked at her warmly as if to say it was okay, her worries quickly disappeared.

    ¡°My family¡­.doesn¡¯t like me.¡±

    Leticia immediately lowered her head. She was suddenly worried that she had caused even more trouble with her unnecessary words.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    The heavy silence filled the room. At that moment, Leticia cautiously raised her head, but to her surprise, Enoch, standing in front of her, was bending slightly and looking at her.

    ¡°Pleasee and visit us again. I¡¯ll make you something delicious to eat.¡±

    As soon as their gazes intertwined, her gray eyes softened.

    At that moment, Leticia wanted to cry again.

    ****

    ¡°She¡¯s a nice person.¡±

    El said as she looked out at the mansion window. Outside the window, Leticia was getting in her carriage, returning home.

    ¡°I think so too.¡±

    Enoch nodded in agreement. In his eyes, Leticia seemed so helpless and pitiful. She was someone who needed to be protected and cared for.

    The memory of that day they met was still vivid.

    The gorgeous pink hair swaying in the wind, and the clear, shining light blue eyes. And the small, white hand that held out a handkerchief.

    At that moment he thought he would like to see her again if he had the chance.

    And yet, he couldn¡¯t believe he met her in his own home.

    ¡°Oh, by the way, didn¡¯t brother say you had something to return to her?¡± El asked.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    At El¡¯s words, Enoch looked out the window again. But Leticia was already gone.

    ¡°I can give it to her next time.¡±

    Somehow he had a feeling that they would meet again.

 Chapter 8 - The Reason Why My Family Avoided Me

    <h4>Chapter 8 - The Reason Why My Family Avoided Me</h4>

    ¡®They¡¯re nice people.¡¯

    Dark blue hair and dark gray eyes like the night sea.

    When was thest time she felt such a warm gaze? It was so sweet that she wanted to melt into it.

    Leticia smiled and entered the mansion. It was the first time in a long time that her footsteps were not heavy, which made her feel even more at ease.

    But as soon as she opened the door and saw Marquis Leroy standing there waiting for her, she tensed up.

    ¡°Where have you been?¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    The moment their eyes met, Leticia involuntarily averted her gaze. That made Marquis Leroy even angrier.

    ¡°What in the world were you doing outside?!¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    At the terrifying shouting, Leticia raised her head, and her shoulders trembled.

    Marquis Leroy, full of anger, stared fiercely at Leticia.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure I warned you, didn¡¯t I?¡±

    ¡°Father ¡­¡­. ¡­.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t mess with that ill-fated Achilles family!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    Leticia kept silent, deliberately suppressed her anger. But the Marquis already knew who Leticia had been seeing.

    ¡°Last warning, Leticia Leroy.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­If I hear one more time that you hang out with that family again, be prepared to be thrown out.¡±

    When he finished, Marquis Leroy turned around with a huff.

    Leticia, who was staring nkly at the Marquis who was walking away, gave a shallow sigh.

    ¡°Ah¡­¡­¡±

    They were good people.

    It was upsetting that she was not allowed to hang out with people who were so sweet and friendly that she just knew them.

    ¡®It¡¯s all nonsense to say that misfortune is contagious.¡¯

    Leticia thought as she walked down the empty hallway.

    When she was about to enter her room with a heavy heart, she suddenly stopped, but there was someone already in the room.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    The moment Leticia saw Diana sittingfortably as if it was her room, she couldn¡¯t help butugh. But Diana was unconcerned, drinking her tea.

    ¡°It¡¯s not like I can¡¯te here.¡±

    ¡°Do you have something to say?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do.¡±

    Setting her cup down with a tter, Diana slowly rose from her seat and approached Leticia.

    ¡°You¡¯ve been getting on my nervestely.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t pretend like you don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t mean¡­.¡±

    There were thoughts passing through her head, but Leticia hoped it was something different.

    ¡°You¡¯re not talking about the Achilles, are you?¡±

    ¡°Of course I am!¡±

    ¡°Diana!¡±

    ¡°What are you going to do with people who have no money, no luck, and can¡¯t do a single thing?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t talk about them like that.¡±

    ¡°Then stop hanging out with them!¡±

    Diana raised her voice and continued to shout again.

    ¡°Rumors already spread all over the ce. The first daughter of the renowned Marquis Leroy, Leticia Leroy, hangs out with the famous Achilles.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s face became hardened, but Diana was not done talking.

    ¡°Do you know how much our family¡¯s reputation has been ruined because of you alone?¡±

    ¡°We only hang out together.¡±

    Diana lowered her eyes gently, but there was a hint of ignorance in them. But Leticia did not avoid her gaze, she looked straight into it.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine to ignore me. But don¡¯t say anything about them.¡±

    ¡°Why shouldn¡¯t I?¡±

    ¡°Because they are better people than you who throw away what I gave you without permission.¡±

    They were the only people who warmed up to her. So she couldn¡¯t stand by and watch them unnecessarily get insulted.

    Diana p, who was frowning unpleasantly at Leticia¡¯s words, burst intoughter.

    ¡°Oh, that?¡±

    ¡°Since it came to this, I¡¯ll ask you one thing.¡±

    Leticia exhaled and asked Diana.

    ¡°Why did you throw it away?¡±

    It was something she could have given to someone else as Xavier, or returned to Leticia. However, she threw it away in the garden.

    She stared silently and quietly, and Diana gently tilted her head and replied with an expression as if why did Leticia ask for the obvious?

    ¡°How can I eat something that I don¡¯t know what you put in it?¡±

    Leticia was speechless after hearing Diana¡¯s answer as if it was natural.

    ¡°What did you say¡­..?¡±

    She finally managed to speak, but her voice trembled slightly. But Diana raised her chin and crossed her arms.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure everyone else thinks the same as me.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡­..¡±

    ¡°Why do you look like that? You didn¡¯t really think I was going to eat it, did you?¡±

    When Diana saw Leticia looked miserable, she looked at her with a pitiful expression.

    ¡°I feel sorry for you.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Anyway, the next time I hear you hang out with the Achilles family again, I¡¯ll tell father right away.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­if you don¡¯t want to be kicked out, be careful.¡±

    Having finished all she had to say, Diana walked past Leticia, deliberately tapping her lightly on the shoulder. Leticia, who stood in shock, sank down the chair roughly. She heard the door close behind her, but she still couldn¡¯t move her fingers.

    She couldn¡¯t help butugh in sheer dismay.

    Did Diana really think she would put poison in the tart?

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    A trembling voice escaped her lips. She couldn¡¯t even breathe properly, it was suffocatingly painful, she wanted to disappear into thin air.

    She squeezed the hem of her dress as her eyes grew hot and her hands trembled. She bit her lips hard, but she could only cry.

    ***

    ¡°Miss¡­..¡±

    A few days had passed since then, and Leticia didn¡¯t leave the room even once. She locked herself in the room.

    ¡°You should eat something. You haven¡¯t eaten properly for the past few days.¡±

    Mary, who was standing by Leticia¡¯s side, said with a worried look on her face. But Leticia just only looked out the window endlessly.

    She thought Diana was so cruel. In addition, she couldn¡¯t believe the others threw away the tart for the same reason as Diana.

    She felt like everything she believed in was shattered into pieces.

    ¡°You¡¯ll copse at this rate.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Miss ¡­¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. But I have no appetite¡­¡±

    She tried to eat it once, but she couldn¡¯t quite get it down her throat.

    Looking at Leticia, who was sitting without strength, Mary slowly opened her mouth.

    ¡°Come to think of it, the entrance exam is just around the corner.¡±

    ¡°What exam?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s an entrance exam for the knights.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡­.¡±

    Leticia leaned her head against the window and let out a shallow sigh.

    Levion, who became a candidate for the imperial knight, now has only the entrance exam to officially be an imperial knight.

    Perhaps it was because she was locked up in her room, she didn¡¯t feel the passage of time.

    Leticia slowly got up and opened the drawer of the vanity table and took out a box she cherished.

    ¡°What¡¯s that, Miss?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s something I made a while back.¡±

    Leticia answered calmly and opened the box.

    ¡°Wow! Miss, it¡¯s a golden thread bracelet!¡±

    There was a superstition that giving a bracelet made of woven gold thread to a person preparing for an important job would bring good results. So they were mainly used for entrance exams. However, gold thread was so expensive and precious that only the upper ss could have it.

    ¡°Should I give it to him¡­.?¡±

    Leticia murmured, looking down at the gold thread bracelet.

    She made it a long time ago in the hope that Levion would sessfully pass the entrance exam. But now she hesitated.

    ¡°Of course! He¡¯s your fianc¨¦!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    At the curious look, Leticia smiled bitterly and put the bracelet into the box.

    If she gave it to him when their engagement had already broken off, the story would spread far and wide. Just the thought of it made her feel suffocated.

    Mary, who was looking at Leticia, cautiously suggested.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go for a walk outside, youngdy? Many of your favorite flowers are in bloom.¡±

    Leticia nodded lightly, knowing Mary tried to make her feel better.

    When she was walking down the corridor, she spotted a familiar face in the distance.

    ¡°Xavier.¡±

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    However, Xavier¡¯s expression seemed off. But Leticia, who had not noticed, cautiously approached him.

    ¡°How¡¯s your training going these days? Is it hard?¡±

    That was the moment she took a step closer.

    ¡°Sister!¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    In response to the loud shout, Leticia opened her eyes wide and looked at Xavier. But Xavier averted his gaze and said,

    ¡°I¡¯m busy right now.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­¡­really?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll leave first.¡±

    As soon as he finished his words, Xavier walked away quickly. He turned away from the direction which he was meant to take earlier.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    It was obvious that he was avoiding Leticia.

    ***

    At first she thought it was her imagination.

    ¡°The tea smells so good today.¡±

    One day, Mary had some business to attend to, and another maidservant prepared tea for Leticia.

    Strangely, however, the expression on that maidservant¡¯s face was dark. It was as if something bad was going to happen soon.

    ¡°Anna?¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°Is something wrong?¡±

    ¡°No, My Lady¡­¡­. What¡¯s wrong with ¡­¡­¡­¡­?¡±

    Anna seemed unaware that she had a strange look on her face.

    ¡°I thought something happened to you because you look so pale.

    ¡°No, nothing happened¡­..¡±

    She didn¡¯t seem to want to talk any more, so Leticia stopped asking.

    But in a corner of her mind, she still had a feeling that something was wrong.

    ¡°I¡¯d like to be alone, can you give me a minute?¡±

    ¡°Yes! I will!¡±

    As if she had been waiting for it, Anna nodded cheerfully and quickly left the room. It was obvious that she lied when she said it was nothing wrong.

    ¡®Strange.¡¯

    Leticia decided to let the matter go as she looked at the tea that was already cooled down. And the next day, Leticia finally understood why people were avoiding her.

    ***

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid something bad will happen when I¡¯m with sister!¡±

    One day, Leticia happened to run into her sister Irene, when she was out for a walk on a beautiful day. As soon as she saw Irene, she immediately approached.

    However, unlike Leticia, who was happy, Irene was startled and backed away. She looked as if she met a murderer with a knife.

    Before Leticia could ask what was going on, Irene spoke and widened the distance between them.

    ¡°Don¡¯te any closer!¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°How can you walk around like this when you have that ability?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Your ability is bad luck.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    Leticia was so stunned at that moment that she couldn¡¯t evenugh. She didn¡¯t know where in the world such a rumor started. She just stood there as if frozen, staring nkly at Irene.

    But Irene turned her head away, looking annoyed.

    ¡°Come to think of it, sister always had bad things happen to you.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Anyway, don¡¯t bother people, just stay in your room.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    Irene talked like Leticia was a contagious disease. Leticia, who was so dumbfounded that she burst outughing, bit her lips tightly and said.

    ¡°¡­I have said before that I have worse luck than most.¡±

    Leticia said that when she talked to Seos. She was sure that someone overheard it and spread the word.

    ¡°But I never said that bad things would happen if you were with me.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by that¡­?¡±

    Leticia asked, hoping it wasn¡¯t true. But as always, her expectations were high.

    ¡°Maybe you caused all the bad things.¡±

    ¡°Irene!¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s all the fuss?¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t help but shout, and that¡¯s when she heard Emil¡¯s voice behind her. Then, Irene quickly hid behind him.

    ¡°Emil¡­¡±

    Irene began sobbing and spoke.

    ¡°I heard that bad things will happen when sister is close.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡­ Is that right?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve heard the rumors too, haven¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I have.¡±

    Emil¡¯s calm answer made Leticia¡¯s heart drop to the floor. At the same time, I felt an ominous sense of foreboding and choked up.

    But Leticia asked, believing it to be different.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that even you believe in false rumors?¡±

    ¡°Of course not¡­¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    Emil stopped speaking for a moment and looked at Irene who was grabbing his shirt tightly. Irene didn¡¯t seem to want toe out from behind Emil, as if she didn¡¯t want to face Leticia.

    Emil let out a low sigh.

    ¡°That said, don¡¯t push Irene too hard, sister.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡­¡­!¡±

    ¡°Irene is scared.¡±

    Leticia could see Irene¡¯s hands trembling as she gripped Emil¡¯s shirt.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to scare her¡­¡­¡­¡±

    Leticia took a step closer to apologize. As the distance narrowed, Emil stepped back, wrapping his arms around Irene¡¯s shoulders as if protecting her from danger.

    Leticia¡¯s feet stopped at the sight.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    A strange silence fell and no one moved.

 Chapter 9 - Lock Her Up Or Kick Her Out

    <h4>Chapter 9 - Lock Her Up Or Kick Her Out</h4>

    Rumors spread faster than an epidemic, and the more people talked about them, the further from the truth they became.

    Rumors of Leticia¡¯s ability to make different people have bad luck became an established fact.

    ¡°No luck is the firstdy¡¯s ability.¡±

    ¡°She even makes other people feel bad?¡±

    ¡°So stay away from her.¡±

    ¡°Try not to be seen by her.¡±

    Because of the rumors, Leticia had to live in confinement for several days, never stepping out of her room.

    Today, she came out, thinking it was finally over. But after a while, she heard amotion of maids in the hallway. As soon as she heard them, Leticia hid herself behind a pir.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think we should tell her?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t interfere and stay still.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, she¡¯ll find out soon enough anyway.¡±

    The maidservants passed by, fussing and feeling sorry for the maid in charge of Leticia. Leticia, who heard the whole story from behind her pir, lowered her head.

    It was only when their footsteps faded that Leticia stepped out.

    ¡®Why is everyone¡­.?¡¯

    Leticia walked back to her room, covering her face with her hands.

    The only people she saw were the maidservants, who often whispered about me, and her siblings, who were busy avoiding her¡­

    She had been having trouble breathingtely, as if her chest was full of water.

    ¡®I¡¯m not capable of that.¡¯

    Leticia still wasn¡¯t sure what her ability was, but it certainly wasn¡¯t to make other people have bad luck. No, she wanted to believe that.

    As soon as she entered the room helplessly, she heard a knock at the door. She quickly opened it and saw Seos standing there.

    ¡°What brings you here¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s eyes widened, unable to hide the confused look on her face at the unexpected visit.

    ¡°I need to talk to you for a moment. Do you have time?¡±

    ¡°Of course. Pleasee in.¡±

    She asked Mary to prepare the tea and she showed Seos to his seat.

    She nced at him to see if he looked ufortable to be with her, but Seos still had a nice smile on his face.

    As soon as Leticia looked up a little again, their eyes met.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to havee so suddenly.¡±

    No, I was just surprised.

    The hot tea was served immediately, but Leticia only held her hands that was ced on herp.

    Seos began to speak slowly to Leticia, who was looking nervous.

    ¡°It¡¯s hard with all the strange rumors.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine¡­.¡±

    Somehow, Seos felt pity for her as she made an effort to say she was fine when she wasn¡¯t.

    ¡°What do you think about the rumors?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°Do you really think you have the ability to cause misfortune?¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡­.¡±

    Not knowing what kind of intentions of the question, Leticia kept her mouth shut.

    Already others, including her family, were avoiding her, believing that she would bring them misfortune. It made her think she really did have such ability.

    But ¡­¡­.

    ¡°No.¡±

    Leticia raised her head and looked at Seos again.

    ¡°My ability is not meant to make people have bad luck.¡±

    She was worried about how Seos would react as she said that, but she still believed that he would hear her out.

    However, for a while, the two of them stared at each other in silence. It was a strange silence, and Leticia decided to say something, but Seos was a step ahead of her.

    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t believe in such ridiculous rumors either.¡±

    ¡°Master Seos¡­¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m going to find out what you¡¯re capable of to correct the wrong rumors.¡±

    His words choked her heart and she couldn¡¯t speak properly. Leticia bit her lip, feeling like she was about to burst into tears.

    ¡°Thank you, Master Seos¡­¡­¡­¡±

    ¡°So there¡¯s no need to live like a sinner. The weather is nice, why don¡¯t you get some fresh air outside?¡±

    Seos left the room, and Leticia¡¯s eyes quiver once more.

    Leticia, who was left alone, ced her hand on her chest and let out a long sigh.

    She couldn¡¯t believe there was someone to tell me otherwise. Her heart was overwhelmed that she couldn¡¯t help but smiled.

    ¡°Mary.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Miss.¡±

    ¡°Can you help me get ready to go out?¡±

    Thanks to Seos, Leticia gained the confidence to go out again.

    Leticia asked with a brighter face, and Mary nodded with a smile.

    ***

    As soon as Leticia left the house, she went to the library in the square. From what she heard, unique and rare books were avable here.

    She wanted to find out what her ability was, but she didn¡¯t really know how to find it yet.

    At one point, she thought she could find the answer in the academic and knowledge fields, like Levion, and that it might be rted to the abilities her siblings had, but she still didn¡¯t know what her ability was.

    Eventually, Leticia sighed shallowly and put the book back.

    ¡®I¡¯m suffocating¡­.¡¯

    Everyone avoided her. Seeing that they were still whispering, it was clear that they had been talking about it for some time.

    ¡®If father knows about this¡­¡­¡­¡­¡¯

    As soon as Leticia went crazy at the thought, she became scared, and she held her arms tightly.

    It was obvious that her father, who was very sensitive to misfortune, wouldn¡¯t let it end with a scolding. Moreover, he even warned her not to associate with the Achilles family.

    This made her even more anxious and scared.

    Just as she was about to leave the library, tried to calm herself down, she spotted a familiar face. As soon as she saw him, Leticia¡¯s eyes widened.

    ¡°Long time no see. How have you been?¡±

    ¡°Yes. Lady Leroy, how are you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m good¡­¡±

    As she smiled and greeted Enoch, Leticia looked around and asked,

    ¡°I don¡¯t see your bother and sister.¡±

    ¡°I came alone today.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡±

    Enoch, who was staring at Leticia, could not hide his curiosity.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You seem gloomy.¡±

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s ¡­¡­¡±

    Leticia gave a short sigh and grasped her hands with an awkward expression. The moment she nced up, she met a pair of gray eyes that were looking at her with concern.

    The warmth of his gaze made her feel like crying. Leticia sped her hands tightly and spoke.

    ¡°Do you happen to know about my family¡¯s abilities?¡±

    ¡°I know that it had extraordinary abilities.¡±

    ¡°Then you know I don¡¯t have it?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard rumors.¡±

    Leticia said with a wry smile, trying to keep a cheerful expression on her face.

    ¡°In fact, that¡¯s why my family is so worried about me.¡±

    Leticia was well aware that was not true. They were jay ashamed of her.

    ¡°At first I thought I wasn¡¯t capable, but now¡­¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    Leticia stopped speaking for a moment, as something hot rose in her chest as she spoke. Thankfully, Enoch didn¡¯t ask anything, but quietly watching her.

    Feeling encouraged, Leticia spoke slowly.

    ¡°I think I have a bad ability¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°A bad ability?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Could she tell him?

    Leticia hesitated a little, ncing at Enoch briefly. Enoch was still waiting for her with a smile. It seemed like he would ept whatever she said.

    Buoyed by this, Leticia exhaled once and replied.

    ¡°My ability is to bring misfortune¡­¡±

    As soon as she answered, a heavy silence fell over her.

    She wished Enoch could tell her something, but all Enoch gave her was silence.

    Leticia, nervous by his appearance, said quickly to correct herself.

    ¡°But no! My ability is not like that!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Oh, perhaps¡­.¡±

    Even as she spoke, she was unsure, and her voice in the end became sluggish, she began to worry about what to do if her ability really was something that caused misfortune, as the rumor suggested.

    When Leticia lowered her head, unable to hide her nervousness, Enoch, who had been watching silently, smoothed out her cor, and immediately let out a long breath.

    It was a sigh that somehow made Leticia feel suffocated.

    ¡°Lady Leroy.¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes¡­?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know the details, but I¡¯ve heard that God was moved by the prayers of the Leroy family and gave them special abilities. Is that right?¡±

    ¡°Yes ¡­..that¡¯s right.¡±

    Leticia blinked her blue eyes, unsure of his sudden intention to ask her this.

    As soon as their eyes met, Enoch said.

    ¡°How could God give such a house a bad ability?¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t believe you have the ability to make bad luck.¡±

    Leticia could feel the sincerity in the way Enoch spoke with cool eyes without a single smile. The tears she had been holding back were about toe out, and Leticia gently lowered her eyes.

    That¡¯s what she wanted to hear the most. Nevertheless, they were the words she could not say to anyone.

    The reason was simple. They would think she was pathetic.

    Enoch¡¯s words made her heart burned and her eyes welled up.

    ¡°Thank you very much.¡±

    Those actually the words she wanted to hear most from her family, from her siblings.

    Sadness arose, and Leticia covered her tearful face with her hands.

    Right now, at this moment, she felt like crying out loud.

    ****

    ¡°Sister, did you hear?¡±

    Diana was drinking tea leisurely, and Irene¡¯s unexpected arrival surprised her, but Diana greeted her with a cheerful smile.

    But somehow, Irene¡¯s expression was gloomy.

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°About first sister¡¯s ability.¡±

    Irene talked cautiously.

    Deanna, who was watching her, shrugged lightly with an indifferent expression.

    ¡°I heard, of course.¡±

    It was impossible not to know. Her maid was the first to tell her about it.

    ¡°What should we do?¡±

    ¡°You worry about trivial things.¡±

    Diana, with her lips raised, leaned back in her chair with her arms crossed.

    ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±

    Diana was the symbol of good luck in the Leroy family. As such, she was not at all afraid of Leticia¡¯s ability to bring misfortune.

    But Irene looked worried.

    ¡°She¡¯s still out walking around.¡±

    Diana frowned when Irene brought up the meeting with Leticia a few days ago.

    ¡°Yeah¡­.that¡¯s a bit of a problem, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it is. I don¡¯t know what to do, Sister.¡±

    Irene couldn¡¯t leave her room because she was afraid that she would meet Leticia like that again, when she had to take the exam to join the imperial wizards.

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t your father know yet?¡±

    ¡°Probably not. He¡¯s been busy with his new business venturetely.¡±

    ¡°Then what are you going to do?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±

    Dianaforted Irene in a soft tone as if misfortune was about toe.

    ¡°I¡¯ll speak to father often when hees home.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, sister. But¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    ¡°What will he do if father finds out?¡±

    Irene asked, tapping her fingers on the table. Diana chuckled and replied.

    ¡°He would either lock her up or kick her out.¡±

 Chapter 10 - Whos That Gold Thread

    <h4>Chapter 10 - Who''s That Gold Thread</h4>

    Enoch gulped when he saw Leticia struggling to hold back her tears.

    He couldn¡¯t take his eyes off her from the first time he saw her.

    Leticia seemed heartbroken and her blue eyes drooped pitifully. Despite the impression that she was weaker than anyone else, she was infinitely kind to people and could not be left alone.

    It¡¯s hard to resist the urge to protect her.

    ¡°Since Young Lady seems to be very anxious, I¡¯ll give you my lucky charm.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia wiped away the tears with her sleeves and looked up with curious eyes. As soon as their gazes intertwined, Enoch took out something from his pocket as if he had waited.

    ¡°Lord Achilles, this is¡­¡­.¡±

    Enoch gave Leticia a handkerchief. It was just an ordinary white handkerchief, but it had a small four-leaf clover on the bottom.

    As soon as she saw it, Leticia recognized it was the handkerchief which she gave Enoch on their first meeting.

    When she opened her eyes in surprise, Enoch said with a gentle smile,

    ¡°This is my lucky charm.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°It means a lot to me, so please take good care of it.¡±

    The gray eyes that looked at her were warm and cozy like sunlight.

    Leticia¡¯s face seemed to heat up as she faced him, and she squeezed the handkerchief Enoch tightly.

    ¡°It¡¯s something you cherish, I¡¯ll be sure to return it to you.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

    Leticia raised her head and looked straight at Enoch.

    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely give it back.¡±

    She looked more determined than ever.

    He smiled and nodded lightly, thinking, ¡®I knew I won¡¯t win.¡¯

    ¡°Okay.¡±

    Then she added, ¡°And¡­.¡±

    After hesitating for a moment, Leticia spoke cautiously.

    ¡°I will definitely repay you for what you have done for me, Lord Achilles.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean ¡®repay¡¯?¡±

    ¡°I feel like I¡¯m always getting things from you.¡±

    Enoch, who had been looking casually at Leticia, who held her handkerchief tightly like a lifeline, raised the corners of his mouth smoothly.

    ¡°I¡¯d like you toe to the next test, if you don¡¯t mind.¡±

    ¡°Me?¡±

    ¡°I thought it would cheer me up if Young Lady came.¡±

    Enoch¡¯s gray eyes sparkled especially today.

    He pretended not to, but his expression already looked very expectant.

    ¡°If it¡¯s too much of a burden for you¡­.¡±

    ¡°Not at all! I will definitelye!¡±

    Leticia replied quickly, even though she was unsure if she should go.

    ¡°I want to go and support you.¡±

    She sped her hands together with a serious expression on her face.

    Enoch finally smiled brightly.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for you then.¡±

    The moment Letica faced Enoch¡¯s cheerful gray eyes, she felt a tingling sensation in her fingers.

    ¡®It¡¯s strange.¡¯

    Leticia, who was touching her hands, nced at Enoch, and Enoch was looking at her with a smile that seemed like it was about to melt at any moment,

    ¡®It¡¯s very strange.¡¯

    What was even weirder was the iprehensible feeling that she felt for the first time.

    ***

    After having a good time for the first time since forever, Leticia¡¯s shoulders slumped as soon as she returned to the Leroy residence. ? She felt like she was living with a heavy rock in her chest as her position here was disappearing.

    Leticia took a long breath to calm herself and entered the mansion.

    However, after a few steps, she felt a strange sense of difort and naturally stopped walking.

    She felt a gaze directed at her, so she turned her head towards the sense. There stood her siblings and Seos, staring at her from afar.

    ¡°What are you all doing here¡­.?¡±

    ¡°Look! She¡¯s just walking around freely.¡±

    As soon as Leticia approached, Irene gave a high-pitched scream and pointed. Her finger pointed precisely at Leticia.

    ¡°Irene, calm down.¡±

    ¡°How can I stay calm when she¡¯s walking around like that?¡±

    Seos tried to soothe Irene, but it only antagonized her more.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on here¡­?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s you, sister!¡±

    There was something unusual about the atmosphere, and it was at that moment that Leticia was about to approach again. Xavier was startled and said,

    ¡°Stay where you are.¡±

    Leticia looked at them with a dumbfounded expression, but they all seemed to have one thing in mind, and they didn¡¯t seem to give her a free pass when she approached.

    ¡°Everyone, leave.¡± Seos said.

    ¡°But, Master Seios¡­¡­¡­¡±

    ¡°I tell you to leave!¡±

    Seios shouted loudly at her anxious siblings, and they all ran back to their rooms in a deadly rush.

    Only Seos and Leticia remained in the hallway. After all the other family members were gone, Seios cautiously spoke.

    ¡°Leticia¡­.¡±

    ¡°My family believes that my abilities make other people unhappy.¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her bitterness as she spoke.

    Seos, who was watching her, said with a serious expression.

    ¡°Leticia, the more this happens, the stronger you should be.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°You are the only one who knows what your ability is.¡±

    Right now, at this moment, more than anything, Leticia¡¯s strong will was the most important thing. He wanted to be right there to help her if he could, but the time was not right.

    Seos had to go back to the Magic Tower immediately after hearing that there was an unusual movement from the extinct Elevos.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go back to the Magic Tower and see what I can do, so cheer up.¡±

    Seos patted Leticia lightly on the shoulder, feeling pitiful.

    ¡°Thank you, Master Seos.¡±

    Leticia smiled and nodded.

    ***

    From that day on, Leticia never stepped out of her room, but ran through the books she had brought from her study. To the rest of the world, she was a prisoner in a jail cell, but to Leticia, life was rather easier.

    ¡®The fuss will stop once I find evidence that my ability is not bad.¡¯

    Then her siblings will have no reason to be worried. At the same time, it would be much better if she found a way to find out what she was capable of.

    ¡°Youngdy, have some more food.¡±

    Mary said with concern as she watched Leticia put down her fork and read the book again after fiddling with it a few times. But Leticia waved her hand contentedly.

    ¡°I have no appetite.¡±

    And then suddenly she realized that Mary was some distance away from her. Her heart was somehow soaring with bitterness. However, Leticia smiled and showed no concern.

    ¡°Mary, it¡¯s all right.¡±

    ¡°What? I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°I can stay by myself, so leave.¡±

    After saying that, Leticia walked slowly to the window and sat down.

    It was only natural that Mary felt uneasy with her, because she was afraid she would have bad luck.

    Leticia understood, but her heart had a hard time epting it, or perhaps it was just a feeling that kept eating away at her.

    Then she tried to read the books again, and strangely enough, she didn¡¯t hear the door close. Just as she was about to turn around with a curious look on her face, Mary tugged on my cor. Shortly after, a shaky voice sounded in her ears.

    ¡°It¡¯s not that.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not that. I¡¯m just¡­.¡±

    Mary paused for a moment, as if she was about to start crying, and then continued speaking again.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing I can do¡­I¡­.¡±

    ¡°Mary¡­¡­.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s because I can¡¯t help you with anything¡­¡±

    Unable to raise her head, Mary just gripped her cor tightly. Tears streamed down her face.

    At that moment, Mary felt a gentle touch on her head. And she heard a voice as warm as the spring sunshine.

    ¡°Thank you for thinking of me.¡±

    Thest of the tears that Mary held back ran down her cheeks heavily.

    The person who Mary wanted tofort the most was Leticia, but in the end, Leticiaforted her warmly.

    Unable to control her feelings, Mary finally cried out loud.

    ¡°I¡¯ve always had good things since I met Young Lady.¡±

    ¡°Is that true?¡±

    ¡°Yes, since you took me in from the street, I¡¯ve never starved again, and I made enough money to pay for my brother¡¯s medicine¡­¡­¡­ Anyway, things have always been good. And the other day¡­¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    Mary, who had stopped crying to some extent, said with a soft smile.

    ¡°I even picked up some gold coins.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°Young Lady said it in a yful way before that I would pick up the money on the street.¡±

    Leticia, who could not understand what Mary meant, tilted her head with a curious expression. Then, a momentter, the conversation she had had with Mary began toe up one by one in her mind.

    [It would be nice if money fell from the sky.]

    [It would be even nicer to pick up the money on the street.]

    [Yes, that¡¯s right. I¡¯d like to pick up some money on the street.]

    [Mary, I hope you¡¯ll pick up money on the street]

    Leticia was joking at that time, but Mary did really find the money on the street.

    ¡°I¡¯m happy for you.¡±

    ¡°From then on¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­.¡±

    Smiling brightly, Mary cautiously held out something. As soon as she saw it, Leticia¡¯s eyes went wide.

    ¡°What is this?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not much, but I really wanted to give it to you.¡±

    Mary beckoned her to take it quickly, and Leticia took the small box without a second thought. She opened it gently and froze in ce.

    It was a string of green ribbon for tying hair. The color was inconspicuous to the aristocrats, but for themoners, it would be unnecessary to buy because the price was too high.

    Knowing the situation well, Leticia hesitated to ept it right away.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine. You need money for my brother¡¯s medicine.¡±

    ¡°No, my brother¡¯s illness is much better now and I don¡¯t have to pay for his medicine anymore, I want Young Lady to have it.¡±

    Mary always waited for the day when she could express her gratitude to Leticia.

    Leticia always helped her a lot financially without her knowing. She once gave money to a doctor who was treating her brother without telling her. She used to give Mary clothes or jewelry when she saw Mary on the street.

    Mary was grateful, but on the other hand she didn¡¯t know why Leticia was doing all that, so one day Mary asked Leticia.

    [Why are you being so kind to a maid like me?]

    [You are like my sister].

    Mary was speechless at Leticia¡¯s reply.

    Letisha was a kind person. She was kind to everyone, especially to the weak and the poor.

    So when Mary had the chance, she wanted to return some of the kindness Leticia showed her.

    ¡°I actually wanted to buy it in blue, the same color as Young Lady¡¯s eyes. I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Still, I hope you like it.¡±

    Leticia was nicer and sweeter than anyone else, but she was still a noblewoman. Mary was afraid Leticia didn¡¯t like the green hair tie so much.

    Seeing that Leticia didn¡¯t say anything¡­¡­.

    ¡°I will give you a better present next time.¡±

    Mary deliberately hid herplicated expression and tried to take the ribbon string from Leticia¡¯s hand. At that moment, however, Leticia looked up with her lips slightly parted.

    ¡°You can¡¯t give a person a present then take it back.¡±

    ¡°Huh? You don¡¯t like it, do you?¡±

    ¡°Of course I like it! I just needed time to appreciate the present.¡±

    ¡°Really¡­.?¡±

    ¡°Yes. So give me time to enjoy it.¡±

    Leticia replied quickly, looking down at the string of green ribbon that Mary had given her, which was actually just a in green string with no pattern.

    But the moment Mary told her that she had prepared it for her, it became a special string.

    ¡°Mary.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Miss.¡±

    ¡°Can I use my present now?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d like to tie my hair with this ribbon.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s blue eyes lit up as she held out the ribbon toward Mary.

    ¡°Of course, Young Lady.¡±

    Mary couldn¡¯t help but smile at the somewhat childlike excitement on Leticia¡¯s face. She beganbing Leticia¡¯s gorgeous pink hair gently.

    ***

    Before long, the knight entrance exam was approaching.

    The examination hall was filled with candidates wearing gold thread bracelets for good luck. Through the sea of people, Leticia wandered around looking for Enoch to cheer him on to get a good score in the exam.

    It was then that she spotted someone she recognized.

    Leticia couldn¡¯t help but stop walking.

    ¡°Brother, I¡¯ve prepared this for you to bring you luck.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    It was Diana and Levion.

    Diana casually rolled up Levion¡¯s sleeve and put the gold thread bracelet on his wrist. As soon as it was tied in ce, she looked up at Levion with a smile, more adorable than ever.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    It was like a painting.

    Diana shyly wrapped her cheeks with her hands, acting cute, as Levion looked at her lovingly.

    The two of them looked so good together that Leticia didn¡¯t dare to approach them.

    She quietly looked down at the gold thread bracelet in her hand.

    As she turned away, not wanting to see any more of the two of them¡­.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry¡­¡­..?¡±

    Leticia was startled and immediately apologized as she bumped into someone. Then, when she looked up, her eyes widened at the familiar face.

    The moment their eyes met, Leticia smiled brightly.

    ¡°Lord Achilles!¡±

    ¡°I thought you wouldn¡¯te.¡±

    ¡°I told you I woulde to cheer you on.¡±

    As they were chatting, Leticia saw Enoch¡¯s wrist lonely.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have a gold thread bracelet.¡±

    Leticia knew that the fame of the Achilles family was not the same as before. But she felt ufortable seeing it with her own eyes.

    ¡°I¡­.¡±

    Leticia carefully held out the gold thread bracelet she was holding to Enoch.

    ¡°Would you like to have it, if you don¡¯t mind?¡±

    Her fingers trembled finely, as she handed out the bracelet.

    But Enoch only looked at it with a strange expression.

    ¡°Your bracelet doesn¡¯t have an owner?¡±

    Normally, gold thread bracelets are prepared in advance to be given to someone. Knowing this fact well, Enoch seemed to be wondering if it was okay to receive this.

    Leticia smiled at Enoch and said,

    ¡°I¡¯d like to give it to Lord Achilles.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°So, if you would like, please take it.¡±

    She gestured for him to take it quickly and finally Enoch received the gold thread bracelet.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    However, it was hard to put on the bracelet alone. Leticia, who was watching him, took the gold thread bracelet in Enoch¡¯s hand and put it on his wrist.

    ¡°It looks good on you.¡±

    Leticia said with a bright smile towards Enoch.

    ¡°I hope you¡¯ll have good results.¡±

    ***

    *Few minutes earlier*

    ¡°Why doesn¡¯t shee?¡±

    Leaning against the wall, Levion let out a low sigh and roughly ruffled his hair. He said and did some harsh things, but there was no way Leticia wouldn¡¯te to his entrance exam.

    Because, as usual, Leticia put away her emotions and cared for others first.

    It was then that he felt someone approaching. As soon as he turned around, Levion couldn¡¯t hide his disappointed expression.

    ¡°What about Leticia?¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s¡­¡­.¡±

    Diana was silent for a moment, then answered with a look of shame.

    ¡°She is noting. She sent me instead.¡±

    ¡°Right.¡±

    An empty chuckle came out of Levion¡¯s mouth. She didn¡¯t really expected her not toe, so he was disappointed.

    The moment he had no choice but to step into the exam room, a small hand grabbed his wrist.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I have something for you.¡±

    And what Diana handed out was a gold thread bracelet.

    Levion knew well about the gold thread bracelets. As a matter of fact, a noble Lady had tried to give it to him earlier. But he didn¡¯t want to receive it from anyone.

    There was only one gold thread bracelet from one person that he wanted to receive.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±

    ¡°Still, please ept it.¡±

    Levion tried to refuse nicely, but Diana kept following him. She wouldn¡¯t leave him alone if he wouldn¡¯t take it, so Levion had no choice but to stick out his wrist.

    ¡®I¡¯ll take care of you instead of my sister.¡¯

    Diana smiled contentedly as she slipped the gold thread bracelet onto Levion¡¯s wrist.

    ¡°Good luck.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    Levion patted Diana lightly on the head.

    But he froze for a moment at the sight in front of him.

    ¡°Lover?¡±

    Diana followed Levion¡¯s gaze with a curious expression at his unusual appearance. What they saw was Leticia with Enoch Achilles.

    ¡®She¡¯s with the unlucky Achilles.¡¯

    Diana made it clearst time that Leticia shouldn¡¯t hang out with the Achilles again, but here she was. Diana clicked her tongue. Meanwhile, Levion turned around with a whoosh.

    Diana, who was immediately going after him, suddenly stopped and looked back at Leticia and Enoch again.

    They looked so friendly with each other that even a stranger would think they were lovers.

    ¡°Hmmm¡­¡­¡­..¡±

    Looking at the two with a strange expression, Diana¡¯s lips lifted gently.

 Chapter 11 - Those Who Ignore Their Good Fortune

    <h4>Chapter 11 - Those Who Ignore Their Good Fortune</h4>

    ****

    *Few minutes before Leticia gave Enoch the bracelet.*

    ¡°Don¡¯t be nervous and do well.¡±

    El, who had followed Enoch to cheer him on, said while lightly grasping Enoch¡¯s hand. Enochughed at El¡¯s somewhat tragic expression.

    ¡°If anyone saw you, they would think you were going to take the test, not me.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s probably because I¡¯m nervous. Anyway, just go and do your best. You definitely have to do your best. And ¡­¡­¡­..¡±

    El shook her head with a pensive look on her face in the middle of her sentence. Ian, who thought why suddenly his confident sister looked like that, however, he too, had a troubled look on his face and only touched his neck.

    ¡°What is it? What¡¯s wrong?¡± Enoch asked his siblings.

    ¡°It¡¯s a gold thread bracelet.¡± El replied.

    ¡°Ah¡­.¡± Enoch said.

    That¡¯s what it was.

    It¡¯s a superstition that good things will happen if you wear a bracelet made of woven gold thread, so everyone participating in this entrance exam wore a gold thread bracelet.

    Enoch looked casually down at his empty wrist and patted El on the head.

    ¡°I already have good luck with your wish.¡± Enoch said.

    El and Ian were sorry that they didn¡¯t have the golden thread bracelet that was supposed to bring good results to give to their brother.

    But Enoch told Eel and Ian not to worry.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best this time.¡±

    He had finally passed the candidate exam, which he failed so many times before, and now there¡¯s only the official entrance exam left. He had to pass unconditionally in order to recover the lost status of his family.

    It would be a lie to say if he didn¡¯t feel pressured. But Enoch didn¡¯t have time to sit back and resign.

    With a heavy sigh, Enoch looked around surreptitiously. No matter how hard he looked, he couldn¡¯t see the person he was waiting for.

    ¡®She won¡¯te, will she?¡¯

    He was worried about whether he had put too much pressure on Leticia. But soon his worries vanished when he encountered Leticia.

    Leticia handed something out to Enoch with a bright smile.

    ¡°You can take it if you like?¡±

    It was none other than a gold thread bracelet.

    It was a handmade gold thread bracelet, one could not obtain it from anywhere else.

    Enoch tried to refuse it, but Leticia smiled and put the bracelet directly on his wrist.

    ¡°It looks good on you. I wish you the best of luck.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s gorgeous pink hair swept against the wind, and Leticia smiled as she gently tucked her hair back, keeping her eyes down.

    Enoch couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the image before his eyes.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    Enoch smiled smoothly, looking at the gold thread bracelet on his wrist.

    It was nice.

    ***

    After the entrance exam, Levion, who didn¡¯t go back home but unexpectedly visited the Leroy mansion.

    Marquis Leroy, who had just returned to the mansion from his long business trip, was puzzled for a while, but he smiled and greeted Levion.

    ¡°Well done, Lord Elle.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Marquis.¡±

    Although the results of the entrance exam had yet toe in, Levion¡¯s ability was in swordsmanship, so there was no doubt that he would pass the exam.

    ¡°I hope the food is to your liking.¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s good.¡±

    People conversed as they ate, but Leticia just nibbled her food quietly.

    Then she felt a nce from somewhere, and when she looked up, her eyes met Levion¡¯s.

    However, something seemed wrong.

    ¡®¡­?¡¯

    A cold look.

    At that moment, she felt cold, as if a cold winter wind swept through her body.

    ¡®What is it?¡¯

    Somehow, it didn¡¯t feel good. She wanted the meal to end quickly and be excused. Suddenly, Levion spoke.

    ¡°Leticia, may we have a cup of tea in your room?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I have something to say.¡±

    Everyone¡¯s attention was drawn to Leticia, who nodded obediently, perplexed.

    After the meal, they were alone in the room. Leticia grabbed her hands tightly and nced at Levion.

    ¡®Has there ever been a time when things were this awkward?¡¯

    They had been together since they were children. When neither of their abilities was awakened, the time they had given to encourage andfort each other was longer, and more exceptional than the others.

    But the atmosphere right now was more awkward and cold than ever when it was still just the two of them. Unable to bear the heavy silence, Leticia took a sip of her tea.

    At that moment, Levion p, who had been watching Leticia, slowly opened his mouth.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you have anything to say to me?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    Leticia widened her eyes and asked. However, Levion¡¯s expression began to harden. It seemed he was somewhat angry.

    ¡°You ask because you really don¡¯t have anything to say?¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­¡±

    ¡°You sent Diana to tell me you couldn¡¯te, but it seems you have time to fool around with other men.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    ¡°We haven¡¯t broken off the engagement yet, but you¡¯re already flirting with other men.¡±

    ¡°Brother, watch what you say. Don¡¯t insult me.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure I told you to make an effort to awaken your ability when you have free time.¡±

    As usual, he was not done with the dialogue of the day.

    And as usual, Levion could only think sternly, ¡°What are you doing, not making an effort to awaken?¡±

    Leticia took a long exhale to calm herself down and said,

    ¡°Please tell me how. How do I do it?¡±

    ¡°Do I have to exin word by words while you just sit and watch?¡±

    ¡°Then brother also knows that you and I are different, don¡¯t you?¡±

    The descendants of the Leroy and Elle families were born, raised, and awakened with abilities. If there was a difference, it was that the Leroy family awakened with a lot of unique abilities, while the Elle family mainly had abilities in terms of academics and knowledge.

    ¡°But you can¡¯t just sit still.¡±

    ¡°What do you want me to do when you don¡¯t even try to help?¡±

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    ¡°Tell me! Tell me how I can wake my ability up!?¡±

    The moment she raised her voice, Leticia felt her eyes burning.

    She didn¡¯t want to be angry now, nor did she want to cry.

    ¡°Please go back.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s very hard for me to be with brother.¡±

    This situation was so painful and difficult that the sound of her voice ended up drooping.

    Leticia, who was tired, stood up and left the room.

    She didn¡¯t have the confidence to face him any longer.

    As soon as she came out, she was able to breathe properly, just like she finally got up from underwater.

    ¡°Hah¡­.¡±

    It was frustrating.

    She had been feeling this way for a while now, but it still got to her badly, and when she tried to forget about it, it resurfaced and made her feel suffocated once more.

    ¡®Since when has it been like this?¡¯

    She couldn¡¯t remember now.

    As Leticia was sighing in the hallway, she felt a presence near her. As soon as she turned to look, she found Diana looking at me strangely.

    The moment their eyes met, she had a bad feeling, and Leticia decided to step away.

    ¡°Are there really so many ways to embarrass people around you?¡±

    Leticia stopped walking.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°What a mess. You didn¡¯t just walk around like this, did you?¡±

    Diana scanned Leticia up and down with her arms crossed. Leticia was offended by the tant gaze, but she faced Diana calmly.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with me?¡±

    ¡°Do you call that an outfit?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s attire was beyond ordinary for a youngdy of nobility, it looked in. It was just enough to look neat, but it didn¡¯t meet Diana¡¯s standard.

    ¡°What¡¯s this? Where did you pick up this cheap stuff?¡±

    Before she knew it, Diana, who hade right up to Leticia, tapped the neatly tied hair ribbon unpleasantly. At that moment Leticia¡¯s expression darkened.

    ¡°Don¡¯t touch it.¡±

    Leticia pushed Diana¡¯s hand away lightly, but Diana just looked at her grimly with displeasure.

    ¡°I warned you many times, but why do you keep embarrassing the family?¡±

    Diana purposely tapped Leticia¡¯s hair ribbon harder, and Leticia pushed Diana¡¯s hand away with more force this time.

    ¡°Don¡¯t touch it!¡±

    ¡°Then act properly!¡±

    Seeing Leticia dare to push her hand away, Diana couldn¡¯t stand it and pulled Leticia¡¯s hair. At that moment, with the sound of something snapping, the hair ribbon fell to the ground.

    Leticia¡¯s expression was dismal as she looked down at the hair ribbon that had somehow be tattered.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    She didn¡¯t know why on earth this was happening to her. She was so frustrated and disappointed that her heart ached.

    Leticia suppressed the emotions that were welling up in her neck and tried to pick up the ribbon. But as if she had been waiting for it, Diana stepped on the hair ribbon with her shoe.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry. I made a mistake.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­..¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a mistake.¡±

    At that moment, Leticia heard something snap in her head.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Hey! You¡¯re not going to let go? Let me go!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not letting go until you apologize!¡±

    While drinking tea in the parlor, Marquis Leroy and Levion heard a noisy sounding from outside. It was a very familiar voice.

    As soon as they realized whose voice it was, everyone went out of the parlor with nk faces.

    ¡°What am I sorry for?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you know what you did?¡±

    The noise echoed through the corridor. There were Leticia and Diana, grabbing and pulling each other¡¯s hair.

    ¡°What the hell is going on!?¡±

    Leticia and Diana, both startled by the thunderous yell, turned around.

    Immediately, Diana, who saw Marquis Leroy, cried andined of injustice.

    ¡°Sister suddenly grabbed my hair¡­..¡±

    ¡°No. Diana grabbed my hair tie first¡­¡­..¡± Leticia pleaded.

    ¡°Shut up! How on earth does an older sister fight with your sister!¡±

    When Diana cried with sorrow and held his arms, Marquis Leroyshed out at Leticia with a fierce voice.

    ¡°You can¡¯t do anything right.¡±

    Soothing Diana, who was crying aloud, the Marquis coldly passed Leticia¡¯s side. Later, the other siblings also passed Leticia and left tofort Diana.

    Only Leticia and Levion, who sighed with aplicated expression, remained in the hallway.

    ¡°What the hell is going on?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    Leticia was reluctant to answer at Levion¡¯s urging, but Levion didn¡¯t back down.

    ¡°Tell me. Why did you do that?¡±

    ¡°Diana picked on me first.¡±

    ¡°What did you say to her?¡±

    ¡°She said she was ashamed of my appearance, and then she pulled off my hair ribbon.¡±

    While she was talking, her eyes were burning, and she tightly squeezed the ribbon string with the threads sticking out.

    It was a string of dark green ribbon.

    It was an ordinary ribbon string, avable anywhere.

    Levion burst intoughter as if he was seeing something funny.

    ¡°What¡¯s with this ribbon?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡­ what?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll buy you whatever you want, so make sure to get along with Diana.¡±

    There was a look on Levion¡¯s face as if saying, ¡®You¡¯re tiring me out with nothing,¡¯ chilled the blood in Leticia¡¯s body.

    ¡°What did you just say?¡±

    ¡®¡¯What?¡±

    ¡°What did you just say?¡±

    The moment he faced Leticia¡¯s cold, angry eyes, Levion realized that Leticia wasn¡¯t really asking out of curiosity.

    ¡°What are you doing with just one string of ribbon?¡±

    ¡°It may be the most ordinary string of ribbon brother can buy at any given time, but it¡¯s not to me.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡­.¡±

    ¡°I got this string of ribbon as a gift and it is important to me.¡±

    She had forgotten the feeling of having received a gift.

    Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her joy because she hadn¡¯t received a gift in a long time, but only given someone gifts. So she fought with her heart as her precious gift got destroyed.

    If she knew that the hair ribbon would be ruined like this, she would never have worn it. Instead, she would keep it carefully in a box and treasure it for a long time.

    But Levion, who did not understand Leticia, spoke with a sigh.

    ¡°So I said I would buy you whatever you want.¡±

    ¡°Do you think I will like what you buy?¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Something from you¡­¡±

    She felt the edges of her eyes heat up, but Leticia stared straight at Levion and said.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want it.¡±

    What would be the point of begging?

 Chapter 12 - Where The Luck Left

    <h4>Chapter 12 - Where The Luck Left</h4>

    Levion ruffled his hair as soon as he left the house of Leroy.

    ¡®I didn¡¯t mean to do that.¡¯

    Remembering the sight of her with another man at the exam site, he reacted harshly without realizing it.

    Levion couldn¡¯t stop himself, even though he knew in his heart he shouldn¡¯t.

    He was walking out the door with a deep sigh when he heard the Marquis¡¯ voice.

    ¡°Are you leaving now?¡±

    Levion looked back at him.

    ¡°Yes, sir. It¡¯ste and I think it¡¯s best if I go home now.¡±

    ¡°Yes, have a safe trip.¡±

    Marquis Leroy patted Levion on the shoulder with a nice smile and said;

    ¡°I¡¯ll see you again soon.¡±

    ¡°Yes, you should go back in.¡±

    Levion bowed politely and climbed into the carriage.

    At that moment, he realized something was wrong.

    ¡®There¡¯s been talk of breaking off the engagement, but you want to meet again soon?¡¯

    The Marquis¡¯ words felt strange to him.

    Levion leaned back in his seat and decided he was overthinking it.

    ¡®Letisha needs to awaken her powers soon¡­¡¯

    There had been talk of breaking off the engagement, but Levion had no intention of breaking things off with Leticia. He was just being harsh with Leticia thinking that a crisis might awaken her powers.

    ¡®Come to think of it¡­ how did I awaken?¡¯

    In the days when Leticia and he weren¡¯t awakened, they would visit the Academy of Sciences to research what his ability could be.

    One day Leticia, who had been watching over him, said;

    [Hey, why don¡¯t you try a physical activity instead?]

    [A physical activity?]

    [Yes, why don¡¯t you try using a sword or a bow?]

    Levion thought it was ridiculous, so he dismissed what Leticia said at the time.

    Afterwards, he decided to try using a sword, figuring there was nothing to lose. There was an intense rush of energy and Levion instinctively realized that this was his ability.

    The feeling of breathing properly¡­ no¡­ the feeling of being alive.

    Levion¡¯s heart was so full that he shed tears. Next to him, Leticia hugged and rejoiced with him.

    Knowing very well the emotions of that day, Levion wanted Leticia to awaken and be more magnificent than anyone else. Sadly, reality was different from fantasy.

    When Leticia had failed to awaken, she began to look tired of trying and seemed to give up.

    ¡°Ha¡­.¡±

    Still¡­ she couldn¡¯t stop sighing.

    ***

    ¡°Oh,e on! My hair¡¯s all messed up!¡±

    Diana told the worried Marquis Leroy that she was fine. But upon returning to her room, and looking in the mirror, Diana began to scream. No matter how much she grabbed and shook her hair, it fell out as soon as she brushed it.

    Eventually Diana couldn¡¯t resist having a tantrum and threw herb on the floor.

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    Jumping on me while you have no powers.

    Thanks toLeticia, she couldn¡¯t see Levion for a while. Just the thought of it made her so angry that she couldn¡¯t stand it.

    ¡°It can¡¯t be helped.¡±

    She could no longer wait and watch that walking mass of misery go on its way.

    ***

    ¡°Oh, my God! What happened to your face, mydy?¡±

    The next day when Mary came to prepare breakfast, she saw Leticia¡¯s face and was bbergasted. She was surprised to see clear scratch marks on Leticia¡¯s cheeks from when the sisters had fought and attempted to pull each other¡¯s hair out.

    ¡°It just happened.¡±

    ¡°What the hell happened?¡±

    ¡°Diana was first¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t bring herself to say that the hair ribbon she¡¯d received from Mary was broken. In the end, Leticia kept her mouth shut and turned her head away.

    Mary, who had been looking at Leticia with pity, gently took hold of her hand. Surprised, Leticia looked up at Mary.

    ¡°Mydy, I¡¯m always on your side.¡±

    ¡°Mary¡­¡±

    ¡°So please let me know when you¡¯re having a hard time. I might not be able to do anything, but I can hold your hand like this.¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t help but smile at the sight of Mary looking at her with sincere eyes.

    ¡°Thank you, Mary.¡±

    ¡°Then how about a cup of tea in the rear gardens?¡±

    ¡°All right.¡±

    As soon as she finished her meal, Leticia walked down the hall with Mary to go to the gardens. However, it was not long before they came across Diana and her maids.? Both groups stopped in their tracks.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    They silently looked at each other for a while. Diana walked past Leticia with her nose in the air, as if passing a stranger on the street. The maids, following behind Diana, stared at Leticia with hostile eyes.

    ¡°No, how dare you not even say hello!¡±

    Mary, who had been watching, gasped and gushed. When she tried going over to Diana, Leticia quickly caught Mary.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°But¡­!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because I had a fight with her yesterday.¡±

    Leticia wasn¡¯t surprised, she expected to be ignored to this extent.

    It was justplicated.

    ***

    ¡°Why does she keeping out of her room?¡±

    ¡°I know. I¡¯m so nervous.¡±

    The maids had trouble breathing properly when they happened to pass by Leticia in the hallway. They were afraid that her misfortune might spread to them.

    Aware of their feelings, Diana raised her head slightly and arrogantly said,

    ¡°You will have to be patient. You won¡¯t have to worry about that in the near future.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Yes. Just trust me.¡±

    The maids¡¯ faces brightened up at Diana¡¯s confident words.

    ¡°As expected, there¡¯s only the second miss.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Oh my God, you¡¯re so generous.¡±

    As everyone cheered with happy faces, Diana arrived at Marquis Leroy¡¯s office.

    ¡°Father, it¡¯s Diana.¡±

    ¡°Come on in.¡±

    The Marquis of Leroy, who had been sitting, stood up and weed Diana as soon as she opened the door and walked in.

    ¡°How are you feeling?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m feeling much better than yesterday.¡±

    ¡°Did you apply the medicine properly?¡±

    ¡°Yes. The truth is¡­¡±

    Diana, who was facing an affectionate Marquis Leroy, slowly began to speak.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to talk to you.¡±

    ¡°Yes, feel free to talk.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can say this¡­¡±

    Diana showed clear signs of hesitation. Marquis Leroy waited patiently for her to speak.

    ¡°It¡¯s alright, feel free to say it.¡±

    ¡°Actually¡­ It¡¯s about my sister.¡±

    ¡°Do you mean Leticia?¡±

    The bandage wrapped around Diana¡¯s wrist suddenly catches the Marquis¡¯ eye.

    ¡°Come to think of it, when did you hurt your wrist?¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s¡­¡±

    As Diana tried to cover her wrist with a troubled expression, the Marquis quickly approached and carefully grasped her arm.

    ¡°How did you hurt your wrist?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s like¡­¡±

    ***

    Mary was right, there were many of Leticia¡¯s favourite flowers in the rear gardens. As she sipped fragrant tea while admiring the bright flowers, she began to feel better little by little.

    However, happiness did notst long. Upon entering the house, Marquis Leroy found Leticia with a ferocious expression on his face.

    ¡°I was told you have the ability to bring misfortune.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t say anything. She had expected her Father would find out one day, but she didn¡¯t expect it to be today.

    Her breath caught in her throat, and she barely managed to squeeze out her voice.

    ¡°No¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s really not, Father.¡±

    ¡°Do you still hang out with Duke Achilles? Didn¡¯t I warn you to stay away from him?¡±

    ¡°Father¡­¡±

    ¡°Because of your association with that ill-fated family, your sister was injured!¡±

    The Marquis of Leroy pointed to Diana with a face that was red with anger. There¡¯s a bandage on Diana¡¯s wrist that had not been there yesterday.

    ¡°Diana, what happened to your wrist?¡±

    Marquis Leroy blocked Letisha as soon as she tried to approach her sister. It¡¯s as if he¡¯s trying to protect Diana from something ominous.

    ¡°You¡¯ve brought misfortune and you¡¯re finally going to ruin our family.¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°Leticia Leroy.¡±

    I felt my heart pounding faster and faster at his rough, emotionless voice. I was more anxious because I knew what he was going to say.

    Leticia bit her trembling lip, hoping she was wrong.

    Sadly¡­.

    ¡°I am expelling you from the Leroy Family.¡±

    ¡°Father¡­¡±

    ¡°From this day forward, you are not my daughter. Don¡¯t ever think abouting here again.¡±

    The Marquis turned away as he didn¡¯t want to see Leticia anymore.

    None of the family members, who had watched this whole scene, tried helping Leticia. It was as if they were saying it was all her fault that things turned out this way.

    Only then did Leticia know.

    The fact that her family had always wanted her to disappear.

    ¡®In the end¡­¡¯

    My family is abandoning me.

    She always vaguely thought this day mighte, but she always believed it wouldn¡¯t.

    As always, faith betrayed her miserably.

    ***

    ¡°Sister, is your wrist okay?¡±

    Irene asked, worried about how she got hurt. Diana blinked with a strange expression on her face and soon smiled.

    ¡°Oh, this?¡±

    Diana lifted her wrist lightly and began to remove the tightly wrapped bandage.

    ¡°Sister, you can¡¯t take off the bandage.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯m not hurt.¡±

    Diana grinned and recalled today¡¯s events.

    She went to her father¡¯ office, with a look of great hesitation, confided one by one the things that Marquis Leroy did not know. Leticia¡¯s ability to make others ¡®unhappy¡¯. That she was still interacting with the Achilles family and even became close enough to visit them at their mansion.

    [Is that true?]

    [Yes. If you ask the coachman, he can give you more details.]

    [Your sister is trying to destroy our family!]

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s gaze never left the bandage on Diana¡¯s wrist, even while looking like he would explode.

    [Then did your wrist get hurt because of your sister?]

    [No, it¡¯s because I lost my footing.]

    [Really?]

    [Actually¡­Yesterday she told me¡­]

    She said she wanted me to get hurt.

    The Marquis of Leroy felt ashamed of himself and went to look for Leticia at a brisk pace. He truly believed that Leticia was bringing misfortune on the family.

    As expected, Marquis Leroy expelled Leticia altogether and she was forced out of the mansion.

    ¡°How refreshing it is to have someone with such bad luck gone.¡±

    Dianaughed out loud, remembering Leticia¡¯s forlorn expression as she was expelled. It¡¯s a pity I won¡¯t see it again.

    That was when it happened.

    There was a loud sound of something falling. Surprised, Diana and her brothers left their rooms and went in the direction of the loud noise.

    There was a severely damaged bronze shield with the Leroy family¡¯s coat of arms engraved on it.

    As soon as he saw it, the Marquis sighed irritably and said,

    ¡°You¡¯re bringing bad luck even on the day you leave.¡±

 Chapter 13 - If Thereâ€™s No Place To Go Back

    <h4>Chapter 13 - If There¡¯s No ce To Go Back</h4>

    There was a love that she couldn¡¯t have even if she gave her everything. To Leticia, the love she spoke of was family.

    ¡®This is how it ended up¡­¡¯

    Not only was she kicked out of the Leroy mansion, she was disowned by her family as well. The fact that all of this had happened in one day still saddened her, she still couldn¡¯t believe it.

    Leticia, who was wandering around not knowing where to go, lost strength in her legs and copsed. As soon as she sat down without making a sound, she burst into despair.

    ¡®You¡¯re such a fool.¡¯

    Her eyes were burning because she was so pathetic. Once more she was remembering the moment she was disowned.

    She wanted to say something. No, she had to say something.

    However, Leticia could not say anything as her father and younger siblings turned their backs on her, as if they didn¡¯t want to see her anymore.

    She could only stare at their backs as they walked away.

    Only then did she realize she meant nothing to her family. No, in fact she was a pain that they couldn¡¯t wait to get rid of.

    At the same time, her heart crumbled once again at the realization that nothing she could say would make a difference.

    The misery and sorrow felt at that moment was strangling her. Leticia, who eventually ran away from the mansion, found herself wandering the streets.

    ¡®What should I do now¡­¡¯

    She bit her lip while looking down at the palm of her hand, she¡¯d scraped it when she fell down.

    She was so miserable that? she couldn¡¯t even cry. She had nowhere to go, and no one to help her.

    Leticia tried to soothe herplicated feelings and wipe away the blood on her palm with a handkerchief. As soon as she found the shape of a four-leaf clover at the bottom, she remembered a deep voice that prated her ears.

    [This is my lucky charm.]

    [It¡¯s very precious to me, so please take good care of it for me.]

    ¡°Oh, this is¡­¡±

    It was the handkerchief she had receivedst time she had bumped into Enoch.

    ¡®I can¡¯t believe this thing is lucky.¡¯

    Leticiaughed helplessly.

    It was a handkerchief that she had made herself, but it was not a very pretty handkerchief with many stitches sticking out.

    She was grateful to Enoch for saying that such a handkerchief was a lucky gift, but she did not believe him.

    Still, she still wanted to hang onto it.

    ¡®What if¡­ If it really is a lucky item¡¯

    Can¡¯t you give me that luck too.

    ¡®No, I have to figure it out myself.¡¯

    She was kicked out so suddenly that she couldn¡¯t make any ns, but she needed a ce to stay tonight.

    ¡®I have to think about what to do in the future too.¡¯

    Holding the handkerchief tightly in her hand, Leticia let out a long sigh and stood up again.

    It was then that she felt an unfamiliar gaze on her.

    The gaze she felt the moment she decided to wander around again made her stop in her tracks.

    There must be someone staring at her.

    ¡®Who is it?¡¯

    ¡®Why¡¯

    Leticia managed to steady herself and began walking slowly. She was bing colder with every fearful step she took it.

    Then she heard footstepsing from behind her.

    When she walked a little slower, the footsteps behind her slowed down. When she walked a little faster, they became faster as well.

    Leticia¡¯s heart sank. It was clear someone was walking at the same speed and beat as her. She didn¡¯t have the confidence to look behind her, so she clenched her fists and walked forward without looking back.

    ¡®First, let¡¯s go where there are more people and bright lights.¡¯

    Leticia, who had been walking fast, started to run. If she stopped, she would be caught by her pursuer.

    ¡®Please, please, please¡­!¡¯

    She couldn¡¯t hide anymore and her legs were weakening, but she couldn¡¯t stop.

    ¡®Someone help me.¡¯

    Leticia was so scared she felt like she might copse at any moment.

    She pushed herself to keep running as hard as she could.

    ¡®Anyone is fine. Please help me!¡¯

    I¡¯m fine with anyone.

    ¡°Scream!¡±

    Leticia rushed into an alley and ran into a maning from the other side. She hit him so hard that she fell backwards.

    Just as she was about to get up.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Are you injured¡­. Miss Leroy?¡±

    Leticia quickly raised her head at the familiar voice. She blinked her blue eyes in disbelief.

    ¡°Lord Achilles¡­?¡±

    It seemed like a lie. Letisha stood up as if she had been pinched, wondering if she might be dreaming.

    ¡°Is this real¡­?¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the real Achilles?¡±

    The way she looked at him with a half-dazed expression seemed somehow desperate. She looked like she was about to cry if he said no.

    Enoch, who was staring at the wonderful sight, nodded lightly.

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s Enoch Achilles.¡±

    ¡°Are you really, really, really Lord Enoch Achilles?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m the real Enoch Achilles.¡±

    Even though Leticia repeated the same question several times, Enoch answered calmly without showing any signs of displeasure. Leticia breathed a sigh of relief and murmured quietly.

    ¡°Haaa¡­. I¡¯m d, I¡¯m d.¡±

    ¡°Did something happen?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s pink hair was disheveled from her hasty rush. She was breathing irregrly, and her inability to focus on a single point, her eyes wandering from ce to ce, seemed somehow uneasy.

    Leticia slowly answered Enoch¡¯s worried question.

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s¡­ someone was chasing me.¡±

    ¡°Please stay behind me for a moment.¡±

    Enoch quickly stood in front of Leticia and scanned the surroundings.

    Fortunately, he didn¡¯t see anyone suspicious.

    ¡°Looks like they¡¯re gone.¡±

    ¡°I guess so. That¡¯s a relief. Ah!¡±

    She finally felt relieved, but then her hand started to sting. Leticia quickly lowered her head to check her hand and let out a short sigh.

    She could now feel the pain from falling down.

    ¡°Are you hurt?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. All I have to do is wipe away the blood.¡±

    Leticia quickly shook her hand and tried to clean it with the handkerchief. Enoch was one step faster.

    ¡°It¡¯s dark. I¡¯ll take you to the Leroy mansion.¡±

    Enoch said, as he slowly wrapped the handkerchief around her hand, careful that he didn¡¯t hurt her more. Strangely she never answered.

    When he looked up, he met a pair of blue eyes filled with tears. Her lips quivered with something to say, and soon he heard a small voice.

    ¡°I can¡¯t go¡­No, I can¡¯t go¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­ I¡­ I¡­ ugh¡­¡±

    She couldn¡¯t get the words out properly, as if arge stone was lodged in her throat. Trying to hold back her tears, Leticia spoke quietly.

    ¡°I was chased out.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°There is nowhere for me to return to, Lord Achilles.¡±

    Leticia wasn¡¯t sure she could face him, so she shook her head as soon as she finished her words.

    ¡®You must think I¡¯m pathetic.¡¯

    Perhaps he¡¯ll click his tongue at me for being abandoned by my family. So Leticia avoided Enoch¡¯s gaze on her and grasped her fingers.

    She waited for him to snub her, but no words came out of Enoch¡¯s mouth.

    Leticia¡¯s anxiety grew. She was trying to build up the courage to look up, when Enoch took the suitcase from her hands.

    ¡°Lord Achilles?¡±

    Leticia raised her head in surprise and tried to take her suitcase back. Enoch smiled slightly and gently pushed Leticia¡¯s hands away.

    ¡°I¡¯m d, though.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°That you aren¡¯t seriously injured or in danger.¡±

    Enoch breathed a sigh of relief as he spoke.

    Leticia was safe now that she had found him, otherwise she would have been wandering ale at night.

    ¡°How about staying at my mansion, if you don¡¯t mind?¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d like you to get some rest, even if it¡¯s just for one day.¡±

    Leticia touched the handkerchief wrapped around her hand and considered his offer.

    ¡°Then please, Lord Achilles.¡±

    ***

    When they arrived at the Achilles mansion, Elle and Ian were still awake and talking. As soon as they spotted Letisha, who had arrived in the middle of the night, they approached her with a surprised look on their faces.

    ¡°What are you doing here at this hour?¡±

    ¡°That is¡­¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s a reason for that.¡±

    Enoch answered for the troubled Leticia. They looked like they wanted to ask what was going on, but Elle and Ian simply nodded, without saying anything, and returned to their rooms.

    Only then did Enoch show Leticia to the guest room.

    The room felt neat and tidy.? Leticia felt? relieved that she could stay here tonight. She opened her mouth with a look of embarrassment.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­ In the middle of the night¡­¡±

    On one hand, Leticia felt embarrassed that Enoch had to witness the state she was in after being kicked out. On the other hand, she felt grateful that Enoch was willing to take her in.

    ¡°You must be tired. You should get some rest tonight.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Lord Achilles.¡±

    ¡°And.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Enoch carefully set Leticia¡¯s suitcase down and walked closer to her.

    ¡°If you have nowhere else to go, you can stay here for a while.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You can stay as long as you want.¡±

    He didn¡¯t want to put Leticia through something as dangerous as today.

    Seeing her injured hand, Enoch didn¡¯t want her to be alone.

    ¡°But still¡­¡±

    Leticia seemed hesitant, worried she was being a nuisance.

    Enoch smiled softly at Leticia.

    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about this tomorrow after you¡¯ve rested.¡±

    Enoch told her to go to sleep quickly and left the room.

    As soon as the door closed, she sighed and felt the tension drain from her body.

    ¡®Thank you.¡¯

    I couldn¡¯t keep up with it.

    The key was to not think too deeply about the future right now, because there was nowhere to go.

    Leticia put her suitcase next to the desk andid down on the bed weakly. The fact that it had been less than a day since all of this had happened was both disconcerting andplicated.

    ¡®What am I supposed to do now¡­¡¯

    I tried closing my eyes, but it was a sleepless night.

    ***

    It was a particrly sunny day.

    Levion, who was worried about the incident from earlier in the week, was nning to visit the Leroy mansion and take Leticia out shopping for a new ribbon. Just as he was about to leave, he ran into an unexpected person.

    It was Marquis Leroy.

    Marquis Leroy was happy to have run into Levion, and had him apany him to Marquis El¡¯s office. There he told a shocking story.

    ¡°What do you mean? What do you mean she was emunicated?¡±

    He¡¯d heard him correctly the first time, but couldn¡¯t believe what he was hearing. With a pale face he¡¯d asked again.

    ¡°Did you expel Leticia?¡±

    Marquis Leroy nodded decisively, like a confirmation shot.

    ¡°I had no choice.¡±

    ¡°However,¡­ Where is Leticia now?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°Marquis!¡±

    Levion raised his voice, then left with a fierce exhale.

    He¡¯d find her himself.

    ¡°I hope you understand. We are still like family.¡±

    Marquis Leroy shrugged lightly as Marquis Elle tried to excuse his son¡¯s misbehaviour.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s okay. I understand everything. Come to think of it, have you talked to your son yet?¡±

    ¡°About the engagement to your second daughter? It¡¯s the right time to do that.¡±

    Marquis Elle replied, while taking a leisurely sip of tea.

    Now that Levion is out of the room, the two men agreed to set the engagement date soon.

    After some idle chit chat, Marquis Leroy put down his half-finished tea and stood up.

    ¡°I have to go. I have some work to do.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard a lot about your business these days. It seems to be going well.¡±

    ¡°Well, I guess I¡¯m lucky.¡±

    Marquis of Leroy told his friend he would see him again soon, stepped out of the El home and climbed into his carriage.

    ¡®Things are going well these days.¡¯

    As soon as he restarted a business that he had to suspend previously, aristocrats of all ages began to show interest. Marquis Leroy had a good feeling this business would seed, the corners of his mouth began to curl up in a smile.

    That was when¡­

    The carriage jolted to one side and came to a stop.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    The Marquis asked angrily, the coachman managed to stammer out an answer.

    ¡°Well¡­ that¡¯s¡­ the wheel suddenly broke¡­¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Marquis Leroy quickly got down from the carriage and checked the wheel. As the coachman said, the wheel was broken and it was too badly damaged to keep using.

    ¡°How did this happen to a wheel that had been fine?¡±

    The Marquis let out an irritated sigh and kicked the broken wheel.

 Chapter 14 - Iâ€™ll Decide Where To Be

    <h4>Chapter 14 - I¡¯ll Decide Where To Be</h4>

    ***

    It was a coincidence that he¡¯d run into her that day.

    ¡°Huuuhuuhuuu¡­.¡±

    Enoch followed the sound of heart-breaking sobs as if he were possessed, and came upon Leticia running towards him with a tear-stained face.

    She looked pitiful, as if she had been abandoned by the world.

    Unable to leave her alone, Enoch brought Leticia home.

    He would be lying if he said he didn¡¯t feel sorry for her, but the first thing that struck him was how d he was that she had found him that night when no one else was around.

    Thankfully the twins weed Leticia without any signs of difort and took care of her more carefully than he could.

    ¡°No, not like that. You have to grab it like this.¡±

    ¡°Like this?¡±

    ¡°No. Let¡¯s give the damaged strawberries to my brother.¡±

    Leticia and Elle had be closer and decided to go pick strawberries together. Enoch said it was not necessary, but Letisha shook her head and said it was fun. She then focused on picking strawberries.

    ¡°She looks better than yesterday.¡±

    Ian said as he approached Enoch, who was watching the two silently. Enoch nodded, as if he had the same idea.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m d.¡±

    ¡°What happened, Brother?¡±

    Ian, who had kept silent yesterday because he wasn¡¯t in the mood, finally asked. Enoch gave aplicated sigh.

    ¡°She was emunicated.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡±

    Enoch ignored the startled Ian and kept his eyes on Leticia. He recalledst night, her teary voice whispering to him.

    [I was chased out. There is nowhere for me to return to, Lord Achilles¡­]

    She looked deste, as if she would cry at any moment while talking.

    It had only been a day, but news of Leticia¡¯s emunication had already spread. The reason for her expulsion wasn¡¯t clear, but people were whispering that she didn¡¯t have an ability.

    ¡®Is that so important?¡¯

    If she has an ability, it¡¯s good that she has one. If she doesn¡¯t have an ability, shouldn¡¯t you take care of her?

    Enoch was incapable of understanding how the Leroy family could so easily kick a family member out because of theirck of ability.

    ¡°Pretend you don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m going to do.¡±

    ¡°Ok, thank you.¡±

    Enoch lightly patted Ian on the head for his matter of fact statement, and returned to his room. As soon as he closed his door, he let out a big sigh.

    The Achilles family wasn¡¯t as well off as the Leroy family, so it wouldn¡¯t be as pleasant a ce to live. Enoch desperately hoped that Leticia¡¯s would at least be at ease here.

    Enoch soon found out that Leticia¡¯s heart was not at ease, even here.

    ***

    ¡°I baked cookies. Would you like some?¡±

    One day, Letisha visited his room with a lot of cookies. She smelled of sweets, and Enoch couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    ¡°The twins would like them more.¡±

    It was a gentle refusal.

    Leticia let out a quiet sigh and carefully asked.

    ¡°Ah¡­ Do you not like sweets?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t like sweets, but the cookies that you make are delicious.¡±

    ¡°What do you like then?¡±

    ¡°Um¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡±

    He¡¯d never really thought about it, so he didn¡¯t have an answer right away. Leticia didn¡¯t seem to be leaving until she got an answer from Enoch.

    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely tell you when I think of it.¡±

    Leticia left with a disappointed look on her face.

    The day continued on, but there was still a nagging feeling in the corner of his mind.

    One afternoon, a few dayster, the ufortable feeling began to slowly reveal itself.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    Enoch asked when he found Leticia watering the flowers one day. Leticia smiled softly and replied that she was watering flowers because she liked them.

    He believed her words to be true.

    But when Enoch saw her sweeping the hallway, he felt a chill pierce through his heart.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    ¡°What? I¡¯m cleaning?¡±

    He couldn¡¯t hold his words in any longer as he looked at a wide-eyed Leticia. A cold voice popped out of Enoch¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°Why are you cleaning?¡±

    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t?¡±

    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re doing something you¡¯re not supposed to.¡±

    Hoping to ease her anxiety, Enoch had repeatedly told Letisha that she can stay as long as she wants in the mansion. He thought that would make her feel a little more secure.

    As soon as he realized that she had been misunderstanding something, he couldn¡¯t hide his mixed feelings.

    ¡°I just want you to befortable here.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this.¡±

    He thought she understood a little, but Letisha¡¯s next words knocked Enoch for a loop.

    ¡°I thought it was necessary to stay here.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°You took me in when my family threw me away, and allowed me to stay for a little while. I just wanted to find a way to be useful.¡±

    Enoch clenched his fist when he heard her calmly state that she was just trying to be useful.

    ¡®What the hell¡­¡¯

    He didn¡¯t know what kind of things had been said to her in the past.

    ¡®Did they say things like that to her?¡¯

    He didn¡¯t know how Leticia had been treated by the Leroy family, but he felt like he had an idea.

    Maybe that¡¯s why.

    He put more and more strength into his clenched fist to hold back his anger.

    ¡°I¡¯m not going to kick you out or throw you away. Don¡¯t say throw away ever again, you¡¯re not an object.¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles¡­¡±

    Enoch said in a more calmer voice, hoping that this time his sincerity would reach her.

    ¡°You asked me what I likedst time, but I¡¯ll tell you what I hate instead.¡±

    As soon as he approached, Leticia looked up at Enoch with a slightly anxious expression. Enoch slowly began to speak the moment their eyes met.

    ¡°I hate subservient rtionships.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    ¡°Do you understand what I¡¯m saying?¡±

    ¡°What? Yes¡­¡±

    ¡°So what should we do now?¡±

    Leticia nced at Enoch and tightened her grip on the mop.

    Enoch smiled thinly because she still didn¡¯t seem to understand, so he exined it all again.

    ¡°Put away the mop, don¡¯t clean, don¡¯t water the flowers. Just take it easy, do you understand?¡±

    ¡°Oh! Yes, I understand. But¡­¡±

    As soon as Leticia blurted out thest part of her sentence, Enoch¡¯s eyebrows rose sharply. Leticia pushed through and cautiously said.

    ¡°Can I at least water the flowers? I like flowers.¡±

    ¡°Ha¡­ All right, go ahead.¡±

    ¡°Cleaning! I think it¡¯s okay to clean the room I¡¯m staying in.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Okay, but that¡¯s it.¡±

    In reality, he wanted to say not even that. Enoch decided to back off because he thought it would make Leticia feel more secure.

    There was one thing he wanted to rify.

    ¡°There¡¯s only one thing I want from you.¡±

    Enoch pushed through before Leticia could interject.

    ¡°I want you to befortable here.¡±

    He smiled softly, hoping his words would reach her heart.

    Leticia, who had been touching her hands in an embarrassed manner, slowly looked up at his words.

    The moment their eyes met, a bright smile spread across her face.

    ¡°Thank you for taking care of me, Lord Achilles.¡±

    Refreshing sky-blue eyes looked up at him, and he felt a smile tug at his lips.

    The smile that appeared on her pale face reminded him of the day he first met Leticia.

    It was a normal day that became a little more special because of her smile.

    ¡®I¡¯m feeling the same way as back then.¡¯

    Enoch tried hard to control his confused mind and looked over to the kitchen.

    ¡°Elle wants to bake tarts, would you like to join us?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    A sunny smile spread across Leticia¡¯s face and she gave a happyugh.

    Enoch was relieved by Leticia¡¯s more rxed smile.

    A friendly atmosphere surrounded Leticia and Enoch, while they had a casual conversation on their way to the kitchen.

    The moment they entered the kitchen, they were stopped in their tracks by the serious look on Elle and Ian¡¯s faces.

    ¡®What happened?¡¯

    Leticia looked at Elle and Ian alternately with worry in her eyes.

    What if something happened in the short time she had been here, and she couldn¡¯t seem to calm her heart.

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    Enoch asked after sensing the unusual atmosphere, Elle crossed over to him without saying a word. In her hands was a letter with the Imperial seal.

    A heavy groan escaped Enoch¡¯s mouth as he nervously scanned the letter. Leticia began to feel uneasy.

    ¡°Is it something bad¡­¡±

    ¡°Brother!¡±

    ¡°Big brother!¡±

    Ian and Elle rushed to Enoch to ask what the letter said. Surprised by its content, Enoch dropped the letter, whichnded in front of Letisha.

    ¡®The test to join the Order of the Imperial Knights. Passed¡­?¡¯

    Leticia, who was hungrily reading the contents of the letter, covered her mouth with her hands. Ian and Elle were already busy hugging Enoch and congratting him.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you two? Get off.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my God! You were having such a difficult time, and now you¡¯ve finally been epted.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re choking me, get off.¡±

    ¡°You worked hard, Brother.¡±

    Enochined pitifully to his siblings, who clung to him and would not let go, but a smile tugged at his lips. Even his attempts to push them away were weak, so you couldn¡¯t feel the sincerity in his words.

    A smile spread across Letisha¡¯s face as she watched the three of them getting along.

    ¡°Congrattions, Lord Achilles.¡±

    Letisha said to Enoch, who had barely managed to pull his siblings off.

    ¡°Thank you, mydy.¡±

    As they looked at each other and smiled, they heard the sound of a carriageing from somewhere.

    As the sound got closer, Elle jumped up.

    ¡°I think someone¡¯s here?¡±

    ¡°Come with me, Elle.¡±

    Ian said as he ran outside, followed quickly by Elle.

    ¡®Is there a visitor?¡¯

    Leticia was looking at Enoch with her head cocked, then she heard footsteps quickly running towards them from the hallway.

    Elle and Ian soon returned with troubled expressions.

    ¡°Brother¡­ we have a visitor.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s the guest?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    Elle had a hard time replying, instead she nced behind her. There stood a man who looked familiar to Leticia.

    ¡°Levi¡­¡±

    It was none other than Levion, who was looking at her with cold eyes.

    ***

    Levion rudely entered the room without saying anything. Enoch left the room to give them privacy, and didn¡¯t show any signs of offence. Thanks to his consideration, Leticia was able to feel morefortable talking with Levion.

    However, neither of them wanted to be the first to speak.

    After a few minutes of heavy silence, Levion spoke first in an annoyed tone.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me? Do you know how long I¡¯ve been looking for you?¡±

    Leticia had not expected the first words out of his mouth to be a p to the face.

    Leticia, who had expected him to say that he had been worried, let out a small sigh.

    ¡°Is that what you¡¯re going to say after all this time?¡±

    At these words, Levion realized that he had criticized Leticia before worrying about her well-being.

    ¡°Ha¡­ Let¡¯s go home. We can go home and talk¡­¡±

    ¡°Go where?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Which home am I going to? Do I have a home to go to?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia had already been officially expelled from the Leroy family. Levion was well aware of that fact, so there wasn¡¯t anything he could say to her words.

    But that didn¡¯t mean he could overlook her staying here.

    ¡°So you¡¯re going to stay here?¡±

    ¡°Levi¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d prefer it if you lived with me. Come stay at my mansion.¡±

    Levion reached out to Leticia as soon as he finished speaking. He wanted to depart this ce quickly.

    Leticia silently looked down at his big hand and slowly reached for it. The corners of Levi¡¯s mouth crept up in a smile.

    But Leticia, who he thought was going to take his hand, pushed it away firmly.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    Levion couldn¡¯t believe what she¡¯d done and questioned her action. Leticia replied with an expressionless face.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m staying here.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    Livion tried to urge her again, but Leticia simply shut down.

    The wounds inflicted by her family were as vivid as ever. They still tormented her in her dreams.

    Recalling that day, Leticia clenched her hands.

    [I hate subservient rtionships.]

    Enoch¡¯s voice had prated deep into her heart and lingered there.

    ¡®What did he mean by subservient rtionships?¡¯

    She was bing increasingly curious about Enoch, and wanted to continue developing their rtionship. She felt confident that as she learned about him, she would be able to forget some of the scars of her past.

    [I want you to befortable here.]

    His heartfelt plea lingered in her ears.

    She felt warm remembering his thoughtfulness in the face of her attempts to not be a burden.

    Maybe that¡¯s why it didn¡¯t feel so hard, or overwhelming, facing Livion head on.

    ¡°Once again, I¡¯m staying here¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t belong here.¡±

    ¡°That is not for Levi to decide.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    Despite his cold voice, Leticia answered candidly without shying away.

    ¡°I¡¯ll decide where I belong.¡±

 Chapter 15 - I Like The Threat Of Being Here

    <h4>Chapter 15 - I Like The Threat Of Being Here</h4>

    ***

    ¡°Why did that mane here?¡±

    Elle, who was watching Leticia and Levion from a small distance, asked with a dissatisfied look. Ian, who was standing next to her, answered as if it was obvious.

    ¡°He must havee to pick her up.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Their families must be close.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Elle, who had no idea about any of this, opened her eyes wide in surprise and immediately turned her head to Enoch.

    ¡°What if she says she¡¯s going, Brother?¡±

    In his head, Leticia had already decided to leave. Elle looked up at Enoch with a worried look, but Enoch just looked at Leticia and Levion without saying a word.

    Enoch said with a resignation in his voice.

    ¡°Well.¡±

    If Leticia agreed to follow Levion, no one could hold her here.

    But¡­

    ¡°We¡¯ll have a conversation before that.¡±

    Like the Leroy family, the El family has special abilities. Leticia, who was expelled from her family for having no ability, was unlikely to be weed.

    I was wondering how I could talk to her if she decided to leave, when Levion stood up quickly with a stiff face.

    Shortly after, he quickly strode towards Enoch as if enraged.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Levion wore a look of deep disapproval.

    Enoch did not shy away, rather he faced him with a cold stare.

    Levion stood in front of Enoch as if he had something to say, he red and then walked away.

    Elle, who was watching the whole scene, burst into stunnedughter.

    ¡°If you suddenly visit, shouldn¡¯t you say sorry or thank you?¡±

    ¡°Elle.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not just the Leroy family¡¯s personality, but the other family¡¯s personality is also bad.¡±

    Elle mumbled to herself that next time she sees him, she won¡¯t let him get away with it.

    She felt someone hesitatingly approaching her from behind.? Elle looked behind her, Leticia stood there, touching her fingertips together with a look of embarrassment.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ve been so rude.¡±

    ¡°No! Leticia didn¡¯t do anything wrong.¡±

    Elle waved her hands frantically while saying it was all a joke. Leticia¡¯s expression finally softened.

    Seeing that Leticia¡¯s mood had improved, Elle¡¯s curiosity started to get the best of her.

    ¡°Well, by the way¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°What did you talk about?¡±

    ¡°Ian.¡±

    Just as Elle was about to ask, Enoch interrupted her and looked at Ian. Ian realized what the look meant, and he tactfully tugged on Elle¡¯s arm.

    ¡°Come with me to pick strawberries.¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t we pick all the strawberries? Just let me ask¡­ ¡°

    ¡°Yes, yes. Let¡¯s go pick apples then.¡±

    When Ian took Elle, who was trying to stay, there was only Enoch and Leticia left in the room.

    As he looked at Leticia, who was wearing a puzzled expression, Enoch managed to swallow what he wanted to ask her.

    ¡®Are you leaving?¡¯

    He felt like she¡¯d be hurt again

    He didn¡¯t want her to be hurt again.

    So don¡¯t go, the words rose up in his chest.

    Enoch, however, managed to bear it and smiled calmly.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go as well.¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­!¡±

    Leticia, who had been avoiding eye contact this whole time, caught Enoch as he was about to turn away.

    ¡°I have something to say.¡±

    A grim Enoch looked at Leticia wordlessly.

    He couldn¡¯t resist her, because her blue eyes looked at him mournfully.

    Enoch was forced to nod.

    He hoped that she would not talk about leaving.

    ***

    They went to Enoch¡¯s room so that they could talk in private, but they were both hesitant to speak. Enoch just waited quietly until Letisha was ready to speak. The silence continued for a while as Letisha pondered what to say.

    Strangely enough, Leticia didn¡¯t find the silence ufortable at all.

    ¡®It¡¯s amazing.¡¯

    She was so frustrated when she was with Levion.

    ¡®I feel safe with this person.¡¯

    It was hard to believe that it could be thisfortable, even though we have only known each other for a brief time.

    His face is expressionless, as cold as the winter winds, but when you meet his eyes, they¡¯re as warm as a summer day.

    ¡®Just like now.¡¯

    ¡°I know it might be a nuisance, but I want to stay here for a while.¡±

    Leticia said, clenching her hands in herp.

    Now that she¡¯d confessed, she wondered if she should¡¯ve waited to say anything.

    As soon as she lifted her head, her gaze intertwined with the ck eyes in front of her.

    There was a pleasant smile blossoming across his face. A sigh of relief escaped his lips.

    ¡°Oh, I thought you¡¯d say you were leaving.¡±

    ¡°What? No, not at all!¡±

    She never expected him to be thinking that way, Leticia quickly waved her hands.

    Enoch smiled more broadly at Letisha¡¯s sincere no.

    Thanks to that smile, Leticia spoke more decisively than before.

    ¡°I want to stay here.¡±

    ¡°I already told you to do what you want.¡±

    ¡°But I never said that myself.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I see.¡±

    Leticia was watching Enoch, who was all too willing to say yes, spoke a little more this time.

    ¡°I might stay longer than I thought.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s all right, we have a lot of rooms.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Enoch smiled and nodded as soon as she had finished talking.

    ¡®How can a man be so sweet?¡¯

    Sometimes I wondered what Enoch was thinking.

    ¡°I¡¯m telling you, I might stay a really long time.¡±

    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s do that.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m telling you, I might stay the rest of my life!¡±

    Leticia strained to make her story sound like a joke. After I spoke, my head dropped involuntarily in embarrassment.

    ¡®I must be crazy!¡¯

    Why was she so delusional!

    How dare she push the boundaries in such a way just because she wanted to know how far he would allow her to go. Not quite confident enough to look Enoch in the eyes, she could only wiggle her fingers, but soon she heard a low chuckle.

    ¡°Do you think such threats will work on me?¡±

    ¡°Huh? Ah, no, I¡¯m¡­¡±

    She didn¡¯t mean to threaten him.

    Leticia couldn¡¯t speak properly because she was embarrassed. She tried to quickly shake her head and deny it, but Enoch slowly rose from his seat and slowly approached Leticia.

    ¡°Well, look, uh¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but those kinds of threats don¡¯t work on me.¡±

    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t mean to threaten you at all.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s head was a mess trying to figure out how to exin. Before she knew it, Enoch was right in front of her.

    Just as she was about to say something.

    ¡°I especially like the threat this time, so let¡¯s think about it.¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    As soon as I looked up, I met Enoch gaze, who was smiling slightly.

    The more she saw him, the more amazing he was. A face that looks so cool and softens instantly when he smiles.

    She stared at him nkly, but Enoch gently raised the corners of his mouth and asked.

    ¡°Is there anything else you would like to say?¡±

    ¡°Yes? Pardon? Oh, no! I¡¯m leaving now!¡±

    Embarrassed, Leticia rushed to the door. But strangely enough, the door wouldn¡¯t open.

    ¡®Huh?¡¯

    Why isn¡¯t it opening?

    She tried to turn the doorknob harder this time. Enoch walked up behind her, and spoke in a low voice.

    ¡°The doorknob.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Their eyes met when she looked up in surprise, he was close enough she could see the color of his eyes. Leticia felt her breath catch.

    ¡°You need to turn it the other way.¡±

    ¡°Oh, oh¡­¡±

    When Enoch leaned forward to grab the doorknob, she became trapped in Enoch¡¯s arms. Leticia¡¯s face burned red as her imagination ran wild.

    However her entrapment was short-lived, as Enoch opened the door and took a step back.

    ¡°Take care.¡±

    As soon as the door closed, Leticia released the breath she was holding. But Enoch¡¯s voice kept ringing in her ears.

    [I especially like the threat this time, so let¡¯s think about it.]

    ¡®It¡¯s not a threat though¡­¡¯

    But he looked strangely happy for someone who said it was a threat. When she remembered that expression, Leticia¡¯s heart felt ticklish.

    ***

    The next day, Leticia briefly described her conversation with Levion to Elle and Ian.

    ¡°What if hees back? Do you know how worried I was?¡±

    Elle said with a pained expression on her face.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t expect you to worry.¡±

    ¡°If you know he¡¯sing back, tell me right away. Okay?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I will.¡±

    Elle bobbed her head with a smile and grabbed Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Now that we¡¯re here, should we go there?¡±

    ¡°There?¡±

    ¡°Where we first met.¡±

    ¡°Where we first met¡­¡±

    She was trying to remember where, but Elle pulled Letisha¡¯s hand without giving her time to think.

    ¡°Here, here.¡±

    ¡°Oh, here¡­¡±

    This is the ce where you can win a prize if you can get a coin into the hole.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while, let¡¯s try again together.¡±

    Ian said while handing a coin to Leticia, but she smiled awkwardly and shook her head.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m really bad at this.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing you can¡¯t do. Give it a try, please?¡±

    When Elle clung to her arm and said she could do anything, Leticia was forced to acquiesce.

    Sadly the coin never went into the hole.

    ¡°See¡­ I¡¯m not very good at this.¡±

    ¡°But you got this doll.¡±

    Seeing how disappointed she was, the owner gave her a small rabbit doll that was the size of her palm. Letisha was still upset, so Elle took her hand and shook it back and forth.

    ¡°Oh, I still enjoyed watching you try so hard.¡±

    Although it was just a game, Leticia worked so hard that she looked as if she was risking her life. The results betrayed her effort, but Elle was not disappointed at all because her time with Letisha was fun.

    Leticia, on the other hand, was muttering with a somber look.

    ¡°I wanted to win a bag of flour¡­¡±

    ¡°Flour? Why?¡±

    ¡°That night¡­¡±

    Leticia replied, looking alternately between Elle and Ian, who nodded their heads in encouragement.

    ¡°At that time Lord Achilles, and the two of you, liked it.¡±

    Elle and Ian were shocked into silence for a while, then they burst intoughter.

    Leticia was the only one who didn¡¯t understand.

    ¡°Why are youughing?¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s not that¡­¡±

    Ian said instead of Elle, who still couldn¡¯t stopughing.

    ¡°It¡¯s nice to have a bag of flour, but what¡¯s so important about it?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re having so much fun together.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    Leticia was briefly astonished at the unexpected words, but she felt warmth blossom inside of her.

    ¡®That¡¯s right, bags of flour aren¡¯t important.¡¯

    Without even realizing it, she had thought that she had to make sure that Elle and Ian got what they liked. But they were cherishing their time spent together, as Enoch had.

    Only then did Leticia understand a little bit what Enoch meant by ¡°I don¡¯t like subservient rtionships¡±.

    ¡®If it was her family¡­¡¯

    They would have said something else if she couldn¡¯t win anything.

    Elle and Ian, on the other hand, were happy to enjoy this moment with her. Because of this, Leticia was able to smile happily and nod.

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°Where do we go now?¡±

    Asked Elle, her eyes twinkling at Letisha¡¯s much better mood.

    The moment Leticia tried to answer, her gaze caught on something, and she automatically shut up.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    As soon as they followed Leticia¡¯s gaze, Elle and Ian¡¯s faces hardened at once.

    ¡°Emil¡­¡±

    There was Emil, Letisha¡¯s brother and the third Leroy child, looking on with an indifferent expression.

 Chapter 16 - Thereâ€™s A Little Bit Of Bad Luck

    <h4>Chapter 16 - There¡¯s A Little Bit Of Bad Luck</h4>

    ***

    While Leticia and the twin were out having a good time, Enoch received a letter. It was from the Achilles¡¯ property manager cautiously advising the closure of the pink diamond mine he owns.

    ¡®The pink diamond mine¡­¡¯

    It was a mine that Enoch¡¯s father, the Duke of the Sun, paid too much for. It was one of the main things that led the Achilles family to ruin.

    [The pink diamonds will now appear!]

    When the Duke visited the mine with a young Enoch, he sang that pink diamonds would flood out one day.

    In fact, buying a pink diamond mine wasn¡¯t such a bad idea.

    Beautiful and brilliant pink diamonds are the rarest of all jewels and have a special meaning of ¡®eternal youth and beauty¡¯ and ¡®making wishese true¡¯ in the Helios Empire.

    The problem was that no pink diamonds had been found since purchasing the mine.

    No, that¡¯s notpletely true¡­ some dide out.

    They were full of impurities, and less valuable than stones lying on the ground.

    In the end, it became a most troublesome existence now and it only took on debt.

    ¡®It would be right to sort it out.¡¯

    Marquis Leroy had purchased a mine that produced a pink ore that could rece the pink diamonds.

    ¡®Might as well sell it as soon as possible.¡¯

    It had been almost ten years since the mine had stopped producing diamonds.

    With a brief sigh, Enoch wrote back to the property manager to sell off the pink diamond mine.

    As soon as he started to put the letter in an envelope, he heard a carriage outside. He thought he heard wrong, but the sound got louder and louder.

    ¡®Who is it?¡¯

    Enoch put the reply letter in the drawer and went outside.

    When he opened the front door of the mansion, his eyes collided head-on with Levion, who was standing right in front of him.

    ¡°Not now.¡±

    Enoch said with a chill to his voice.

    He had been rude to Enoch on hisst visit, and seemed to have no sense of propriety.

    Levion did not back down and approached Enoch.

    ¡°I came here to speak to you, Lord Achilles.¡±

    Enoch stopped himself from asking why he was here, because he could guess why Levion hade to see him.

    ¡°Follow me.¡±

    Enoch spoke indifferently and led him to his office. On the way, Levion nced at the mansion and raised an eyebrow. They didn¡¯t encounter a single servant.

    Levion had heard rumours about the Duke of Achilles in passing. It seemed to be true that their financial situation was not very good.

    ¡®Why do you want to stay in such a ce?¡¯

    He found it hard to understand Leticia, no matter how many times he thought about it.

    What is she going to do in this empty mansion?

    ¡®Will she be able to eat properly?¡¯

    Levion clenched his fists tightly, and kept quiet.

    Soon after arriving at the office, Enoch dropped a cup of tea in front of Levion.

    As if he had been waiting for this moment, Levion immediatelyunched into his reason for being here.

    ¡°I¡¯vee to ask a favor of Lord Achilles.¡±

    Enoch¡¯s eyes turned cold, but Levion didn¡¯t hesitate to ask him.

    ¡°Persuade Leticia.¡±

    ¡°What persuasion are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°This is no ce for Leticia.¡±

    She might have been expelled, but Leticia had been raised in a noble family all her life. He couldn¡¯t believe she¡¯s living in a house without a single servant.

    It must have been ufortable and unpleasant.

    ¡®I can¡¯t let her stay here anymore.¡¯

    On the day that Leticia said she would stay in this mansion, Levion spent time alone thinking about many things.

    While there had been nowhere to go after being emunicated by the Leroy family, she seemed to have met with Duke Achilles by chance and received help. He apparently said she could stay here, in return for his support she would help him.

    Levion thought he understood her feelings, but he couldn¡¯t wait to remove Leticia from a family that she had only known for a short time.

    He had to take Leticia with him at any cost.

    But Enoch had no sympathy for him, and only stared at Levion with a dry expression.

    ¡®You¡¯ve always led a perfect life.¡¯

    Strangely, it bothered him every time Levion talked about Leticia so familiarly.

    Enoch put that thought behind him and looked at the current situation. He felt himself be angry, little by little.

    ¡®If you care so much for each other, then why?¡¯

    Why was Letisha left alone on the street that night?

    No, what was he doing before she was emunicated from her home?

    There was no way he wanted to tell Letisha to go to a man like this.

    ¡°I think you¡¯re talking to the wrong person.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°You have to persuade Miss Leroy, not me.¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not going to do anything, no matter what you say.¡±

    ¡®I don¡¯t want to.¡¯

    After he finished speaking, Enoch took a sip of tea. He frowned because the tea tasted bad today.

    Levion spoke sharply to Enoch.

    ¡°Why are you forcing yourself to hold on to that girl?¡±

    Enoch was so stunned by Levion¡¯s words that he couldn¡¯t evenugh.

    In particr, his heart stung when he heard the word ¡®Forced¡¯.

    ¡°Do you think I took her in against my will?¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles.¡±

    ¡°No one forced me and it was Miss Leroy¡¯s decision to stay here.¡±

    Of course, Enoch hoped Leticia would stay here, and that the wounds inflicted by her family would heal a little.

    But he was more inclined to do what Leticia wanted than what he wanted.

    That¡¯s why he was so happy when Leticia ¡®threatened¡¯ him with staying a long time.

    Levion couldn¡¯t seem to ept that it was Leticia¡¯s decision, so he spoke to Enoch as if he was to me.

    ¡°She¡¯s a kind-hearted girl who can¡¯t abandon someone in need.¡±

    His implied meaning; she was only staying here out of a sense of pity.

    Enoch showed no sign of displeasure, and faced him with a calm expression.

    ¡°It¡¯s not me who¡¯s trying to force Miss Leroy, it¡¯s you.¡±

    ¡°What did you say¡­¡±

    ¡°Force.¡±

    Levion¡¯s face gradually hardened as he realized that Enoch had intentionally put strength into the word ¡®Force¡¯.

    ¡°Lord Achilles.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing I can do about it. Go home. I have nothing more to say.¡±

    Enoch spoke sternly and removed Levion¡¯s teacup.

    ¡°From now on, don¡¯te here rudely without contacting me first.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­!¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    He stared at Levion, who¡¯d momentarily stopped talking. When their gazes met, Enoch¡¯s eyes were as cold and dark as the winter sky.

    ¡°I¡­ apologize for my rudeness, Lord Achilles.¡±

    Levion held his tongue while internally he was gnashing his teeth.

    Enoch, who had been quietly admiring the scene, nodded lightly and smiled obliquely.

    ***

    Emil was always grateful to his eldest sister Leticia.

    In times of financial difficulties, it was Leticia who took care of her younger siblings while taking care of their sick mother.

    She never showed any signs of distress, and was always kind and respectful.

    Yeah, it used to be like that.

    As time passed, Diana and the younger siblings began to awaken. They felt embarrassed for Leticia, who had not yet awakened her abilities.

    What¡¯s so hard about awakening?

    The ipetent Leticia was an embarrassment to the Leroy family.

    As he got older he felt more frustrated than ashamed.

    He¡¯d watched the people around him awakening their abilities and raising the status of their family, but Leticia alone could not awaken. It seemed as if she had no personal will to try, or was incapable of redemption.? It was really shameful to see her trying to live an ordinary life as before even in such a situation.

    Just as she was the eldest and had taken care of their mother long ago, he thought she would be the first to have an ability that would help her younger siblings. Instead she had even fallen behind Irene, the youngest sibling.

    His heart sank when he saw her not only causing damage to their family with her ability to bring misfortune, but she also associated with the ill-fated Achilles family without remorse.

    ¡®Have you been hanging out with a low ss family and been brought down to their level? Or are you finally hanging out with a ss that suits you?¡¯

    It was disgraceful that they were once connected as a family.

    ¡°I thought it was a lie when I heard you were staying at the Achilles mansion, but it seems it was true.¡±

    Emil had a stunned look on his face when he saw Elle and Ian standing close to Leticia. He almostughed in disbelief when he saw it.

    Leticia faced Emil calmly.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m staying with them.¡±

    ¡°Even though you know how much Father hates that family!¡±

    As soon as Emil raised his voice, Elle¡¯s eyes lit up in fury.

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    Ian tried to intervene, but he barely managed to keep his teeth.

    Shortly afterwards, Leticia also blocked Elle¡¯s path and told Emil.

    ¡°Never mind, Emil.¡±

    ¡°Sister.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re no longer¡­¡±

    Leticia paused for a moment, then faced Emil squarely and continued.

    ¡°¡¯We don¡¯t have to worry about each other anymore.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She was once told that blood is thicker than water.

    She was well aware that blood bonds do not break easily.

    With a single false rumor about her ability to bring misfortune, and her close rtionship with an ill-fated family, she was emunicated.? She felt that there was no other rtionship as shallow and flimsy as the one between her and her family.

    Unlike Leticia, who could not hide her mixed feelings as she spoke, Emil¡¯s expression was derisive.

    ¡°Well, I shouldn¡¯t have meddled.¡±

    Emil said coldly as he walked past Leticia, and never looked back.

    She quietly stared at his retreating back. Suddenly Leticia was held in a crushing hug, surprised she looked down and saw Elle holding onto her.

    ¡°Miss Elle.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re here for you, so please don¡¯t feel hurt.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not hurt.¡±

    It was true.

    There were too many wounds so far to call what just happened a wound, so it really didn¡¯t hurt that much.

    However¡­

    ¡°It¡¯s a little pointless¡­ that¡¯s all.¡±

    She was just a little sad, because she didn¡¯t know that their rtionship could be broken so easily.

    ***

    That day was so strange.

    It was the first time in a long time that the Leroy family had gathered together.

    As the maid was pouring tea, the cup suddenly broke in half. The hot tea flowed down the table and fell onto the Marquess¡¯.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s hot!¡±

    ¡°Mother, are you all right?¡±

    The spilled tea caused a light burn on the Marquess¡¯ hand.

    ¡°What is going on this morning?¡±

    ¡°Where is the teacup from?¡±

    ¡°I bought it at Saint-Melignon. It¡¯s a high-quality product.¡±

    ¡°You like luxury items!¡±

    They allmented on the situation and it was eventually decided that all the Saint-Melignon teacups would be thrown away and a different set of teacups would be used from now on.

    But the strangeness did not end there.

    That night, Diana hurt herself when she tripped and fell to the ground.

    ¡°How did you fall? Were you injured?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure I was walking properly¡­ My injury is not serious enough to bother you,¡±

    A bewildered Diana replied to the worried Marquis Leroy.

    There was nothing in front of her, but she managed to trip over a stone. She put her hand out to catch herself, and sprained her wrist.

    Marquis Leroy urged Diana to be more careful next time before he left.

    As soon as the Marquis left, Xavier asked with a worried look.

    ¡°Are you truly all right, Sister?¡±

    ¡°It throbs a little bit.¡±

    ¡°Be careful. You can¡¯t get hurt again.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Diana looked at him in confusion, she didn¡¯t understand what he was trying to say. Xavier just looked at her curiously.

    ¡°You said you were hurt by our older sisterst time.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Diana looked down at her injured wrist with a stiff look on her face.

    As Xavier pointed out, it was the same wrist that she had pretended was injured by Leticia.

 Chapter 17 - . Good Luckâ€ Is Unexpected

    <h4>Chapter 17 - . ''Good Luck¡± Is Unexpected</h4>

    Chapter 17. ¡°Good Luck¡± Is Unexpected

    ***

    It was another sunny day as usual.

    It had been a while since Leticia had been outside. She decided to go for a walk to cool off when she spotted Elle in the garden.

    She approached her with a cheerful smile, but Elle was drawing something with her head down.

    ¡°What are you drawing?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Miss Elle?¡±

    ¡°Ahh!¡±

    Leticia had tapped her lightly on the shoulder and startled Elle, who quickly hid her paper behind her.

    She immediately saw that it was Leticia and sighed in relief.

    ¡°Miss Leticia? You surprised me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to scare you.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s okay.¡±

    ¡°Am I disturbing you?¡±

    ¡°No! Not at all!¡±

    Elle shook her head vehemently saying, ¡®This is not the case at all¡¯. But she was still busy checking to see if there were any other people around.

    ¡°Are you alone?¡±

    ¡°Yes, is something wrong?¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing.¡±

    Finally, Elle¡¯s expression rxed and she slowly got up from her seat. In her hand was an unfinished picture.

    ¡°What are you drawing?¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­ this?¡±

    When Leticia looked at her curiously, Elle nced at her drawings.

    Elle seemed to be thinking about something for a while, and then carefully put her index finger on her lips.

    ¡°It¡¯s a secret from my brother, but I¡¯ll show you if you promise to keep it a secret.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I understand.¡±

    Elle only showed it to Letisha after she agreed to keep quiet.

    ¡°This is¡­¡±

    What Elle drew was a number of essories.

    ¡°Did you draw these yourself?¡±

    ¡°Yes, what do you think?¡±

    Elle asked, looking at Leticia.

    Elle was more nervous than she thought she would be, it was probably because it was the first time she had shown her drawings to someone.

    Leticia was looking at the pictures carefully with Elle next to her, who had a worried look on her face.

    ¡°So cute and pretty!¡±

    ¡°Are you sure it¡¯s pretty?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯d love to see your designs made.¡±

    Leticia said as she looked at the drawings.

    She could feel Elle¡¯s sincere care in the drafts she drew. They were so beautiful that they could¡¯ve been made into real jewelry right away.

    Leticia looked at her with expectant eyes, but for some reason Elle avoided her gaze with a troubled expression.

    Leticia didn¡¯t seem to notice Elle¡¯s troubled face and pointed to one of the drawings.

    ¡°What¡¯s this? It looks like a gold thread bracelet.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that?¡±

    Elle¡¯s expression became bitter.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t get a gold thread bracelet for my brother¡¯s entrance exam, so I drew one instead.¡±

    Elle thought it would be okay if she gave him a drawing, but she was worried that people would mock Enoch. So in the end she couldn¡¯t muster up the courage to give it to him.

    ¡°Come to think of it, I forgot to thank you.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°My brother told me; ¡®Miss Leroy gave me a gold thread bracelet.¡¯¡±

    She was grateful to Letisha for giving such a precious item to Enoch.

    ¡°I really tried everything to buy a bracelet, but I couldn¡¯t get one.¡±

    Thinking about it, she felt conflicted.

    Everyone wanted to have gold thread bracelets, but the bracelets were expensive and limited in number.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure they all wanted to pass¡­¡±

    ¡°Miss Elle¡­¡±

    Leticia quietly watched Elle¡¯s depressed appearance, and she decided to speak up.

    ¡°So why don¡¯t you make jewelry like the gold thread bracelets?¡±

    ¡°Like the gold thread bracelets?¡±

    ¡°Yes, for example¡­¡±

    Leticia pointed to the most in-looking bracelet that Elle drew.

    ¡°If you wear this bracelet, your wish wille true.¡±

    ¡°What? The bracelet I drew doesn¡¯t make your wishe true.¡±

    ¡°You can give it that meaning, Miss Elle.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    The confused Elle blurted out.

    The meaning was too excessive for a simple bracelet that could easily be bought anywhere.

    Leticia had a different idea though.

    ¡°Miss Elle should know.¡±

    ¡°Miss Leticia¡­¡±

    ¡°Wishes are something that anyone can have, regardless of status.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Blue eyes shining bright and clear, a soft and determined voice.

    Leticia¡¯s words stopped Elle short.

    ¡®Wishes that anyone can have, regardless of status.¡¯

    Elle looked down at the bracelet she drew, repeating what Leticia had said in her mind.

    It looked in because it didn¡¯t have any of the basic gems, but that made it easier for anyone to own.

    ¡°Miss Leticia is right.¡±

    Her hand gradually got stronger as she held her picture tightly.

    ¡°Anyone can choose to have a wish, or not.¡±

    Elle could feel her heavy heart be lighter.

    ¡°I want to make jewelry that is easily essible to anyone, just like Miss Leticia said.¡±

    Elle really wanted to make some and she was confident that she could make it well. It also gave her hope that the unfulfilled wishes in everyone¡¯s heart woulde true.

    Elle looked down at the bracelet she drew for a moment.

    She wondered what it would look like if it had a small gem, one that meant wish, in the bracelet held tightly by two threads.

    ¡®Wish¡­¡¯

    While Elle wondered what could symbolize a wish, Leticia asked cautiously.

    ¡°Why is it a secret from Lord Achilles?¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡­ I thought he wouldn¡¯t like it.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She hadn¡¯t known him that long, but Leticia was sure Enoch would love to support Elle¡¯s dream.

    So she couldn¡¯t understand.

    Leticia turned towards her, Elle looked embarrassed and hesitatingly said.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it a business to make and sell your own jewelry?¡±

    ¡°Right?¡±

    ¡°My brother won¡¯t like it because our Father¡¯s business caused a lot of debt.¡±

    Their parents died shortly after starting a business. It put the Achilles family into debt, which Enoch was forced to deal with. Her brother had struggled to take care of Ian and her. Elle didn¡¯t want to add to his burden.

    Even now, the family¡¯s situation has not improved much, Enoch continues to struggle alone. She couldn¡¯t bring herself to tell him she wanted to start a business making jewelry. So Elle stuck to drawing her designs in secret.

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    Leticia sighed quietly after listening to Elle.

    She finally understood why Elle was hesitating.

    Leticia looked down at Elle¡¯s drawings with a pang in her chest.

    It was clear that this was a dream that she¡¯d had for a long time.

    ¡®But I¡¯d still like her to talk to Lord Achilles.¡¯

    But Leticia didn¡¯t want to force her to tell Enoch, since she wasn¡¯tpletely sure what Elle was thinking. For now she was hoping it would just work out.

    Elle pped her hands together and eximed.

    ¡°Oh, I remember! It¡¯s okay to decorate the bracelet with pink diamonds. Oh, what the heck!¡±

    A bright smile briefly spread across her face, when arge hand covered her drawings.

    As soon as Elle looked up, she locked eyes with Enoch. Ian was standing behind him.

    ¡°Oh¡­ Brother¡­¡±

    ¡°Why are you so surprised? It¡¯s like you¡¯ve seen a ghost.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­ no¡­ It¡¯s not¡­¡±

    Elle looked over to Leticia with a panicked look on her face. Leticia was a little worried, so she grasped Elle¡¯s hand in hers.

    ¡®It¡¯s okay.¡¯

    She gave Elle a warm smile and a nod.

    Elle gathered her strength, squeezed Leticia¡¯s hand and slowly began to speak.

    ¡°These are my drawings. I want to make and sell the bracelets that I draw.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I know you don¡¯t like it. I don¡¯t think you¡¯ll like it¡­¡±

    Elle was speaking nervously and nced up at Enoch to see his reaction.

    ¡°I will never cause trouble for the family. I won¡¯t be irresponsible like Father.¡±

    ¡°Elle.¡±

    Enoch called to Elle in a soft voice as her nervousness had her talking faster and faster.

    Only then did Elle look straight at Enoch.

    The moment their eyes met, Enoch said.

    ¡°I never thought of you as irresponsible.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°So do what you want to do without worry.¡±

    Elle felt her happiness burst forth and let out a happy cheer. Enoch and Leticia smiled at each other.

    ¡®Well done.¡¯

    That¡¯s what her summer blue eyes seem to be telling him.

    Elle wriggled in excitement and asked Enoch.

    ¡°Then can I ask you for a favor?¡±

    ***

    ¡°I¡¯m d you had a good conversation with Lord Achilles.¡±

    Leticia smiled brightly as she apanied Elle to the square.

    Elle nodded excitedly.

    ¡°I know. It¡¯s all thanks to you.¡±

    With Leticia beside her, she felt she could honestly tell Enoch her dream and ask for help.

    ¡°Now we just need to find a jeweller to make my designs.¡±

    Elle said while stretching her arms over her head.

    Her request was to decorate the bracelet with pink diamonds mixed with impurities from the family mine. Since pink diamonds are only valuable if they are of the highest grade, Enoch allowed her to take as many as she wanted.

    ¡°You helped me so much already, you didn¡¯t have toe with me too¡­.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s better to look together than alone.¡±

    Leticia made it sound like it was obvious. Elle smiled happily and they began to look for a jeweller together.

    They were able to meet several craftsmen, but none of them were willing to work with a lower grade gemstone.

    After being rejected five times, Elle¡¯s once lively expression gradually darkened.

    Noticing immediately, Letisha carefully held her hand.

    ¡°Let¡¯s look around some more. I¡¯m sure we can find a better craftsman.¡±

    ¡°I hope so¡­¡±

    Elle thought it might be difficult to find another jeweller in this area.

    She let out a deep sigh when Leticia¡¯s urgent voice prated her musing.

    ¡°Miss Elle, watch out!¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Elle quickly looked ahead, but it waste. She ran into someone who had juste around the corner.

    Leticia quickly caught Elle, who fell back after bumping into the other person quite hard.

    ¡°Are you okay, Miss Elle?¡±

    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m sorry. Are you okay?¡±

    When Elle bumped into the man, the envelopes they were both holding fell to the ground.

    Elle stared at her now dirty envelope, red at the man and picked up her drawing. The man became flustered at her re and picked up his own envelope.

    ¡°I was in a hurry and wasn¡¯t watching properly. I apologize again.¡±

    ¡°Sure, but be more careful next time.¡±

    The man bowed his head in apology and rushed off.

    Leticia moved to Elle¡¯s side with a worried expression. She looked Elle up and down, checking for injuries.

    ¡°You¡¯re not hurt, are you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine,e on.¡±

    She was a little annoyed that her envelope got dirt on it, but it wasn¡¯t something to get angry about.

    Elle tapped the dirt off and told Leticia.

    ¡°We should go home.¡±

    ¡°What? But we haven¡¯t found a craftsman yet.¡±

    ¡°We cane back tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°Still¡­¡±

    ¡°But if we don¡¯t go now, you¡¯ll be worried.¡±

    Leticia was forced to agree with Elle¡¯s words.

    ¡®It¡¯s too much to expect a perfect match in one day.¡¯

    Contrary to her thoughts, Leticia was feeling disappointed and her steps were heavy.

    Elle pulled on Leticia¡¯s hand to hurry her up.

    ¡°Let¡¯s leave for today and you cane with me next time? ¡±

    ¡°Okay¡­¡±

    She nodded reluctantly, and Elle smiled contentedly as they went back to the Achilles mansion together.

    ***

    ¡°Well, did you get the contract?

    ¡°Yes, here it is.¡±

    The man took the envelope from Suha with an impressed look on his face. It was difficult to get a contract with the Imperial family.

    He was happy that things were finally looking up, but inside the envelope was something other than a contract.

    ¡°You¡­ What did you bring?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°This is not a contract!¡±

    The man threw the envelope at Suha in a fit of rage. Surprised, Suha fumbled for the envelope and checked inside.

    Unfortunately, the man was right. The envelope didn¡¯t contain a contract, but a sketch of a bracelet. Suha was embarrassed and said in a conflicted voice.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I bumped into someone and we must¡¯ve switched envelopes.¡±

    ¡°Go get it!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    Suha quickly ran out the door to go find the contract. The man watched him leave and sat back in his chair irritably.

    ¡°What a good-for-nothing!¡±

    He couldn¡¯t bring a single contract back properly.

    The man clicked his tongue and picked up the paper with the essory again.

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    It was too neat and in for aristocraticdies to wear, but that made it rather cute. Written underneath the drawing of the bracelet; ¡®I will grant your wish¡¯.

    ¡®A wishing bracelet¡­¡¯

    While the concept of jewelry that grants wishes ismon, the idea of using lower-grade gemstones to make it easier formoners to buy was ingenious.

    ¡®There¡¯s still some things that need to be refined.¡¯

    He could definitely feel the talent and skill of the artist.

    ¡®I think it would be nice to make and sell this.¡¯

    As soon as the thought crossed his mind, the man stood up and chased after Suha.

    ¡°Wait, wait, wait!¡±

    Fortunately, Suha hadn¡¯t gone far, so he was able to catch him quickly.

    ¡°While you¡¯re at it, tell the artist who drew this that I¡¯d like to meet them.¡±

 Chapter 18 - Where Misfortunes Com

    <h4>Chapter 18 - Where Misfortunes Com</h4>

    Chapter 18. Where Misfortunes Come

    ***

    ¡°Did you have a good trip?¡±

    Enoch asked when Leticia and Elle entered the drawing room where Ian and him had been drinking tea.

    Elle lightly shrugged her shoulders.

    ¡°Yes, but I couldn¡¯t get the work done.¡±

    Ian nodded with a look of relief that Elle didn¡¯t show any sign of disappointment.

    ¡°I thought you¡¯d be downcast because you couldn¡¯t find anyone.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean? I¡¯ll find someone.¡±

    Elle sat next to Ian, vowing to find a craftsman who would surely make her essories.

    Leticia paused for a moment to giggle at Elle and Ian¡¯s quarreling.

    ¡°Why are you standing there like that? Sit down.¡±

    Elle saw Leticia standing there awkwardly, and beckoned her to sit in the chair across from her.

    It was right next to Enoch.

    ¡°Oh, yes¡­¡±

    Leticia sat down next to Enoch, as soon as their eyes met she nced away shyly.

    She could feel Enoch¡¯s gaze and stared straight ahead.

    ¡®I wonder if it¡¯s okay if I sit next to you?¡¯

    Unlike the self-conscious Leticia, Enoch wore an indifferent expression while he poured tea into a Vienna cup.

    ¡°Don¡¯t walk around toote. I¡¯m worried about you.¡±

    A warm tea was ced in front of Leticia.

    Leticia thought the words were directed at her, so she looked up at Enoch. But he was handing a cup of tea to Elle.

    When he nced back at her, she met his troubled eyes.

    ¡°The same goes for you, Miss Leroy.¡±

    The firm yet gentle voice made her feel better, and Leticia almost smiled in happiness.

    She nodded quickly, trying to hold it in.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll be careful not to worry you.¡±

    When Leticia said yes, Enoch smiled contentedly and drank tea.

    Leticia nced at him and blushed furiously.

    It had been a while since she felt someone worry about her.

    ¡®It¡¯s warm.¡¯

    Leticia gripped the hot cup of tea Enoch had given her.

    A feeling hotter than the cup she was holding bloomed in her chest.

    Strangely, the feeling wasn¡¯t unpleasant.

    She was sipping her tea while contemting that warmth when Ian said.

    ¡°Come to think of it, isn¡¯t there an Imperial Knighthood ceremony soon?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Aren¡¯t you nervous, Brother?¡±

    Ian asked as he had suddenly remembered, Elle also looked at Enoch.

    Enoch smiled lightly as he faced their uneasy gazes.

    ¡°I¡¯m not nervous.¡±

    ¡°Oh, Brother is so mature.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯reing with us, right?¡±

    Ian asked Leticia, while Elle was busy teasing Enoch. While it was said in a questioning tone, it sounded more like a statement.

    Enoch and Elle also turned to Leticia.

    With three sets of eyes on her, Leticia asked cautiously.

    ¡°Is it alright if I go?¡±

    ¡°Of course!¡±

    As Elle nodded her head excitedly, Leticia looked to Enoch.

    Enoch smiled and nodded, and Leticia¡¯s expression brightened.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll go celebrate with you.¡±

    She was happy just thinking that she was going to celebrate with people precious to her.

    But that happiness was short-lived as Leticia gripped the cup anxiously.

    ¡®If it is an Imperial Knight appointment ceremony¡­¡¯

    She was sure to run into Levion.

    Leticia didn¡¯t realize, but her face had be gloomy.

    ¡°You said you were going to make your own jewelry to sell. Show me the design.¡±

    ¡°Okay, here you go.¡±

    Elle readily handed the envelope, across the table, to the curious Ian.

    Ian made a strange expression while looking at the paper.

    ¡°What¡¯s this contract?¡±

    Ian asked, showing Elle the papers from the envelope.

    Inside the envelope were contract papers, not the essory drawn by Elle.

    ¡°Huh? What¡¯s this?¡±

    A puzzled Elle looked at the papers and recognized what they were.

    But no matter how many times she looked, it was a contract, not her drawing.

    ¡°No way¡­¡±

    As soon as the thought crossed her mind, Leticia and Elle¡¯s eyes met at the same time.

    There was only one possibilitying to mind.

    Elle immediately sighed and said.

    ¡°I guess the envelope was switched with the person I bumped into outside.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s toote now, let¡¯s go to bed and try to find him tomorrow.¡±

    Elle said dejectedly. Ian, who was sitting next to her, patted her lightly on the shoulder.

    It waste in the evening. Elle and Ian decided to go back to their rooms to sleep.

    As Enoch was leaving the parlor.

    ¡°Umm¡­¡±

    Enoch looked back in curiosity at the quiet voice calling out to him.

    There stood a hesitant Leticia, who looked like she wanted to say something.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°No! It¡¯s not¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Leticia opened and closed her mouth several times before she managed to say something.

    ¡°Did hee back again?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She worried that Levion might havee back unannounced, and bothered Enoch again.

    The Levion that Leticia knew was someone who would do that.

    But for some reason, Enoch¡¯s voice sounded cold.

    ¡°You call his namefortably¡­ You must have a special rtionship.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s been close to my family since we were children.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s expression softened as she nodded lightly, oblivious of Enoch¡¯s sharpment.

    Maybe Levion was closer and friendlier with her family, but where was he when she was struggling.

    But¡­

    [Are you relying on another man while still engaged to him? Get your act together. Don¡¯t make me the bad guy.]

    She was someone who¡¯s more focused on people¡¯s eyes and reputation than Enoch had ever been.

    ¡°It¡¯s different. No, it¡¯s special.¡±

    Now it was a rtionship that was as easily broken as her family bond.

    Enoch stopped talking for a moment as he turned his head with a bitter smile, and then answered quietly.

    ¡°He didn¡¯te.¡±

    ¡°Phew¡­ that¡¯s a relief to hear.¡±

    Leticia gave a sigh of relief, Enoch who was watching her said.

    ¡°There is something I¡¯d like to say to Miss Leroy.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She blinked her eyes, wondering what he meant.

    Enoch did not take his eyes off her sky blue eyes as he said.

    ¡°Don¡¯t put up with someone hurting you or taking you for granted.¡±

    The ck eyes stared at me adamantly. It made me straighten my back.

    ¡°No one deserves to be hurt.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    A short cry floated out of Leticia¡¯s mouth.

    No one deserves to be hurt.

    It was a natural thing to say.

    But Enoch was the first person to say that to her.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Leticia smiled softly with a sweet voice that warmed her eyes.

    So she slowly brought up something that had been bothering her.

    ¡°Lord Achilles.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not a Leroy anymore, so you can call me whatever you want.¡±

    Leticia said casually, but froze for a moment.

    Speaking of which¡­

    ¡®What should I call him?¡¯

    It was normal to have no family name after being emunicated.

    That meant he would be calling her by her given name.

    She felt nervous thinking of Enoch calling her name, but Leticia tried to act casual about it.

    ¡°Call me by my first name, Lord Achilles.¡±

    It was just a name, and yet, her hands wouldn¡¯t stop trembling.

    A shadow fell over her.

    As she raised her head in surprise, she saw Enoch right in front of her, bent down slightly at eye level.

    As soon as their gaze was intertwined, Enoch slowly opened his mouth.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    ¡°Is that what I should call you?¡±

    Thump, thump, thump.

    The sound of her heart beating seemed to be right in her ears.

    Enoch spoke in a soft voice to Leticia, who was too embarrassed to even raise her head.

    ¡°I¡¯d like you to call me by my name as well.¡±

    ¡°What? Oh¡­¡±

    Her heart felt like it would explode when he called her name, the thought of calling Enoch¡¯s by name left her flustered.

    She felt herself blushing from head to toe.

    With her head down, Leticia spoke slowly with a trembling voice.

    ¡°Can you wait a bit longer?¡±

    Enoch nodded with a smile as he looked down at Leticia, who was wringing her white hands shyly.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll wait.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    ¡°Sweet dreams.¡±

    Enoch, who she had expected to return to his room immediately, suddenly stopped and turned around.

    She opened her eyes wide wondering if something was wrong. Enoch¡¯s mouth raised up in a pleasant smile, then she heard his voice.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    He said her name gently before returning to his room.

    Leticia was left standing alone in the hallway watching him walk away. She answered him in a small voice that Enoch couldn¡¯t hear.

    ¡°Yes, goodnight¡­¡±

    Enoch.

    The name she hadn¡¯t been able to call out was still tickling her mouth.

    ***

    ¡°What? You emunicated her?¡±

    Upon returning to the Leroy mansion, Seos heard shocking news from Marquis Leroy.

    Leticia was expelled from the family.

    As soon as Seos heard the news, his voice became stern.

    ¡°Her ability is not to bring misfortune! If it was, your family would have been ruined already, you wouldn¡¯t have thrived!¡±

    ¡°It was for a good reason.¡±

    ¡°Reason?¡±

    It was so ridiculous that Seos burst intoughter.

    ¡°What great reason did you have to emunicate that child?¡±

    ¡°That one child would have ruined me, my children, and my family.¡±

    Seos¡¯ expression hardened at the Marquis¡¯ words.

    It seemed that Marquis Leroy had already made up his mind.

    ¡°What would you have me do? Her behavior was going to bring misfortune.¡±

    ¡°Master Leroy.¡±

    ¡°Even spending time with that Achilles family, famous for their bad luck.¡±

    It must be the reason why an investor suddenly backed out and the Marquis had to stop working on one of his businesses.

    Seos listened to Marquis Leroy¡¯s story with a nk face.

    ¡°You¡¯re ming Leticia for what happened?¡±

    ¡°What other reason could there be?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Since Diana was born nothing bad has happened. Either the power of the first child really brings misfortune, or she was too close to the Achilles family.¡±

    Marquis Leroy was morbidly obsessed with luck and good fortune. Due to this fact, his family line was about to fall in a big way.

    Seos knew he wasn¡¯t wrong.

    ¡°I swear on my name. That child¡¯s ability does not bring misfortune.¡±

    He didn¡¯t know what her ability was yet, but he was sure it was an extraordinary ability.

    But Marquis Leroy didn¡¯t even pretend to listen.

    Seos was about to strike his chest in frustration at the sight.

    There was a suddenmotion outside the room.

    ¡°That can¡¯t be true! I¡¯m sure I turned in my exam papers!¡±

    Marquis Leroy immediately recognized Irene¡¯s voice. He jumped up and went outside.

    As he went out, he saw Irene and a staff member from the Magic Academy standing at the front door. He approached slowly, and the sound of their conversation became clearer.

    ¡°Unfortunately, we have no choice but to disqualify you.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s ridiculous! I¡¯ll look for it myself!¡±

    The only reason the Magic Academy employee even visited was to inform Irene of her disqualification.

    Unable to believe it, Irene apanied the staff member back to the academy to look for the paper.

    ¡°What is going on all of a sudden?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡®I hope it¡¯s not a big deal,¡¯ the family thought.

    ¡°Master! There¡¯s trouble! The Young Master!¡±

    As soon as Irene left the mansion, the stableman rushed to the Marquis Leroy with a panicked look on his face.

    Marquis Leroy felt a strong sense of foreboding.

    ¡°What¡¯s the fuss?¡±

    ¡°Young master Xavier fell off his horse and was injured.¡±

    ¡°What? It can¡¯t be!¡±

    Everyone in the mansion knew that Xavier was good with a sword and could ride a horse.

    But he fell off a horse?

    Marquis Leroy rushed to Xavier¡¯s room with a pale face.

    Seos watched him leave with a soft exhale.

    ¡®I heard that the Marquess was burned the other day and his second daughter injured her wrist.¡¯

    Why are so many bad things happening all of a sudden?

    Seos clicked his tongue, but then his face stiffened.

    ¡®When did it start?¡¯

    How long had this unbelievably bad luck been happening to the Leroy household?

    He thought back slowly and calmly, one by one, until he came to one fact.

    ¡®That¡¯s when it started.¡¯

    Nothing good has happened since Leticia was emunicated from the family.

 Chapter 19 - In Order To Move Forward

    <h4>Chapter 19 - In Order To Move Forward</h4>

    ***

    ¡®It¡¯s weird¡¯

    It was strange no matter how many times she thought about it.

    The man who stood firm in front of her in a quiet hallway where only the faint trace of moonlight had crept in. The dark eyes that only contained Leticia, and her slightly disheveled hair, still came to mind clearly.

    [Don¡¯t put up with someone hurting you or taking you for granted.]

    His eyes were cool, but his voice was so gentle that it brought tears to her eyes.

    Leticia could feel that he meant it as he spoke, and she couldn¡¯t look Enoch in the eyes.

    [No one deserves to be hurt.]

    Enoch was always like that.

    He would say the words she wanted to hear the most as if it were the most natural thing.

    ¡®What kind of expression did I have on my face at that moment¡­¡¯

    Leticia thought she might have bowed her head with a mncholic expression, and thanked him for his words.

    One thing was for sure.

    [Leticia. Is that what I should call you?]

    That face that called her name with a sweet voice that seems to melt Leticia even now.

    Unlike the cold and dry impression of midwinter, the way Enoch looked at Leticia was as warm as the spring sun.

    [Sweet dreams. Leticia.]

    The moment Enoch called her name with a soft smile, she could hear her heart thump.

    Her fingertips started to itch, so Leticia stood there for a while and nudged them.

    So it was strange.

    ¡®Why?¡¯

    Leticia stared at her hand with a dazed expression.

    She could still remember that feeling clearly and it made her face feel hot.

    What was even weirder was that she didn¡¯t hate the feeling.

    ¡®Different.¡¯

    It felt different from when Levion called out her name.

    ¡®Why?¡¯

    How can it be so different because the person who said it is different?

    She tilted her head dubiously.

    ¡°I¡¯m back¡­¡±

    Leticia heard a wistful voice say as they sat down next to her.

    Leticia turned to face Elle, who was sighing with a tired look.

    ¡°Were you able to return it?¡±

    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t see him.¡±

    Elle couldn¡¯t find the man she bumped into that day even after searching for a long time.

    After lying on the table for a while, Elle sat up again and nced at the envelope. Aside from the fact that she hadn¡¯t found her drawing, it bothered Elle that she hadn¡¯t been able to return something important to the other person.

    ¡°I went to the ce where I bumped into the man, but I couldn¡¯t find him.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll see him soon. It¡¯s an important item.¡±

    ¡°I really hope so.¡±

    Elle, who was sighing a lot, looked at Ian and nodded to the kitchen.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to make tea. Do you want toe with me, Ian?¡±

    ¡°No. I¡¯m going back to my room.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, of course.¡±

    Unlike Elle, who went immediately to the kitchen, Ian sat there brooding for a while before he left. At that moment, Ian¡¯s face looked a little dark

    Leticia watched his back in silence, his face was hiding someplex feelings.

    ¡®What¡¯s the matter?¡¯

    There didn¡¯t seem to be anything wrong with Ian when they went to look for the man who had bumped into Elle. But it kept bothering her, so Leticia got up and went to Ian¡¯s room.

    Leticia walked down the hallway. She knocked on Ian¡¯s door as soon as she arrived at his room.

    ¡°I¡¯ming.¡±

    The door slowly opened after the short answer.

    Ian opened the door with a dry look, his gray eyes widened as soon as he saw Leticia standing in front of him. He didn¡¯t seem to have expected Leticia to show up.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just wondering how you¡¯re doing. Can Ie in?¡±

    ¡°Sure.¡±

    Ian quickly stepped aside in confusion.

    Leticia nodded lightly and thanked him as she entered.

    Ian¡¯s room looked frugal and simple for a child from a noble family. The room reminded her of a study, without a single personal trinket and filled only with books.

    Leticia was looking at the bookshelf and pointed to one book.

    ¡°I¡¯m guessing that you¡¯re preparing to be an Imperial civil servant.¡±

    She¡¯d seen Emil reading and studying various books in order to prepare for the Imperial civil service. It was clear that this was one of them.

    ¡°You mean this?¡±

    At Leticia¡¯s words, Ian took out the book, flipped through it, and put it back.

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    ¡°Weren¡¯t you interested?

    ¡°Rather than interested¡­¡±

    ¡°.¡­?¡±

    ¡°I think I should.¡±

    His brother Enoch became an Imperial knight to revive the family, and his twin sister Elle was preparing to enter into her field of interest.

    Ian was at a standstill because he didn¡¯t have anything he liked or wanted to do.

    ¡°This is the only thing I can do.¡±

    Fortunately, he was a little bit smarter than most people.

    He wasn¡¯t very happy about it.

    He still hadn¡¯t found the job he was meant to do.

    ¡®I envy you.¡¯

    Ian murmured as he slowly patted his book.

    Unlike him, who was unable to move forward, Elle knew exactly what she wanted to do.

    He was feeling anxious.

    A bitter smile spread across his face at the sinking feeling. Ian quickly changed the subject because he seemed to have said some useless things.

    ¡°Do you want to have tea with Elle?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, sounds good.¡±

    Ian nodded and went with Leticia to the kitchen.

    Before reaching the kitchen, Leticia suddenly stopped walking. Ian stopped and looked at her in question. Leticia opened her mouth.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you find something you like, not something you can do?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve never been able to find anything I like either, but¡­¡±

    Leticia was briefly lost for words, then looked straight at Ian and continued.

    ¡°Let¡¯s look for something we like together.¡±

    There was a warm smile on her face as she talked to him. Ian felt a deep sense offort from it.

    Ian always felt like he wasgging behind because he wasn¡¯t good at anything other than being smarter than others. He felt sorry for himself and had trouble facing his family.

    Perhaps that was why Leticia¡¯s words were such a greatfort to him.

    It was amon phrase that anyone could have said. Strangely, he could feel the sincerity in her words, and they didn¡¯t sound likemon words.

    They sounded rather special.

    ¡°I understand why Elle likes Ms. Leroy so much.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Ian smiled instead of answering, looking at her as if he was saying what he meant.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

    He beckoned her towards the kitchen and Leticia followed with a puzzled expression.

    She nced at him and saw that his profile was even more rxed than before. Only then did Leticia smile.

    ¡®I¡¯m going to find it, too.¡¯

    What can I do?

    What¡¯s my favourite thing?

    And¡­

    ¡®What I want to do.¡¯

    I¡¯ll find out for sure.

    To move forward.

    ***

    The day of the Imperial knighthood ceremony had finally arrived.

    The morning sun was shining brightly. An excited Leticia finished getting ready and arrived at the front door of the mansion first. Elle arrived shortly after and greeted Leticia.

    ¡°Did you sleep well?¡±

    ¡°Yes, did Ms.Elle sleep well?¡±

    ¡°Oh no, not at all. I was so nervous that I couldn¡¯t sleep a wink.¡±

    It wasn¡¯t even her investiture ceremony, but she was so nervous.

    Elle, who had beenughing quietly, looked around curiously.

    ¡°But my brothers haven¡¯t arrived yet.¡±

    ¡°I think he¡¯ll arrive soon.¡±

    ¡°Really? Oh, right. I forgot the envelope.¡±

    Elle almost forgot that she was going to the square as soon as the investiture ceremony was over, and she¡¯d forgotten the envelope.

    She looked at Leticia with her hands sped together in a begging manner.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, can you call on Brother to hurry up? I¡¯ll collect Ian when I get the envelope.¡±

    ¡°Of course I¡¯ll go now.¡±

    Leticia nodded lightly and went to Enoch¡¯s room.

    When she arrived, she was strangely nervous. She tried to put it behind her and knocked carefully.

    ¡°It¡¯s Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Yes,e in.¡±

    She slowly opened the door.

    Enoch had just finished putting on his uniform, and looked over at her with an embarrassed expression.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. My sleeve button is not working well.¡±

    Then he lowered his head again and began to put on his gloves.

    Leticia stared nkly at his figure without realizing it.

    ¡®Wow¡­¡¯

    Her breath caught before she could utter an exmation.

    Dark hair that stood out against white skin, and eyes that gazed down. The line of the waist and long legs that went under wide shoulders.

    The form-fitting ck uniform looked graceful and noble rather than darkening his cool impression.

    ¡®It looks good on you.¡¯

    When she looked up, she met Enoch¡¯s eyes who had a curious expression.

    Startled, Leticia coughed and turned her head away. By chance she saw the undone sleeve.

    ¡°You¡¯re not buttoned there.¡±

    Enoch raised his wrist to button it. He was trying to do it alone, but it was hard. His hand was fumbling at it, which made Enoch frown.

    After watching for a bit, Leticia slowly approached Enoch.

    ¡°Let me help you.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, mydy.¡±

    As she reached out her hand, Enoch smiled as if he had been waiting and held out his wrist.

    Leticia beamed happily at his smile, then paused for a moment.

    ¡®This bracelet¡­¡¯

    As soon as she recognized the bracelet, Leticia involuntarily raised her head to look up at Enoch. Enoch tilted his head at an angle in question.

    ¡°You¡¯re still wearing the bracelet.¡±

    ¡°Oh, this?¡±

    At Leticia¡¯s words, Enoch rolled up her sleeves slightly so that the bracelet could be seen better.

    ¡°I always wear it because only good things happen when it¡¯s on.¡±

    It was the gold thread bracelet that Leticia had put on Enoch during his entrance exam.

    Leticia was surprised, she hadn¡¯t expected him to go so far. She was touched, and couldn¡¯t raise her head properly.

    ¡®Yes.¡¯

    This is enough.

    She was satisfied that he cherished her heart like this.

    ¡°Still, you might want to take it off.¡±

    Leticia buttoned up his sleeve, touching the gold thread bracelet she¡¯d given her.

    ¡°You don¡¯t like that I¡¯m wearing it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not that, I just don¡¯t think it suits you.¡±

    The gold thread bracelet could be glimpsed between the ck sleeves. It wasn¡¯t strange, but it bothered her because this was an important post.

    ¡°I don¡¯t like it.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia nced up at Enoch, who was smiling down at her.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to brag.¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles¡­¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s someone who cares about me.¡±

    The gold thread bracelet could mean sess, but it can also mean ¡°affection¡± when given by a lover.

    These thoughts came to mind and Leticia turned her head away to hide her reddened face.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you care about me?¡±

    Leticia jumped at the lonely sound of his voice.

    ¡°I do care for you! Of course I care for you¡­¡±

    The moment their eyes met, Leticia¡¯s voice trailed off.

    Leticia looked down her hands to avoid his gaze, Enoch couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. He needed to endure otherwise he¡¯d bete to the Imperial knighthood ceremony if he teased her anymore.

    ¡°Shall we go?¡±

    Leticia nodded with a smile to his gentle coaxing voice.

    ***

    It was a sunny day with dazzling sunlight. The Imperial knighthood ceremony had begun.

    White birds, symbolizing peace, soared high to fill the sky. Morgan Fides flowers, meaning loyalty, were scattered across the assembly hall.

    A noble oath to give one¡¯s life to the Emperor.

    Among the many knights, only two people stood out because they were significantly opposite in looks and atmosphere.

    It was Enoch Achilles and Levion El.

    Leticia was pping her hands while looking at Enoch when she felt a piercing gaze.? The moment she made eye contact with that person, her bright face hardened.

    ¡®Levi¡­¡¯

    He looked at her with a colder look than he had a few days ago, and Leticia sighed and turned her head away.

    .

    .

    .

    The investiture ceremony ended without a hitch. Leticia was also able to take a breather away from Levion¡¯s sharp gaze.

    It was then that she felt an unusual presence approaching from behind her.

    ¡°Are you going to get revenge for being kicked out?¡±

    The moment she turned around, Leticia was startled by a rough hand tugging on her shoulder. It was Diana, who had a ferocious look in her eyes.

    ¡°Diana, what¡¯s wrong with you¡­¡±

    ¡°How can you go out and cause so much trouble?¡±

    ¡°Let me go¡­¡±

    ¡°Your existence itself is an unfortunate mess!¡±

    Leticia¡¯s head was starting to get dizzy as Diana shook her violently by her slender shoulders.

    That¡¯s when it happened.

    ¡°Stop it.¡±

    *****

    Note from Baset: Thank you all for reading ¡°I won¡¯t go back to my family who abandoned me¡±.

    I wanted to apologize for howte this chapter was. I was feeling under the weather and needed to take a break. I¡¯m feeling better now and releases should be back to a more normal schedule.

    Thank you for your patience. (¥·_ _)¥·

 Chapter 20 - Youâ€™ll See, Iâ€™m Sure Itâ€™ll Be Successful

    <h4>Chapter 20 - You¡¯ll See, I¡¯m Sure It¡¯ll Be Sessful</h4>

    ¡®Whose brother is that? He looks so cool!¡¯

    Elle looked at the well-dressed Enoch, and pped her hands excitedly.

    He had no financial resources and was ignored by the nobility, but his appearance was so overwhelming that he could not be ridiculed.

    Elle wondered if Ian had the same idea as her. She turned her head a little bit and made eye contact with Ian, who looked at her with a simr expression. The siblings looked at each other and grinned. As she looked at Enoch again, Elle noticed that his gaze had turned to them.

    Elle was about to wave with a happy expression on her face.

    She thought they made eye contact, but then his gaze shifted slightly.

    ¡®¡­.?¡¯

    She went in the direction of his gaze and found Leticia standing right next to her.

    Leticia smiled gently and pped her hands as soon as she made eye contact with Enoch.

    ¡®Hmm¡­.¡¯

    Elle was alternating between Enoch and Leticia, she nced at Ian with a questioning look. Maybe it was because they¡¯re twins, but they could get a sense of what the other was thinking without having to say anything.

    ¡®There seems to be something going on between the two.¡¯

    They even looked a little lonely.

    What was even more surprising was the fact that the two of them looked better together than she had expected.

    Ian nodded with the same expression as Elle.

    It was time for the Achilles twins to begin their surreptitious ns without Enoch and Letisha knowing.

    ¡°I guess she¡¯s not ashamed of being emunicated.¡±

    ¡°If you were ashamed, would youe out to see your ex-fianc¨¦¡¯s face?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m embarrassed just seeing her.¡±

    There was whispered gossip three paces behind them, Elle and Ian¡¯s faces hardened.

    Just as they were about to turn around to face the gossipers.

    ¡°Don¡¯t let your face turn sour on such a good day, okay?¡±

    Leticia smiled slightly with a calm expression, apparently the two of them weren¡¯t the only ones who heard it.

    Seeing her act as if this was no big deal, Ian asked cautiously.

    ¡°Did you know?¡±

    She knew that she would be subjected to this kind of backbiting at the ceremony.

    The words didn¡¯te out, but they were enough for Leticia to squirm and stare straight ahead.

    ¡°I expected a little bit.¡±

    Leticia knew it would happen someday, and she didn¡¯t want to avoid it.

    Besides, it was a good day for Enoch as he became a member of the Imperial knights. She wanted to celebrate and share the joy with him.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I asked you toe with me¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t know and I was happy you came too¡­¡±

    They bowed their heads as Ian and Elle gripped Leticia¡¯s sleeves tightly on either side of her.

    Leticia shook her hand in embarrassment at their dejected faces.

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that, I¡¯m d I came with you.¡±

    She was grateful that they thought of her as someone to share such a happy day with.

    But Elle and Ian still didn¡¯t lift their heads. They looked like drooping puppies, Leticia let out an involuntary chuckle.

    ¡°Then shall we make dessert together after the investiture ceremony?¡±

    Leticia wanted to have a pleasant ending to the day with a sweet cake to celebrate this joyous asion.

    As their feelings had been heard, Elle and Ian raised their heads and nodded excitedly.

    ¡°Okay! Let¡¯s make it together!¡±

    ¡°Elle, what you make is tasteless¡­¡±

    ¡°Be quiet.¡±

    It was at the moment that Leticia tried to stop them from arguing that a familiar person caught her eye from across the crowd.

    ¡®Huh?¡¯

    Leticia immediately recognized him, and quickly grabbed Elle¡¯s arm and said.

    ¡°Miss Elle, isn¡¯t that him?¡±

    ¡°What? Who?¡±

    ¡°The one you bumped intost time.¡±

    Elle turned her head in the direction Leticia pointed.

    ¡°Huh? Yes, that¡¯s him!¡±

    Elle had been nning to look for him in the square after the investiture ceremony, but hadn¡¯t expected to find him here.

    She smiled brightly and said to Leticia.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be right back!¡±

    ¡°Yes, go¡­¡±

    Elle had already left before she could say goodbye.

    Leticia couldn¡¯t help butugh out loud at the cute little figure running quickly, afraid that she might lose her prey.

    Ian shook his head as if he had no answer.

    ¡°It¡¯s crazy, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°Not at all. It¡¯s just cute.¡±

    She was energetic and full of life. Leticia was envious that Elle could be so passionate about something.

    After the ceremony, Leticia and Ian were about to go find Elle when an uninvited guest arrived.

    ***

    ¡°Hey!¡±

    Elle called out to the man, but she was buried among so many people that she could barely be heard.

    She quickly passed people and once again called out loudly.

    ¡°Brown-haired man, stop right there!¡±

    She shouted as if it was herst chance, and the man who had been some distance away turned around. The moment their eyes met, he pointed his finger at Elle. He immediately rushed over happily.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to see you here.¡±

    ¡°You remember me?¡±

    ¡°Of course! I¡¯ve been looking for you for a long time.¡±

    Elle had seen the man¡¯s happy expression, and handed him the envelope in her hand.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s important, here take it.¡±

    ¡°Thank you. I happened to bring yours as well.¡±

    Strangely enough, the man seemed to have brought her envelope as well. So they were able to return each other¡¯s things.

    ¡®Phew, that¡¯s a relief.¡¯

    Just in case, Elle checked the picture in her envelope. Fortunately, her drawing was still intact.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll go first¡­¡±

    ¡°Wait a minute!¡±

    Just as she was about to leave to find Leticia and Ian, the man hurriedly called out to Elle.

    When she looked back, wondering what he wanted, the man bowed slightly.

    ¡°I¡¯mte in introducing myself, my name is *Hugo. I work at the top level of the Pegasus Company.¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re at the top of the Multinational Pegasuspany¡­¡±

    It was an emerging toppany these days.

    She¡¯d heard in passing that it¡¯s apany frequented by high-ranking nobles, bringing mainly perfumes and high-quality spices from neighboring countries.

    ¡°Is that so?¡±

    ¡°My boss told me that he really wanted to meet you.¡±

    ¡°Me?¡±

    ¡°I was told he really wanted to start a line of products with your jewelry designs.¡±

    ¡°Eh¡­?¡±

    Is this real?

    Elle blinked her eyes in disbelief. She even pinched her cheeks with both hands.

    It didn¡¯t change what was happening in front of her which meant it was real.

    ¡®Will I be able to see the jewelry I designed made real?¡¯

    Elle¡¯s heart began to overflow when she thought she was a step closer to her dream.

    ¡°Okay! I¡¯lle visit you.¡±

    ¡°No, we¡¯ll meet you at your home. May I ask your name?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m Elle Achilles¡­¡±

    She was about to introduce herself when she spotted Leticia and Ian standing some distance away from her.

    A woman suddenly appeared and grabbed Leticia by the shoulder and started to shake her.

    Elle¡¯s eyes grew cold at the sight.

    Elle spoke quickly without a second nce to Hugo.

    ¡°My name is Elle Achilles. You can meet me if youe to the Achilles¡¯? mansion. Then I¡¯ll be on my way.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s from a ducal family¡­ Ah, Miss Achilles!¡±

    Elle heard a voice calling to her from behind, but all she saw was Leticia swaying helplessly.

    ***

    ¡°Are you going to get revenge for being kicked out? How can you go out and cause so much trouble?¡±

    ¡°Please let me go¡­¡±

    ¡°Your existence itself is an unfortunate mess!¡±

    Diana¡¯s hands gripped her shoulders painfully while she shook Leticia violently. She tried to escape, only to be shaken even harder.

    ¡®I¡¯m dizzy.¡¯

    If Diana let go of her suddenly, she would fall backwards.

    Leticia needed to close her eyes because she was getting dizzier just thinking about it.

    ¡°Stop it.¡±

    Leticia slowly lifted her head at the touch of someone gently holding her. A frowning Enoch was looking at Diana with cold eyes.

    Diana immediately recognized Enoch, she shuddered and muttered softly.

    ¡°Oh it¡¯s true, how unlucky¡­¡±

    As Diana stepped back, Leticia felt something moving in her heart.

    She couldn¡¯t help but know that Diana was stepping down because she was afraid of bad luck if she stayed close to Enoch.

    ¡°Brother, go back.¡±

    There were many people watching them.

    Ian was being cautious, he knew the situation had drawn a lot of attention. The people who came to the investiture ceremony were ncing towards them.

    ¡°But.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll catch up. Go ahead.¡±

    Elle, who arrivedte, also urged Enoch to go.

    It was tradition for the initiates to gather and greet the older members of the Imperial knights after the ceremony. It was clear if he didn¡¯t go now, he would be reprimanded.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine too.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Miss Elle and Master Ian are here, so don¡¯t worry.¡±

    Leticia was hoping to soothe his concern. Enoch nodded with a long sigh.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be right back.¡±

    As soon as Enoch¡¯s back was out of sight, Diana grinned as if she¡¯d been waiting for him to leave.

    ¡°Wow, you were really hanging out with each other. Are we dead to each other now?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a bit harsh.¡±

    Elle said as she stood within arm¡¯s reach of Diana.

    ¡°You can¡¯t be rude to your sister.¡±

    ¡°Sister? Who¡¯s my sister?¡±

    Diana tilted her head sideways,ughing as if she just heard the funniest thing.

    ¡°You¡¯ll be able to find a lot of people who are not ashamed of what they¡¯ve done.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t talk like that.¡±

    Diana¡¯s expression became distorted when Ian stepped up.

    ¡°Get out of the way, I don¡¯t need to see you.¡±

    As soon as Diana tried to push Ian, Elle stepped in and stopped her.

    ¡°It¡¯s ugly to be so clueless, stop it.¡±

    ¡°Get out of my way!¡±

    Before she knew it, Elle and Diana began to struggle. Just as Leticia tried to stop them, Diana violently took Elle¡¯s envelope away.

    The wind pulled the sketch out of the envelope.

    ¡°Diana, you¡­!¡±

    Leticia tried to quickly pick up the drawing while frowning at Diana, who threw Elle¡¯s stuff recklessly.

    It fell at Diana¡¯s feet.

    ¡°A wishing bracelet?¡±

    Diana picked it up first, burst intoughter and fluttered the drawing to show it off.

    ¡°How can you be so childish and crude?¡±

    To grant a wish.

    The fact that the girl hade up with such a ridiculous idea, she should be ashamed to show her face

    ¡°You decorate your jewelry with pink diamonds?¡±

    She felt sorry for the little girl now, the idea showed that she really didn¡¯t know too much about reality.

    ¡°Won¡¯t that little pink diamond mine soon be in ruin?¡±

    Leticia tried to snatch the drawing back from Diana¡¯s hand, but Diana avoided her and red back at her.

    The aristocrats were quietly watching the scene, they spoke one by one.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since the ore came out, hasn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°Some came out, but they were poor quality.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re all talking too much. I¡¯m sure they¡¯re upset about it.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯tugh. They might get hurt.¡±

    They pretended to be concerned, but they were ignoring the impact of their words.

    Leticia managed to steal Elle¡¯s sketch from Diana¡¯s hand, when she heard a sharp snap from somewhere in her head.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    It was the same as back then. The day Diana destroyed her hair ribbon.

    ¡®Childish and crude?¡¯

    Leticia bit her lip.

    It wasn¡¯t enough to mock and ignore other people¡¯s precious dreams, she felt dizzied by the casualness of it.

    ¡®I¡¯m not going to let you.¡¯

    She will make sure Elle seeds and show these people what she can do.

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep you looking at that childish and crude bracelet.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She said while staring at Diana¡¯s bewildered face.

    ¡°And the pink diamonds?¡±

    Leticia approached Diana with a smile on her face.

    Her mind was burning with anger, but her heart was unusually cold.

    Even though there was no particr basis, Leticia¡¯s mind was filled with strong conviction. The conviction that had never betrayed her before.

    Not even once.

    The moment they were close enough to see their reflections in each other¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°It will never fail.¡±

    Leticia smiled broadly, capturing Diana¡¯s increasingly distorted expression in her eyes.

    ¡°You¡¯ll see.¡±

    We¡¯ll be so sessful that Diana can¡¯t have it even if she wants it.

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    I updated the assistant¡¯s name from Suha to Hugo.

 Chapter 21 - Itâ€™s Time To Let Go

    <h4>Chapter 21 - It¡¯s Time To Let Go</h4>

    ¡°I don¡¯t think you¡¯re going to seed with anything like that.¡±

    Diana began to smile as Leticia spoke.

    Leticia never backed down, she meant what she said.

    Pitiful and more pitiful, a nk smile spread across Diana¡¯s face.

    ¡°It would be faster for you to wake up. No, it might be faster to seed with that?¡±

    Either way, it would take the same amount of time.

    Or maybe she won¡¯t aplish anything.

    ¡®It¡¯s hard enough to even look at you.¡¯

    Diana shook her head, while holding her tongue. It was obvious they still didn¡¯t understand reality.

    ¡®It¡¯s not funny at all.¡¯

    She had beenining to Leticia for a while now.

    ¡°Sister, let¡¯s go.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    Emil, who hade to the ceremony with Diana, wrapped his arm around her shoulder.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to lower yourself to their level.¡±

    Leticia clenched her fists at his disdainful re and scornful words. Elle, who was standing beside her, raised her eyes and approached Emil.

    ¡°Excuse me? Who¡¯s lowering themselves?¡±

    It made her angry just thinking about it, Elle¡¯s voice rose as she became angrier.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think we¡¯re the ones who should say that?¡±

    ¡°Elle.¡±

    ¡°That peacock¡­ listen to what he¡¯s saying!¡±

    How could they not be angry after what they heard?

    Elle looked at Ian, who stopped her with just a look. He shook his head as if to say no to her.

    ¡°It¡¯s no good making a fuss anymore.¡±

    ¡°But¡­!¡±

    Leticia said gently, stopping Elle who was clenching her teeth.

    ¡°I¡¯ll apologize.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°If you seed with that childish and crude bracelet you mentioned, I¡¯ll apologize to Miss Achilles.¡±

    ¡°¡­ I¡¯ll prove it¡¯s worthwhile to people, and Emil.¡±

    Leticia had been staring at Diana while talking to her, then slowly turned her gaze towards Emil.

    ¡°Don¡¯t cut in and stay quiet because you¡¯re just making yourself look bad.¡±

    Emil frowned slightly at Leticia¡¯s cold way of speaking that he¡¯d never heard before. Emil tried to contradict Leticia, but Diana was one step faster.

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll apologize.¡±

    Surprised by her willingness to apologize, Leticia¡¯s face hardened at the words that followed shortly after.

    ¡°But what if you screw up?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°What if you fail?¡±

    Leticia bit her lips at Diana¡¯s attitude that her failure was a foregone conclusion.

    She looked ted and like she wanted to say more.

    ¡°What do you want me to do?¡±

    ¡°Well, nothing much.¡±

    Diana lightly shrugged her shoulders like it was nothing.

    ¡°Apologize, like you asked of me.¡±

    ¡°Yes, fine.¡±

    ¡°Instead.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°Kneel and apologize.¡±

    Everyone in the room stopped talking at those words.

    Elle murmured as if she was amazed by the chilly atmosphere.

    ¡°She¡¯s out of her mind.¡±

    Diana pressed on regardless of the atmosphere.

    ¡°It¡¯s not fun to just apologize and end it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia clenched her hands and raised her chin.

    Of course she was angry at her attitude that she deserved to fail, but she was more upset that Diana wanted to see her groveling and apologizing.

    ¡®What the hell¡­¡±

    Why did she love such a child?

    Leticia gently lowered her eyes with a bitter smile.

    Unlike Leticia, who wanted to cherish and protect her family, her younger sister wanted to see her humbled and humiliated.

    But she felt fortunate.

    ¡®I¡¯m now¡­¡¯

    It¡¯s time to let go.

    This rtionship ends when she also lets go.

    After being silent for a while, Leticia slowly opened her mouth.

    ¡°All right.¡±

    ¡°Miss Leticia.¡±

    ¡°No, don¡¯t do it.¡±

    Elle and Ian simultaneously grabbed Leticia¡¯s arm, but Leticia gently smiled and shook her head.

    ¡®It¡¯s okay.¡¯

    Leticia was confident that she wouldn¡¯t regret it if she failed and had to apologize to Diana.

    Thanks to them, she was able to break away from this meaningless family connection without regret.

    There was no longer any hesitation left for those who had already severed the family ties.

    ¡°If I seed, you will kneel and apologize instead.¡±

    ¡°What? Why me?¡±

    Leticia said it in a casual way.

    ¡°It¡¯s only fair.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Why? Are you not confident?¡±

    Dianaughed bitterly as she nodded her head with a self-assured expression.

    ¡°Who doesn¡¯t have confidence?¡±

    Diana was overwhelmed by her provocation being used against her.

    ¡°All right. Let¡¯s work hard. The result will be obvious anyway.¡±

    At the end of that, Diana took Emil and turned around with a furious noise.

    Leticia sighed as she watched Diana walk away.

    ¡®Was I too reckless?¡¯

    She was beginning to worry that she might have caused trouble for Elle by her actions. Just as she was trying to sneak a nce at Elle¡¯s face, Leticia was caught in a warm embrace.

    When she looked down in surprise, Elle was staring after Diana and Emil while hugging Leticia tightly.

    ¡°Whoa, what a rude way to treat your sister.¡±

    ¡°Miss Elle¡­¡±

    Elle felt Leticia¡¯s gaze, she looked up and shook her hands.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry! I don¡¯t mean to speak ill of your family.¡±

    ¡°Actually¡­ I criticized the Leroy family as well.¡±

    Leticia smiled softly at Elle¡¯s pitiful look, how could she not swear at someone who acted like that?

    ¡°I¡¯m just grateful.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t me Elle for needing a hug after this difficult moment. She didn¡¯t want to be alone and needed to be closer.

    Leticia smiled more broadly as she thanked her, and Elle hugged her harder with a distressed face.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her? She¡¯s so petty.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay because I have Miss Elle to take care of me.¡±

    ¡°Miss Leticia.¡±

    With a heavy voice, Elle unwrapped her arms from around Leticia. Elle looked at her with a serious expression.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best so you don¡¯t have to kneel in front of your spoiled younger sister.¡±

    ¡°Miss Elle¡­¡±

    ¡°Trust me.¡±

    Leticia replied with a gentle smile to her grim nod.

    ¡°I do. I believe Miss Elle will do well.¡±

    Elle felt touched by what she said as if it were obvious. She didn¡¯t know why Diana was being so mean to her sister who speaks so beautifully.

    ¡®I will make them kneel for sure.¡¯

    Ian approached Leticia at that moment with determination.

    ¡°Miss Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°The brother I just met.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­ Emil?¡±

    ¡°Yes. I heard that he¡¯s preparing for the Imperial civil service, right?¡±

    Ian stared at Leticia as if it was an important matter. She hesitated and nodded.

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Just as she was about to ask why, Ian murmured while stroking his chin with a dry expression.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve felt so motivated.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    It sounded dark, Leticia cocked her head in confusion, but Ian smiled as if nothing had happened.

    ***

    ¡°We¡¯ll see each other more often in the future, so let¡¯s keep up the good work.¡±

    A knight smiled broadly with a particrly good-natured look.

    As the knight exchanged casual greetings with the new members, he spotted Enoch and Levion standing awkwardly beside each other. The man recognized them immediately and approached them with a booming voice.

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard a lot about the two of you. You¡¯re the most anticipated members of the Imperial Knights.¡±

    When he offered a handshake as a wee gesture, Enoch sped hands in greeting. He then held out his hand to Levion, who nced at it and crossed his arms.

    The knight looked embarrassed at the tant disregard, then he looked at them both in turn and spoke.

    ¡°You two seem to know each other.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve only seen his face a few times.¡±

    Enoch drew a clear line between them, Levion turned his face away. He nced at Enoch again and froze when he noticed where Enoch¡¯s gaze had turned.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    His expression was cool and calm, but the way he looked at Leticia was warm. His lips naturally parted as he felt the need to rush to her immediately.

    Levion had gone to Leticia once before to gain her attention. Even after he left, it? bothered him that he kept looking at her. What irritated him even more was Enoch¡¯s fixed gaze, as if he had a ce at Leticia¡¯s side.

    It felt ufortable, as if he was intruding on something private.

    ¡®Who are you to her?¡±

    He felt like he just figured it out.

    Levion clenched his fist.

    He wanted to block Enoch from seeing Leticia if he could.

    He was about to make his decisive move. Strangely, Leticia and the surrounding area seemed to be in an unusual mood.

    ¡®What¡¯s this?¡¯

    Feeling uneasy for some reason, Levion was about to go to Leticia.

    I¡¯m sorry, but I have something to do. So I¡¯ll be leaving first.¡±

    ¡°Yes, get home safely Lord Achilles.¡±

    Enoch said a polite farewell and quickly turned away.

    He immediately headed towards Leticia.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Are you alright? Is everything alright?¡±

    Leticia turned around at the sound of a voiceing from right behind her. Her eyes met Enoch¡¯s, who was standing there with a worried expression on his face.

    Before she could tell Enoch she was okay, he quickly approached her.

    ¡°Are you done greeting the other knights? Everything is fine here¡­¡±

    She tried to say nothing happened because she was afraid he¡¯d worry, but Enoch raised his eyebrows. Leticia avoided eye contact with him.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I had Miss Elle and Master Ian with me.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m telling you, it¡¯s fine.¡±

    Behind Leticia, Ian waved Elle over to speak to her in secret.

    ¡°The woman from before.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°You want to deal with her?¡±

    Elle didn¡¯t understand for a moment, and looked puzzled. As soon as she realized that he was referring to Diana, she smiled.

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    The thrill that came from crushing the ego of such a cocky person. Ian nodded slowly and Elle smiled broadly, the mere thought of it excited them.

    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s right.¡±

    Ian had decided to deal with the brother.

    ¡®Emil Leroy¡­¡¯

    Ian nted up the corners of his mouth and stared at Emil¡¯s back, who was now a small figure in the distance.

    It was very easy for him to deal with someone who looks down on others.

    ¡®If you¡¯re going to curse at me for being low.¡¯

    He¡¯ll raise his standings and make it so they¡¯ll never dare to say such things ever again.

    This was when the twins promised each other to take care of Diana and Emil.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s face gradually hardened as she replied to Enoch that if anything happened to her, she should tell him.

    Levion was looking at her, while biting his lips, when he arrived.

    He had a lot to say, but he looked lost on what to say. In the past, she would¡¯ve made excuses for him, and asked what¡¯s wrong.

    She didn¡¯t feel that way anymore.

    It made her realize what she had forgotten.

    ¡®A rtionship I should have broken off.¡¯

    There was one more.

    For Leticia, Levion was closer and morefortable than her own family.

    But now, the rtionship was more pointless and useless than anything else.

    Both were dependent on each other when they didn¡¯t have abilities. After Levion¡¯s? awakening, he often looked at her with pity for not awakening her abilities, and he never respected her as fianc¨¦e.

    Leticia kept this loveless rtionship going out of friendship and duty.

    What he gave back to her was a s¨¦ attitude and casually mentioning breaking up, as if their time together was nothing. She was even disappointed with his attitude when he came to Achilles¡¯ mansion and tried to take her away from there without asking her thoughts.

    In reality, their rtionship had deteriorated a long time ago. Even though she knew it, Leticia couldn¡¯t bear to let go. So she held onto the thin string by herself.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

    Leticia grabbed Enoch¡¯s sleeve and walked one step, then two steps towards Levion.

    The moment when the distance was close enough to reach out.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    She walked straight past.

    Her eyes met with Levion, who¡¯s purple eyes widened in surprise.

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    A desperate and tearful voice called out to her, and a strong gaze stabbed hard into her back.

    She knew without looking back.

    She was sure his gaze was begging her toe back.

    But Leticia didn¡¯t look back.

    Instead, she only moved farther away from Levion as she turned a blind eye to it.

 Chapter 22 - If You Really Want It

    <h4>Chapter 22 - If You Really Want It</h4>

    Chapter 22. If You Really Want It

    ¡®It was so easy.¡¯

    Leticia smiled bitterly as she looked at the sunny sky.

    She felt better now that she had cut off all of her useless ties, but somehow she felt empty inside. It seemed that theseplicated feelings would not leave her for a long time.

    But Leticia had no regrets.

    ¡®It feels rather good.¡¯

    It felt like she¡¯d broken free of a shackle around her ankle that was dragging her down.

    It wasn¡¯t as bad as she thought, and it was time for her to smile again.

    ¡°Are you all right?¡±

    Leticia heard a low voice and turned her head to meet Enoch¡¯s worried eyes. She then noticed that Elle and Ian were looking at her with the same expression.

    Leticia began to feel emotional from their worry.

    ¡®The only reason I can stand like this right now¡­¡¯

    It¡¯s only because these people are here.

    ¡®What do I say¡­¡¯

    They look at Leticia like they care about her and want to protect her.

    At that moment, something came up from deep in her chest and Leticia squeezed her hands. She just couldn¡¯t think of a way to express this feeling.

    She wanted to show her heart, if only a little bit.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    Leticia raised her head slowly to meet his gaze.

    All she could do was say thank you.

    Enoch smiled and reached out to Leticia as if her feelings had reached him.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±

    Hands that look big and warm at a nce.

    Leticia was staring down at his hand, then grasped it with a smile.

    The four of them were headed for the Achilles¡¯ mansion.

    ¡®There was a home to go back to.¡¯

    She felt really happy.

    Leticia couldn¡¯t control her tion, so she held Enoch¡¯s hand andughed.

    She wanted to hold onto these overwhelming feelings for a long time.

    And hoped.

    ¡®I hope we can move forward more today than yesterday.¡¯

    ***

    ¡°I still don¡¯t understand what she¡¯s thinking.¡±

    As soon as they arrived at the Leroy residence, Diana muttered with a grim expression.

    ¡®You don¡¯t even have an ability, but you¡¯re talking big.¡¯

    It was really unseemly. It was an indulgence to feel sorry for them.

    Emil was watching Diana bite her lip, and said dryly.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing our elder sister can do anyway.¡±

    Her ability hasn¡¯t even awakened, and the only people around her are the pathetic Achilles family.

    Leticia may kneel and apologize to Diana, but she will never kneel and apologize to Leticia.

    Diana gave a small nod in confirmation.

    ¡°How long are you going to keep calling her sister? She¡¯s not family anymore.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a minimum courtesy.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re so very polite.¡±

    Diana turned her head in disapproval.

    It was a waste to respect Leticia.

    Next to Diana, who was making a wry expression, Emil suddenly asked curiously.

    ¡°By the way, who were they?¡±

    ¡°Who?¡±

    ¡°The two who defended our first sister.¡±

    ¡°Oh, those brats?¡±

    Diana smiled crookedly recalling the twins in theirmoners clothing, strutting around without shame.

    Who was the peacock?

    She felt pity for them.

    ¡°They¡¯re children of the Achilles family, famous for their bad luck. The girl is Elle Achilles, the boy is Ian Achilles.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    Emil nodded with a strange expression as he looked at Diana, he then told her to be careful not to get hurt again.

    ¡®Ian Achilles¡­¡¯

    Eyes that watched him indifferently, without a glimmer of emotion, remained in Emil¡¯s mind. Gray eyes that took everything in, searching and observing at the same time.

    ¡®He¡¯s piqued my interest.¡¯

    It was unpleasant to think about it again, but apparently the unlucky head of the Achilles family was a man.

    Emil clicked his tongue briefly and lifted his mouth in a smirk.

    ¡®I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m wasting my time worrying about him.¡¯

    The moment he shook his head at his pathetic thoughts, he heard someone approaching from behind. He turned around and saw Irene standing there looking disheveled.

    ¡°Sister, is brother here¡­?¡±

    ¡°I just got here. What¡¯s wrong with your face?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    Irene came up to him, looking as if she was about to cry, and told Emil that she had been at the Academy of Magic.

    ¡°My exam paper is missing. I went straight to the academy, but I don¡¯t know where it disappeared to¡­¡±

    Tears welled up in Irene¡¯s blue eyes as she spoke of her frustration and disappointment.

    A worried Diana asked cautiously.

    ¡°What about the retest? Can¡¯t you take the test again?¡±

    ¡°They said no¡­¡±

    ¡°Why on earth not?¡±

    Unable to understand, Diana grabbed her shoulder and questioned her. Irene shook her head and wept quietly.

    ¡°Because it¡¯s my fault, I have no choice but to disqualify myself¡­¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    Her mouth dropped open in shock.

    Irene grabbed Diana¡¯s wrist firmly with a trembling hand and asked.

    ¡°Oh, sister. What should I do? If Father finds out¡­¡±

    Marquis Leroy had grown proud of his youngest daughter, who he happily showed off to everyone. He would be shocked when he found out that such a ridiculous mistake caused a huge setback in her Imperial wizard exam.

    ¡®She failed the exam¡­¡¯

    The blood drained from Irene¡¯s face at the thought of how angry her father would be at her for damaging the family¡¯s honour.

    Diana saw how pale Irene¡¯splexion became. She did her best to calm her, trying to reassure her that she was okay.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Father¡¯s been so busy with his businesstely that he hasn¡¯t been able toe home much these days.¡±

    ¡°Really¡­?¡±

    It was hard to even see his face.

    Irene, who had been hyperventting, seems to have calmed down and was taking deep breaths.

    Diana¡¯s next question caused Irene to tense up again.

    ¡°So why didn¡¯t you take care of your test paper properly?¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    ¡°Then this wouldn¡¯t have happened.¡±

    With that single sentence, Irene remembered how easily bonds can be severed.

    ¡°Sister, I didn¡¯t do it on purpose!¡±

    ¡°Look at you. Why are you angry all of a sudden?¡±

    ¡°Do I look angry?¡±

    She shouted loudly at Diana, who was throwing usations at her, Irene turned away with a thunderous bang.

    ¡°Hey, stop right there!¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Irene Leroy!¡±

    She yelled ferociously from behind, but Irene went straight to her room.

    While watching the scene, Diana threw out a viciousugh with her arms crossed.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her when she¡¯s the one who lost her test papers in a stupid way.¡±

    As she was thinking that next time she would leave her to her own devices, the butler cautiously approached Diana and Emil.

    ¡°Your letter is here, Young Master.¡±

    ¡°Yes, thank you.¡±

    Upon receiving the correspondence, Emil immediately confirmed the sender.

    ¡®It¡¯s finally here.¡¯

    Emil smiled and opened the envelope immediately.

    Emil was pleased to have finally received a reply to his letter from a few days ago. As he read over the letter, his face slowly stiffened.

    ¡°Haa¡­¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    Unlike his words, Emil scratched his head in frustration.

    He¡¯d asked Professor Russell, a high-ranking Imperial official, to write a letter of rmendation for the Imperial service. The professor didn¡¯t favour Emil, but he believed that it wouldn¡¯t be a problem since he had achieved better grades than anyone else.

    However, his prediction was wrong.

    ¡®You¡¯re rejecting my nomination?¡¯

    There was no reason to refuse to write the letter, Emil couldn¡¯t understand what the professor was thinking.

    He wanted to visit him right away and argue with him, but Emil calmed himself.

    ¡®Damn¡­¡¯

    It¡¯s not that hard to write a letter.

    If a professor wrote a letter of rmendation, he got extra points when he took the Imperial Civil Service exam. So Emil asked him to write one for him, but what came back was a firm refusal.

    ¡®I can pass the Imperial civil exam without the extra points.¡¯

    He was just trying to have it easier than everyone else.

    ¡®You¡¯ll see.¡¯

    Emil bit his lips and clenched his fist. The letter in his hand was crumpled mercilessly, but he didn¡¯t care.

    ***

    One drowsy afternoon a couple of dayster.

    Elle had a good conversation with the owner of the Pegasuspany and had decided to enter into a business contract with them to make her jewelry. Today, she finally received several samples of her wishing bracelets.

    ¡°They look prettier in person.¡±

    Elle handed one of the bracelets to Leticia, who smiled brightly.

    The pink diamonds in the center were in a cute flower pattern. It also came with a light green thread, which could be woven through two links to adjust the length easily.

    ¡°Right? I love it!¡±

    Elle put the bracelet on Leticia, whoughed happily.

    The bracelet on her thin wrist was pretty, it looked like small flowers were hanging from it.

    When Leticia tried to take off the bracelet, Elle quickly stopped her and shook her head.

    ¡°This is for Miss Leticia.¡±

    ¡°What? But¡­¡±

    While Leticia was squirming, Elle said more firmly.

    ¡°I want to give this one to you.¡±

    Leticia immediately noticed that she would not ept her refusal, she smiled softly and nodded.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll thank you and take it.¡±

    While smiling brightly at each other, Elle¡¯s smile suddenly fell and she poked her lip with a worried expression.

    ¡°I hope other people feel the same way¡­¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we go check with what we have now.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­ Should we try it out?¡±

    Elle said cautiously, and Letisha gave an excited nod.

    Smiling at the sight of her happiness and delight, Elle took the bracelets and prepared to go with Leticia to the square.

    She hoped that the others would respond the same they had.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    When they arrived at the square, they showed the wishing bracelets to many people. Unlike their hopes, they did not receive any interest at all.

    Elle¡¯s shoulders slumped more and more. Seeing this, Leticia gently wrapped her arm around them.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be disappointed, it hasn¡¯t even been a day yet.¡±

    ¡°But no one¡¯s even looking.¡±

    At this rate, she was really scared that Leticia would have to kneel and apologize to Diana.

    Leticia realized Elle¡¯s worries and tried to tell her not to worry.

    It¡¯s only been one day and most businesses need time to build up. Leticia also had a strange confidence that Elle¡¯s bracelet would be loved by people, so she wasn¡¯t very worried.

    She just didn¡¯t want Elle to be discouraged.

    That was when she saw something.

    ¡°Miss Elle, wait here a minute.¡±

    Leticia moved quickly when she spotted a friendly face passing by on the street.

    Fortunately, it wasn¡¯t long before she caught up to him.

    ¡°Count Aster?¡±

    ¡°Who¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you remember me?¡±

    ¡°Oh, if it isn¡¯t Leticia!¡±

    The old gentleman who had been looking at her curiously approached Leticia quickly with wide eyes.

    ¡°I never thought I¡¯d see you in a ce like this. It¡¯s been a while.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s lips spread in a weing smile.

    She was indebted to the Aster couple. During difficult times, they helped her take care of her mother and siblings.

    When she needed money for medicine for her sick mother, the Count and Countess Aster paid Leticia for work, and sometimes they provided her with food and snacks. They cared for her like a daughter and Leticia couldn¡¯t forget their kindness.

    ¡°Are you well?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m fine.¡±

    Count Aster had a good-natured smile, and Leticia¡¯s smile widened at the sight. Leticia couldn¡¯t believe she was meeting the kind person who she always wanted to thank again.

    While the bracelets failed to attract attention, it felt it granted her wish to meet Count Aster after such a long time.

    Leticia suddenly wondered about the well-being of the Countess, who she remembered fondly.

    ¡°Is the Countess doing well?

    ¡°Well¡­¡±

    The Count sighed and smiled bitterly.

    ¡°You know that my wife has always been physically weak.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­ l see.¡±

    Leticia nodded with a somber look on her face.

    Leticia knew that Countess Aster had been ill for a long time. At some point, she became healthy again, so she thought the Countess would be fine.

    ¡°It is nice to see you again.¡±

    Count Aster smiled as if to say it was all right and took his leave, saying that he would see her again soon.

    A voice called out to him from behind and he stopped walking.

    ¡°Count Aster, wait a minute!¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    When the Count turned around, he found Leticia running toward him with an urgent look on her face.

    Leticia was out of breath from running. She quickly took the bracelet off of her wrist and handed it over. There was an earnest look in her eyes.

    ¡°Please take this.¡±

    ¡°This is¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a bracelet that makes your wishe true.¡±

    It was a cute bracelet that looked simple enough that anyone could copy it, but it also felt neat and sophisticated. It felt extra special when he thought of it as a gift from such a nice and lovely child.

    ¡®Wish¡­ a wish¡­¡¯

    Count Aster was muttering to himself with an earnest look.

    ¡°My only wish is for my wife to get well soon.¡±

    Leticia burst into tears at his words.

    She was heartbroken by the news that the Countess, who was more of a mother to her than her own mother, was sick. She wanted to do something for Count Aster.

    She suddenly remembered Enoch and the humble handkerchief she¡¯d given him that became his lucky charm.

    Leticia gave Count Aster the wishing bracelet with all her heart and soul.

    ¡°I hope your wife gets well as soon as possible. It¡¯s a small thing, but please ept my wish for the Countess¡¯ recovery.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    The sight of Leticia saying what he desired most touched Count Aster¡¯s heart.

    She was still the kind and warm-hearted child he remembered.

    Returning to the mansion, Count Aster handed the wishing bracelet, that he had received from Leticia, to the Countess and told her the story of meeting Leticia.

    The Countess, who loved Leticia like her own daughter, said she wanted to meet her as soon as she became healthy.

    .

    .

    .

    A few dayster, news spread throughout the mansion that the Countess had recovered.

 Chapter 23 - Im Not Buying It, Im Just Wondering Where They Sell It.

    <h4>Chapter 23 - I''m Not Buying It, I''m Just Wondering Where They Sell It.</h4>

    There was no response to the wishing bracelet on the first day, it didn¡¯t attract attention on the second day either.

    Today is the 10th day.

    Elle dropped her head to the table, and muttered.

    ¡°I worked so hard on it¡­¡±

    How can they just ignore it?

    She wanted to make more, but was worried that the samples were showing signs of failure. She was also having trouble facing Leticia, who always went out to the square with her to help.

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait a little longer. We might get a better response tomorrow.¡±

    Leticiaforted her with a light pat on the shoulder as Elle was feeling down in the dumps.

    Elle avoided her eyes, and murmured quietly.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m so sorry.¡±

    Elle felt ashamed and upset that she was so useless and pathetic, especially since Leticia trusted her. She was pouting with her lip out. Ian was watching her, and trying to bite his tongue.

    ¡°We¡¯re just beginning and you¡¯re already giving up.¡±

    ¡°What! Are you in my shoes?¡±

    ¡°I doubt I¡¯d whine like you.¡±

    ¡°That time is crawling up on you.¡±

    Ian¡¯s sarcasm made Elle wonder why she was ever depressed, as she sat up and turned to Ian. He needed to understand that she wasn¡¯t the only one who had this problem, but he¡¯d already left the drawing room.

    ¡°Here we go again.¡±

    Enoch shook his head as the chase began. Sitting opposite Enoch was Leticia, who smiled in a very familiar scene and said.

    ¡°It¡¯s nice to see they¡¯re close.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for seeing it that way.¡±

    As soon as Enoch thanked Leticia for her positive consideration, Elle caught Ian and came back while dragging him along.

    ¡°You don¡¯t think I¡¯ll make a dime even if I have a hit.¡±

    ¡°Make money, thene talk to me.¡±

    Enoch stared coldly at the scene of Elle and Ian arguing on their way back. The twins btedly figured out the atmosphere and sat down quietly.

    ¡°Come to think of it, the hunting festival is about to begin.¡±

    ¡°It was always around this time, right?¡±

    Looking at the siblings¡¯ obvious attempt to change the subject, Enoch clicked his tongue and handed Leticia a cup of tea. After nodding in appreciation, Leticia sipped her tea and became lost in thought.

    ¡®A hunting festival¡­¡¯

    The royal family held a hunting festival immediately after the Imperial knight ceremony to give the new recruits an opportunity to show off their talents and skills.

    However, the nobles had other concerns.

    When the hunting festival begins, men give white roses to women they are interested in, and women give ribbon straps simr to their eye color to wish them a safe return.

    It was the day that both men and women dreamed of most, because thergest numbers of lovers formed this time of the year.

    Leticia nced at Enoch.

    However, Enoch drank his tea with an indifferent look on his face, and there was no response.

    ¡®I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll get the most ribbons at the hunting festival this year.¡¯

    During the knighthood ceremony, many youngdies were sneaking nces at Enoch. They pretended otherwise because he didn¡¯t have good financial resources, but it was obvious enough for Leticia to notice.

    For some reason her mood sank. Leticia slumped and fidgeted with her sleeve.

    It was both depressing and unpleasant to think of other girls giving Enoch a ribbon.

    ¡°I¡¯m going out for a while.¡±

    Leticia carefully rose from her seat and Enoch asked with wide eyes.

    ¡°Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°I want to research about my ability.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯lle with you.¡±

    Leticia waved her hands quickly in surprise as Enoch started to rise.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I can go by myself.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll go with you. I owe you a lot.¡±

    Elle intervened when Enoch froze in worry that she was going alone, but Leticia refused with a perplexed look on her face.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m going alone¡­¡±

    ¡°I want to help you this time. Why can¡¯t I?¡±

    Elle took Leticia¡¯s hands in her own with a desperate look in her eyes. Leticia could no longer refuse her.

    ¡°I understand, I¡¯ll be in your care.¡±

    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s get out of here!¡±

    Leticia nodded and Elle quickly ran out the drawing room with a triumphant grin.

    Watching her leave, Ian sighed as if there was no answer and said to Enoch.

    ¡°Elle seems to be causing Leticia a lot of trouble, shouldn¡¯t we stop her?¡±

    Enoch was still a little worried, but he slightly shrugged his shoulders.

    ¡°It¡¯s still better than going alone.¡±

    ¡°True, but¡­¡±

    Enoch watched Leticia leaving. She was fine with giving in to Elle, who seemed to be a constant bother.

    ¡®I wanted to go with you.¡¯

    The regret lingered for a long time and did not leave.

    ***

    Leticia travelled to the square with Elle, they immediately went to the library where she used to go often. Unsurprisingly, she couldn¡¯t find a book with any hints about her possible ability.

    ¡®As expected.¡¯

    She wasn¡¯t disheartened because she expected this. Perhaps because of Elle¡¯s disappointment, Leticia was able to smile and show that she was okay.

    Leticia saw something while walking down the street after leaving the library.

    ¡®A string of blue ribbons¡­¡¯

    She stopped walking when she saw the blue ribbons closest to the color of her eyes. It was a string of ribbons with a color so pretty that even passerbys would look back, but the price was so high that she wanted to flee in shock.

    ¡®It¡¯s perfect.¡¯

    Leticia nced at the different ribbons, but she couldn¡¯t find anything she liked. Only this blue ribbon captured Leticia¡¯s eyes.

    After standing still for a long time and looking down at the ribbon strap, Leticia smiled weakly and moved on.

    Elle watched the scene silently, pressing her lips together.

    ¡®I think you want that.¡¯

    Although she had known Leticia for a short time, Elle knew she wasn¡¯t materialistic.

    Maybe that¡¯s why.

    Elle wondered how badly she wanted it.

    ¡®I hope the bracelet is a hit.¡¯

    Elle wanted to buy her a dozen ribbons. No, hundreds of them for her.

    Elle followed Leticia with determination in her heart.

    ***

    As it began to get dark, Leticia and Elle returned to the Achilles mansion.

    Someone was standing in front of the mansion door. As they got closer, it became clear that it was Ian standing around with a nervous look.

    This made Elle anxious and she approached Ian cautiously.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ve been waiting for you two.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°The owner of Pegasus is here.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Ian urged her to hurry inside, so Elle rushed to the parlor.

    The owner was sitting nervously, and jumped up from his seat when he spotted Elle.

    ¡°Mydy, you¡¯re home.¡±

    ¡°Yes, but what brings you here?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here to tell you the good news!¡±

    The owner was gesturing in excitement.

    Elle asked what the good news was.

    ¡°The orders are pouring in, mydy!¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s in great demand among the noblewomen!¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    As she listened, she couldn¡¯t believe it. Elle looked stiffly down at the wishing bracelet. It was designed by her, but they never expected that it would be popr with the aristocracy.

    From the beginning it was designed to be affordable formoners, so she couldn¡¯t understand no matter how hard she thought about it.

    ¡°What on earth was going on?¡±

    ***

    A few days ago.

    ¡°I was worried when you said you weren¡¯t feeling well.¡±

    ¡°How are you now, Countess Aster?¡±

    ¡°¡¯Is it okay for you toe out like this?¡±

    It had been a long time since they¡¯d all met up for tea time, the worrieddies inquired about Countess Aster¡¯s health.

    The smiling Countess replied to their anxious words.

    ¡°Thank you, I¡¯ve improved a lot. I am grateful for everyone worrying about me like this.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know how surprising it was to hear of your sudden illness.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure it was.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s nice to see you well again.¡±

    Her face, which had been pale and thin, had improved in color and she looked rejuvenated.

    As everyone was telling the Countess to stay healthy and have a good time today, Marquess Ferdinand spoke up.

    ¡°By the way, what is that bracelet on your wrist? I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve seen it before.¡±

    When Marquess Ferdinand pointed out the bracelet on Countess Aster¡¯s wrist, everyone¡¯s eyes turned to it.

    ¡°Oh, this one?¡±

    As everyone curiously looked, Countess Aster smiled softly and lifted her wrist to show her bracelet.

    ¡°It¡¯s a wishing bracelet given by a child who I love as my own daughter.¡±

    ¡°A wishing bracelet?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I hear it grants wishes.¡±

    They could see that the Countess really cherishes the bracelet by the way she touches it while talking.

    But thedies¡¯ reactions were a little different.

    ¡°Oh, really? But¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a little much to wear¡­¡±

    Everyone reacted subtly, but Countess Aster smiled kindly.

    ¡°It may seem so, but the meaning of this bracelet is different.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°She said she wanted me to be healthy as soon as possible.¡±

    She was a child with a caring heart since as long as she could remember. A child who was willing to share and give to others even if she didn¡¯t have anything. So the Countess wanted to take care of her as much as possible.

    ¡°Her wish is so beautiful that I wear the bracelet on my wrist all the time.¡±

    She was so d that her husband met with that child again.

    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s because I became healthier after receiving this, but it¡¯s even more precious.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a coincidence, but I still felt that way. I used to get sick often. I was worried because the doctor¡¯s diagnosis wasn¡¯t good. But after wearing the bracelet, I recovered and this bracelet became important to me. The doctor also said it was a miraculous recovery. It felt strange to hear that and I was dazed.¡±

    The way she looked down at the bracelet showed that she cared for and cherished it more than anything.

    The noblewomen exchanged looks of bewilderment behind Countess Aster¡¯s back.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it ridiculous?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°That wishing bracelet.¡±

    It was the moment when Countess Aster left her seat. Marquess Ferdinand looked around, and brought up a story she had waited to talk about.

    Thedies who listened quietly to the Marquess, nodded with looks of sympathy.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. A wishing bracelet, it¡¯s childish.¡±

    ¡°I thought it was ridiculous when I heard it.¡±

    ¡°As a Countess, how can she not consider her reputation while wearing such a crude thing.¡±

    Everyone nodded in agreement.

    Among them was Marquess Ferdinand, who first noticed Countess Aster¡¯s bracelet. She took a sip of her tea with a smirk on her face.

    ¡®You¡¯re healthy because of that bracelet? That¡¯s ridiculous.¡¯

    After the story Countess Aster told of recovering after receiving the bracelet, there was talk that it was being sold in the square.

    ¡®Who said I was curious?¡¯

    What kind of person buys such a childish and cheap bracelet.

    She was inwardly reproaching Countess Aster for her extravagant remark.

    ¡°So where in the square do they sell it?¡±

    ¡°You said you met them at the clock tower, so maybe it¡¯s being sold around there?¡±

    Before she knew it, thedies began to ask the source of the bracelet.

    Marquess Ferdinand¡¯s brows furrowed at the turn of the conversation.

    ¡°I see everyone is more interested in that bracelet than I thought. You¡¯re not going to buy it, are you?¡±

    Asking exactly where the store is located implies you want to buy it.

    Marquess Ferdinand noticed immediately, and asked with some dissatisfaction. Everyone waved their hands in surprise.

    ¡°Oh, what are you talking about? I just asked out of curiosity.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! Who would buy something like that?¡±

    ¡°It makes me sad to hear you say that, Marquess Ferdinand.¡±

    The Marquess looked at them suspiciously when they denied it so vehemently, but she had no choice but to withdraw her disapproving gaze.

    .

    .

    .

    The tea party ended, and everyone got into their carriages while giving fond farewells and announcing that they would see each other soon.

    As soon as they arrived at their respective mansions, thedies began asking for arge purchase of wishing bracelets.

 Chapter 24 - Whoâ€™s On Their Knees?

    <h4>Chapter 24 - Who¡¯s On Their Knees?</h4>

    ¡°Darn it! Why are you suddenly taking back your investment?¡±

    Marquis Leroy was organizing his business n in his office, and was unable to control his frustration and violently hit his desk. A few months ago, he was told that it would be an honor to invest in his mining business.

    Now the man changed his mind, and withdrew his investment. The reason he could get away with it was because the contract was not stamped with the family¡¯s seal.

    ¡®Only wages to the miners need to be covered¡­¡¯

    There were some negative financial repercussions to buying a mine. However, it was a valuable investment because it was an ore that could rece pink diamonds.

    ¡®I¡¯m just a little short on money.¡¯

    He was trying to get the investment because he was working on another business, but his investor suddenly withdrew.

    ¡®This could disrupt the mining operation.¡¯

    He was seriously thinking about where to borrow money from when the Marquis heard a knock on the door.

    ¡°Come in.¡±

    When the permission was given, the butler carefully opened the door and entered.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°Count Aster is here to see you.¡±

    ¡°Now?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Marquis Leroy couldn¡¯t hide his confusion when he was told that the Count was waiting for him in the drawing room.

    He didn¡¯t expect someone he hadn¡¯t met in so long to just visit him. Why so suddenly?

    Rather than being worried about the rudeness of visiting without contacting him first, he was more curious about why he hade to visit.

    ¡®Count Aster.¡¯

    Marquis Leroy roughly arranged his desk and left for the drawing room.

    ¡®If it was Count Aster¡­¡¯

    It was a name he remembered because it was famous for something very important.

    The Marquis furrowed his brow as he tried to figure out what the important thing was. He thought hard, but before he knew it, he¡¯d arrived at the drawing room.

    Marquis Leroy entered the drawing room with a stiff expression and shook hands with Count Aster.

    ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you, Count Aster.¡±

    The Count was waiting leisurely for Marquis Leroy to arrive and greeted him with a genial smile.

    ¡°I¡¯m honored to meet you like this, Marquis Leroy. I¡¯m also sorry for being rude bying here without contacting you first.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much about it and take a seat.¡±

    Count Aster had a magnanimous expression, but he still couldn¡¯t remember where he knew the man from.

    ¡®I think it was about money¡­¡¯

    Was there a lot of debt?

    No. Did hemit fraud?

    He didn¡¯t think so. What the heck was it?

    The Marquis tried to think it over again slowly.

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that Marquis has recently bought a mine and started a business.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m actually really busy with it.¡±

    ¡°Oh, no. I might make you busier.¡±

    ¡°What kind of¡­¡±

    Count Asterughed aloud as the Marquis stared at him, unable to understand his intentions.

    ¡°I really want to invest.¡±

    ¡°Wait, what¡­?¡±

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s mind froze as he couldn¡¯t believe what he was hearing. His expression seemed absolutely bewildered.

    Count Aster noticed the Marquis¡¯ expression was not very weing. He smiled awkwardly and uttered.

    ¡°If it¡¯s not possible¡­¡±

    ¡°No! Not at all! Not at all! I¡¯m more than grateful!¡±

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s voice grew louder and louder with delight. His heart could not contain his excitement.

    ¡®Right, Count Aster!¡¯

    He was famous for being a rich man.

    He was stupid for forgetting such an important thing, but he couldn¡¯t miss let this golden goose escape.

    ¡°If you could invest, it would be a great boon.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for your willingness to do so. I will try not to inconvenience the Marquis¡¯ business.¡±

    There was no need to discuss the matter at any particr length after that.

    Count Aster asked that the business-rted papers be conveyed to him separately through a letter, for the purpose of making a simple investment.

    After about an hour, the conversation ended with a handshake, and well wishes for their future endeavors.

    Marquis Leroy saw him off at the door of the mansion, and did not take his eyes off Count Aster¡¯s carriage as it drove away.

    ¡®What a windfall.¡¯

    The trouble, that had been a pain in his neck for the past few months, had been solved so neatly.

    The smile of satisfaction never left the Marquis¡¯ face, as he promised himself a good night¡¯s sleep.

    .

    .

    .

    Count Aster sighed, and looked out of the window of his carriage, as he was returning to the mansion

    In fact, he knew that Marquis Leroy¡¯s mining business was slowing down because hecked capital. The decision to invest was made only after seeing Leticia.

    While there were several attempted treatments for the sick Countess. She only became healthy after receiving the bracelet from Leticia.

    It was all thanks to Leticia, so he wanted to be of some help to the Leroy family.

    ¡®I hope it helps Leticia.¡¯

    She had a hard time taking care of her family when she was young, so he hoped his good deeds would allow her to live a little morefortably.

    Sadly, Count Aster hadn¡¯t heard the news.

    The fact that Leticia had been emunicated from the Leroy family.

    ***

    Within 10 days, the true value of the wishing bracelets began to be seen. Nearly a monthter, it gained sensational poprity regardless of status.

    ¡°Oh? You¡¯re wearing it, too.¡±

    ¡°Of course I bought one.¡±

    ¡°No way. Everyone wears that bracelet these days.¡±

    Unlike the aristocrats who could purchaserge quantities,moners could not afford to buy so many bracelets. They could easily buy a single bracelet as they were not too expensive to buy individually. The bracelet has a sincere meaning, but many people bought it because of the cute flower design.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect it to be this sessful.¡±

    ¡°Me too. At first, I thought I screwed it up because there was no reaction¡­¡±

    Leticia said, looking at the bracelets on the wrists of people passing by. Elle nodded vaguely.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it harder to find someone who doesn¡¯t have one?¡±

    Ian murmured quietly because he still couldn¡¯t believe it. The poprity of the wishing bracelet, which he had expected to shine only for a little while, seemed unstoppable.

    Even if people wanted one, they were running out of stock.

    The time when she was depressed because she couldn¡¯t get any attention felt like a dream, and Elle pinched herself. Fortunately, nothing changed because this scene in front of her is real.

    ¡®Everyone¡¯s wearing the bracelet I made.¡¯

    People passing by gushed that the bracelet was cute and how they liked it.

    ¡°Miss Elle.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Are you crying?¡±

    The moment Leticia cautiously asked, Elle suddenly hugged her as if he had been waiting for her. Leticia flinched in surprise, then smiled warmly and patted her back.

    ¡°This isn¡¯t a dream, is it?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean? It¡¯s real. Enjoy yourself, Miss Elle.¡±

    ¡°But I can¡¯t believe it.¡±

    Elle was shedding tears, and slowly raised her head.

    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to Miss Leticia.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I was the one who designed the bracelet, but Miss Leticia was the one who gave me the wishing idea.¡±

    ¡°This was something achieved through Miss Elle¡¯s efforts.¡±

    Leticia spoke in a warm but determined tone.

    Enoch, who was watching the two of them, quietly called out to his sister.

    ¡°Elle.¡±

    ¡°Big Brother¡­¡±

    ¡°Just admit it¡¯s the result of your hard work.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re talented, very talented.¡±

    Enoch was always blunt and didn¡¯t express his feelings well. So when he gave Elle apliment, she felt like crying again.

    She looked up at the clear sky to try harder to hold back her tears.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do even better in the future.¡±

    In the end, the tears she had swallowed finally flowed down her cheeks. She bit her lip to stop from crying.

    ¡°Wow, you look so ugly when you cry.¡±

    ¡°Be quiet, Ian Achilles.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, you look uglier when you cry.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s it!¡±

    She pped Ian¡¯s arm hard in annoyance.

    Elle quickly wiped her tears away on her sleeves and told Leticia.

    ¡°Oh, right! We have somewhere we need to go.¡±

    ¡°What? Right now?¡±

    Leticia asked curiously, as she wiped Elle¡¯s tears away with a handkerchief. Elle nodded and answered.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to the Leroy Mansion.¡±

    ¡°Why there?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean why?¡±

    Elle grinned as if she¡¯d never cried.

    ¡°To see Diana kneeling and apologizing.¡±

    ***

    ¡°What are you wearing?¡±

    ¡°This?¡±

    ¡°That shoddy bracelet before¡­ No, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve seen it before.¡±

    Diana frowned as she was happily drinking tea on a dazzling sunny day. She¡¯d never seen a bangle like that on the wrist of the Count¡¯s daughter, who she came to the tea party with.

    ¡°Oh, Miss Leroy. You don¡¯t know about these?¡±

    ¡°Yes? What is this?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s very popr these days.¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t even buy them if you want to.¡±

    Everyone looked at the youngdy and tried to help her borate.

    ¡°It reminds me of my childhood when I was ying with flowers.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s what I thought too!¡±

    ¡°The design looks like a flower on my wrist.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! That¡¯s exactly what it feels like!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a great way to remind you of your childhood.¡±

    Unlike the young women who were smiling and pping happily, Diana took a sip of tea with a bored look on her face. However, her face hardened at the words that followed.

    ¡°The design is cute, but I love how this bracelet means ¡®to make your wishe true.¡¯¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. It may be superstition, but I hope my wishes true.¡±

    ¡°Wait, what?¡±

    Stunned, Diana quickly held out her hand.

    ¡°Please show me that bracelet for a moment.¡±

    ¡°What? Oh, this one?¡±

    The Count¡¯s daughter was perplexed by the unusual request and self-consciously showed her bracelet.

    A bracelet made of two thin green threads and finished with pink gemstones in the middle. It was definitely the bracelet that she¡¯dughed at for being childish and crudest time.

    With an incredulous look on her face, Diana asked the Count¡¯s daughter.

    ¡°This can¡¯t be¡­ Is this a wishing bracelet?¡±

    ¡°Yes. So Miss Leroy knew about it.¡±

    ¡°Come to think of it, it was made by a certain young Miss¡­ Who was it?¡±

    No, it can¡¯t be.

    Diana clenched her hands, denying what these children were saying.

    But the truth was already too obvious to ignore.

    ¡°Miss Achilles?¡±

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right! It¡¯s Miss Achilles!¡±

    ¡°I heard she made it with the youngdy she lives with.¡±

    ¡°Who?¡±

    When one of the nobledies asked with a curious expression. The youngdy, who mentioned Miss Achilles, looked over at Diana with a sly expression.

    ¡°The rumour is that it¡¯s Miss Leroy¡­¡±

    ¡°Miss Leroy? But Miss Leroy is here¡­ Oh¡­¡±

    When the tactless Count¡¯s daughter tried to ask if Miss Leroy was here, she suddenly shut up. It was because she btedly realized that Miss Leroy meant ¡°Leticia,¡± and not ¡°Diana.¡±

    In a chilly atmosphere, Diana held up an empty cup of tea to hide her trembling lips and pretended to drink tea.

    ¡®What¡¯s so good about it?¡¯

    She didn¡¯t want to see the youngdies chatting excitedly over the childish and crude bracelet again.

    ¡®I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll evere back.¡¯

    She regretted thinking it wouldn¡¯t be a bad idea to get together and talk like this once in a while.

    She clicked her tongue in frustration, then apletely forgotten memory began toe back to her.

    [If you seed with that childish and crude bracelet you mentioned, I¡¯ll apologize to Miss Achilles.]

    [I¡¯ll prove it¡¯s worthwhile to people.]

    [If I seed, you will kneel and apologize.]

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Diana ground her teeth and her hand clenched the teacup so hard it cracked.

    ¡®Why didn¡¯t you remain a nobody.¡¯

    Unable to control her anger anymore, she mmed her teacup down.

    The youngdies could feel the tense atmosphere, and avoided looking at Diana.

 Chapter 25 - Weâ€™re Getting Closer, And Theyâ€™re Falling Apart

    <h4>Chapter 25 - We¡¯re Getting Closer, And They¡¯re Falling Apart</h4>

    Elle¡¯s steps were relentless, as if she was about to storm into the Leroy¡¯s mansion. Leticia, who was holding her hand, was being dragged along.

    Poor Leticia sighed and tugged on Elle¡¯s hand. As soon as she looked back, Leticia spoke slowly as soon as she made eye contact with Elle.

    ¡°For today, can¡¯t we spend it together?¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t want to go, because there was no way that good words would be exchanged.

    But Elle was adamant.

    ¡°First of all, I want that apology.¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we go tomorrow, instead of today.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    The moment her gaze met Leticia¡¯s, Elle began to hesitate more and more.

    Fingertips that barely touch and eyes filled with sorrowful longing. Elle let out a short sigh, her heart was being swayed by Leticia¡¯s desperate voice.

    Leticia held Elle¡¯s hand tightly when she tried to walk again.

    ¡°I wanted to congratte you while eating delicious food.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t we, Miss Elle?¡±

    She squeezed both of Elle¡¯s hands when she spoke, but Elle pouted in frustration.

    ¡°Oh,e on. Talking like that is unfair.¡±

    Elle wanted to visit the Leroy mansion immediately and make a scene. However, the moment she faced those blue eyes looking at her mournfully, Elle¡¯s motivation disappeared like mist.

    It was not long before Elle shrugged her shoulders lightly in defeat.

    ¡°Come to think of it, how long are you going to keep calling me Miss.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I think we¡¯re close enough to call each other without titles.¡±

    Elle narrowed her eyes in displeasure. Leticia, who had been looking at Elle, nced at Enoch without realizing.

    Ian noticed the nce before Elle did.

    ¡°Did you call Big Brother without honorifics first?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Embarrassed by Ian¡¯s words, Leticia and Enoch looked at each other and turned their heads away immediately.

    But they were already caught.

    ¡°Wow, I¡¯m about to get upset.¡±

    ¡°This is betrayal!¡±

    Enoch quickly took Leticia, and avoided eye contact. Elle and Ian joined forces to demand an immediate exnation.

    The twins chased after him with disgruntled expressions on their faces as he ran away.

    It was an out of the blue chase, but the smiles wouldn¡¯t leave the four of them.

    ***

    Marquis Leroy was in a good moodtely.

    It was because of Count Aster¡¯s offer to invest in the mining business, which he¡¯d almost had to close, and Marquis El told Livion that he would be engaged to Diana.

    A family with abilities will have a deeper rtionship with each other if their children were to get marriedter.

    With Emil¡¯s performance at the Academy, he was expected to be an Imperial official this year. Marquis Leroy did not have to worry much about Xavier because he quickly recovered from the mercy of the horse.

    If Irene hadn¡¯t lost her test paper at the Academy of Magic.

    ¡°You can¡¯t even properly hand in a piece of paper!¡±

    Irene¡¯s performance so far has been good enough to qualify her for the Imperial Wizard Test, but her passing was in jeopardy as she was disqualified in one of her subjects.

    Irene, who knew this fact better than anyone else, quivered as if she were being hit by a cold winter wind.

    ¡°It¡¯s not because I wanted to lose it¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to see your face right now, go to your room.¡±

    As soon as she tried to make an excuse, Marquis Leroy suddenly turned his back to her. Irene felt suffocated by his heartless response.

    ¡°Father¡­¡±

    She cried in a tearful voice, but Marquis Leroy never looked back.

    Irene stared at his retreating back while she flopped on the floor and sobbed aloud. Emil, who had been watching quietly, sighed at her antics.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get you off the cold floor, Irene.¡±

    ¡°What should I do¡­¡±

    ¡°IRENE¡­¡±

    ¡°Father must be disappointed in me, right? Now you¡¯re ashamed of me, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    Emil slowly helped her up, but Irene¡¯s eyes were somewhat lifeless.

    ¡°You must¡¯ve expected a lot from me¡­ It¡¯s all my fault.¡±

    ¡°Irene.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s my fault I didn¡¯t get the proper test sheet.¡±

    ¡°Irene Leroy!¡±

    It was unusual to see her mumbling with her head down.

    Noticing immediately, Emil grabbed Irene¡¯s shoulder and soothed her with a soft voice.

    ¡°You can do better next time.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You can learn from this time, like you always do¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that so easily!¡±

    Irene, who had been standing still and showing no reaction, suddenly shook her head and then violently threw off Emil¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Do you know how hard I¡¯ve tried to be good all the time?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to be hated by Father, so I tried so hard I thought I would throw up blood.¡±

    ¡°Irene.¡±

    ¡°No, you don¡¯t. How can you understand when Father¡¯s always been proud of you.¡±

    Irene stared at Emil with ferocity. She didn¡¯t want to talk anymore, so she turned around and ran straight to her room. She heard Emil calling to her, but she mmed the door and cried on her desk as if she hadn¡¯t heard.

    She has always been a beloved daughter. She was always a daughter her father was proud of.

    However, Irene was disgraced in the Marquis¡¯ eyes when she was caught hiding her secret.

    ¡®I¡¯ll have to do it all again.¡¯

    As soon as the thought crossed her mind, Irene quickly pulled out the magic book with a blue cover and began reading it like crazy.

    Then she faintly heard a familiar voice.

    [I¡¯m careful to say this, but I don¡¯t want you to work too hard.]

    [It¡¯s such a waste to sacrifice yourself for someone else¡¯s reputation.]

    Someone said that to her.

    The hand that was turning the page paused for a moment.

    Irene looked over the books with half-lost in thought, when did that ever happen?

    ¡®I can¡¯t make a mistake this time. It has to be perfect.¡¯

    To always be a proud and wonderful daughter.

    To be a daughter who will always be loved.

    ***

    ¡°Look at this!¡±

    One leisurely afternoon, Elle went to visit the owner of Pegasus during the day. When she returned, Elle ced something down on the table with a big smile.

    Enoch was drinking tea with the others, and looked at her wondering what this was about. Instead of answering, Elle just nodded towards it, as if to say open it.

    Ian opened up the paper that Elleid down. As soon as he checked what was inside, he passed it to Enoch with a stiff face. Enoch put the paper down without looking.

    ¡°Elle, you¡­¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not all. Really, it¡¯s only a little bit.¡±

    What Elle brought back was a receipt proofing that she¡¯d paid back some of their debt.

    She knew Enoch alone was responsible for the debt, but Elle wanted to help pay back what little she could.

    ¡°Thank you, Elle. Thanks to you, the burden has been reduced.¡±

    Enoch didn¡¯t say why he did it, but he stroked Elle¡¯s hair affectionately. Elle, who was beaming happily at the touch, handed Ian some pocket money.

    The money was given to Ian to use for books that he needed for the Imperial civil official exam.

    Ian hesitated briefly at the offering before thanking her.

    Leticia pped her hands with a smile on her face. At that moment, Elle¡¯s gaze turned towards Leticia.

    ¡°I¡¯m going out to buy Miss Leticia a present.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia blinked her eyes in confusion, and Elle rushed to grab her hand.

    ¡°Hurry up.¡±

    ¡°Now wait a minute Miss Elle¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°No, Elle¡­¡±

    A few days ago, after learning that Leticia and Enoch were calling each other without honorifics, Elle did not hide her disappointment. In fact, Leticia hasn¡¯t called Enoch¡¯s name properly yet, but it wasn¡¯t important to Elle.

    To ease her disappointment, Leticia often tried to call Elle and Ian¡¯s names. Elle smiled with satisfaction, even if it came out awkwardly because she was not used to it yet.

    ¡°Then we¡¯re on our way.¡±

    As Elle pulled her hand again, Leticia nced at Enoch with a puzzled look on her face. She looked as if she really wanted to follow her.

    Enoch nodded lightly and put Leticia¡¯s coat over her shoulder.

    ¡°You should go out and buy a present.¡±

    ¡°Then¡­¡±

    Leticia was wriggling her hands, hesitating to say what she wanted to say. She looked up at Enoch with a worried face.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be back.¡±

    The expression on her face seemed to be delighted, as if she had really wanted to say this.

    Enoch was mesmerized by her beauty, and he couldn¡¯t help reaching out to her.

    When he came to his senses, he was already stroking Leticia¡¯s bright pink hair.

    ¡°Ah¡­ I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    Maybe it¡¯s because of his habit of patting his younger siblings on the head.

    However, Leticia only clenched her hands with her head bowed.

    As Enoch tried to apologize again, Leticia quickly took Elle without raising her head. Enoch panicked and tried to catch her, but she quickly disappeared into the distance.

    He could see the reddish ears visible through the petal-like beauty of her hair.

    Looking at Leticia¡¯s red ears, Enochughed out loud for the first time in a while.

    ***

    As soon as she arrived at the square, Leticia fanned her cheeks. Fortunately, the heat on her face had dropped sharply.

    ¡®You shouldn¡¯t suddenly stroke someone¡¯s head.¡¯

    She could still feel his touch, and felt her face starting to flush again.

    Leticia was trying to calm herself down, when she felt a gaze on her. She turned her head in surprise.

    Elle was standing there looking very pleased.

    ¡°Why.. why are you looking at me like that?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    While shaking her head lightly, Elle handed over the satchel that she¡¯d waited to give her. Leticia was embarrassed by its weight, she looked at Elle with uncertainty.

    Instead of answering, Elle nced at the satchel. Then Leticia reluctantly opened it.

    ¡°Elle!¡±

    ¡°Wow, you¡¯re getting better at calling my name.¡±

    ¡°This is not the time to say that.¡±

    What Elle gave Leticia was none other than a satchel of gold coins. Leticia blinked and thought she was seeing things. She was shocked and tried to give it back to Elle.

    But Elle shook her head firmly and said.

    ¡°It¡¯s a fair price.¡±

    ¡°What? What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°I told youst time. I designed the bracelet, but thank you for giving me the idea of ¡®wish¡¯.¡±

    ¡°Elle¡­¡±

    ¡°I was able to make money because of it, so please ept it.¡±

    Leticia still hesitated, and Elle was forced to show her true feelings.

    ¡°I want to stay with Miss Leticia for a long time.¡±

    There was no lie in the way Elle looked at her.

    Leticia¡¯s heart felt warm, so she nodded quickly.

    ¡°I want to stay close, too.¡±

    ¡°Then take it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°The closer you are, the more certain you have to be.¡±

    Leticia realized that Elle was never going to back down, so she looked down at the bag of gold coins in her hand.

    It was the first time she had ever received anything mary, so she wondered if it was really okay to receive it. It was clear that Elle would refuse it if she tried to return it, so Leticia had no choice but to smile.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll take it gratefully.¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°And¡­¡±

    Leticia repeatedly opened and closed her mouth in an attempt to say something.

    While it might¡¯ve frustrated some, Elle quietly waited for Leticia¡¯s answer without frowning.

    Leticia found the right words and slowly brought it up.

    ¡°You can call me ¡®Sister¡¯ if you want.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­ if it¡¯s ufortable or burdensome¡­¡±

    Leticia smiled sadly, she thought her words had made Elle ufortable.

    ¡°No! Not at all!¡±

    Elle was staring in shock at Leticia, and btedly came to her senses. She shook her hands in denial.

    ¡°I really wanted to have a sister!¡±

    At first I just thought she was nice and kind. However, as she spent more time with her, Elle came to enjoy their time together because of Leticia¡¯s sensitive heart, the way she listened to her, and above all¡­ her kindness in taking care of even the smallest things.

    Elle could never turn a blind eye to such a nice and friendly sister.

    Leticia had been secretly feeling uneasy. So when Elle strongly denied being ufortable, she smiled brightly.

    So the two walked around the square in harmony. Leticia bought the blue ribbon that she wanted but couldn¡¯t afford before. They also looked at other essories.

    Just when she thought they had looked around enough, Elle suddenly took Leticia¡¯s hand and walked into a boutique.

    ¡°This is¡­¡±

    It was the most popr boutique among the aristocrats.

    Leticia stared at her in surprise, but Elleughed and nced at the dresses as if it was normal.

    ¡°There¡¯s a huntingpetition soon, we should get dresses.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s too expensive here¡­¡±

    As they were leaving the boutique, Leticia made eye contact with someone who was entering.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Only then did Leticia remember something she¡¯d forgotten.

    This was Diana¡¯s favourite boutique.

 Chapter 26 - Your Ability Is So Useless

    <h4>Chapter 26 - Your Ability Is So Useless</h4>

    ***

    ***

    Leticia and he were closer than family.

    A rtionship in which you can vaguely reveal your anxiety and nervousness that you couldn¡¯t tell your family because you weren¡¯t awakened. When we were engaged, he thought they would get married without difficulties.

    Until Letisha was emunicated.

    ¡®Where the hell did thate from?¡¯

    No, since when.

    Levion sighed in frustration and tapped the table with his fingertips.

    He couldn¡¯t understand why we, who were closer than anyone else, are so far away from each other now.

    Leticia¡¯s voice still echoed in his head.

    [I¡¯ll decide where I belong.]

    The day he went to the Achilles¡¯ mansion and tried to bring Leticia home.

    Levion was shocked by Leticia¡¯s unfamiliar gaze, which always showered him with kindness and warmth.

    It¡¯s the first time in his life he¡¯d seen that sharp look and heard the sternly cutting voice. The gaze that was staring at him was brighter and sharper that day.

    Strangely it didn¡¯t feel like a very good sign. Rather, it made him nervous.

    It was the day of the Knighthood ceremony that he met Leticia again.

    Throughout the ceremony Levion tried to make eye contact with her, but she was avoiding his gaze. He was the only person who could help Leticia, who had been abandoned by her family.

    But Leticia moved away from him. No, she turned away.

    Like I wasn¡¯t needed.

    At that moment, what Leticia said to him a few days ago rang in his ears.

    [Something like that¡­ I don¡¯t need it.]

    The cold stare when he said he¡¯d buy a new ribbon string to rece the broken one.

    Even then, Levion didn¡¯t notice something was wrong. Leticia refused to let him buy her a ribbon strap while saying; ¡°I don¡¯t need it.¡±

    On the day of his ceremony, he waspletely shunned by Leticia.

    He finally realized that their rtionship was changing. No, it was falling apart.

    But it still didn¡¯t worry him too much.

    ¡®She¡¯ll talk to me again.¡¯

    We¡¯ve always had a good rtionship with each other, so we¡¯ll get back to the way we were with time.

    Leticia had always tolerated everything, so he was sure that this time would be no problem either.

    However, a person¡¯s heart can be fickle.

    It was the moment when he stood up, pretending not to know, when he heard a knock on the door. Levion told the person to enter. However, someone unexpected entered his room.

    ¡°Father, what brings you here?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here to talk to you, so take a seat.¡±

    Marquis El entered the room, and gave a light nod towards the chair.

    Levion was curious, but quietly sat in the seat that Marquis El pointed to.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to discuss your engagement.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­ is that so?¡±

    Levion sighed briefly, and nodded with mixed feelings.

    Leticia was emunicated and her engagement with him was in pieces.

    ¡®Would it have been better if you just followed me?¡¯

    Levion sighed and berated Leticia, who firmly refused to leave the Achilles¡¯ mansion.

    If she had juste to El Mansion. They could have talked about how to keep his engagement with Leticia, even if she¡¯d been pushed out of the Leroy family.

    Thanks to her choice, the engagement would fall through without a fight.

    ¡°I had a good talk with Marquis Leroy.¡±

    ¡°Father, I¡¯m¡­¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why.¡±

    Marquis El stopped talking for a moment, and looked directly at Levion.

    ¡°How would you like to be engaged to the second daughter of the Leroy family?¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s the second daughter¡­¡±

    No way.

    ¡°Are you talking about Diana?¡±

    Trading engagement partners within the same family.

    Levion looked at Marquis El with a look of incredulity.

    He really hoped he heard wrong.

    But his hopes were dashed.

    ¡°Yes, Marquis Leroy suggested it first.¡±

    ¡°But no matter how much¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s just the fianc¨¦e that changed.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t think about it too hard.¡±

    Levion¡¯s expression hardened as Marquis El¡¯s casual indifference.

    It wasn¡¯t enough that he had to break off his engagement to Leticia, he had to get engaged to her sister, Diana. From the atmosphere he got from her, he¡¯d say she¡¯d already figured it all out.

    ¡®Is that why you turned away.¡¯

    Suddenly, he remembered the moment when Leticia passed him like a stranger. Maybe she knew about this before he did.

    ¡°I want to rest today, Father.¡±

    ¡°Okay, rest well and let¡¯s talk more next time.¡±

    Marquis El nodded lightly and left the room as Levion rubbed his face with a tired expression.

    Upon hearing the door close and confirming that Marquis El had left, Levion sighed deeply.

    ¡°You said it was a discussion¡­¡±

    What kind of discussion was that?

    Notification papers.

    He started to feel suffocated by all of his troubles.

    ***

    ¡°I guess you¡¯re here sightseeing.¡±

    ¡°Diana.¡±

    ¡°Enjoy with your eyes what you can¡¯t afford to buy.¡±

    Diana mocked sarcastically while ncing at the pitiful site.

    Unlike Leticia, who gave a short sigh at her tant hostility. Elle, who was standing beside her, approached Diana with her arms crossed.

    ¡°Is now the time for sarcasm?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be on your knees apologizing?¡±

    ¡°What kind of nonsense¡­¡±

    Diana momentarily stopped talking without realizing it. She looked like she remembered the ridiculous bet she made that day.

    As soon as Elle noticed, she raised her chin and smiled more brightly.

    ¡°If I seeded with my wishing bracelet, you¡¯re supposed to apologize.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not going to say it again¡­¡±

    ¡°When did I say that?¡±

    ¡°Excuse me?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t remember what you¡¯re talking about.¡±

    Diana tilted her head lightly, as if she really didn¡¯t know.

    Elle was bbergasted and looked at her like she was crazy. She didn¡¯t back down and faced her with a more confident attitude.

    ¡°Well¡­ It¡¯s great to have seeded with such a crude thing. It¡¯s not because of your skill, you were just lucky.

    At Diana¡¯s?kind?words, a fierceugh escaped Elle.

    ¡°Who wants to hear that from you? Keep your insulting words and apologize.¡±

    ¡°Elle.¡±

    Leticia quietly grabbed Elle¡¯s arm because it seemed like this fight would boil over soon. However, Elle looked sad as if she wasn¡¯t trusted.

    ¡°You¡¯re shameless.¡±

    Leticia looked at Diana with a short sigh of disappointment.

    Diana raised her chin contemptuously. From that look, Leticia felt as if she had already disappeared from her thoughts and lost her affection.

    ¡°I knew you¡¯d do this.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯d rather die than apologize.¡±

    Leticia actually knew. The fact that she will never get an apology from Diana even if she won the bet.

    Since childhood, Diana had never easily bowed down due to her strong self-esteem. She was the kind of child who was generous to herself. Who pointed out others¡¯ faults, but never admitted to her own.

    That¡¯s why I knew better than anyone that Diana wouldn¡¯t follow through with the bet and apologize.

    But the reason Leticia epted the bet.

    ¡°To me you are a blind and wretched person. From now on, don¡¯t curse at us for being crude.¡±

    I wanted to prove it.

    I wanted to show that Elle¡¯s precious dream can be valuable to others.

    Even though she knew Diana wouldn¡¯t admit it easily, others would.

    Leticia hadn¡¯t nned to force the issue, but Diana was shamelessly ignoring the bet she made on the day of the ceremony. She wanted to at least return the insult that Elle had suffered.

    ¡®I didn¡¯t want to do this.¡¯

    She brought up the words she endured for the sake of family harmony.

    ¡°You know what?

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Leticia smiled brightly at Diana¡¯s confused gaze.

    ¡°Your ability is so useless, it¡¯s no different from having nothing.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Do you want to know something else?¡±

    Leticia nced around and approached Diana.

    She whispered softly in a worried tone.

    ¡°When you would rain down flower petals, the maids wouldin about how difficult it was to clean up.¡±

    ¡°Wha¡­WHAT?¡±

    ¡°So take it easy.¡±

    Don¡¯t criticize other people for the rain.

    Diana was astonished at what she heard for the first time. It was even more shocking that it was Leticia who said such a thing. Her body stiffened.

    ¡°You know I¡¯m saying this out of concern, right?¡±

    At the end of the remark, Leticia returned to Elle with an indifferent expression, as if the whole thing had been a friendly conversation. Leticia and Elle casually walked around the boutique and looked at the dresses.

    Diana, who had been staring at their backs with a wild look, grabbed Leticia by the shoulder.

    ¡°Are you running away?¡±

    ¡°Run away?¡±

    Leticia looked back in surprise at such a ridiculousment. She smiled softly and said coldly;

    ¡°It¡¯s because you aren¡¯t worth dealing with.¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­?¡±

    ¡°I just told you.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s gaze turned to the ceiling, then back to Diana.

    ¡°It¡¯s hard to clean when you rain.¡±

    ¡°What do you¡­¡±

    Instead of answering the confused Diana, Leticia pointed her finger up. As soon as she looked up, Diana¡¯s eyes began to tremble nervously. Dark pink petals were falling down from the sky.

    ¡®Damn it.¡¯

    Diana was able to freely use her ability. The problem was during strong emotions, her ability would sometimes activate arbitrarily. Diana started slowly breathing to control her emotions. When she met Leticia gaze, instead of calming down, she caused more rain.

    ¡°What¡¯s up with all the flowers?¡±

    ¡°I know.¡±

    ¡°Why is it raining all of a sudden?¡±

    As thedies began to murmur, Diana bit her lips with a ferocious expression.

    Today was the first time Diana used her ability in front of people that weren¡¯t her family. She has a weaker ability than her younger siblings, so she didn¡¯t use it often. So Diana was embarrassed because of the unfamiliar eyes on her now.

    She was feeling sorry for herself, but her pride took the biggest hit from Leticia¡¯s indifferent gaze.

    With the eyes of everyone in the boutique on her, Diana was forced to leave with an angry look.

    As soon as Diana left, thedies beganining loudly as if they had been waiting.

    ¡°Oh, my. It¡¯s made of flowers.¡±

    ¡°What a nuisance.¡±

    ¡°Hey! Clean this all up!¡±

    The expressions of the nobledies became distorted as they tripped on the petals piled up on the ground and almost fell down.

    Elle was quietly watching the scene. She clicked her tongue and said.

    ¡°Now I can look aroundfortably.¡±

    ¡°I know.¡±

    Leticia nced around where Diana had been. She had a rxed smile on her face while looking at the dresses with Elle.

    ***

    ¡°What an outrage!¡±

    Diana had returned to the Leroy mansion. She began shouting as soon she entered her room, she barely managed to keep it in until she was in private.

    Although Diana¡¯s ability was modestpared to her younger siblings. She enjoyed entertaining her family with her ability during tea time or celebrations. She still clearly remembered the smiling faces as the scattered flowers filled up the sky.

    She wouldugh inwardly as she nced at Leticia, who was staring at her from behind the others.

    Unlike Leticia, who wasn¡¯t skilled at all, Diana¡¯s ability is so colorful that it brings joy to other people.

    How dare sheugh at her ability like it was cumbersome.

    Her eyes were burning with anger.

    ¡°Mydy, can I get you some tea?¡±

    The maid was being very cautious because she was worried that Diana would throw something at her.

    At that moment, Diana suddenly raised her head.

    ¡°You guys, is it bothersome when I use my ability?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Is it hard to clean up?¡±

    Their mistress was in an unusual mood. The maids exchanged a look, then looked at Diana again.

    ¡°Oh, no.¡±

    ¡°Of course not! It¡¯s not hard to clean up at all.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s rather nice to see pretty flowers.¡±

    The maids all nodded in agreement about what an honour it is, and Diana¡¯s expression finally rxed.? The room began to fill with dark pink petals and a rich scent. Diana started to dance around the room with a happy look on her face.

    She didn¡¯t see the maids sighing quietly in the background.

 Chapter 27 - Blue Ribbons And A White Rose

    <h4>Chapter 27 - Blue Ribbons And A White Rose</h4>

    ¡°Is it that weird?¡±

    It was finally the day of the Hunting Festival.

    Leticia cautiously asked if the dress that Elle chose from the boutique looked nice on her. Instead of answering, Elle looked at Leticia like she had lost her mind.

    Her pale white skin and slightly peach-colored cheeks, and her brighter-than-usual pink dress that fluttered as she moved. She looked as gorgeous as a freshly blooming flower.

    With embarrassed blue eyes blinking down at her, Elle couldn¡¯t stand it anymore and hugged Leticia.

    ¡°Elle¡­?¡±

    ¡°Who has a prettier older sister?¡±

    Elle was much more adorable than she had imagined, and Leticia was feeling really touched.

    Leticia looked at Elle with affectionate eyes and carefully grabbed her hands as she wriggled them around.

    ¡°I¡¯m so happy to have a sister as kind and beautiful as Elle.¡±

    ¡°Why does my sister talk so nicely?¡±

    Elle seemed to be embarrassed and avoided ncing at Leticia, but a cute and bright smile was spreading across Elle¡¯s face.

    Staring at Leticia¡¯s long pink hair, Elle came to stand beside her at the vanity. Leticia turned to Elle who had an eager expression on her face. She showed Leticia the ribbon she was holding in her hand.

    ¡°I thought it would be prettier if you tied your hair up.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ll do it then.¡±

    ¡°I mentioned it because I want to do it.¡±

    Elle lightly patted her shoulders to say it¡¯s okay. She started tying half of her hair up with the ribbon that is the same color as Leticia¡¯s dress. Leticia looked down, feeling self-conscious.

    ¡°Come to think of it, who are you going to give your ribbon to?¡±

    ¡°What? Oh, um¡­.¡±

    Leticia immediately realized that Elle was talking about the Hunting Festival tradition, she hesitated and smoothed out her dress with her fingers. At that moment, a cool voice descended from above her head.

    ¡°You¡¯re not giving it to that?rude?man, are you?¡±

    The word ¡°rude¡± was said with a lot of emphasis.

    Leticia didn¡¯t immediately realize who Elle was talking about at first. She tilted her head slightly, but eventually realized and shook her head with a smile.

    ¡°Never.¡±

    There was no way to mend a broken rtionship when both sides had given up on it.

    ¡®That¡¯s weird.¡¯

    A few days ago she would have felt bitter at thoughts of Levion, but now she didn¡¯t care either way.

    Leticia firmly rejected her suggestion, but Elle still looked suspicious.

    Helplessly, Leticia had to reveal her private feelings.

    ¡°There¡¯s someone else I want to give it to.¡±

    ¡°Who is it?¡±

    Elle opened her eyes wide in shock. She didn¡¯t think there was anyone that Leticia wanted to give her ribbon to. Leticia just smiled softly and didn¡¯t answer.

    ¡°Who is it, huh? Who are you hiding from me?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a secret.¡±

    Elle asked her until they got into the carriage and all the way to the Imperial Hunting grounds, but Leticia stubbornly kept her mouth shut.

    ***

    ¡°It¡¯s a pity Ian didn¡¯te with us.¡±

    Leticia sighed shallowly, she looked at the vast expanse of grasnd as soon as they arrived at the hunting grounds. Ian, who they expected toe with them, refused and said that he had things to do. So Leticia and Elle went on without him.

    Elle shrugged carelessly as if she expected this.

    ¡°Ian is very motivated these days.¡±

    ¡°Motivated?¡±

    ¡°For the Imperial Civil Exam.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    Leticia muddled her words, she was bothered because of what Ian said to herst time.

    [I don¡¯t really want to study, but the only thing I can do is study.]

    It bothered her because she knew that Ian wasn¡¯t doing it out of interest.

    Elle nodded as if it was okay and told Leticia.

    ¡°Because he has a motive.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°There is no better motive than revenge.¡±

    Her twin brother, who always lived despondently with a disinterest in the world, had been studying untilte at night with venom in his eyes these days. Elle was worried that she never saw him away from his desk except when he was eating, but she couldn¡¯t stop him because he looked lively for the first time in a long time.

    Actually, she didn¡¯t want to stop him.

    Who is lowering themselves?? She wanted more than anyone else to get revenge on that guy who spewed out hateful words.

    ¡°Revenge? On who?¡±

    Elle grinned as she looked at Leticia, who¡¯s eyes widened in shock at Elle¡¯s next words.

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you, if you tell me who you¡¯re giving your ribbon to.¡±

    When she pointed her finger at the blue ribbon, Leticia was startled and btedly hid it behind her back.

    ¡°Eh, that¡¯s not possible.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep it a secret. So just tell me, please?¡±

    ¡°No, I can¡¯t. Absolutely not.¡±

    Leticia prepared to back away when Elle began to approach her slowly.

    ¡°Miss Achilles!¡±

    ¡°Here you are!¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve been waiting for you!¡±

    The aristocrats sitting at a nearby tea table recognized Elle and approached her with bright smiles.? Not surprising, Elle was surrounded bydies almost immediately.

    ¡°The wishing bracelets you made this time.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s so cute and adorable, you know?¡±

    ¡°Do you have any ns to make more?¡±

    ¡°If you make a new one, let us know.¡±

    The youngdies gathered around Elle made it obvious that the poprity of the wishing bracelets had yet to wane.

    ¡®You¡¯ve been recognized by so many people.¡¯

    Leticia looked proudly at the scene.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    As soon as she turned towards the familiar voice, a bright smile spread across Leticia¡¯s face.

    ¡°Count Aster!¡±

    The Count approached Leticia with a happy smile.

    ¡°How have you been?¡±

    ¡°Good! Has Count Aster been doing well?¡±

    ¡°Thanks to you, I¡¯ve been doing well.¡±

    After a few moments of friendly conversation, Leticia asked cautiously.

    ¡°How¡¯s the Countess?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s improved significantly, and she¡¯s be healthy enough to do small outings these days.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s great. I hope she continues to be healthy.¡±

    Count Aster felt moved by her sincere joy at their good fortune.

    ¡°My wife wants to invite you over for a visit.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m grateful, I¡¯ll be expecting it soon.¡±

    Leticia sped her hands together and nodded.

    ¡®That¡¯s great.¡¯

    She was relieved to hear about Countess Aster. She was able to breathe a sigh of relief and felt better at the good news.

    ¡°Oh, I met with your father recently.¡±

    ¡°What? My father¡­?¡±

    ¡°It was a shame we only talked about business and I wasn¡¯t able to ask about you.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­ I see¡­¡±

    ¡°How is your family doing?¡±

    Leticia smiled awkwardly at the question about her family¡¯s well being.

    Count Aster didn¡¯t seem to know the story spreading around high society about her.

    ¡°Oh, the fact is¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Leticia had a troubled look on her face, and was hesitating with what to say next.

    ¡°I was emunicated.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    ¡°So I stay away from my family.¡±

    Now it was almost awkward to call them family.

    Count Aster¡¯s face turned pale, as a troubled Leticia averted her gaze

    ¡°Ha, emunication¡­?¡±

    The Cout stammered, unable to believe what he was hearing. He came to his senseste and tried to ask why, but Count Aster held his tongue. He was careful because he was worried it would hurt her feelings.

    The Leticia that he knows was not a child who would do anything dreadful enough to be emunicated. Even if there was a reason to be emunicated, it was ridiculous to kick Leticia out. She worked harder, and sacrificed more, than anyone else to support the family.

    ¡®I can¡¯t believe they¡¯re abandoning her.¡¯

    Is that what a good person would do?

    Count Aster was stunned and bewildered, when he suddenly realized something with a sudden gasp.

    ¡°So where are you staying now?¡±

    The mere thought of where and how this little child, abandoned by her family, had spent her life so far was enough to break his heart

    ¡°No, no, no. How about staying at the Aster residence? I¡¯m sure my wife will be more than happy to hear that you¡¯reing.¡±

    Leticia shook her head with a smile, surprised by his willingness to take her in right away.

    ¡°Thank you for your kind words, but I¡¯m living at the Achilles mansion right now.¡±

    ¡°The Achilles mansion, with the Duke of Achilles?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m in the care of Duke Achilles.¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­ I see.¡±

    Count Aster gave aplicated sigh of relief when he heard that Leticia was safe and sound.

    ¡®I didn¡¯t even recognize what kind of a person he was, and I didn¡¯t know that he had emunicated this child, so I decided to help him.¡¯

    He felt so pathetic and ashamed of his past self, who was so proud of the things he¡¯d done for Leticia without knowing the truth, he was tempted to run away. It was important to hear Leticia¡¯s feelings before making any future decisions.

    ¡°Are youfortable with staying there?¡±

    ¡°Yes, everyone there treats me warmly and dearly.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s happy smile didn¡¯t leave her face while talking about the Achilles family.

    Count Aster, who had been watching her quietly, slowly nodded.

    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that.¡±

    Leticia smiled softly at his relieved statement. The moment she spotted Enoch some distance away, Leticia began to feel restless.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I have some urgent business to attend to, may I go?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll see you next time.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Count Aster.¡±

    Leticia bowed and quickly ran to Enoch.

    Fortunately, she was able to quickly catch up with him.

    ¡°Lord Achilles!¡±

    Enoch was looking forward with indifference, he turned towards the voice calling out to him. The moment he made eye contact with Leticia, he broke out in a smile.

    ¡°Why are you here?¡±

    ¡°I wanted to give you something.¡±

    Not confident enough to face him, Leticia lowered her eyes and held out a blue ribbon towards Enoch.

    ¡°I hope you have a safe hunt.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to feel pressured to take it! It doesn¡¯t have any significant meaning.¡±

    It was in fact meaningful, but she said otherwise because she was worried that Enoch might feel ufortable.

    Enoch looked down quietly at Leticia, murmured softly.

    ¡°I hope it¡¯s meaningful.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    As soon as she raised her head to see if she¡¯d heard correctly. She met Enoch¡¯s eyes, who was smiling affectionately at her.

    ¡°Can you tie it for me? I don¡¯t think I can do it alone.¡±

    ¡°Of course!¡±

    As soon as she saw his wrist, Leticia smiled brightly and lifted Enoch¡¯s sleeve slightly. As soon as she saw his strong, pale wrist, she felt shy and had trouble tying the ribbon neatly.

    Without showing signs of difort, Enoch quietly watched Leticia as she moved her small hands.

    ¡°It¡¯s done.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, but¡­¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Instead of answering, he looked at Leticia¡¯s head.

    ¡°Your hair ribbon is slightly loose.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Embarrassed, Leticia tried to smooth her hair down.

    ¡°I¡¯ll tie it back up for you.¡±

    ¡°What? No, it¡¯s okay¡­¡±

    Enoch already moved behind her before she could refuse, and began to carefully smooth out her pink hair. Leticia covered her face with her hands as she felt his touch.

    Soon after, Enoch returned in front of her as he had finished fixing her hair.

    ¡°It¡¯s done.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Duke Achilles.¡±

    ¡°And¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Enoch trailed off his words, then slowly bent down and locked eyes with Leticia.

    The moment our gazes intertwined, his eyes were half-folded, scattered like fog at dawn on a winter day.*

    ¡°This is meaningful.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    She asked with her blue eyes open wide, but Enoch didn¡¯t answer her and returned to the hunting grounds.

    Leticia watched him walk away. She gently touched her cheek, while feeling someplex emotions.

    White roses bloomed in the middle of the ribbon that was tying her pink hair back.

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    *Sorry, I wasn¡¯t sure how to trante this properly, so I left it as is. Hopefully it makes sense to everyone.

 Chapter 28 - Itâ€™s Already Over

    <h4>Chapter 28 - It¡¯s Already Over</h4>

    The biggest concern of the three-day Hunting festival was the one thing that mattered the most.

    ¡°I wonder who¡¯s going to win this year¡¯s Hunting festival.¡±

    ¡°Won¡¯t it be Sir El?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Who else is there?¡±

    The young nobles nced at Levion while they were speaking. The contrast between his silver hair and ck uniform, it looked very good on him. Even the way he walked was elegant, so there were many youngdies with Levion on their minds.

    Diana was displeased with the way they were whispering and blushing, she sipped her tea and smiled.

    ¡®He¡¯s going to be my fianc¨¦ soon, so I¡¯ll be more generous than usual.¡¯

    That feeling did notst long though.

    ¡°But isn¡¯t Lord Achilles a strong contender, too?¡±

    ¡°Hey, I heard that he was alsopared to Lord El in the article about the Knight Entry test.¡±

    Their eyes naturally turned to Enoch at those words.

    WIth his ck as night hair, his skin as pale as the moon. Slightly turned down eyes that had a seductive quality that would make you blush. Underneath the uniform was wide shoulders and a sleek waistline. He has distinctive features and a solid looking body.

    The strong and sharp impression that even if a hard winter wind blew, it wouldn¡¯t ruffle a single hair on his head.

    ¡°I heard that his business is doing well these days.¡±

    ¡°Actually, they¡¯re still in debt. His family did contribute to the founding of the Empire though.¡±

    Before they knew it, the topic of conversation began to flow around Enoch, not Levion. Words that would have been pitying and derisory changed to quiet admiration, as if the previous ridicule had never happened.

    ¡°But you never know when the tide will turn again.¡±

    Diana put down her teacup as if the conversation was ufortable to hear. As soon as they noticed, they exchanged looks and quickly tried to change the subject.

    ¡°Do you know what happened after I wore the wishing bracelet made by Miss Achilles?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯m dating someone that I was in love with for a long time.¡±

    ¡°Oh, is that true?¡±

    ¡°Of course. We exchanged a white rose and a ribbon.¡±

    ¡°Miss Elle, do you have any ns to make more bracelets?¡±

    The youngdies who were chatting among themselves at the tea table a little far away tittered as they saw Elle. By the way they were talking, they were willing to pay millions for a new bracelet.

    ¡®What¡¯s the point of such a thing?¡¯

    Saying that something good happened since wearing the bracelet was just a coincidence. It seemed foolish to argue with them, so Diana just clicked her tongue.

    In the distance, she could see Leticia handing something to Enoch. Diana figured she was giving him a ribbon.

    ¡®The unlucky ones are ying well together.¡¯

    Diana shook her head at how pitiful Leticia is. Then she saw someone approaching Leticia after Enoch returned to the hunting grounds. Diana jumped out of her seat without realizing it.

    It was Levion who was approaching Leticia with a scary look on his face.

    ***

    ¡®What did he mean by meaningful?¡¯

    Leticia was trying to return to Elle¡¯s side, and looked back at Enoch again. Although his face wasn¡¯t visible, the blue ribbon tied to his wrist could clearly be seen. Whenever the wind blew, she would smile at the way the ribbon swayed in the breeze.

    ¡®I¡¯m d you epted.¡¯

    Even though Enoch didn¡¯t give her a white rose, she was still satisfied.

    As she was trying to get back to Elle, Leticia looked up reflexively as a shadow fell over her. As soon as their eyes met, Leticia took a step back with a quiet sigh.

    ¡°You don¡¯t even say hello anymore?¡±

    ¡°How have you been?¡±

    Leticia turned her head in response to his sharp remark. She felt ufortable because she still felt that eyes were on her. Soon she could see Levion sniffing something in his hands.

    ¡°Here, take it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    It was none other than a white rose that Levion was trying to hand her.

    Leticia slowly blinked her blue eyes and touched her fingertips, which were hidden between her sleeves. She wondered if she was really seeing this.

    Others might see this scene as romantic, but Leticia was very embarrassed.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this.¡±

    She looked down at the white rose in his hand and slowly shook her head.

    She knew that beautiful rose meant nothing. Leticia knew better than anyone else that this was given out of sympathy and pity. No, she didn¡¯t want it.

    ¡°Do you mean it¡¯s okay for people tough at you?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it doesn¡¯t matter.¡±

    People secretly ignore men who did not receive ribbons or women who didn¡¯t receive a white rose.

    Leticia hadn¡¯t received one, but she didn¡¯t want one from someone she didn¡¯t like.

    ¡°Just take it, I don¡¯t want you to be ignored.¡±

    Levion sighed in frustration. He tried to force Leticia to take his rose.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you ashamed?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Who was the one who ignored me the most?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia wanted to turn her head so she didn¡¯t have to look at Levion, but she forced herself to look straight at him. Her blue eyes didn¡¯t show any sign of condemnation, they just felt colder and sharper than usual.

    Levion subconsciously clenched his jaw at the sight and slowly spoke out.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to ignore you. I was just worried¡­¡±

    ¡°It wasn¡¯t out of worry, it was out of disregard. Did you think I didn¡¯t know that you felt sorry for me and sometimes even pitied me?¡±

    She just pretended not to know.

    The moment she epted it, she thought the wound would be too much to bear.

    Now she can handle that wound.

    The pain of that day when she was abandoned by the people she trusted and loved was too much for her to handle.

    Then she realized.

    ¡®I wasn¡¯t the kind of person to be ignored or pitied.¡¯

    She believed they could go back to the good times if she didn¡¯t change, if she could just endure it.

    Thinking about it again, she felt unfulfilled and foolish.

    What can she protect if everyone around her changes and only she remains the same?

    ¡°I want you to stop paying attention to me.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    ¡°What you are doing right now is making me ufortable. You know our engagement was broken off.¡±

    When Leticia was expelled from her family, her rtionship with Levion became estranged. It created aplication in a rtionship that had been closer than any other. Now they were so distant, but she didn¡¯t feel disappointed. She thought it was because they had already talked about breaking off their engagement before she was emunicated.

    However, Levion sighed in exasperation at what he heard.

    ¡°Is that why you two were stuck together like that without noticing people?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°I saw you giving him a ribbon.¡±

    The first thing Levion did upon arriving at the Hunting grounds was to go look for Leticia. No matter how hard he looked, he couldn¡¯t find a glimmer of her. Leticia was already with Enoch when he finally found her.

    The two looked friendly from a distance, and it made his jaw drop. As soon as he saw Leticia giving Enoch a blue ribbon with a shy smile, he felt his stomach flop and his blood boil.

    When Levion recalled the scene, he tried to rebuke her again.

    ¡°So what are you going to say this time?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°That I shouldn¡¯t flirt with another man? Or you want me to correct my behaviour? You want me to do that right?¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I can¡¯t do that this time.¡±

    Leticia lightly pped her hands together as if something suddenly came to her mind, smiled brightly and said.

    ¡°Because the engagement is broken.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not going to tell me not to get angry at you because you¡¯re upset I¡¯m spending time with another man, are you?¡±

    She said it as a question, but the answer was obvious.

    Despite the bright smile and cheerful voice, theck of emotion in her gaze made Levion feel as if his heart was sinking.

    It was the first time he had seen such a cold look in her eyes, or the sharp way she was speaking.

    Levion clenched his teeth as she red at him and said.

    ¡°You knew all along, didn¡¯t you? That¡¯s why you¡¯re acting this way, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t pretend you don¡¯t know. It¡¯s because you knew everything.¡±

    It was clear that there was no effort to maintain the engagement because she already knew that Diana and he would be engaged. So it seemed like she was trying to provoke jealousy from him and try to gain his attention by being with another man in front of him.

    Levion was resentful at being forced to say this out loud, so he let out an annoyed sigh.

    ¡°That I¡¯m getting engaged to Diana.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    But contrary to what he expected, Leticia¡¯s eyes opened wide in shock.

    That¡¯s when he realized

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t know.

    Unlike Levion, who couldn¡¯t say anything because of embarrassment, Leticia blinked slowly at hearing the news for the first time. Then sheughed while smiling gently.

    Once again, Levion felt his heart drop.

    ¡®Why?¡¯

    He couldn¡¯t understand why she wasughing.

    Contrary to his expectations that she would be hurt, Leticia¡¯s expression seemed calm and unruffled, as if she¡¯d predicted this.

    At that moment, Levion felt uneasy for some reason. He tried to quickly say something, but Leticia was one step faster.

    ¡°I can¡¯t bear to congratte you, but it suits you.¡±

    Her clear and tranquil blue eyes looked straight without shaking. Her voice flowed with the casual indifference of a stranger. Levion¡¯s heartbeat elerated in fear.

    ¡®How?¡¯

    How can you be so indifferent?

    He didn¡¯t speak any words out loud, instead he spoke with his eyes as he stared at Leticia.

    Leticia looked frighteningly calm, whether she was pretending not to know or didn¡¯t want to care even though she must have understood.

    ¡°You can give that rose to your fianc¨¦e, too.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think I have anything else to say, so I¡¯ll go ahead.¡±

    At the end of that remark, Leticia turned around firmly as if it was not worth being here anymore. He got goosebumps because it was unfamiliar. He didn¡¯t know why he felt this way all of a sudden, but he had an uneasy feeling that this was the end.

    Levion¡¯s face turned pale.

    ¡°Don¡¯t go.¡±

    He couldn¡¯t bring himself to turn it around, so he called out to Leticia from behind.

    ¡°If you go like this, we¡¯re already done.¡±

    So don¡¯t go.

    We can get along like before. If she epts it like before, they can go back to the way it was.

    Levion caught up to Leticia, and swallowed the frog in his throat.

    Leticia had paused momentarily, then began to move again. His voice tore out of him sadly.

    ¡°Is that it?!¡±

    Why don¡¯t you turn around?

    We were so close before, why is she trying to move away now?

    He wanted to sp her thin shoulders and demand.

    Why did you change so suddenly? Why did you change so much?

    Before he could even ask, Leticia looked back and smiled at Levion.

    The moment he met that smile, he knew intuitively that it wasn¡¯t a good sign.

    As always, a bad premonition never misses.

    ¡°It¡¯s already over.¡±

    Her smiling face was as warm as the first spring sun after a harsh winter.

    ¡°After all this.¡±

    The soft voice sounded more ruthless than the harsh wind.

    When Leticia turned around again, Levion stiffened.

    There was a white rose in the middle of Leticia¡¯s hair ribbon.

    Once again, a part of his heart crumbled horribly. Leticia, who turned firmly, only grew farther and farther away.

 Chapter 29 - Over-Reacting To A Bad Joke

    <h4>Chapter 29 - Over-Reacting To A Bad Joke</h4>

    ¡°I¡¯m d things are going well these days.¡±

    Marquis Leroy smiled contentedly as he sipped his tea on azy afternoon in his drawing room.

    However the expression on Seios¡¯ face, sitting on the other side of the room, was unusual.

    ¡°What is so important about your business?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Seios managed to swallow a sigh as the Marquis looked at him in confusion.

    After emunicating Leticia, he was disappointed more and more by Marquis Leroy, who only ever talked about his business without a single worry.

    ¡°Do you know how Leticia is doing?¡±

    He asked him in case the Marquis didn¡¯t know.

    Fortunately, Marquis Leroy frowned slightly, as if he knew where his daughter was. However, the words that followed didn¡¯t feel fortunate.

    ¡°I hear she¡¯s hanging around that unlucky Duke Achilles again.¡±

    It sounded like he was d he¡¯d kicked her out.

    Marquis Leroy said it with a small click of his tongue, and Seios naturally sighed in disgust.

    ¡°Is that all you have to say about that child?¡±

    ¡°What more do we need to say?¡±

    Seios turned his head as if he couldn¡¯t believe the Marquis didn¡¯t care. That or he was trying to hold his tongue. He red angrily at Marquis.

    ¡°How can you leave your child behind and move on?¡±

    ¡°It was inevitable that Leticia was sent away for the sake of the other children¡­¡±

    ¡°Stop, I don¡¯t want to hear any more.¡±

    He had no words.

    Seios rose from his seat while trying to suppress his mixed feelings. There was no reason to be here anymore.

    ¡®I¡¯m worried about her.¡¯

    He couldn¡¯t even dare to imagine the scars she must have from being abandoned by her family.

    He thought he should visit the girl in person and check with his own eyes to see if she¡¯s doing well. Seios also wanted to keep his promise to help her find out what her ability is.

    Since there was no reason to be here anymore, he got up and left the drawing room. Surprised by him leaving without a word, Marquis Leroy called out with a puzzled look, but Seios never looked back.

    As Seios was about to go look for Leticia, he felt someone approaching him. He turned around and found Emil standing there.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here to give you a letter.¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°About your sister.¡±

    At that, Emil shut up for a moment. It was easy to see that the ¡®sister¡¯ Seios was referring to was Leticia, and not Diana.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure she¡¯s doing fine where she is.¡±

    His voice sounded more displeased than worried. Seios couldn¡¯t hide theplex feelings he was having.

    ¡®This guy or that guy.¡¯

    Perhaps it was better to be emunicated.

    Seios, who had to hold his tongue briefly, looked at who sent the letter to him. As soon as he checked, his expression hardened.

    ¡®As expected, he was alive.¡¯

    The news was that there was a child who survived the Erebos family, which had fallen due to treason.

    He had expected at least one person to be alive, and it was just as he expected. Seios¡¯ sighed deeply and began to read the correspondence again. His face became paler the more he read.

    ¡®Why¡­.?¡¯

    Seios came to his senses btedly and left the Leroy house with an urgent look.

    Thest line in the letter stated that the recent activities of the surviving child of the Erebos family was hunting.

    ***

    On the first day of the hunting festival; Livion, the favorite to win, caught a female deer and drew keen attention.? On the other hand, Enoch only caught one rabbit, but Leticia approached him with a bright smile.

    ¡°Well done, Lord Achillies.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m ashamed because I¡¯ve never hunted much.¡±

    Leticia shook her hand quickly, as he rubbed the nape of his neck sheepishly.

    ¡°Not at all! Thank you foring back safely without getting hurt.¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t take her eyes off the little white rabbit in the cage. The trapped rabbit looked up at Leticia with a twitch of its nose. It was so cute that Leticia bent her knees and carefully stroked its head.

    ¡°Would you like to feed it a carrot?¡±

    ¡°Can I?¡±

    When Enoch nodded in agreement, Letisha took the carrot from Enoch and ced it near the rabbit¡¯s mouth. Leticia smiled brightly as the rabbit sniffed it a few times and started to eat the carrot in tiny bites.

    ¡°How cute.¡±

    It was the first time she¡¯d seen such a small animal right in front of her, so Leticia murmured to it quietly. Enoch heard the sound next to him, and couldn¡¯t take his eyes off of the smiling Leticia.

    ¡°I know.¡±

    Leticia lightly petted the rabbit¡¯s small nose andughed. She raised her head and looked up at Enoch, and their gazes intertwined. At that moment, Enoch impulsively said.

    ¡°Cute.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Maybe it¡¯s because his bright eyes are looking towards her, and not the rabbit.

    It sounded like he was saying it to her.

    Leticia turned her head in a hurry, she was feeling hot from head to toe.

    ¡°Oh, right. It¡¯s cute. Rabbits are cute.¡±

    She was feeling shy for some reason, and spoke faster than usual. As she turned her eyes away from him, the blue ribbon around Enoch¡¯s wrist caught her attention. She couldn¡¯t see any other ribbons when she snuck a peek.

    ¡°Come to think of it, did you get a lot of ribbons?¡±

    She meant to keep the question to herself, but ended up asking it openly.

    While Leticia was regretting being too direct, she heard augh from above her head.

    As soon as she raised her head, Enoch rolled up his sleeve and held out his wrist for her to see.

    ¡°This one is good enough for me.¡±

    Letisha¡¯s heart began to feel ticklish once more as she watched him carefully stroke and touch the ribbon while he spoke in a soft voice.

    As soon as she calmed down, Enoch asked.

    ¡°Then did you get a lot, Leticia?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°A white rose.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I¡­¡±

    Leticia scratched her cheek while wearing a troubled look. She turned her head and fed the rabbit another carrot.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t get any.¡±

    Enoch wasn¡¯t the type of person who would ignore her for not getting a rose, but she still felt a little embarrassed.

    Then she realized btedly that it might¡¯ve sounded like she wanted to get a rose. Well, she did want to get a rose from Enoch, but she didn¡¯t want to force him to give her one.

    As soon as she had that thought, she leapt up and waved her hands around wildly.

    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant at all!¡±

    Of course, she¡¯d appreciate it if he gave one to her.

    Enoch hid his innermost thoughts and smiled as if nothing had happened.

    He just tilted his head to one side as if he was pondering something.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I gave one to you.¡±

    ¡°To me?¡±

    Leticia opened her eyes wide in surprise and pointed to herself. Enoch only nodded his head.

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Apparently he really gave her a rose. She didn¡¯t understand, so Leticia tried to slowly remember.

    ¡®I remember giving you a ribbon.¡¯

    No matter how hard she thought about it, she didn¡¯t remember when she received it.

    ¡°When did you give it to me?¡±

    She didn¡¯t remember receiving one, and she found it strange that he imed to have given her one. She narrowed her eyes in suspicion at him. Enoch slowly put a strand of hair back into ce, his touch tickled Leticia¡¯s forehead.

    ¡°Secret.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I was sad to hear you say it meant nothing.¡±

    At the end of that remark, Enoch grinned and began to move away slowly. Leticia stared at him nkly, then quickly chased Enoch.

    ¡°When did you give it to me? When?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a secret.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re ying a trick on me, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    Enoch touched his chin in annoyance and circled around Leticia, who looked at him as if he was lying about something he had not given her. As soon as he was standing in front of her again, he smiled deftly.

    ¡°Now do you remember that I gave it to you?¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

    Enoch¡¯s lips pouted as he red at her, and he slowly reached out his hand. Leticia opened her eyes wide because she thought he was stroking her head likest time. Then he reached with his big hand and went behind her head.

    Just as Leticia hunched her shoulders, Enoch showed her something in his hand.

    It was a rose as white as snow.

    She could clearly see that he didn¡¯t have anything in his hand just a moment ago.

    When Leticia blinked her eyes and looked at him in confusion, Enoch slightly shrugged his shoulders.

    ¡°I just brought back what I gave you.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Even when she looked at him in confusion, Enoch just smiled happily without saying a word. A scene shed through Leticia¡¯s head as she stared at the rose.

    [Your hair ribbon is slightly loose. I¡¯ll tie it back up for you.]

    ¡®No way!¡¯

    When he offered to re-tie her ribbon, it seems that he secretly tied the rose in her hair.

    Leticia¡¯s blue eyes widened in surprise.

    Enoch, realizing that Leticia finally knew, took the white rose in his hand and put it behind Leticia¡¯s ear. The white rose bloomed against her hair, which was the color of cherry blossoms.

    Gazing satisfactorily at the sight, Enoch whispered softly.

    ¡°I¡¯m upset that you only know now.¡±

    Contrary to his ¡®disappointed¡¯ tone, the corners of his mouth were lifting in a smile.

    She hid her face in her hands, knowing it was a slight, but feeling too embarrassed to face Enoch at this moment.

    ¡®Cheeky.¡¯

    A person who is irascible for being outwitted.

    He looked like a cold-hearted man who couldn¡¯t have fun pulling a single prank.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to get revenge.¡±

    Leticia had calmed her fluttering heart to some extent, and red at Enoch with a dissatisfied look. Enoch faced Leticia with a nonchnt grin.

    ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to it.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯d better be nervous because I¡¯m going to get a very, very scary revenge.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±

    Despite her warning to be nervous, Enoch smiled contentedly. He said he was looking forward to it and that he¡¯d wait.

    This man was certainly cheeky. Leticia spoke to Enoch in a quiet voice.

    ¡°There¡¯s something I didn¡¯t tell Lord Achilles.¡±

    Leticia paused for a moment, then resumed speaking when she made eye contact with Enoch.

    ¡°Actually, there was someone else who was going to give me a rose.¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­?¡±

    After that, Leticia turned her head with a coy look and moved on.

    Enoch stood in stunned silence for a while, then btedly came to his senses and followed Leticia.

    ¡°Someone tried to give you one?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you sure they were trying to give you one?¡±

    Where did that idle attitude go? Now there seemed to be a hint of nervousness.

    Leticia was staring at the scene without saying a word. She tilted her head slightly and smiled.

    ¡°Secret.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m disgusted by your mean pranks.¡±

    As soon as she turned around, Leticia smiled more brightly than ever.

    She turned around when Enoch asked if she had really received one. Leticia answered as Enoch¡¯s stomach turned upside down.

 Chapter 30 - My Greed To Make You Happy

    <h4>Chapter 30 - My Greed To Make You Happy</h4>

    When the Hunting festival begins, a spectacr banquet is held on the first night. It was meant to reward the knights for their hard work during the daytime hunt, but it was the most anticipated time for everyone because there was a tradition of dancing between lovers who exchanged a white rose and a ribbon.

    ¡®When will she arrive?¡¯

    Having arrived first at the banquet hall, Enoch leaned against the wall and waited for Leticia.

    A smile spread across his face when he remembered how happy Leticia was when she saw the white rose he gave her.

    He was upset for a moment when he heard that someone else wanted to give her a rose, but he was satisfied with the fact that he was the only one who gave Leticia a rose and she had only given him a ribbon.

    He couldn¡¯t stop grinning at the thought of meeting up with her again.

    Enoch was staring at the entrance waiting for Leticia to arrive when someone approached him.

    ¡°Can you spare me a minute?¡±

    It was none other than Count Aster.

    Enoch stared at Count Aster for a moment as the man cautiously asked to have a conversation.

    He had never had any face-to-face contact with the Count. All he knew about him was that he had a good reputation for making donations of money he earned from his business and that he frequently helped the needy.

    ¡°Sure.¡±

    As he nodded willingly, Count Aster nodded lightly in gratitude and pointed to some nearby chairs. When he was sure Enoch was seated, he slowly began to speak.

    ¡°I understand that Duke Achilles has a pink diamond mine.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I do.¡±

    Enoch didn¡¯t know why the pink diamond mine was suddenly mentioned here. He looked questioningly at Count Aster, who smiled pleasantly and said.

    ¡°I want to invest in the mine.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Even though he knew it wasn¡¯t polite, Enoch kept silent instead of answering.

    He couldn¡¯t understand why the Count would want to invest in a failing mine.

    Enoch stared at Count Aster¡¯s face for a while, then slowly began to say.

    ¡°I¡¯m grateful in my heart, but I don¡¯t think it¡¯s a good idea. We haven¡¯t pulled any good gemstones out in a while.¡±

    It was a shame to push away the good fortune that had rolled in, but Enoch was adamant.

    In fact, he couldn¡¯t afford to refuse the investment. Rather he wanted to tip his hat to him in thanks.

    But he didn¡¯t want anyone else to be harmed by his father¡¯s greed.

    ¡°This may sound unpleasant, but I¡¯m not investing to make a profit.¡±

    ¡°So what made you want to invest?¡±

    In the face of an upright person, Count Aster sighed in embarrassment. No matter how much he looked at it, Enoch wouldn¡¯t back down until he heard his intentions. He had no choice but to confess.

    ¡°Can I ask you a question before that?¡±

    ¡°Go ahead.¡±

    ¡°Dear Duke, what is Leticia to you?¡±

    As soon as Leticia¡¯s name came up while talking about an investment, Enoch became wary of Count Aster.

    He was cautious about what kind of rtionship Count Aster has with Leticia. Seeing him call her namefortably, he thought it might be a friendly rtionship. The Count has a good reputation and seems to have no malice or ambitions.

    Enoch was generally self-aware, he had already fully acknowledged his feelings for Leticia.

    At first, she looked so vulnerable that he wanted to protect her from getting hurt. He also wanted to see her happier than anyone else.

    ¡®But now¡­¡¯

    He was greedy to stand right next to her and make her happy.

    He wanted to be the only one.

    ¡°I want to keep her until the end and make her happy.¡±

    It sounded clich¨¦, but Count Aster had a smile of satisfaction on his face.

    ¡°I heard you¡¯re taking good care of Leticia.¡±

    Enoch now looked at him as if he was wondering why he was saying that.

    ¡°She always says I¡¯m her benefactor, but to me she¡¯s my benefactor.¡±

    About ten years ago, Countess Aster was so sickly that she was on the verge of death. The doctor who diagnosed her also hinted that he should prepare for the worst.

    When they were living in such despair every day, Leticia was the only person who could offer them warmfort.

    Although she must have been busy taking care of her own family, Leticia always came to visit the Countess every other day. She would talk to her and pray for her recovery. She would bring Countess Aster the marigolds she loved most with her small hands.

    [I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll be well soon, Count.]

    If that wasn¡¯t enough, she even gave Count Aster words offort. It may not seem like much, but every word from this small child has as much power as a warm ray of sunshine.

    As if in response, Countess Aster quickly regained her health on the days when Leticia came. Although she often lost her energy and fought against the disease again, Leticia¡¯s sincere words of hope must have been a great source of strength to the Countess.

    After so much time had passed, he only recently reunited with Leticia again. He knew that things in the Leroy family had improved. He thought that she would be doing well and be loved by her family, but they emunicated Leticia. Now when she spoke of the Achilles family she seemed morefortable and happy, so he thought deeply about how he could help her.

    ¡°I want to help the child who helped me get back up during the most difficult time in my life.¡±

    Enoch had been quietly listening to the Count¡¯s story and seemed to be satisfied with his reason. Suddenly he wondered about something and asked.

    ¡°Investing in the mine doesn¡¯t really help her, it seems to only help me.¡±

    ¡°Can you think of it as a kind of bribe?¡±

    Enoch was about to ask what he meant by the word bribe, but he stopped when he realized the meaning of the Count¡¯s words. He was asking him to take good care of Leticia.

    ¡°You know, if Ie forward and offer my help, she¡¯ll say no.¡±

    ¡°Count Aster.¡±

    ¡°So I look forward to your kind cooperation.¡±

    Enoch nodded helplessly at the Count¡¯s desperate request to ept his offer.

    ¡°Then I will say no more.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Your Grace.¡±

    ¡°But I want you to keep in mind that you won¡¯t get any profit back on your investment.¡±

    It was called an investment, but technically it was a donation. Nevertheless, Enoch decided to ept Count Aster¡¯s offer because he didn¡¯t want to reject the Count¡¯s sincere feelings for Leticia.

    ¡°That¡¯s all I wanted. I hope you don¡¯t feel burdened.¡±

    Whileughing together, Enoch spied Leticia entering the banquet hall.He could see someone approaching Leticia first, which made Enoch¡¯s expression harden.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll get up first, Count Aster.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be right here.¡±

    Count Aster sighed as he looked in wonder at Enoch nervously walking towards the entrance. He was relieved and satisfied because he felt like he had finally done something helpful for Leticia.

    ¡®You¡¯ve met a good man, Leticia.¡¯

    Count Aster¡¯s mouth never stopped smiling as he thought of Enoch¡¯s efforts to speak authentically whenever he mentioned Leticia.

    ***

    ¡®I¡¯m going to dance with you, right?¡¯

    Leticia knew that people who exchanged a white rose and ribbon would dance at the banquet hall, which was a problem.

    A nervous Leticia hesitated in front of the entrance to the banquet hall. As she imagined in her head the moment when she held hands with Enoch and they gazed into each other¡¯s eyes, an embarrassed sigh came out.

    She managed to straighten out her thoughts and entered the hall.

    They seemed to have paid special attention to the Hunting festival this year. The banquet was not just spectacr but luxurious. Dazzling jeweled chandeliers hung from the ceiling of the banquet hall, they shone so brightly it was hard to look at with your eyes. Talented orchestras yed their instruments, and nearby the nobles danced gracefully to the music.

    ¡®Is he not here yet?¡¯

    Leticia looked around and wondered if she had arrived first. Then she felt the presence of a person behind her.

    She turned around happily, but the person approaching was not Enoch as Leticia had been hoping.

    ¡°How do you do?¡±

    ¡°Yes, hello.¡±

    Leticia smiled awkwardly as she bowed slightly.

    She thought he would quickly leave, but the man remained next to Leticia and continued the conversation.

    ¡°I¡¯m Hugo Ferdinand.¡±

    ¡°Nice to meet you, Sir Ferdinand. I¡¯m Leticia Leroy. No wait, It¡¯s just Leticia.¡±

    The man introduced himself politely, so Leticia was forced to reveal her name.

    The man frowned slightly in thought, then he pped his hands together.

    ¡°Oh! The emunicated¡­. I¡¯m sorry, I misspoke.¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s true.¡±

    It was ufortable to hear, but it was true. So Leticia smiled with a calm face.

    ¡°Come to think of it, when will Lord Achilles arrive?¡±

    Leticia nced towards the entrance. She was thinking it was about time for him to arrive, but she still couldn¡¯t see a shadow of him.

    She was about to turn her head away with a disappointed look.

    ¡°Have you been waiting long?¡±

    It was a cold and low-pitched voice, but Leticia didn¡¯t notice and turned around with a bright smile.

    ¡°There you are.¡±

    Enoch smiled softly at Leticia¡¯s happily smiling face, then he looked at the man.

    The gentleman¡¯s shoulders shook subconsciously from the sharp look of jealousy he received.

    ¡°I have somewhere I need to be, so I¡¯ll be leaving.¡±

    Watching the awkwardly evasive man leave, Enoch looked discontendly down at Leticia.

    ¡°I¡¯m sad that you¡¯re seeking out others when your partner is right here.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean seeking others? I¡¯ve been waiting here this whole time.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, I arrived first and have been waiting.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t realize that he was already here, she looked up at him with an apologetic look on her face. Enoch reached his hand out to her, without losing the expression on his face.

    Leticia nced at his big hand that was right in front of her, then she slowly reached out to hold it. The look in his eyes told her to exin immediately, and she started to describe what happened.

    ¡°He was just asking my name.¡±

    She meant for him to not worry.

    However, Enoch¡¯s face turned colder.

    ¡°That¡¯s the beginning of interest. Didn¡¯t I ask for your name?¡±

    Leticia opened her eyes wide in shock, while Enoch stared at her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you remember?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia blinked because she didn¡¯t know what he meant.

    [May I ask your name?]

    The image of Enoch asking for her name in the soft breeze of the practice field on the day we first met began to form a clear picture in her mind.

    ¡®So you were interested in me?¡¯

    At that thought, Leticia could feel her face heating up and her heart started to feel ticklish again. As soon as she tried to gently pull her hand away, Enoch gently wrapped his hand around hers.

    ¡°I¡¯m narrow-minded and hold grudges.¡±

    ¡°What? What do you mean?¡±

    Enoch smiled as she blinked up at him.

    ¡°It means, I¡¯m going to get revenge. So be prepared.¡±

 Chapter 31 - To See What Kind Of Person You Are

    <h4>Chapter 31 - To See What Kind Of Person You Are</h4>

    ¡°Look over there.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my God.¡±

    The eyes of thedies, who were cooling themselves with feathered fans, turned to one ce. Their gazes were turned towards a pair of lovers, who were smiling brightly and dancing.

    There was so much warmth and affection between the two that spectators thought they might melt.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Duke Achilles?¡±

    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right.¡±

    ¡°By the way, who¡¯s thedy he¡¯s dancing with?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the eldest daughter who was recently expelled from the Leroy family?¡±

    The Duke of Achilles, who is known for his misfortune in everything that he does, and the young woman, whose ability is to make others unhappy.

    One of thedies, who was watching the two, murmured softly.

    ¡°Better than I thought¡­¡±

    They look good together.

    Whenever their eyes met, Enoch looked at Leticia lovingly, and Leticia would tuck her head shyly.

    Her figure was as fresh as a flower that had just bloomed.

    Even the onlookers¡¯ mouths lifted in satisfaction.

    ¡°I thought he didn¡¯t know how to smile, since he always walked around without an expression.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t get the smile off of my face.¡±

    A man, who looked like a tree towering high without a single leaf in the middle of winter, was smiling as if he had just met the spring sun. He looked wonderful, and the noblewomen nced at Enoch and Leticia.

    ¡°Come to think of it, didn¡¯t that emunicated girl have a fianc¨¦?¡±

    ¡°She was expelled, it¡¯s only natural that it was broken off.¡±

    ¡°I think she suits Duke Achilles better.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my God.¡±

    One of thedies, who had been engrossed in chatter, turned her head to find a man standing next to her and hastily stopped speaking.

    ¡°Well, I think I¡¯ll have some more champagne.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ming with you.¡±

    ¡°Me too¡­¡±

    The women all smiled awkwardly as soon as they recognized the young man.

    The only one left was Levion, who red at the couple like he wanted to tear them apart at any moment.

    ¡®They look good together?¡¯

    He clenched his fists, tighter and tighter.

    Leticia, who would often avoid his eyes when she was with him, was smiling brightly at Enoch. What made him even angrier was that he held Leticia as if it were his right.

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t look good on you.¡±

    He clicked his tongue while he grimaced, his expression hardened as soon as he saw the ribbon tied to Enoch¡¯s wrist.

    At first nce, it looked like amon ribbon, but the blue color reminded him of Leticia¡¯s eyes.

    To the point that it could never be considered a coincidence.

    ¡®Did you give it to him?¡¯

    It wasn¡¯t enough that Leticia refused the white rose he offered her, she had to give her ribbon to him. Levion had been clenching his teeth, when he burst outughing.

    A white rose dangled from Leticia¡¯s hair ornament.

    He could feel his heart twisting just picturing them handing each other the white rose and ribbon.

    He just couldn¡¯t help but stare at them, and at the moment when he tried to take a step closer.

    ¡°Why? I think they are a good fit.¡±

    Diana had walked up and stood next to him, she was looking at Leticia and Enoch.

    Levion endured the moment, then asked in a sighing voice

    ¡°Did you know?

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°About the engagement between you and I.¡±

    She hadn¡¯t expected to hear it so directly, but Diana nodded nonchntly.

    ¡°I heard from my father.

    ¡°When?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°It wasn¡¯t before Leticia and I broke up, was it?¡±

    It was a separate question, but Diana kept her mouth shut.

    At the sight, Levion red at DIana¡¯s vague look.

    ¡°I¡¯m your sister¡¯s fianc¨¦.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s my sister?¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    When Diana didn¡¯t even treat Leticia as her older sister after she was expelled, Levion was shocked into silence.

    Diana turned away from him and said

    ¡°Not now, anyway.¡±

    ¡°Does that matter?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s important to me.¡±

    There was no doubt in her determined voice. However, Levion looked down at her impassively and did not respond.

    It was obvious that it was annoying.

    ¡°It matters to me.¡±

    Levion said as his gaze drifted towards Leticia and Enoch again. Soon the music changed, and Enoch briefly left Leticia¡¯s side to fetch her a drink.

    As if waiting for that moment, Levion quickly approached Enoch. Looking at the stiff look on his face, she didn¡¯t think a pleasant word would be spoken.

    Staring at his back walking away, Diana¡¯s head slowly snapped back to Leticia.

    ¡®You¡¯re annoying even after you¡¯re kicked out.¡¯

    She bit her lip and was about to approach.

    ¡®Who¡¯s that woman?¡¯

    Diana frowned briefly as soon as she saw a woman approaching Leticia before she could. She quickly approached them with a ferocious expression.

    ***

    ¡®I can¡¯t believe the party is this fun.¡¯

    While Enoch was away getting a drink, Leticia sat in a chair and looked around the banquet hall.

    She had been to a few of these parties before she was emunicated, but this was the first one she had enjoyed herself so much that she wanted to hold on to the moment.

    ¡®Is the person you¡¯re with more important than the ce?¡¯

    Suddenly, she remembered when she was with Levion at the lotus garden. Levion disliked that she had not awakened yet, so in front of him she would bow her head in shame.

    ¡®Come to think of it, what did I do to be considered a sinner?¡¯

    She didn¡¯tmit a crime.

    ¡®I don¡¯t want to be intimidated anymore.¡¯

    No, she won¡¯t be intimidated anymore.

    She wanted to move forward slowly but surely, and care for those who don¡¯t have the ability to.

    It was when she was clenching her hands, and making a steely resolution, that she saw Levion approaching Enoch. Leticia rose from her seat without realizing it.

    However this was short-lived, as she couldn¡¯t ignore the presence of the person who had approached her.

    ¡°How do you do?¡±

    A woman approached and greeted Leticia with a smile.

    ¡®Who is this?¡¯

    Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her bewilderment at the strange face she had never seen before.

    Her blond hair shone brightly and her red eyes gleamed with an eerie light. She was beautiful enough to make anyone do a double take if they passed by her, but she also somehow made Leticia feel ufortable as she was being assessed from head to toe.

    Despite the agitation the woman caused Leticia¡¯s heart, she tried to greet her with a calm face.

    ¡°Yes, hello.¡±

    ¡°May I sit next to you?¡±

    Leticia was a little puzzled by the slight nod towards the seat next to her, but then she looked at Enoch again. She watched Levion approach him and began talking about something. She didn¡¯t know what he was saying because it was too far away, but it was obvious it wasn¡¯t friendly.

    ¡°Yes, you can sit down, but I have urgent business to attend to.¡±

    While she spoke, Leticia¡¯s gaze never left Enoch and Levion.

    The woman smiled generously, even though she knew Leticia was distracted somewhere else.

    ¡°I need to talk to you for a moment.¡±

    Surprised by the hand pulling at her arm roughly. She turned around and made eye contact with Diana, who stared at her with a savage expression.

    ¡°I have nothing to say to you.¡±

    It was obvious that harsh words woulde out, so Leticia sighed and tried to push Diana¡¯s hand away. But the more she pushed, the stronger her arm was grasped. Diana immediately smirked, and looked her up and down openly.

    ¡°Where did you get the money for a dress after you were kicked out?¡±

    ¡°That is none of your business.¡±

    ¡°You didn¡¯t buy it from the change you earned from the wishing bracelet, did you?¡±

    ¡°That is also none of your business.¡±

    The strange woman was watching the two quarreling in front of her with a bored look, when she casually remarked.

    ¡°Why did you ask your maid to buy you a wishing bracelet when you treat your sister like that?¡±

    ¡°When did I do that?¡±

    ¡°Today when I walked past you, I overheard it.¡±

    ¡°Where are you getting this nonsense from?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just saying what I heard.¡±

    As the conversation became noisy, the youngdies, who were eavesdropping, began to burst intoughter.

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°You asked me why I would buy such a childish and sloppy thing.¡±

    ¡°Oh, you said that to me too.¡±

    ¡°Then you secretly tried to get a bracelet for yourself?¡±

    ¡°And you were caught.¡±

    Diana¡¯s face gradually turned red as the quiet whispers changed to a loud conversation.

    It was then that Enoch and Levion noticed the chaotic atmosphere and quickly stepped in.

    ¡°What is going on here?¡±

    Immediately Enoch wrapped himself around Leticia to protect her. Leticia shook her head in astonishment at the nonchnt way he stepped in to protect her.

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    Unlike the two of them, Levion grabbed Diana by the wrist with an irritated sigh.

    ¡°Don¡¯t make things worse, Diana.¡±

    ¡°But now she¡¯s lying about me and making me aughing stock.¡±

    ¡°Diana Leroy.¡±

    As his voice trailed off, Diana was forced to follow Levion and leave. He did not forget to nce at Leticia and the blonde woman while passing by.

    The woman, who was watching them the whole time as they left, murmured quietly.

    ¡°It¡¯s a lie, but they all fell for it.¡±

    Leticia, who didn¡¯t hear what she was saying to herself, looked at her in question. The woman smiled and asked Leticia.

    ¡°Is it true?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°The ability to make others unhappy.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia kept her mouth shut, while the blonde woman looked at her with pure curiosity.

    It seems that the rumors that had been circting among her family had somehow spread to the entire empire.

    ¡°Do you know how rude those words are?¡±

    Enoch exhaled roughly and stood in front of Leticia, but Leticia grabbed Enoch¡¯s arm to signify she was okay.

    However, she was feeling a bitter mix of emotions.

    ¡®Now everyone knows.¡¯

    The fact that she was abandoned by her family.

    She knew the story woulde out one day, but somehow she felt bleak.

    Leticia swallowed hard and stood in front of the woman with a determined look on her face.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what rumors have spread, but I don¡¯t have that ability.¡±

    The woman, who had been staring straight at Leticia without averting her gaze, raised the edge of her mouth gently.

    ¡°Can you be sure of that?¡±

    ¡°Yes, at least the people around me aren¡¯t unhappy.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a shame.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    The woman¡¯s gentle smile had a hint of sadness to it.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be on my way for today.¡±

    ¡°Excuse me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here to find out what you and your unlucky friend are like.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Leticia grabbed Enoch¡¯s cuff without realizing it.

    The woman immediately noticed and nced at Leticia¡¯s hand, which was gripping Enoch¡¯s cuff tightly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±

    We¡¯ll see each other again.

    At the end of that remark, she left with a calm expression as if nothing had happened.

    As soon as the woman was far enough away, Enoch asked cautiously.

    ¡°Do you know her?¡±

    Buried in the bustling crowd, the woman could no longer be seen. Leticia had been chasing after her with her eyes, looked up at Enoch and shook her head.

    ¡°No, I¡¯ve never seen her before.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s suspicious, so you¡¯d better be careful.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I was thinking.¡±

    There was a lot of uncertainty around her.

    ¡®Come to think of it.¡¯

    Leticia¡¯s face hardened as she btedly realized.

    The woman seemed to know Leticia, but she never revealed her name.

    **************************************************

 Chapter 32 - Whoâ€™s The Winner?

    <h4>Chapter 32 - Who¡¯s The Winner?</h4>

    It¡¯s finally the second day of the Hunting festival. There were many lovers confirming their feelings for each other, and they looked more wistful than yesterday.

    But somehow Leticia¡¯s expression seemed unsettled.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I should have been next to you yesterday.¡±

    Elle wished she could know what Enoch was thinking when he stepped away for a drink.

    Leticia spoke in a soft voice to Elle, who vowed never to step away from Leticia¡¯s side in the future.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to be sorry about Elle. Don¡¯t say that.¡±

    ¡°But¡­ You don¡¯t look well.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m really fine. It¡¯s just¡­¡±

    Leticia stopped talking mid sentence without realizing it.

    She still remembered the woman¡¯s smiling face at the banquet. A smile spread across her face, but her eyes were hard as they were evaluating her like an object. No wonder she thought it looked so calcting.

    It didn¡¯t really matter.

    There was only one thing Leticia seized on.

    ¡®The way she looked at it must be¡­¡¯

    She felt a sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu that she had felt somewhere.

    But she couldn¡¯t remember where, so she had a lump in her chest sincest night.

    ¡°It¡¯s just that it bothers me a little bit.¡±

    Leticia managed to smile and sp hands with the anxious looking Elle.

    ¡°Come to think of it, when will Lord Achilles arrive?¡±

    Elle was forced to let the subject go, since it was obvious that Leticia didn¡¯t want to talk about it anymore.

    ¡°My brother was a bit of a disappointment yesterday, at least that¡¯s how I see it.¡±

    ¡°What? Why?¡±

    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t he be?¡±

    Elle looked at Leticia like the answer was obvious.

    ¡°It¡¯s because he only caught a rabbit.¡±

    ¡°I thought it was cute, though.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the point of it being cute? He caught a rabbit the size of my palm and used it for something stupid. When did you get here?¡±

    Elle smiled awkwardly at Enoch, who was looking down at her with his arms crossed.

    ¡°Good morning, Brother.¡±

    ¡°Do you know your mistake?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Elle hid behind Leticia, knowing that she¡¯d done something wrong. Enoch, who was looking at the scene in disapproval, tapped Elle lightly on the head and moved towards the hunting ground.

    He could feel someone sp his jacket from behind. As he turned around, Leticia was standing with an uneasy look.

    As soon as he tried to ask what was wrong.

    ¡°Don¡¯t feel too pressured. I don¡¯t want you to get hurt while overdoing it.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just thankful that you returned back safely.¡±

    She was worried that the conversation he¡¯d overheard might have hurt his pride and he might push himself to catch some better game.

    But Enoch smirked as if he was fine.

    ¡°It¡¯s natural to feel burdened and push yourself to look cool to someone you¡¯re interested in.¡±

    ¡°What? Oh, that¡¯s true, but¡­¡±

    Leticia hesitated to speak, but eventually looked up at Enoch and said.

    ¡°Then can¡¯t we have two rabbits?¡±

    Enoch couldn¡¯t help butugh out loud at the sparkle in her blue eyes.

    ¡°If I can¡¯t find anything else, I¡¯ll bring you another rabbit.¡±

    ¡°Yes! I don¡¯t care if you don¡¯t catch anything, just don¡¯t get hurt.¡±

    Enoch nced down at her small hands holding onto his cuff, then looked at her again.

    Light pink hair, the color of newly bloomed cherry blossom, scattered across her slender shoulders. The sky-blue eyes that looked straight at him with worry about his safety. Enoch, who was staring at her soft lips, took something out.

    Leticia recognized the white rose immediately and looked up at him with surprise written on her face. The moment their eyes met, Enoch smiled with a gentle rise to the corners of his mouth.

    ¡°Don¡¯t hate me or get revenge on me since I didn¡¯t y a joke this time.¡±

    Leticia immediately recognized theughter in his low voice and whispered while smoothing his cuff with her fingertips.

    ¡°Revenge is a trivial matter.¡±

    The thought of revenge would seem insignificant to anyone else.

    However, Enoch¡¯s face hardened.

    ¡°So it¡¯s even scarier.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Who knows if there¡¯s someone else who might want to give you a white rose like yesterday?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±

    Leticia blinked her eyes and turned her head slightly. She didn¡¯t expect he¡¯d keep that in mind until today. Enoch tickled Leticia¡¯s cheek with the white rose he was holding, while he squinted slightly in disapproval.

    ¡°Don¡¯t receive a white rose from other people.¡±

    She didn¡¯t say much, but she could easily understand he meant for her to wear only his rose.

    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡±

    Leticia was carefully touching the rose he¡¯d handed her. She looked up at Enoch with a smile on her face.

    ¡°This is enough for me, too.¡±

    She repeated the words that Enoch had said yesterday.

    The words he¡¯d whispered sweetly, while smoothing the blue ribbon she¡¯d given him.

    This was a small, but trivial revenge Leticia could give Enoch.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°There¡¯s going to be a Hunting festival winner at today¡¯s banquet, right?¡±

    Elle asked this as soon as Leticia returned from seeing Enoch off at the hunting grounds.

    As Elle said, today was thest chance to win the hunting festival and the final winner was revealed. Maybe that¡¯s why people often got hurt because it was a particrly intense day.

    The winner will be recognized as a knight at the final banquet, which is the main event of the Hunting festival.

    ¡°Yes, I think so.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s never hunted before, but he¡¯s good at it.¡±

    Leticia shook her head with a smile when Elle seemed to be hoping Enoch would win.

    ¡°I just want Lord Achilles to return safely.¡±

    It didn¡¯t matter what he caught. She didn¡¯t want anything but Enoch¡¯s safety.

    .

    .

    .

    It was getting darker and darker, and before long it was almost evening. Young noblemen, who felt it was no longer safe to hunt, began to return one by one.

    Enoch was nowhere to be seen among them.

    ¡®Why hasn¡¯t he returned yet?¡¯

    Leticia was nervously waiting for Enoch alongside Elle in front of the entrance to the hunting grounds.

    ¡®Has he not returned because he¡¯s trying to catch a rabbit?¡¯

    She was just joking.

    It seemed like Enoch hadn¡¯t returned because of his persistence in not giving up on his goal.

    It was at that moment, when Leticia¡¯s lips started to tremble and she worried that it was her fault that he hadn¡¯t returned yet.

    ¡°Oh, there¡¯s someoneing!¡±

    Someone shouted while pointing to somewhere deep in the forest. Leticia turned her eyes to where the person was pointing.

    Because of how dark it already was, it was impossible to identify exactly who the shadow was. It was not until he reached a break in the forest that everyone could see the man¡¯s face and sharp eyes.

    As soon as Leticia saw the face, she immediately brightened up.

    ¡°I¡¯ve caught two rabbits instead.¡±

    At his feet was a stag the size of a wild boar.

    ***

    ¡°Wha, what did you just say?¡±

    Marquis Leroy stammered in confusion because he couldn¡¯t believe it even though he heard it properly the first time.

    Count Aster looked really ufortable and repeated himself.

    ¡°I said I wouldn¡¯t invest.¡±

    Marquis Leroy murmured hesitantly with a clear voice.

    ¡°You won¡¯t invest¡­?¡±

    He couldn¡¯t understand why the Count had a sudden change of heart.

    ¡®What¡¯s the problem?¡¯

    Marquis Leroy clenched his teeth and wiped his face dry.

    As soon as he arrived at the Hunting festival, he hurried to find Count Aster. To make sure the contract is stamped and it was difficult to back out of.

    But on the contrary, he was beaten.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you all of a sudden? I¡¯m sure you said yesst time.¡±

    It was a big deal if Count Aster suddenly changed his mind about the investment because he still had to pay the miners.

    When they¡¯d first met, he¡¯d done everything he could to convince him to invest in his mining business. Count Aster¡¯s warm expression was not even a shadow of what it was when they first met, and he was only being minimally polite now.

    ¡°Yes, because at the time I thought it would be a good thing.¡±

    ¡°So you¡¯re saying it¡¯s not now?¡±

    In a calm but firm voice, Count Aster replied to the Marquis¡¯ demanding question.

    ¡°The only reason I was willing to invest in the Marquis¡¯ mining business was because of Leticia.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Marquis Leroy frowned at the unexpected name.

    He didn¡¯t understand why he was bringing up Leticia¡¯s name here.

    Count Aster noticed the Marquis¡¯ confusion and continued.

    ¡°You don¡¯t know this, but Leticia is a child whoforted my wife and I during the most difficult and painful time in our life.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I decided to invest in the Marquis¡¯ business in the hope that this child would have afortable life. I didn¡¯t know that she had been emunicated.¡±

    Even as he spoke, Count Aster could not hide the resentment in his eyes. No, he didn¡¯t even seem to want to hide it.

    ¡°Count Aster, listen to me first. Please listen to my story first¡­¡±

    ¡°For me, family is more precious than life.¡±

    Count Aster cut off Marquis Leroy¡¯s pathetic attempt at an excuse.

    ¡°To me, even if the world copses I wouldn¡¯t abandon a family member.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I have to tell you this, too.¡±

    Contrary to his words of regret, his expression was frighteningly calm. Marquis Leroy btedly realized that Count Aster hadpletely turned his back on him.

    ¡°Then I wish you all the best in the future.¡±

    Count Aster left his seat with those empty insincere words. The Marquis was left alone, sitting there with a deste face.

    In the end, he couldn¡¯t control his emotions and started to kick a wall.

    ¡°Darn it, damn it, damn it!¡±

    I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re screwing me over like this.

    He couldn¡¯t help but scream in frustration.

    Count Aster had a good reputation among the nobility andmoners. There was no one who didn¡¯t like him. He was polite and friendly to the nobles and generously distributed to themoners.

    In addition, some of the money he earned from his business was donated to the needy, which earned him envy and respect.

    The meaning of such a person¡¯s investment was nothing short of ¡®a business that can be trusted¡¯. On the contrary, if he refused to invest in a business, it became ¡®questionable¡¯ and ¡®unreliable¡¯. Count Aster rarely changed his mind in this way, it was obvious there would be murmuring among the nobles.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you wouldn¡¯t invest because of that!¡±

    The more he thought about it, the angrier he got. He felt like fire woulde out of his mouth.

    What a pathetic bastard!

    The Marquis couldn¡¯t see how to make the business seed unless he had that money.

    Just as he let out a ragged angry breath, his head snapped up at the thought that shed through his mind.

    ¡®If only I had the money¡­?¡¯

    He seemed to be in a difficult position that only money could solve.

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s lips nted up, thinking about what he would do in the future.

    **********************************

 Chapter 33 - I Hope We Can Reach Each Other Someday

    <h4>Chapter 33 - I Hope We Can Reach Each Other Someday</h4>

    ¡°Do you know how surprised I was when you didn¡¯te back?¡±

    Before entering the banquet hall on the second day of the Hunting festival. Leticia tapped Enoch¡¯s arm lightly, unable to ovee the emotional surge.

    It was getting dark, all the other knights were back, but Enoch wasn¡¯t in sight. She was worried there might have been an ident inside the grounds, so she wanted to go into the hunting grounds and find him right away.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to have worried you. I really wanted to give this to you.¡±

    It was none other than the crown ofurels that Enoch was talking about.

    It was a glorious wreath for the winner of the Hunting festival, but Leticia only looked up at Enoch. Far from happy, she looked somewhat dark.

    ¡°I appreciate it, but I didn¡¯t want this.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just¡­¡±

    The small hand, which was lightly tapping, slowly grabbed Enoch¡¯s sleeve.

    ¡°It¡¯s enough for Lord Achilles to have returned unharmed.¡±

    Leticia also vaguely felt that her feelings for Enoch were changing little by little. However, he just pretended he didn¡¯t know and pushed her away.

    This very evening, waiting for thete Enoch to return, she gradually came to admit it.

    ¡°So don¡¯t push yourself too hard next time.¡±

    Please.

    Leticia shook her head at the end of herst remark.

    She was d he came back without getting hurt. She was angry and distressed at Enoch who came backte, so she kept getting emotional.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I won¡¯t worry you again.¡±

    She turned her head as if she didn¡¯t want to see him, and waved her hand with a puzzled expression.

    Leticia then raised her head and faced Enoch straight.

    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re really sorry?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I am reflecting on my actions. So please forgive me.

    ¡°Then¡­¡±

    Leticia paused and pulled hard on Enoch¡¯s sleeve. As if she¡¯d made up her mind, she said to him with a grim expression.

    ¡°Hug me.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Wouldn¡¯t this be enough?

    Even friends hug each other lightly when greeting each other.

    She and Enoch were not friends. They weren¡¯t as far away as others, so she expected that he would allow it.

    ¡°Think of it as a punishment.¡±

    Looking up with confidence at that moment, Enoch¡¯s expression was somehow strange.

    It was then that Leticia finally lost her courage.

    ¡®Does it bother you?¡¯

    She quickly looked into Enoch¡¯s eyes when the thought came to her mind.

    Enoch looked down quietly at Leticia with an unfamiliar look on his face. Leticia was suddenly worried by his reaction, and shook her hands quickly while saying.

    ¡°It was a joke, If you were offended¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that.¡±

    As soon as she tried to take back her words, Enoch firmly stopped Leticia. Soon he muttered with a grin in his voice.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s a prize, not a punishment.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia had turned her head away because she was not confident enough to see his face, looked back up with a surprised expression.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s a punishment, but I keepughing.¡±

    Even though he covered his mouth slightly, she could see the corners of his mouth smoothly rising between his fingers.

    The smile on his face was so bright that it was hard to believe he had always looked so indifferent, and Leticia was shocked into silence momentarily.

    ¡°You know how to smile so beautifully.¡±

    Sometimes he gave her a friendly smile, but today was the first time she¡¯d seen such a wonderful smile.

    Because of her.

    ¡°Then can I be punished now?¡±

    Enoch opened his arms slightly as if he couldn¡¯t be happier. He did not give off? the image of a penitent man, but Leticia smiled anyways.

    As Leticia stood there for a long time and stared at him.

    ¡°My arms hurt.¡±

    Enoch wiggled his arms to try and urge her to hug him quickly, but Leticia was still waiting.

    Rather than being frustrated, Enoch was so cute and lovable that she wanted to approach him.

    Leticia grinned shyly and slowly fell into Enoch¡¯s arms as she struggled. She asked him to hug her, but she was still feeling shy about it. Maybe that¡¯s why Leticia pushed further.

    ¡°Next time, I¡¯ll give you a terrible punishment.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m already looking forward to it.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a bee.¡±

    Even though she spoke quietly on purpose, Enoch¡¯sughter fell over her head.

    ¡°I¡¯d like to get this punishment at least a few times.¡±

    ¡°Next time, it might be a really scary bee.¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s Leticia¡¯s punishment, I¡¯ll take it happily.¡±

    When she couldn¡¯t hold back herughter, Leticia lightly beat on Enoch¡¯s chest.

    ¡°You keep saying you¡¯re sorry, but you keep ying games.¡±

    Smiling at the touch that felt like a gentle breeze, he was reminded of what happened the night before.

    ¡®Sorry¡­.¡¯

    It was an unpleasant meeting.

    In addition, his rtionship with Leticia was not bad, which naturally brought a smile to his face.

    Until Levion showed up.

    [What do you mean?]

    Last night, after the music ended, he thought he¡¯d take a break. He left Leticia¡¯s side to get a drink. As if waiting for that moment, Levion approached with a grim face and started to lecture Enoch.

    Levion didn¡¯t back down and kept talking.

    [How is she supposed to live in a mansion without a single servant?]

    [Sir El.]

    [It¡¯s for Leticia, please let her go.]

    For Leticia.

    He almost burst out inughter at that remark.

    Enoch¡¯s anger rose furiously at this absolute rubbish.

    [What are you going to do next if I do what Sir El says?]

    [I¡¯ll take care of her.]

    [What do you think you¡¯ll do? Do you think you can bring your ex-fianc¨¦e to the El mansion? Do you think Marqui El will give you permission to do that?]

    [As I said, it¡¯s none of the Duke¡¯s business.]

    [You¡¯re the one who doesn¡¯t have a n, so let¡¯s stop now.]

    He felt sick of it all.

    Unable to bear to listen to him talking without any ns, Enoch cut Levion¡¯s excuses off in the middle.

    For Leticia¡¯s sake.

    He didn¡¯t see the actions he was taking now as being for Leticia¡¯s sake. Instead, his pride was hurt and he seemed to be following her around relentlessly.

    If this man really cared for Leticia.

    ¡®She wouldn¡¯t have decided to stay with me.¡¯

    Leticia must have known.

    That he¡¯s not someone who would protect and care for her.

    [Stop overdoing it, because it¡¯s bing awkward.]

    [I¡¯ve known Leticia for the longest and know her better than anyone else.]

    [So.]

    What is it that he wants Enoch to do?

    Levion stiffened, but still did not back down.

    [Then let¡¯s make a bet.]

    Before he could ask what he meant, Levion rified.

    [The winner of the Hunting festival will take Leticia.]

    [¡­.]

    [Are you not confident?]

    A childish provocation by anyone¡¯s standard.

    It was funny and absurd to decide the game by only one win. In addition, he was irritated because he couldn¡¯t get angry.

    ¡®I don¡¯t want to deal with him.¡¯

    However, he has a bad personality and brushing aside a battle so easily wasn¡¯t in his character.

    [I don¡¯t have confidence in you.]

    It¡¯s because you¡¯re not worth dealing with.

    [Then can I ask you for something?]

    Enoch started to speak, while looking at Levion, who tilted his head as if saying to go ahead.

    [Stop looking at me like I¡¯m a thief.]

    [What?]

    [Because I never stole anything that belonged to you.]

    [Sir Achilles.]

    [Also, fix that attitude of treating Leticia like a thing. Do you think Leticia is an object who can be picked up and given to others?]

    So Enoch and Levion stared at each other fiercely, neither wanting to back down.

    The next day, Enoch caught a stag as big as a boar and received the crown ofurels given to the winner of the Hunting festival.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    Enoch was gently stroking her hair, and quietly called out to her.

    Leticia, who was wriggling in Enoch¡¯s arms, raised her head wondering if it was time to stop.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you ept theurel crown that I struggled so hard for?¡±

    Enoch said as he lifted the crown ofurels up.

    He looked earnestly at her when he asked if she¡¯d ept it, but Leticia still hesitated. The time felt so long that Enoch¡¯s mouth felt like it was drying up.

    Fortunately, Leticia answered quickly.

    ¡°Then make me a promise.

    ¡°You can ask me for anything.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t make me worry like that again.¡±

    At those words, Enoch let out a relieved sigh.

    ¡®This woman is¡­¡¯

    She thinks of me first.

    He couldn¡¯t stand it any longer because he was choked up by her answer that came out so naturally.

    Enoch rested his head on Leticia¡¯s shoulder. Leticia shrank slightly in surprise, but she didn¡¯t try to push him away.

    ¡°I¡¯ll never make you worry about anything in the future.¡±

    ¡°I believe you.¡±

    ¡°Never.¡±

    He shook his head a little as if begging her to believe him, and he felt Leticia grinning softly against his hair. The corners of Enoch¡¯s mouth also rose satisfactorily.

    ¡®Why am I like this?¡¯

    Is he being too greedy?

    He knew very well that he was greedy for whatever he could get.

    It was hard for him to hold back his desire to get closer to her, even though he was already so close. He really didn¡¯t want to hold back.

    Gently looking up, Enoch rested his chin on Leticia¡¯s head to satisfy his desire. Thanks to him, it felt natural to Leticia to be held in his arms.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t ept, I¡¯ll keep doing this.¡±

    It was nice to feel the light touch of her pink hair against his cheek.

    ¡°Is that a threat? I¡¯m sorry, but this kind of threat doesn¡¯t work on me.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Enoch unconsciously straightened up and looked down at Leticia.

    She smiled brightly as if she had been waiting for this moment.

    ¡°I like the threat this time, so I¡¯ll think about it.¡±

    [I especially like the threat this time, so let¡¯s think about it.]

    A long time ago, it was his answer when Leticia said she might stay at the Achilles mansion until she died.

    Enoch burst into a pleasantugh, he had never expected to get the answer back like this.

    At that time, he felt a strong gaze from somewhere. As he turned his head, his eyes met with Levion¡¯s in the distance. He was clenching his fist and staring at them.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    A fierce look that said he wanted to tear him apart.

    At that look, Enoch was happy and even felt a childish pleasure.

    He savored the gaze and put theurel crown on Leticia head. As soon as Levion saw this, his face hardened, he turned around and stormed away.

    Enoch stared at Levion until he disappeared, then slowly looked back down at Leticia again.

    Leticia, who knew nothing, was smiling up at him.

    Looking at Leticia like that, Enoch whispered in his mind.

    ¡®Just this much.¡¯

    He hoped they could get closer slowly every day.

    ¡®Without stopping.¡¯

    Slow was good.

    He can wait as long as she needs. Even if it¡¯s slow, he hopes they can reach each other someday.

    *****************************************************

 Chapter 34 - The Broken One And The Strong One

    <h4>Chapter 34 - The Broken One And The Strong One</h4>

    ***

    ¡°I¡¯m disappointed, Irene.¡±

    Marquess Leroy said as she snapped down the report card.

    This one piece of paper caused her to feel sick on the day she¡¯d wanted to rx.

    The Marquess looked like she would say more, when Irene spoke up to express her frustration.

    ¡°Mother, I can¡¯t help it because the test paper disappearedst time.¡±

    ¡°Are you proud of losing your test paper?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Irene couldn¡¯t say anything more after her Mother¡¯s dry, emotionless response. When she just lowered her head, the Marquess was looking at her in disappointment and sighed to herself.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what your father will say about this report card.¡±

    ¡°Mother¡­¡±

    ¡°At this rate, will you even be able to qualify for the Imperial Wizard¡¯s exam?¡±

    Contrary to what her Mother was worried about, Irene was trembling from head to toe.

    ¡°I can do it next time. If I get good grades in all my subjects, I¡¯m sure I will qualify.¡±

    ¡°Are you confident you won¡¯t lose your test papers again?¡±

    ¡°Mother¡­¡±

    Irene looked at Marquess Leroy with a puzzled look on her face. However, the Marquess¡¯ expression did not change as she lightly clicked her tongue.

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep this report card to myself. The next time you make a stupid mistake I¡¯ll tell your father the truth. So pull yourself together.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Mother¡­¡±

    When she nodded helplessly, Marquess Leroy picked up Irene¡¯s report card roughly, crumbled it up, and left the drawing room.

    Irene was left alone, she swallowed her tears while she clenched her skirt tightly in her hands. What Marquess Leroy said lingered in her ears.

    [The next time you make a stupid mistake I¡¯ll tell your father the truth. So pull yourself together.]

    She ended up hearing something she didn¡¯t want to hear the most today.

    ¡®If¡­¡¯

    If I make a mistake again.

    ¡®Will I be abandoned like my eldest sister?¡¯

    She wanted to believe it wasn¡¯t true, but when she looked at the atmosphere of the house, she wasn¡¯t so sure. Marqui Leroy¡¯s business was going well, so it was currently going smoothly, but she didn¡¯t know when or how it might change.

    ¡°No¡­¡±

    Irene jumped up and ran to her room with a pale face. All she could do right now was read books and study.

    ¡®I¡¯m not going to be kicked out like I¡¯m nobody.¡¯

    Like she¡¯s useless, like she wasn¡¯t needed.

    She will show her worth without fail, and regain the trust and love of her parents.

    Then she remembered.

    [I don¡¯t want you to let the gaze of others destroy you.]

    [You¡¯re precious to me.]

    It was a voice she heard every time she studied.

    A warm voice that sincerely cared about her.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    As soon as she entered her room and sat down at her desk she btedly realized who the voice belonged to.

    ¡°Sister Leticia¡­¡±

    Those were the words Leticia had said when she saw Irene mentally crumbling.

    [I¡¯m proud of you.]

    [It¡¯s okay to make a mistake.]

    But¡­

    ¡®You¡¯re wrong.¡¯

    She knew her worth was being evaluated, and she couldn¡¯t pretend not to care about the gaze of other people on her.

    Somehow she felt like crying today.

    Irene held it in and opened her books once again.

    ***

    As soon as they arrived at the Achilles mansion after the Hunting festival, they ran into Ian. He came to meet them at the door and smiled when he brought tea into the parlor for everyone.

    ¡°Good job at the festival.¡±

    ¡°It wasn¡¯t a big deal. Nothing else happened?¡±

    ¡°Oh, someone came to visit.¡±

    Enoch had inquired if Ian was bored protecting the mansion alone, but Ian gave an unexpected answer. Ian handed Leticia a cup of tea before going into more detail.

    ¡°Seois was here. He really wanted to meet Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Me?¡±

    Leticia pointed to herself in surprise, and Ian nodded.

    ¡°Yes, he asked you toe to the Academy of Magic if you don¡¯t mind.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for passing on the message Ian.¡±

    Leticia smiled and took a sip of tea.

    ¡®Did you find out what my ability is?¡¯

    Somehow she was nervous and looking forward to it as well. Leticia wanted to hurry up and go meet him.

    During this time, Elle was quietly looking at Ian while pouting her lips in frustration.

    ¡°Next time, you¡¯reing with us to the Hunting festival. You can¡¯t stay bored and alone in the mansion again.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right, it would have been better if we went together. It¡¯s a shame.¡±

    Leticia and Elle spoke as if they were upset, and Ian tried to smooth it over with an awkward apology.

    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go together next time. I¡¯m busy right now, so I¡¯ll go back to my room first.¡±

    Ian left before hearing their answer, they were surprised to see he was already leaving to study. Enoch had been quietly watching the scene, he slowly rose from his seat as well.

    ¡°I¡¯d better go to the Imperial Family now. I have to go straight into training.¡±

    ¡°At once?¡±

    The Hunting festival had only just ended, Leticia was surprised that Enoch said he would be entering the pce. Enoch smiled and stroked Leticia¡¯s head to help soothe her despondency.

    ¡°I¡¯ll return quickly.¡±

    ¡°Yes, have a safe trip¡­

    Enoch looked down at Leticia, he could clearly see her holding back her disappointment. He leaned down slightly and with a determined look, said to Leticia.

    ¡°If I get back safely¡­¡±

    Leticia nodded, she felt nervous because she understood what he meant.

    ¡°That¡¯s too obvious.¡±

    ¡°Hugging you?

    ¡°It¡¯s not that¡­!¡±

    She tried to cover Enoch¡¯s mouth in a hurry, but the words had already popped out. The moment Leticia raised her voice without realizing it, she made eye contact with Elle, who had a curious expression.

    ¡°Elle, this is¡­¡±

    ¡°Hmm! I suddenly remembered I have some urgent business.¡±

    Elle left the parlor quickly, while clearing her throat. Enoch smiled like he had all the time in the world, despite the fact that anyone could tell he was preparing to leave straight away.

    ¡°There¡¯s only the two of us, so let¡¯s talkfortably.¡±

    ¡°Really!¡±

    Leticia said while she red at him for his brazen attitude.

    ¡°I was saying it was natural for you to get back safely.¡±

    ¡°Oh, did you?¡±

    ¡°You know that, don¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°No, I had no idea.¡±

    ¡°Lies.¡±

    She looked at him with exasperation, but Enoch calmly ignored her and quickly made his escape

    It was not until he reached the door to the mansion that Enoch looked back andughed.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll look forward to it.¡±

    ¡°What are you expecting? No, you can¡¯t. No way.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure I can¡¯t?¡±

    As she shook her head firmly with a serious look, Enoch looked down as if he was upset. Seeing that the corners of his mouth were slowly rising, it was clear that he was in a good mood and not really upset.

    ¡®I hate you.¡¯

    She was sure he was being mean.

    He wanted to hold her because he enjoyed that moment with her.

    ¡®He¡¯s really an amazing guy.¡¯

    Perhaps it was because he seemed to emit a cold winter chill that even a slight smile made a distinct impression on her.

    She felt intimidated and overwhelmed at the same time as he looked down at her intensely. She couldn¡¯t look away from the eyes that were only soft when they looked at her.

    If he kept looking at her as lovingly as he is now.

    Leticia murmured softly, holding Enoch¡¯s sleeve tightly to hide the trembling in her hands.

    ¡°Don¡¯tugh.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡±

    ¡°Like that¡­¡±

    Don¡¯tugh.

    She felt her heart beating so fast that Leticia¡¯s chest squeezed painfully.

    A big hand suddenly wraps around Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be back.¡±

    Enoch¡¯s sleeve is slightly wrinkled from her holding on too tightly. Enoch lightly stroked the back of Leticia¡¯s hand before slowly leaving the mansion.

    Every once in a while, he would turn around and smile at Leticia, but somehow he could see the sadness in her eyes. Whenever their eyes met, Leticia waved her hand in response.

    Soon Enoch was out of sight, and a shallow sigh escaped her lips.

    Enoch¡¯s whispered words in her ear before he left made her heart feel itchy.

    [Can¡¯t you hug me likest time? This time as a prize.]

    ¡®I¡¯m telling you.¡¯

    He¡¯s starting to get more brazen by the day.

    No, he¡¯s starting to be sly.

    But it was more of a problem for her, because she didn¡¯t really hate it.

    Leticia shook her head with a smile and slowly went to the kitchen.

    Today, she was going to bake some cookies to help calm down her confused and excited heart.

    ***

    She baked a lot of cookies in the kitchen, but there was no one to give them to.

    She thought ofst time when Elle enjoyed the tarts she made. She went to Elle¡¯s room, but she could see that she¡¯d left a while ago.

    The next ce she visited was Ian¡¯s room.

    Standing at the door, Leticia hesisted before knocking.

    ¡°Come on in.¡±

    As soon as she got permission, she opened the door and went in. Her eyes met Ian¡¯s, who was standing with a surprised look on his face.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I thought it was Elle.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I baked some cookies. Would you like some?¡±

    Leticia smiled softly and showed the te of cookies in her hand.

    The expression on his face as he stared at the cookies was indifferent, but there seemed to be a small gleam in his eyes.

    ¡°Have you been studying this whole time?¡±

    Leticia put the te of cookies down on the table and sat down. Ian sat with her, he nodded and took a bite of a cookie. Leticia couldn¡¯t help but smile as she liked the way he kept eating the cookies with a nk face.

    Every time she saw Ian, Leticia thought of Emil. Theck of facial expressions, the monotonous voice with no highs and lows, and the behavior that seemed somehow stiff.

    But his attitude was clearly different.

    The time that Leticia had spent with Ian was enough for her to know that his behavior was stiff while she was trying not to bother him. She could see in his eyes that he always wanted to be closer to Leticia, and for some reason she found that endearing.

    She suddenly remembered a question she wanted to ask him

    ¡°Can I ask you why you¡¯re working so hard?¡±

    Ian, like Emil, was preparing for the Imperial Civil Service exam.

    She wanted to know what stimted Ian, who had always been indifferent, and why he devoted himself to his studies to the point of skipping the Hunting festival.

    ¡°I just want to protect it.¡±

    What? Ian continued before she could ask for rification.

    ¡°The pride in myself and my family.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve realized that being ignored is an unpleasant thing to deal with.¡±

    At first Ian thought he was the only one who had to worry about it.

    But the way people looked down on Enoch and Elle, as well as Leticia. It made his mind go nk in shock, like he¡¯d tripped over his own feet. No, it made him feel hot from head to toe.

    ¡°So I made up my mind to be stronger.¡±

    He wanted to be strong so that others wouldn¡¯t ignore him.

    Ianughed, putting thest cookie in his mouth.

    Leticia stared at the scene, then said with a soft smile.

    ¡°Ian is strong enough now.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    Leticia stopped talking for a moment, then slowly started to speak again.

    ¡°It¡¯s great to see you trying to be stronger for the people precious to you.¡±

    He forgot for a moment that he enjoyed spending time with the people who care about him.

    He also decided to never be ashamed of these people.

    Leticia returned to her room after leaving words of encouragement with Ian.

    The next day, she went to the Academy of Magic to meet Seios. There she ran into someone who was so familiar to her that it was funny that she didn¡¯t expect this.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    It was Irene Leroy.

    *************************************************

 Chapter 35 - Donâ€™t Be Ashamed Of Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 35 - Don¡¯t Be Ashamed Of Yourself</h4>

    Chapter 35. Don¡¯t Be Ashamed Of Yourself

    ***

    ¡°It¡¯s a nice day, do you want to hang out with the four of us?¡±

    It was a sunny day with a cool breeze that was perfect for a pic. Elle said she wanted to spend time outside on days like this, but Leticia smiled as if she was feeling troubled.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I don¡¯t think I can today because I have somewhere to go.¡±

    ¡°Where?¡±

    Enoch asked, his eyes widening at the unexpected reply.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to see Mr. Seios. There are things I want to talk about.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯lle with you.¡±

    Leticia waved her hands in a hurry as Enoch leapt up from his seat, ready to go with her.

    ¡°No, I can go by myself.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be right back, so you don¡¯t have to worry too much.¡±

    Leticia nodded for him to trust her, and Enoch was forced to sigh.

    ¡°Don¡¯te back toote.¡±

    ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±

    She was going to get ready and go there early.

    Leticia quickly rose from her seat and went back to her room to get ready to leave.

    She didn¡¯t know that the three of them were looking at each other with sad faces.

    ***

    ¡°Woo¡­.¡±

    As soon as she got off the carriage, she could see the academy spread out like a huge castle. It was a moment to take a step forward, or a moment to falter under the pressure.

    ¡®Come to think of it¡­¡¯

    Unfortunately, she didn¡¯t know until she arrived.

    This is the Academy of Magic Irene attends.

    ¡®Why did it have to be here?¡¯

    A breathless sigh escaped her. In contrast to Leticia¡¯s desire to get there immediately, her feet wouldn¡¯t move as if they were rooted to the ground.

    ¡°Ha¡­.¡±

    With a resolute exhale, Leticia swept her hair back. At the thought of Irene, she didn¡¯t want to go in.

    What were the chances of her running into Irene in such a big academy? Leticia forced herself to enter the Academy building.

    When she knocked on the door, Seios opened the door immediately and weed her as if he had been waiting for her.

    ¡°We finally meet again, Leticia. How have you been?¡±

    Last night, Leticia was alone thinking about a lot of things. She was thinking seriously about the future and what she could do.

    The two answers she came up with after thinking about it: ¡°Find out about her ability¡± and ¡°What she wants to do with her life¡±. The first thing she could do was meet Seios and talk about her ability.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m doing fine. Has Seios been well?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m always the same.¡±

    Seios said with aplicated expression, although he was relieved to see that she looked better than expected.

    ¡°I heard you were staying at the Achilles¡¯ mansion.¡±

    ¡°Yes. They¡¯re all good people, to the point where I feel too lucky.¡±

    She felt like the only luck in her life was meeting Elle, Ian and¡­.

    ¡®Duke Enoch Achilles.¡±

    The more she thought about it, the more interesting he was.

    She couldn¡¯t believe he¡¯s a person who could make her feelforted just by thinking about him.

    She couldn¡¯t have asked for greater luck and happiness.

    ¡°I¡¯m so d that you¡¯re doing well.¡±

    At Leticia¡¯s words Seios looked genuinely relieved. Leticia, seeing his relief, tilted her head slightly.

    ¡®Did he call me here because he was worried about me?¡¯

    When he asked her toe here, she thought it would be about something important.

    Seios asked about her wellbeing first before anything else.

    ¡°I want to do an experiment at the Tower to find out what your ability is. What do you think?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She was correct about the important discussion they would be having today.

    Instead of being pleased with Seios¡¯ suggestion, she was more worried.

    ¡°Do I have to go to the Tower, too?¡±

    Leticia felt anxious at being away from Enoch.

    She thought she was lucky to live with the Achilles family every day. That was probably why Seois¡¯ proposal came as a shock.

    She realized that she was happy now and that she always wanted to be with Enoch.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to go. I¡¯m just taking a little bit of your energy and experimenting with it at the Tower.¡±

    Seios was stunned by her noticeably paleplexion andforted her so she didn¡¯t have to worry.

    Only then did the relieved Leticia cautiously ask.

    ¡°How do you do that?¡±

    ¡°The book with the exnation should be somewhere¡­¡±

    To exin it easily, Seios went to the bookshelf. Dust was piled up on the bookshelf, since he hadn¡¯t been in the office for months.

    He tried to take out the book carefully so that it wouldn¡¯t scatter everywhere. When he took a wrong step, the dust spread everywhere.

    ¡°Oops.¡±

    ¡°May I help you?¡±

    Leticia reached out to help, but Seios shook his head.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, so could you wait outside for a moment?¡±

    ¡°Call me if you need any help.¡±

    Leticia nodded her head and walked out.

    As soon as the door closed, Leticia let out a long sigh.

    ¡°Haa¡­.¡±

    It was such a relief.

    What if I¡¯d had to go to the Tower? She was so nervous.

    She felt relief once again. That¡¯s when she noticed someone slowly approaching from the end of the hallway.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    As soon as her gaze collided with Irene¡¯s, Leticia clenched her hands.

    Should I say hello?

    What should I say after saying hello?

    ¡®Do I really need to talk to her?¡¯

    Fortunately, Leticia didn¡¯t need to worry for long.

    ¡®As expected¡­¡¯

    Nothing had changed.

    As soon we were close enough that we could see the wrinkles in each other¡¯s clothes, Irene casually walked past Leticia as if she were a stranger.

    She was feelingplicated, but at the same time she felt unfamiliar. It didn¡¯t hit her as hard as before.

    It was then.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t have money, just quit.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think you¡¯re the only reason the Academy is losing status?¡±

    ¡°If I were you, I would have quit from embarrassment.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if you¡¯re shameless because you¡¯re amoner, or if you just don¡¯t know better.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s like that because they¡¯re both true.¡±

    As the noise spread down the hallway, all the eyes of the students turned to it. But they immediately took off again to do what they had to do with a look of disinterest.

    Irene acted simrly.

    Leticia looked at Irene with a look of disbelief as she turned her face away as if it was normal. Even as she stared at the students, Irene turned away without a second thought.

    That was when she remembered what Ian said yesterday.

    [I just want to protect it, the pride in myself and my family.]

    [I¡¯ve realized that being ignored is an unpleasant thing to deal with.]

    [So I made up my mind to be stronger.]

    ¡®Self-esteem¡­¡¯

    Ian was absolutely right.

    She also needed to be strong so she could protect her friends and family. So Ian decided that he would be strong and protect his family and move forward.

    Reflecting on those words, Leticia clenched her fists.

    ¡®Then I will.¡¯

    She seriously thought about who she wanted to be. Fortunately, it didn¡¯t take long, thanks to the long time she had spent thinking about it yesterday.

    ¡®I want to be someone who¡¯s not ashamed.¡¯

    To those who care about me, to myself.

    ¡°Stop it.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia approached them without hesitation and a serious face. Her gazended on a hand that was pushing one of the students¡¯ shoulders.

    ¡°Stop pushing his shoulder.¡±

    ¡°Why are you interfering?¡±

    ¡°What is going on over there?¡±

    Seios came out of the officete, and noticed that the atmosphere around the students was unusual and quickly approached the group. Only then did the studentsugh as if nothing was going on.

    ¡°We were just joking around.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, we were just hanging out.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s mouth fell open in shock at their excuses.

    ¡°No, Mr Seios. They weren¡¯t joking, I¡¯m sure.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll be leaving because we have a lecture starting soon.¡±

    ¡°See you at the next lecture.¡±

    The students smoothly cut Leticia off and quickly left.

    Seios raised an eyebrow as it was obvious to everyone that they were running away from the situation.

    ¡°What happened here?¡±

    ¡°That¡­.¡±

    Leticia was hesitant about how to answer Seios¡¯ question. She reached out carefully to the student who was being bullied.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    She might be uselessly nosy.

    But she didn¡¯t want to hesitate to help where she could.

    The student looked at the hand that was being held out to him. He quietly raised his head and looked at Leticia.

    Ruffled dark almond-colored hair and shivering green eyes. The student got up from the ground and fixed his sses. His name tag said ¡®Ronan Hiry¡¯.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to go listen to the lecture, too¡­¡±

    ¡°Hey¡­!¡±

    She tried to stop him, but he was already leaving.

    He looked so ufortable that she could hardly justify following him.

    ¡®I thought he needed some help¡¯

    No, he was looking for someone to help.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Leticia?¡±

    ¡°Oh, were you calling me?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s go back in now.¡±

    Seios gestured toe back quickly. He was looking at Leticia, who only responded after he called her three times.

    Leticia did not enter the office until shepletely lost sight of the helpless boy¡¯s back.

    ¡°I¡¯ll exin in detail how the experiment will be run. I¡¯ll take your energy first.¡±

    ¡°Mr. Seios.¡±

    Seios was putting books on the table to exin everything to Leticia. But she couldn¡¯t concentrate on anything but the boy she¡¯d seen in the hallway.

    It¡¯s because he seems to be in a simr situation as she is.

    No, to be more precise, the child¡¯s appearance ovepped with who she used to be.

    She shrunk into herself from her family ignoring and mistreating her.

    He looked like he wanted someone to help him, but didn¡¯t know who to ask for help.

    So he ran away because he didn¡¯t have the courage to take the hand held out to him.

    She knew how he felt.

    ¡°Can I sponsor a student from this Academy?¡±

    ¡°All of a sudden?¡±

    Seios¡¯s voice grew louder at Leticia¡¯s sudden request to sponsor someone while he was exining how he would find out her ability.

    Leticia nodded as if it were natural.

    ¡°Yes, I have a student I really want to sponsor.¡±

    ¡°Who do you want to sponsor?¡±

    He didn¡¯t know if this was a new inclination or if this was something she¡¯d thought of beforehand.

    When Seios asked with a curious expression, Leticia answered at once without hesitation.

    ¡°Ronan, Ronan Hiry.¡±

    ***

    ¡°It¡¯s good to see that the useless ore is being put to good use now.¡±

    The pink mine caretaker muttered in satisfaction to himself while he did his daily rounds.? The lower grade pink diamond, which is worth less than the higher grade stones, began to be used up quickly after it was used for the wishing bracelets.

    ¡°It would be great if pink diamonds came out.¡±

    As the highest-quality pink diamond hadn¡¯te out for nearly a decade. The caretaker was so ashamed that he sent a letter to Enoch instead of talking to him face to face. Enoch was always grateful to him for taking care of the mine, and made sure that he was always paid on time.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it time for you toe out?¡±

    The janitor wailed half-heartedly.

    Anytime is fine, he really wanted to find a little pink diamond so he would make Enoch happy.

    As he began his tenth half-hearted round.

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    He could clearly see something glinting, though it was faint. Immediately, the janitor put hisntern down and picked up the ore to examine it.

    ¡°This is¡­!¡±

    No matter what anyone said, it was obvious. It was so small that you could barely see it sticking up in front of your nose. Still, a pink diamond was a pink diamond.

    The caretaker smiled brightly and rushed to his quarters.

    ¡®Finally!¡¯

    He was able to deliver good news after 10 years.

 Chapter 36 - A Good Person, A Bad Person

    <h4>Chapter 36 - A Good Person, A Bad Person</h4>

    Chapter 36. A Good Person, A Bad Person

    ¡®I didn¡¯t do anything wrong, did I?¡¯

    Leticia let out a long sigh as she stopped by the square before returning to the Achilles¡¯ mansion.

    She had enough money to sponsor a child named Ronan Hiry. Elle gave her a lot of gold coins in thanks when the wishing bracelets became popr and made a lot of money.

    The only thing she was worried about now was that she might have done something unnecessary.

    Leticia wandered around for a long time before remembering what Seios said.

    [Has anything happened to youtely?]

    [What do you mean?]

    The question sounded unusual to Leticia, who asked what he meant with a strange expression, but Seios said it was nothing.

    ¡®There must have been something else.¡¯

    In the end, Leticia left the academy without an answer.

    ¡®I am d that you can use my energy to find out what my ability is.¡¯

    It wasforting to know the experiment will be starting soon, even if it¡¯s still uncertain whether it will be sessful or not.

    As Leticia passed by a merchant with a smile on her face.

    ¡°Here¡¯s your fortune for today. Come choose one!¡±

    The merchant shouted, waving a small container with long white pieces of paper. Leticia had been walking by without a second thought, stopped and looked back.

    Today¡¯s fortune?

    She knew there was no credibility at all, but somehow she was curious and handed a coin to the merchant and pulled out a note.

    Leticia immediately opened the note and read it. She tilted her head slowly to the side.

    ¡°Unexpected luckes to those close to you.¡±

    Luck? What good luck ising?

    Quickly reading the note again with a curious look on her face, a noble voice was heard right next to her.

    ¡°I wish I were that lucky.¡±

    ¡°You are¡­¡±

    It was the woman who¡¯d spoken to her at the Hunting festival.

    The red eyes that had been twinkling incessantly closed smoothly into a smile as soon as their eyes met. It was apparent to anyone looking that she was happy to see her, Leticia took a step back and looked closer at her opponent.

    ¡°You look different today.¡±

    Is it because her hairstyle and outfit are different?

    In just a few days, she looked quite the opposite of what she saw at the hunting banquet, so much so that she looked like a different person.

    The blonde hair, which had flowed smoothly down her back, was now so short it barely touched her shoulders. Her clothes were also a morefortable fit, so it looked much better on her.

    Her red eyes were still cold and creepy, like she was staring straight through you.

    ¡°Because I had to be formal then.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Leticia looked at the woman who spoke with a slight lift of her shoulders. She tried to move away from her, but the woman followed Leticia persistently.

    ¡°It¡¯s nice to see you here. Why are you alone today?¡±

    ¡°I had something to do.¡±

    Leticia walked forward without sparing a nce back. The woman had a pitiful look on her face as she asked.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you like me?¡±

    At that, Leticia unintentionally turned her head to look at the woman.

    She hadn¡¯t expected her to ask that so openly, so Leticia frowned slightly as if she was troubled.

    ¡°It¡¯s more that I¡¯m ufortable, than I don¡¯t like you.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    Leticia sighed, the woman seemed to refuse to acknowledge what she¡¯d said without hearing an answer.

    ¡°I feel pressured to be unterally friendly. I don¡¯t even know your name.¡±

    She didn¡¯t know how much the woman knew about her, so that she could feelfortable enough to talk to her like this.

    ¡°Oh, it was because of the name?¡±

    Upon hearing the reason, the woman smiled broadly with a rxed expression.

    ¡°Call me Keena.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not just because of the name. No, that¡¯s quite enough.¡±

    Leticia cut her off at once and walked away quickly again. She thought it would take a long time to exin it so she tried to leave, but Keena doggedly followed her.

    ¡°You¡¯re in a hurry, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°Why are you following me?¡±

    ¡°Bored.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You should talkfortably, too. We¡¯re the same age.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s face hardened at once when she casually mentioned her age.

    ¡°How did you know?¡±

    ¡°What.¡±

    ¡°My name, my age. What else do you know?¡±

    For some reason, Leticia had a strong hunch that she knew more about her, and that feeling came true.

    ¡°I know you much better than you think.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    Leticia stopped walking and grasped her skirt. Keena recognized the expression on her face and quickly raised her hands up.

    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t be so wary. I don¡¯t mean any harm.¡±

    ¡°You think I¡¯m going to believe that?¡±

    ¡°A little bit, maybe?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    There was no need for further conversation, so Leticia turned around with a loud huff. She wanted to get back to the Achilles mansion right away.

    But Keena seemed intent on following Leticia to hell and back, and not letting her go.

    ¡°Anyway, now that we¡¯ve met, let¡¯s pretend it¡¯s fate and walk together.¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be so stingy¡­ Watch out!¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t see properly in front of her because she was turned around shouting at Keena. She ended up bumping into a man who wasing from the other side. Keena grabbed her shoulder btedly. She was still grateful for the catch, otherwise she would have fallen to the ground.

    She looked to Keena and gave a nod of thanks for the rescue. Then she turned to the man she had bumped into.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I wasn¡¯t watching where I was going. Ah¡­¡±

    As soon as she recognized the person who she ran into, Leticia let out a shallow sigh.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that your sister?¡±

    ¡°I think you¡¯re right.¡±

    ¡°The sister who was expelled from the Leroy family?¡±

    Xavier was surrounded by his ssmates, who seemed to havee out to rx after training.

    ¡®It¡¯s bad enough to have run into Irene, but Xavier too.¡¯

    She kept running into people who were ufortable at the sight of her today.

    He tried to pretend that he was okay, but he was already showing signs of difort.

    Xavier stared at Leticia and frowned stiffly.

    ¡°Who¡¯s my sister? It¡¯s been a long time since she was emunicated.¡±

    He wasn¡¯t wrong, but the words somehow horrified a corner of her heart.

    Leticia clenched her teeth and smiled. Her mouth felt dry and her fingertips were trembling.

    ¡°I never had a brother like you.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t stay disheartened because she was abandoned.

    On the contrary, she wanted to show that she was doing well without them.

    It was at the moment that Leticia tried to pass Xavier with a calm expression.

    ¡°Do you want me to read your fortune to you?¡±

    Keena spoke to Xavier, while quietly looking back and forth between him and Leticia. When did she pick that up? She was currently holding a note with today¡¯s fortune written on it.

    Xavier frowned as if he was displeased, but Keena casually opened the note. As soon as she checked it, the corners of her mouth rose while she wore a peculiar expression.

    ¡°Be careful because you¡¯ll get angry if you talk uselessly.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Today¡¯s fortune is for you.¡±

    Keena kindly smiled and put the note in Xavier¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Don¡¯t show how empty your head is.¡±

    ¡°How dare you! Do you know who I am?¡±

    Leticia stepped in front of Xavier as he tried to roughly grab Keena.

    ¡°Stop it!¡±

    ¡°She insulted me first! How dare amoner talk to me like that!

    ¡°You¡¯re the one who¡¯ll lose if you make any more of a fuss, Xavier Leroy.¡±

    At some point, the people of the square began to gather. They whispered as they watched Leticia and Xavier in the center of amotion.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Xavier.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, you don¡¯t have to deal with them anymore.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go back now.¡±

    The ssmates tugged Xavier¡¯s arm, worried about the whispering around them. Xavier stared fiercely at Leticia and Keena before turning away.

    Keena watched them leave with glittering eyes and asked Leticia.

    ¡°How did I look? Wasn¡¯t I cool? I was quite useful, wasn¡¯t I?¡±

    Her eyes sparkled like a puppy dog looking for apliment. Leticia couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    She couldn¡¯t tell if she was a good person, or a bad person. What she did know is that she was grateful for what Keena had done for her.

    ¡°Yes, thank you.¡±

    ¡°Only in words?¡±

    ¡°Then what else do you need?¡±

    ¡°There needs to be a reward.¡±

    ¡°What kind of reward do you want?¡±

    At Leticia¡¯s bewildered look, Keena gave a big grin instead of answering.

    ***

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Emil hadn¡¯t seen much of Xavier after he fell off his horse, so he¡¯d gone to see how he was doing. When he entered his room. Xavier had a serious look on his face, so he asked him what was wrong.

    ¡°I guess I wasn¡¯t lucky today.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±

    ¡°I ran into HER.¡±

    He could fully tell who Xavier was talking about without asking him who.

    ¡°There isn¡¯t anything on me, is there?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I washed up as soon as I got home because I heard I¡¯d be unlucky if I was with her.¡±

    His blue eyes were trembling with nervousness.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯re fine.¡±

    ¡°I hope so, but what¡¯s wrong with your face?¡±

    At first nce, Emil¡¯s expression seemed no different than usual. But to anyone who knew him well there was a slight hint of anxiety.

    Worried about his appearance, Xavier asked him carefully. Emil shook his head as if it was nothing.

    ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal. It¡¯s just¡­¡±

    The atmosphere of the house seems to have changed at some point, so he was worried.

    He thought he was just imagining at first. He first felt it when Leticia was emunicated, and figured it was normal for the atmosphere to feel chaotic and disjointed.

    He was wondering if it was really that simple. but he had his doubts.

    Somehow it felt ominous, so he must have had a dark expression on his face without realizing it. He looked at Xavier and pretended that it was nothing.

    ¡°How is your injury?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fully healed and I¡¯m training again.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a relief. Father has high expectations for you.¡±

    Soon there will be apetition between noble families to see who¡¯s better at swordsmanship. In the Leroy family, Xavier was the best at swordy and was expected to participate.

    ¡°You can trust me, I won¡¯t let you down.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, then I have to go.¡±

    ¡°Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to see Irene.¡±

    Lately, he couldn¡¯t leave her alone because he was always worried about her dreary appearance.

    Xavier clicked his tongue as Emil rose from his seat.

    ¡°Well, she lost her mind when she lost her test paper.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure she¡¯s just in shock because her grades have dropped.¡±

    ¡°It must be hard for you having to deal with that depressed girl.¡±

    At that, Emil grudgingly left Xavier¡¯s room. There wasn¡¯t a particrly deep conversation, but Xavier¡¯s physical condition had improved and he was relieved.

    So Emil walked slowly down the hall and went to Irene¡¯s room this time.

    ¡°Irene, it¡¯s me.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°IRENE?¡±

    No matter how much he knocked, there was no response. He could definitely hear clear movement in the room.

    ¡°I¡¯ming in.¡±

    At the end of the sentence, Emil carefully turned the doorknob into the room. As he circled the room, he saw a small impression of a body curled up at the desk.

    Emil slowly approached her.

    ¡°IRENE?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°IRENE!¡±

    ¡°Eh, Brother Emil!¡±

    Emil tapped Irene¡¯s shoulder slightly because he wasn¡¯t getting an answer from her no matter how much he called her. Only then did Irene notice him. She was surprised and quickly covered the paper she was writing with her hands.

    ¡°When did you get here?¡±

    ¡°I just knocked and there was no answer.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­ I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°What were you doing?¡±

    When Emil¡¯s eyes looked towards the paper, Irene quickly hid it under a book with a pale face.

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Irene seemed ufortable, so he pretended not to notice and asked her.

    ¡°How¡¯s your studying going?¡±

    ¡°Good. I¡¯m confident about this test.¡±

    She nodded as if he didn¡¯t need to worry, but her expression showed her anxiety. There was something strange going on, but he held back asking because he was worried if he asked more Irene might have a breakdown.

    ¡°Okay, work hard. I¡¯ll be rooting for you.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Brother.¡±

    Though she was barely smiling, Irene¡¯s eyes kept turning towards the door.

    She seemed to want him to leave as soon as possible. Emil had no choice but to leave the room after his words of encouragement. As soon as Emil was out of sight with the sound of the door closing, Irene breathed a long sigh of relief.

    ¡°Why did hee into the room?¡±

    She been shaking and out of breath the whole time

    With a much lighter expression on her face, Irene checked the paper she had hidden under the book.

    ¡®This is just a precaution, I prepared it just in case.¡¯

    She repeatedly bit her lips.

    Irene¡¯s small paper was filled with magic forms.

    *************************************

 Chapter 37 - Blood Of The Extinct Fami

    <h4>Chapter 37 - Blood Of The Extinct Fami</h4>

    Chapter 37. Blood Of The Extinct Family

    ****

    ¡®I don¡¯t think she¡¯s a bad person.¡±

    But I don¡¯t think she¡¯s a good person.

    Leticia had arrived at the Achilles¡¯ mansion, and ttened her lips thinking of Keena. If there was one thing she was certain of, it was that she was a very suspicious person.

    ¡®I¡¯d better be careful.¡¯

    Keena¡¯s strange way of knowing so much about Leticia still bothered her.

    [What kind of reward do you want?]

    She wanted to pay her back immediately, so she could get rid of any reason to meet again.

    A big grin spread across Keena¡¯s face as she realized Leticia¡¯s intention.

    [We¡¯ll meet again anyways, so I¡¯ll tell youter.]

    At the end of that remark, Keena turned around saying she had something to do first.

    Thanks to her, Leticia was able to arrive at the Achilles¡¯ mansion earlier than expected, but a part of her mind was still confused.

    ¡®I hope we never see each other again.¡¯

    It wasn¡¯t a very good meeting.

    She had an ominous feeling that she would continue to get involved with Keena.

    Leticia tried to calm her anxiety and entered the mansion.

    ¡°Sister!¡±

    Elle was waiting for Leticia as soon as she opened the door and ran to meet her.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Did something happen?¡±

    Elle had a serious look on her face, and Leticia¡¯s face turned serious as well. Instead of answering, Elle grabbed Leticia¡¯s hand and dragged her to the drawing room.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll know when you see it.¡±

    At that, Leticia looked nervously at Elle and picked up her pace. Enoch and Ian were already waiting for them in the drawing room.

    Worried about how serious it must be, Elle urged her along without giving her a chance to look at the other two.

    ¡°Come quickly and look at this.¡±

    ¡°This is¡­.¡±

    ¡°Finally, a pink diamond came out!¡±

    Elle pointed to the small box with a very excited face.

    The size was so small that it was only seen when it was right in front of your eye, but the color was clear and brilliant.

    ¡®This is a pink diamond.¡¯

    Leticia blinked several times and stared at the tiny form of the pink diamond. It was like looking at a little flower seed.

    Leticia was enchanted by it and murmured subconsciously.

    ¡°Pretty¡­¡±

    ¡°Right! It would have been much better if this kernel was a little bigger.¡±

    Elle jumped up and down as if she couldn¡¯t hide her joy while speaking. It was only after Ian told her to calm down that Elle stopped hopping around.

    Leticia was watching the scene with a smile.

    ¡°If you look at it like this, you¡¯ll find a prettier and bigger jewel next time.¡±

    ¡°I know! Whew, if you sold the mine you would have never found this little gem.¡±

    The mere thought of it was appalling. Elle was energized and glued herself to Enoch¡¯s side.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t we going to be rich, Brother?

    ¡°Don¡¯t make a fuss.¡±

    Unlike his rebuking tone, he patted Elle¡¯s head gently.

    As Leticia watched the scene happile, her eyes met Enoch¡¯s. As soon as their eyes met, Enoch smiled brightly at her. Feeling shy, Leticia turned her head slightly.

    Seeing the two, Elle and Ian smiled conspiratorially and decided to slip away.

    ¡°I¡¯m off because I suddenly remembered I have something to do.¡±

    ¡°I have an Imperial Civil Service exam soon, so I¡¯ll go study now.¡±

    They were already out of the drawing room before Leticia had time to stop them.

    Leticia watched the two leave, powerless to stop them. She slowly lifted her head when she felt a gaze on her. She looked towards Enoch, who was still smiling brightly.

    She felt strangely shy and awkward and began to fidget.

    ¡°Was the training hard?¡±

    ¡°It was very hard.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Surprised by his words, Leticia quickly examined Enoch¡¯s body. She was worried he was hurt somewhere, but she heard a smallugh above her head.

    ¡°So, could you hug me for a second?¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    ¡°To cheer me up.¡±

    Leticia hesitated for a moment before she opened her arms for him. She wasn¡¯t even the one who asked for the hug, so she didn¡¯t know why her face was getting hot. Enoch was smiling nonchntly so she felt even more embarrassed.

    ¡°Oh, no¡­¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­.¡±

    As she was about to take a step back because she couldn¡¯t speak. She felt a warmth on her hand. When she lowered her head, she saw arge hand wrapped around hers. She was surprised and tried to sneak it away but his long fingers intertwined with hers.

    ¡°I¡¯d like you to tell me why not.¡±

    Leticia shook her head to hide her red face, it seems he didn¡¯t n to let go unless she told him why.

    ¡®How can I say that I¡¯m feeling shy?¡¯

    When she closed her mouth because she couldn¡¯t bear to say that, she heard a disappointed voice in her ear.

    ¡°You gave me a hugst time.¡±

    ¡°When did I ever?¡±

    It was the kind of words that said, if he asked she would always hug him.? Startled, she looked up and immediately met Enoch¡¯s gaze squarely. Enoch moved Letisha¡¯s hair behind her ear with a warm smile on his face that could melt anyone who saw it.

    You¡¯re finally showing your true colors.

    ¡°Don¡¯t make fun of me.¡±

    He had a disappointed voice before, but now he has started to sound hesitant again as if he had never tried to make her feel guilty.

    Leticia poked his cheek and turned towards the pink diamond. She whispered quietly because she was amazed every time she thought about it.

    ¡°It¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve actually seen a pink diamond.¡±

    It was a jewel with the special meaning of ¡®Eternal Youth and Beauty¡¯ and ¡®Wishesing true¡¯. Perhaps because of its value, the pink diamond sparkled like a star despite its very small size.

    ¡®Come to think of it¡­.¡¯

    [Unexpected luckes to those closest to you.]

    ¡®That was how the fortune went.¡¯

    It might be a coincidence.

    An ecstatic smile crossed Leticia¡¯s face briefly, she grabbed Enoch¡¯s hand tightly and said.

    ¡°I wish I had another pink diamond, a big one.¡±

    He said one hadn¡¯te out in almost 10 years, so she sincerely hoped that more would rain down like a waterfall.

    Enoch quietly watched her desperate wish, then smiled and nodded.

    ¡°I wish for that too.¡±

    ¡°Then it¡¯s bound to happen.¡±

    Leticia grabs hold of Enoch¡¯s uncaught hand.

    She wished again that only good things woulde to the Achilles family.

    ***

    Before long, the first examination for the Imperial CIvil Service has approached. Leticia followed Ian to the test site, and was trying to suppress her nervousness and sped Ian¡¯s hand.

    ¡°People might think you¡¯re the one here for the exam¡±

    He said it with a harshugh.

    Leticia looked up in surprise at the remark, Ian smiled calmly and asked.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I was going to say, Ian.¡±

    She didn¡¯t know why she was nervous when she wasn¡¯t the one taking the exam.

    Letician smiled awkwardly and smoothed her skirt with her hands. Ian lightly shrugged his shoulders.

    ¡°As you can see, I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s just unfamiliar.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    He was right.

    It was the first time someone came with him because they were worried about him and wanted to support him. It was awkward and unfamiliar for him, but he wasn¡¯t in a bad mood about it.

    Rather¡­

    ¡®I think he¡¯s rather delighted.¡¯

    Enoch had to enter the Imperial Pce, and Elle had plunged into another business venture, so Ian was alone.

    He was capable of going to the test site alone, but he¡¯d be lying if he said he wasn¡¯t disappointed when no one went with him.

    Unexpectedly Leticia joined it as if it was normal.

    ¡°Ian.¡±

    She quietly called out his name and slowly wrapped her hands around Ian¡¯s cheeks, her blue eyes looked straight into his eyes.

    ¡°Do your best.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    At that, Ian stared at Leticia in stunned silence.

    Leticia didn¡¯t tell him to pass, she just asked him to do his best.

    It sounded as if she was telling him that it was okay if he messed up.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll do my best.¡±

    Ian squeezed Leticia¡¯s hand to tell her not to worry and tried to enter the exam site. That¡¯s when Leticia felt a gaze behind her, and looked back in curiosity.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Emil Leroy.

    A sigh almost escaped her mouth as soon as she faced his cold and rigid expression.

    ***

    ¡°You¡¯re looking much better. Business seems to be going well for youtely.¡±

    Marquis El said at their first meeting in a long time. Marquis Leroy¡¯s face was much pastier than thest time he had seen him.

    ¡°It¡¯s the same as usual, but people talk nonsense.¡±

    He talked as if it was nothing, but the corners of his mouth were drooping down.

    Marquis El was watching him with a strange expression, and spoke softly.

    ¡°I heard you¡¯re behind on the wages for your miners.¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about? It¡¯s been a long time since I took care of that properly.¡±

    Marquis Leroy bounced around from ce to ce with different excuses. Marquis El shook his head as he squinted in suspicion.

    ¡®People are saying he doesn¡¯t have any funds. I¡¯m sure it¡¯s not a big deal.¡¯

    He didn¡¯t think they needed to talk about it since it seems like he¡¯d solved it well.

    ¡°Yeah, if it¡¯s you, I¡¯m sure you have it all in hand. Actually, that¡¯s not the problem right now.¡±

    ¡°Why? Did something happen?¡±

    Marquis Leroy, who had been busy paying miners and working on mining projects again, asked with a curious look.

    Marquis El had been frowning for a while as if he was troubled. He lowered his voice.

    ¡°The Erebos family who people said were extinct.¡±

    ¡°Why are you talking about that unlucky family?¡±

    ¡°Because it¡¯s important.¡±

    After checking if there was anyone else in the drawing room, Marquis El whispered quietly.

    ¡°I heard that the bloodline of the family is still alive.¡±

    ¡°What¡­.?¡±

    As he listened, he couldn¡¯t believe it. Marquis Leroy put down his teacup loudly. Hisplexion began to turn pale, but Maquis El didn¡¯t notice and continued.

    ¡°That¡¯s what the Imperial Family has been fussing about these days. I¡¯m trying to keep it quiet, but there are a few people who have already noticed.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Anyway, you should be careful. I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll hold a grudge against the Imperialist nobles.¡±

    Unlike Marquis El, who spoke casually while drinking his tea, Marquis Leroy¡¯s legs were trembling.

    ¡®That family¡¯s children are still alive?¡¯

    It was indeed unpleasant news to hear that the body you thought was dead and buried, sprang back to life.

    Marquis Leroy struggled to keep a straight face and rose from his seat.

    ¡°I¡¯d better get going. I¡¯ve been busytely.¡±

    ¡°Okay, take care of yourself and I¡¯ll see you next time.¡±

    Marquis El nodded without saying a word about his friend who seemed to be quickly evacuating his seat.

    As he was about to leave the drawing room, Marquis Leroy stopped walking and looked back.

    ¡°So who¡¯s alive? Daughter? Son?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the thing. I don¡¯t know. There must have been a couple of kids in that family.¡±

    Nothing was certain yet.

    Just the fact that the blood of the family was alive somewhere.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure everything will work out fine. Weren¡¯t the people of that family originally physical ability users, unlike our family?¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­ I¡¯m sure you¡¯re right¡­¡±

    Marquis Leroy was muttering to himself with a peculiar expression, he began to walk again and left the drawing room. As Marquis El quietly watched him walk away, he frowned and stroked his chin.

    ¡°Hm¡­¡±

    It was clear that something bizarre was going on.

    ****************************************************************************

 Chapter 38 - I Did My Best

    <h4>Chapter 38 - I Did My Best</h4>

    Chapter 38: I Did My Best

    For Leticia, Emil was the proudest and most reliable brother of all. No matter what happened, he wouldn¡¯t panic. He would be rational and cool headed in all of his judgments and would find a wise solution.

    Emil had been exceptionally precocious from an early age, and people around him secretly said that he wasn¡¯t even human. Only one person didn¡¯t think that, Leticia never felt that way about him. Rather, she thought he was great at reading situations calmly.

    ¡®Yes, I used to think that.¡¯

    But not anymore.

    No matter how clever and intelligent he was, it wasn¡¯t right for him to ignore and disregard her on the grounds that she didn¡¯t have an ability.

    ¡®I expected to run into you here.¡¯

    She could no longer hold in her sigh and it spilled out of her mouth.

    Leticia struggled to hide her emotions and looked back to Ian. He was staring at her with an expression that she couldn¡¯t make out.

    ¡°Ian.¡±

    Leticia quietly called to Ian while holding tightly to his hands.

    ¡°Do your best.¡±

    She wanted to tell him to do well, but she didn¡¯t want to add to the pressure he was feeling by saying something like ¡®Try Harder¡¯.

    Actually, that was what she wanted to say to Emil the most.

    It was always sad to see him being held down by the expectations of their family and Father without even realizing it.

    ¡®I can¡¯t say this right now.¡¯

    No, I didn¡¯t want to do it any more.

    All the family that was so important to her were out of her hands now.

    She just wanted her sincerity to reach Ian now.

    ¡°Please do your best, Ian.¡±

    ¡°Sister.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be cheering you on.¡±

    While she was worried that he might feel pressured while she was speaking to him, Ian held Leticia¡¯s sleeve tightly with an expressionless face.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll do my best. I¡¯ll try my best. I mean¡­¡±

    Ian peeked up at her and gently smiled.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you talk morefortably when Ie back?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m your younger brother, but you still use polite speech.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best to look good.¡±

    An excited smile spread across his impassive face before she knew it.

    Leticia nodded and smiled softly, as he seemed reluctant to release her sleeve.

    ¡°Alright. You should go in, Ian.¡±

    No matter how hard she thought about it, it was amazing.

    At first, it was unfamiliar and difficult to even call each other¡¯s names, but now she can call his namefortably. In addition, they were feeling close enough that Leticia could stroke Ian¡¯s head.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be rooting for you.¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±

    She could still feel Emil¡¯s gaze on them, but Leticia continued to still smile down at Ian without turning around.

    ***

    ¡°What? Ian? Isn¡¯t that Ian Achilles?¡±

    ¡°I guess Ian Achilles is here for the test, too.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the point? He¡¯s going to fail anyway.¡±

    Emil¡¯s ssmates murmured as they watched Ian.

    They were allughing at him for trying to be an Imperial Officer without attending the Schstic Academy, which he couldn¡¯t afford to attend.

    ¡°It¡¯s a waste of money for him to take the exam.¡±

    ¡°I know, but the person next to him¡­¡±

    A ssmate who recognized Leticia standing next to Ian nced at Emil and his words trailed off.

    ¡°Those two are walking around with each other.¡±

    ¡°I feel sorry for him.¡±

    The whispers grew louder, but Emil only heard Leticia and Ian¡¯s conversation.

    ¡°Do your best.¡±

    ¡°Please do your best, Ian.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be cheering you on.¡±

    Emil felt increasingly strange at what she was saying while holding hands tightly with Ian.

    Something was bothering him. No, that invasive feeling seemed to upset his stomach to the point where it felt constricted. The feeling of hitting rock bottom reached the climax at Ian¡¯s words.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you talk morefortably when Ie back? I¡¯m your younger brother, but you still use polite speech.¡±

    As soon as he heard that, Emil burst outughing.

    ¡®Younger brother?¡¯

    How long have you known each other? Are you trying to y house?

    Leticia¡¯s eyes opened wide in surprise and she looked somewhat embarrassed, so Emil felt a bit of satisfaction at that.

    Leticia was a person who couldn¡¯t let go of her family even if they abandoned her. It was unseemingly to ask such a person to speakfortably with them because he was younger than her.

    Emil looked at the pitiful Ian and tried to enter the exam room first.

    At that moment.

    ¡°Alright. You should go in, Ian.¡±

    Emil stopped walking without realizing it and looked back. Leticia was nodding her head with a smile. Strangely enough, she seemed pleased with Ian¡¯s words. Emil couldn¡¯t move a step from that spot.

    ¡°Huh¡­¡±

    An annoyed exhale flowed out of him.

    It¡¯s obvious that she¡¯s making a fool of herself, but she doesn¡¯t know that and just keeps saying it¡¯s fine.

    ¡®I¡¯m annoyed.¡¯

    He didn¡¯t know why it bothered him so much either.

    However, he hated the sight of the two standing together so much that he wanted to tear them apart right away.

    Emil entered the examination hall while biting his lips furiously.

    ¡°I hope he fails the test, so I don¡¯t have to see his face again.¡±

    He really wanted Ian to be unable to face Leticia.

    ***

    ¡®I didn¡¯t expect to see you like that.¡¯

    It wasn¡¯t until she lost sight of Ian inside the test site that Leticia let out a long sigh. She could still remember Emil¡¯s gaze on them.

    Cold frosty eyes.

    ¡®I¡¯m starting to get used to it.¡¯

    She still felt embarrassed and ufortable whenever she ran into her younger brothers. Fortunately, it wasn¡¯t as difficult or as painful as it used to be.

    It¡¯s just annoying to look at.

    ¡®I¡¯m letting go.¡¯

    Whenever she realized this feeling, Leticia felt that she had given up on her family to some extent. She wasn¡¯t too happy about it. She felt some bitterness and mixed feelings about it.

    Leticia arrived at the square and looked around after struggling to calm down. Familiar bracelets were seen on the wrists of passers-by.

    ¡®Wishing bracelets are still popr.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t know that it would seed like this.

    When she saw people smiling happily about the bracelets, Leticia felt proud of Elle and herself.

    ¡®Come to think of it, I haven¡¯t visited Countess Aster yet.¡¯

    She suddenly remembered the day when she gave the wishing bracelet to Count Aster and wished the Countess to get well soon. She was so busy that she didn¡¯t have time to meet with the Countess.

    ¡®I¡¯ll need to write a letter and send it off to her.¡¯

    The Count said that his wife had regained her health, but Leticia was still worried.

    She began walking again when.

    ¡°Is that you Leticia?¡±

    Leticia slowly turned towards the dulcet voice. There stood a nobledy with a startled face.

    ¡°Countess Aster¡­?¡±

    ¡°Oh, my God! It is you!¡±

    As soon as Countess Aster realized it was Leticia, she stepped closer with a bright smile.

    ¡°I never thought you¡¯d grow up this beautiful. I almost didn¡¯t recognize you because you¡¯re so pretty.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Countess. How have you been?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve been well.¡±

    Countess Aster nodded in delight and gently pped her hands.

    ¡°Let¡¯s not do this here, let¡¯s move somewhere else.¡±

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I should havee to see you sooner.¡±

    The ce where Countess Aster chose was a caf¨¦ with a good atmosphere. Sitting side by side, Leticia bowed her head in shame.

    ¡°Oh don¡¯t say that. I¡¯m not disappointed.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just d I was able to see you like this.¡±

    Countess Aster firmly stopped her from apologizing.

    Leticia lifted her head slowly with a small smile on her face.

    ¡°I heard what happened to you from my husband.¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t understand what she was saying at first, then btedly realized what she meant and sighed. It seemed she¡¯d heard the truth about her being expelled from the Leroy family.

    ¡°I see¡­¡±

    ¡°Is there anything ufortable or difficult about staying at the Achilles¡¯ mansion?¡±

    She was ready to take her to Aster¡¯s residence if she told her she was even slightly inconvenienced.

    ¡°Yes, everyone is so nice to me. Meeting such good people is the luckiest thing I¡¯ve ever had happen in my life.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m so d to hear that.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m so indebted that I really hope I can repay them someday.¡±

    At that point, Countess Aster asked what she had been up to at the Achilles¡¯ mansion.

    Leticia smiled brightly and talked about the wishing bracelets she¡¯d made with Elle that had be a huge sess. That she had just seen Ian off for his Imperial Civil Service exam.

    Finally, she talked about Enoch.

    ¡°At thest Hunting festival, Duke Enoch gave me the crown ofurels.¡±

    ¡°Oh, really?¡±

    Countess Aster¡¯s lips gently rose in a smile when she heard that Leticia had received theurel crown that was given to the victor of the Hunting festival. Leticia continued with another story.

    ¡°I received a white rose too.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I know it doesn¡¯t mean much, but still¡­¡±

    ¡®I was so happy.¡¯

    As soon as she uttered herst words, Leticia shook her head to hide her blushing face.

    Countess Aster looked at the cute face Leticia was making.

    ¡°You like Lord Achilles a lot.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Then you don¡¯t?¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s, um, uh. I mean¡­¡±

    As she tried to speak, Leticia opened and closed her mouth repeatedly. It didn¡¯t seem right to deny that she was right.

    She was unbearably mortified.

    ¡°Is it that obvious¡­?¡±

    She gently bit her lip and fanned her cheeks with her hands. She could feel the warmth on her palms from her face flushing.

    Countess Aster¡¯s mouth never stopped smiling, for Leticia looked so lovely.

    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re doing well, Leticia.¡±

    She was so worried when she heard that she was emunicated. She¡¯d heard from Count Aster that Leticia was living in the Achilles¡¯ mansion, but she wanted to see for herself that she was really okay.

    For the Count and Countess, Leticia was like a daughter that they wanted to cherish and love. This warm and affectionate child whoforted her when she was seriously ill and living day by day with great difficulty.

    ¡°If you need any help, feel free toe and see me.¡±

    ¡°Countess Aster¡­¡±

    ¡°You are precious to me and my husband. So don¡¯t feel pressured.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Nothing would bring us more joy and happiness than being able to help you.¡±

    Her eyes were looking at Leticia full of sincerity without any lies. She could feel the Countess put her whole heart into her words, so Leticia was feeling emotional.

    ¡°Thank you, Countess.¡±

    There were many people who valued her.

    That fact made her heart tighten and feel warm.

    ¡°To me, the Countess and Count are precious people.¡±

    She felt like she was about to cry at the fact that people who were precious to her valued her as well.

    ***

    The Imperial Civil Service has a first and second round of exams.

    Today, the results of the first exam that took ce a few days ago were released.

    Leticia quietly came to see the list of sessful candidates with Ian.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She looked at it over and over again, just in case she missed it.

    But by all ounts, Ian¡¯s name was not on the list.

    *************************************************************

 Chapter 39 - Someone Wins, Someone Loses

    <h4>Chapter 39 - Someone Wins, Someone Loses</h4>

    Chapter 39. Someone Wins, Someone Loses

    Leticia looked at the list in confusion. Unfortunately, Ian¡¯s name was nowhere to be seen.

    ¡°Ian¡­¡±

    She carefully grabbed Ian¡¯s sleeve and looked at him. Ian was looking at the list with an expressionless face, and slowly lowered his head. When he eventually looked at her again, he spoke slowly.

    ¡°I failed.¡±

    His tone was too dry and heartless to say that he was a failure.

    Leticia sped Ian¡¯s sleeve tighter.

    ¡°Ian.¡±

    She didn¡¯t know how tofort him. Even when everyone else was off having a good time, Ian refused and concentrated on studying for this test.

    Knowing that, Leticia was upset for him.

    ¡°I know you¡¯ve been working hard.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Good job.¡±

    Leticia grasped both of his hands with even more force. She looked straight into his eyes and said.

    ¡°There are many things you can do, if not this.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°So it¡¯s okay.¡±

    Leticia believed in Ian¡¯s potential.

    Ian does his best while quietly working without being seen.

    There was no doubt that one day his potential would blossom.

    ¡°It¡¯s a little disappointing.¡±

    Ian stared calmly into her sparkling blue eyes, then leaned his head on Leticia¡¯s shoulder. Leticia patted Ian on the back because she felt bad that he thought he needed to pretend to be calm as if nothing happened.

    ¡°That¡¯s for sure.¡±

    ¡°I should have tried harder.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve done well enough now.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for doing your best.¡±

    She meant it.

    His determination to take the test was great and the result was disappointing, but she was proud of Ian who took the test.

    Ian¡¯s expression, which touched Leticia¡¯s heart, was looking morefortable.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do better next time.¡±

    ¡°Yes, you can work hard next time.¡±

    ¡°My name will be on the list then.¡±

    ¡°Yes, it will.¡±

    Leticia smiled and stroked Ian¡¯s head gently, but she didn¡¯t notice that Ian¡¯s eyes were on the person behind her.

    ***

    He aced it.

    ¡°Congrattions, Emil!¡±

    ¡°I knew it would be you!¡±

    ¡°Emil got first ce on the exam!¡±

    Emil wasn¡¯t too happy, because the result was only natural. He just thanked his colleagues for congratting him out of courtesy.

    Emil looked at the list once again and as soon as he checked, his mouth curled up into a grin.

    ¡®Ian Achilles name is nowhere to be seen.¡±

    The fact that Ian had failed the first test made him even happier.

    ¡®There¡¯s no way you would¡¯ve passed.¡¯

    He never expected someone who never attended the Schstic Academy to pass the exam, even with months of studying. Ian seemed to be foolish and ignorant. He took the test while brimming with confidence.

    Emil looked around in a cheerful mood. He wanted to see Ian¡¯s defeated face after he failed the exam.

    The reality was not what he had expected.

    Why?

    ¡°There are many things you can do, if not this.¡±

    That¡¯s what you¡¯re saying?

    Emil watched Leticia and Ian with a confused expression.

    It was expected that Leticia wouldfort him. She might be pathetic andcking, but she was kind and gentle by nature.

    He thought there would be a light twinge.

    Instead of thanking him for doing his best.

    ¡°There are many things you can do, if not this.¡¯

    Emil stiffened when he heard them both say that they believed in his potential.

    ¡®Why am I so¡­.¡¯

    His fists tightened involuntarily.

    ¡®Don¡¯t you feel like you lost?¡¯

    Even though he failed the exam, he couldn¡¯t understand the positive atmosphere. It was strange that Leticia didn¡¯t look disappointed, they didn¡¯t even argue.

    Emil left his seat because of an unknown difort.

    He felt like something was welling up from inside him.

    ***

    ¡°Shall we eat something delicious together to make us feel better?¡±

    They didn¡¯t want to go back home yet, so Leticia made that suggestion to Ian. However, his gaze was directed elsewhere.

    ¡°Ian¡­?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I like that idea.¡±

    She thought he wasn¡¯t listening, but Ian nodded slightly.

    Then he carefully told Leticia something that hade to mind.

    ¡°There¡¯s something I want to do before that.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    Leticia tilted her head slightly and asked, but Ian smiled instead of answering.

    .

    .

    .

    The first thing Leticia and Ian did when they arrived at the square was go to the bookstore.

    ¡°What are we doing here?¡±

    ¡°I wanted to see what I did wrong.¡±

    Ian smiled softly and looked over the books. He was already looking to study and to get better as soon as the exam was over. Leticia had a little smile on her face because she was proud to see him working hard to learn from his mistakes.

    ¡°It won¡¯t take long.¡±

    ¡°Take your time.¡±

    Leticia nodded in satisfaction and looked around the bookstore.

    ¡®I need to find what I want to do, too.¡¯

    What she¡¯s good at.

    Her favourite thing.

    She was doing her best to be patient.

    A man, who had been sitting at one of the tables reading a book, suddenly got up and quickly left the bookstore. However, he¡¯d forgotten some of his papers on the table where he¡¯d been sitting.

    ¡°Ian, I¡¯m going out for a minute.¡±

    ¡°Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°Someone left this behind.¡±

    Leticia told Ian that she would be back soon, but he shook his head and followed her.

    She went out looking for the man right away. Fortunately, the man realized he¡¯d left some of his stuff behind, so she was able to catch him on his way back to the bookstore.

    ¡°You left this behind.¡±

    ¡°Oh thank you. Where do I leave my mind sometimes. Geez!¡±

    The man clicked his tongue and received the papers from Leticia. He looked back and forth between Leticia and Ian, then asked.

    ¡°Are you both students?¡±

    ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°Yeah¡­?¡±

    The man looked suspicious of their answers. His eyes turned towards the book in Ian¡¯s hand. It was a book mainly read by people preparing to be an Imperial official.

    As soon as he noticed where the man was looking, Ian said with an indifferent expression.

    ¡°I¡¯m preparing for the Imperial Civil Service.¡±

    ¡°Oh, is that so? As far as I know, today is the announcement of the first exam results.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately I failed.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­ I see.¡±

    Hemented as if he was sad, and then asked a question out of curiosity.

    ¡°Why do you want to be an Imperial official?¡±

    When asked like this, everyone would answer the same way.

    ¡®I have always been interested in the Imperial Civil Service and I¡¯m studying to get good grades in the exam. I want to work hard and expand my talents.¡¯

    But Ian gave an unexpected answer.

    ¡°I want to make money.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no job that¡¯s as stable and pays as well as an Imperial official.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    The casual way Ian said it made the man think he¡¯d misheard at first. However, there was no change in his neutral expression.

    ¡°You mean you only want to do it for the money?¡±

    Somehow the man felt a little disappointed.

    Contrary to his honest and frank impression, he openly revealed his greed.

    Ian then asked something that he was curious about.

    ¡°Is that a bad thing?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Money doesn¡¯t make you happy, but you¡¯re unhappy without it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to make my family unhappy, even if I can¡¯t make them happy.¡±

    It meant that the reason why he wanted to make money was for his family.

    The man btedly released the meaning of his words and closed his mouth.

    ¡®Money doesn¡¯t make you happy, but if you don¡¯t have it you¡¯re unhappy¡­.¡¯

    It may sound acrimonious and pessimistic, but it was straightforward. Realizing that it¡¯s all about his family, it sounded very touching.

    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right.¡±

    He wanted to make money because he didn¡¯t want to make his family unhappy.

    It wasn¡¯t as bad as he thought. It was a very realistic and clear motive for applying.

    He was sincere enough toe to the bookstore to check the books as soon as he saw the result of failing the first announcement. His belief that he would not make his family unhappy. He did not hide, or conceal, his belief for fear of being misunderstood, and his confidence oozed from his facial expression andnguage.

    In addition, if you were applying to be an Imperial Civil servant, after seeing the paper the man left behind, most would have wanted to look good in front of him. It was impressive because of his honest attitude to express his thoughts without trying to be expedient.

    The man also knew that all aspiring Imperial Civil servants were smart and ambitious for their own advancement, but he felt that a young man, with a motive to protect others, must be a high-ranking civil servant.

    ¡°Can you tell me your name, if you don¡¯t mind?¡±

    Warner Russel, a professor in the higher echelons of the Imperial Civil Service, had never written a rmendation letter for any of his students.

    But today, for the first time, there was someone he wanted to write a letter of rmendation for.

    ***

    ¡°What happened, Brother? Did you pass?¡±

    ¡°Of course he did.¡±

    Xavier criticized Irene for asking such a question.

    But Emil went into the mansion without responding.

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    The expression on his face was unusual, so Irene asked cautiously. Emil stopped and turned around. In front of him stood Xavier and Irene with puzzled faces.

    ¡®Of course¡­¡¯

    Strangely, the words caught in his throat today.

    ¡°Yes, of course.¡±

    Emil clenched his fist while speaking.

    Of course he passed.

    Of course he was epted¡­

    ¡®Why aren¡¯t you happy for me?¡¯

    He didn¡¯t know.

    Xavier and Irene had no idea what Emil was thinking and just nodded silently.

    ¡°See, my brother would never be eliminated¡±

    ¡°Of course, you¡¯ll pass the interview too.¡±

    Emil was choked up and felt as if someone was suffocating him.

    He wanted to get back to his room as quickly as possible, he gave his thanks while pretending to be calm. Emil closed his door, and after making sure he was alone, released the breath he was holding in.

    Standing against the door for a moment, his legs gave out and he sank down.

    ¡°Of course¡­¡±

    Of course, of course, of course, of course.

    Emil is smart, so of course he can do everything well.

    It¡¯s weird to make a mistake.

    You¡¯re smart.

    ¡®No, that¡¯s not what I want to hear.¡¯

    A warm voice spread to his ears as soon as he unwittingly tore at his hair.

    [I know you¡¯ve been working hard. Good job.]

    She would generously embrace you, as if to say it was okay to fail.

    [Even if it¡¯s not this, there¡¯s a lot you can do.]

    They were words of faith in his potential.

    His family thought nothing of his efforts, and the results he achieved. No, they took it for granted. The reason was simple.

    ¡®Just because I have an excellent mind¡­¡¯

    It¡¯s not that he didn¡¯t have to try, but no one acknowledges it.

    ¡®I¡¯m frustrated.¡¯

    He couldn¡¯t breathe properly, he felt like he was drowning.

    Emil breathed out slowly trying to calm down, but the voice lingered in his ear.

    [I don¡¯t want you to sacrifice yourself for our father.]

    [Your life is precious.]

    A worried look on her face and eyes that truly cherished him.

    He¡¯d momentarily forgotten.

    The reason he wanted to be an Imperial Official was not because he wanted to, but because it was his father¡¯s will.

    ¡°I¡­.¡±

    Emil swept down his face with a distressed look.

    What had he missed? How long has he been¡­ ?

    ********************************************************

 Chapter 40 - Welcome To

    <h4>Chapter 40 - Wee To</h4>

    Chapter 40. Wee To

    ¡°I failed.¡±

    Ian immediately told Enoch and Elle his results upon arriving at the Achilles¡¯ mansion. Leticia opened her eyes wide in surprise, she never expected for him to announce it so bluntly.

    Elle, who was sitting and drinking tea, suddenly jolted up with a look of shock.

    ¡°What happened to their eyes? How can they miss such talent?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because I didn¡¯t do well on the test.¡±

    ¡°Whatever it is!¡±

    Elle trembled in anger and looked at Ian.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    She btedly worried about Ian.

    Ian replied meekly.

    ¡°Just¡­ It¡¯s a bit of a shame.¡±

    He said this with an indifferent expression, but the way he rubbed his neck looked like he was more than a little disappointed. Enoch had been quietly watching the scene, then he reached out to pat Ian¡¯s head.

    ¡°Good job.¡±

    He didn¡¯t say much.

    However, Ian felt greatfort from those words, and smiled happily.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do better next time.¡±

    His pride did not allow him to give up like this.

    Enoch smiled lightly at Ian, then turned his eyes slowly to Leticia with a serious expression.

    ¡°Oh, you have a visitor.¡±

    ¡°A visitor?¡±

    Leticia tilted her head slightly and pointed to herself. Did he mean that she had a guest?

    Enoch gave a slight nod to her question. As he gestured towards her room, Leticia followed him with a curious look on her face.

    ¡®My lord?¡¯

    Was there anyone who woulde to see her?

    She grabbed the doorknob while trying to think about who it could be, but no one came to mind.

    ¡®No way¡­.¡¯

    Leticia opened the door wide with a pounding heart. As soon as she recognized the person standing in the middle of the room, her voice rose in surprise.

    ¡°Mary!¡±

    ¡°Mydy!¡±

    With an expected face, Leticia quickly approached and held Mary¡¯s hand tightly.

    ¡°Why did youe here?¡±

    ¡°I heard you were staying here.¡±

    ¡°Mary¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯te to you sooner.¡±

    Mary bowed her head in shame, Leticia waved her hand and denied it.

    ¡°Thank you so much foring. Did youe here because you were worried about me?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m here to work for the Achilles¡¯ family.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    She blinked at the first word, Mary smiled softly and recalled the past.

    After Leticia was ousted, the atmosphere around the Leroy home was good at first.? It was as if they were drowning in happiness, and they began to party and livevishly. Not only that, they began to indulge in their vices.

    Dealing with Diana¡¯s evil was not hard, because she was used to it. What bothered Mary was the scornful gazes of the other servants.

    [She was right next to the Eldest daughter, right?]

    [Be careful when you¡¯re going together with her. What if our luck disappears?]

    [If it¡¯s like that, I¡¯m going to avoid them.]

    As they began to brazenly exclude them, the maidservants who had been taking care of Leticia began to leave, one or two at a time. A few of them tried to make a good impression on Diana, and a few left the Leroy residence on their own.

    Mary wanted to quit, but she wasn¡¯t in a position to do so.

    ¡°My brother entered the Academy of Magic.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it turns out that the reason he was sick so much was because he couldn¡¯t control his mana.¡±

    She happened to meet a professor from the Academy of Magic while walking along the street with her brother. The professor immediately recognized her brother¡¯s talent and suggested he attend the academy. Unlike Mary, who was worried about being separated from her brother for the first time in their life, her younger brother epted the professor¡¯s proposal with a solemn expression.

    Mary wanted her brother to get along well at the Academy because there was no better opportunity for him.

    She still needed to pay for her brother¡¯s tuition to the academy. Luckily her brother was healthy now and she didn¡¯t need to spend money on medicine for him.

    In the end, Mary needed to earn money to pay for the tuition, so she had to stick it out at the Leroy mansion.

    She hoped to work for Leticia again someday.

    Finally, the moment she was able to see her again had finally arrived.

    ¡°What about the tuition?¡±

    Leticia always worried when she was having a hard time.

    She¡¯d noticed immediately and nodded her head that it was okay.

    ¡°Yes, there is someone who wants to sponsor my brother.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯ve already paid for my brother¡¯s tuition.¡±

    Mary wanted to express her gratitude to the sponsor, but she had no way of knowing who the person was since the donation was given anonymously.

    She decided to wait quietly, thinking that one day she might meet the person by chance.

    ¡°I¡¯d love to meet them and thank them when I get the chance.¡±

    She said this with a smile. Leticia held Mary¡¯s hand and nodded like it would definitely happen.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be right back, I need to quickly go talk to someone.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Wait a moment, please.¡±

    She left the room right away, telling her to sitfortably in the chair.

    Mary¡¯s words made her realize btedly that she had someone she needed to thank as well. She wanted to see them right now.

    Leticia visited the person immediately, and knocked as soon as she arrived to visit.

    ¡°Come in.¡±

    A low, but firm voice.

    Leticia opened the door and almost jumped in. As soon as she saw Enoch, she rushed over to him.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me beforehand!¡±

    He told her there was a guest waiting for her in her room, so she was surprised when she opened the door.

    As soon as their eyes met, it was immediately obvious that Leticia was upset. Enoch, on the other hand, his facial expression didn¡¯t change as he said.

    ¡°I did it on purpose to surprise you.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s too much.¡±

    The problem was that instead of being angry, she wanted to grin happily.

    Eventually Leticia couldn¡¯t hold back her smile and said.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°You hired Mary.¡±

    Thank you for epting Mary as an employee, Leticia held onto Enoch¡¯s sleeve tightly.

    She had been worried about Mary, who was left alone at the Leroy mansion. She¡¯d felt bad because she couldn¡¯t afford to bring her here.

    ¡°I told you, I want you to befortable.¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles¡­¡±

    Leticia blinked briefly at his words, gently bit her lips and leaned her head against Enoch¡¯s arm.

    She was strangely touched by the words he¡¯d said. At that time, a gentle voice washed down over her head.

    ¡°I have something to thank Leticia for as well.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Thank you for taking care of Ian for me.¡±

    Warm and heartfelt words, Leticia wriggled into Enoch¡¯s arms.

    ¡°He¡¯s my brother now.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Oh, of course. He¡¯s not my real brother, but he¡¯s as precious as a brother.¡±

    Leticia became anxious at theck of response and looked up slowly. As soon as they gazes met, she could see a smile begin to y across his lips.

    ¡°What about me?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia slipped down to hide her heated face. Enoch bent down and approached her closely enough to look eye to eye with her.

    ¡°How precious am I to you?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡±

    Leticia shrank away from his soothing urging, but there was nowhere for her to go to avoid his gaze.

    ¡°I¡¯m curious.¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles is¡­¡±

    It was definitely a difficult rtionship to define. Leticia was always happy and joyful when she was with him, and she felt a great sense of gratitude.

    As she was about to answer his question while her heart pounded incessantly.

    ¡°Hey! Hey! Look at this!¡±

    A sudden knock on the door interrupted the two. Enoch tried to ignore it but the vigorous knocking continued at the door and he sighed sadly.

    ¡°Come on in.¡±

    As soon as he answered, the door suddenly opened and an excited Elle approached them.

    ¡°Hurry up and look at this.¡±

    She was jumping up and down while she was talking. After receiving the letter from Elle, Enoch looked at the contents with Leticia.

    ¡®Additional sessful candidates for Imperial Official, Ian Achilles¡­?¡¯

    At the unexpected happy news, Leticia smiled broadly at Ian. As soon as she tried to congratte him, she shut her mouth.

    Ian¡¯s expression didn¡¯t look very good.

    ***

    ¡°I heard that you passed the first exam.¡±

    Marquis Leroy said to Emil as they sat at the dinner table together.

    Emil paused and put on a nonchnt look.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t let your guard down, because the exam isn¡¯t over yet.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You have to get through to the end.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Father.¡±

    Emil nodded at Marquis Leroy¡¯s words and began eating again. Strangely, his face was too gloomy for a person who had passed an important exam. Everyone looked at Emil and thought it must be because he¡¯s tired.

    Only Irene wriggled her hands with a nervous look on her face.

    ¡®Brother Emil passed his first test.

    It was definitely a good thing, something to be celebrated.

    ¡®If I screw up this test¡­¡¯

    She could feel her hands shaking more and more, so she tried to squeeze them to make them stop.

    ¡°Irene.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you have exams soon at the Academy?¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you preparing well?¡±

    The whole family looked at Irene when Marquis Leroy began talking to her. Irene¡¯s jaw clenched at the sudden change in conversation, and she kept hearing his words in her head.

    [I don¡¯t want to see your face right now, go back to your room.]

    [I¡¯m disappointed, Irene.]

    Irene had gonepletely pale, and jumped up involuntarily. As the rough sound of the chair dragging spread, the family members looked up at Irene in surprise.

    ¡°I¡¯m a little under the weather, so I¡¯ll be leaving first.¡±

    Having no confidence to stand there any longer, Irene quickly left her seat as if she were running away.

    She could feel everyone looking at her leaving, but she ran out of the room without looking back.

    ¡®I feel nauseous.¡¯

    She just had to take the test as usual. It was a test she¡¯d taken once or twice before, and she didn¡¯t know why she was feeling so nervous and suffocated.

    .

    .

    .

    It was the first day of the exam.

    She¡¯d brought a note containing the magic forms, but never opened it. There were only questions that she knew, so all her hard work paid off.

    ¡®Yes, I can do this well without this paper.¡¯

    She couldn¡¯t believe she¡¯d brought this paper with her, just because of how nervous and anxious she had been feeling.

    Determined not to make mistakes next time, Irene began to check which answers were wrong.

    ¡®Unfortunately, I got one wrong.¡¯

    If she keeps doing this well, she¡¯ll win first ce, and that would guarantee her advancement.

    She had a satisfied smile on her face, when she heard the conversation of the other students as they walked by.

    ¡°There¡¯s a kid who got a perfect score on their magic history test.¡±

    ¡°Really? Who is it?¡±

    She was sure her name would be mentioned.

    But it was someone else¡¯s name that came up.

    ¡°Ronan Hiry.¡±

    ¡°What? Themoner who just entered the school?¡±

    ¡®¡°His grades were lowst semester, how could he have done better this semester.¡±

    ¡°Did he cheat or something?¡±

    ¡°What? No way.¡±

    As soon as the sound of the conversation became distant, Irene stiffened in her seat.

    ¡°Thatmoner got a perfect score?¡±

    The summary book in her hand became even more crumpled.

    **************************************************************

 Chapter 41 - Tell You Want You Want To Hear

    <h4>Chapter 41 - Tell You Want You Want To Hear</h4>

    Chapter 41. Tell You Want You Want To Hear

    A professor named Warner Russel wrote a letter of rmendation and Ian passed the exam.

    Elle read the letter carefully to Ian. A bright smile spread across her face as she spoke happily about it.

    On the other hand, Ian nodded with an ufortable expression. Leticia noticed immediately and carefully asked Ian.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong Ian?

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t seem happy.¡±

    At that, Enoch and Elle turned to Ian. Ian was embarrassed for a moment that he¡¯d been pouting. He sighed and struggled to smile.

    ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal.¡±

    ¡°Why? What is it?¡±

    There was something not quite right about the way he said it.

    When Elle tried to question him, Enoch answered for Ian.

    ¡°It¡¯s because he¡¯s afraid the letter of rmendation might cause strange rumors.¡±

    ¡°Strange rumors? What do you mean?¡±

    Leticia was listening quietly and blinked with a curious look. Enoch rubbed the back of his neck and said.

    ¡°The rumors can be that he got the referral by bribery or cheating.¡±

    There was a time when someone received a letter of rmendationte that let them pass.

    A few jealous people spread stories about how the student bribed the professor to write the letter of rmendation, and some people believed it.

    ¡°You know that¡¯s all crap, Ian.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I know.¡±

    ¡°So you should just do the best you can.¡±

    Enoch patted the dark-looking Ian on the shoulder and encouraged him to do well. Next to him, Elle alsoforts Ian by telling him he got this based on merit.

    Leticia was silently watching the three people, and smiled. Leticia happily watched them caring for and cherishing each other. She cautiously added.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be there to cheer for you, too.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    She apanied him with the hope that he would feel morefortable, but Ian¡¯s expression was excited because he seemed to like it when she went with him.

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    Leticia smiled broadly and said,

    ¡°Let¡¯s do our best again!¡±

    ***

    ¡®I wish I could find something I want to do.¡¯

    Leticia visited the square out of habit, and gave a small sigh. She was still in a situation where she could not reach her dreams and goals.

    She felt trapped alone in a huge maze because she didn¡¯t even know how to find her way out.

    Leticia was wandering around like she was lost, when a merchant passed something to her.

    ¡°Take this one, Miss.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    Leticia thanked the merchant for the unexpected item.

    ¡®Another fortune.¡¯

    She slowly opened it.

    [Don¡¯t be impatient. Find what you want to do slowly and good days will surelye.]

    ¡®Don¡¯t be impatient¡­¡¯

    Leticia stopped and read the note again and again for a long time.

    Unlike Enoch, Elle and Ian, who were moving forward step by step, she was bing increasingly anxious. She felt pathetic about being unable to do anything and felt like she was faltering.

    It was a phrase that seemed to know her situation well.

    ¡®They¡¯re good words.¡¯

    Even though it didn¡¯t seem like much, itforted her a little more than she thought it would. She was feeling more rxed now.

    It was as if she had a small unknown ally looking out for her.

    ¡®I want to say something nice like this too.¡¯

    Most people had something that they wanted to hear the most during difficult times. Knowing her mind well, Leticia suddenly felt that she wanted to be a warmfort to other people with phrases written on notes.

    ¡°Then what do I want to hear the most?¡±

    What do other people want to hear the most?

    After walking around the square, Leticia returned to the Achilles mansion.

    On the way, she wondered what words would cheer her up the most.

    ¡®What I want to hear the most is¡­¡¯

    You¡¯re doing well.

    It¡¯s okay to stop for a second.

    ¡°Saying that I¡¯m a person that is worthy of giving and receiving love.¡±

    Come to think of it, they were all obvious words.

    There¡¯s nothing wrong with being greedy, and being selfish is not a bad thing.

    She forgot that for a while because she had been neglected by her family for so long.

    ¡®How should I convey these words?¡¯

    Even after arriving at the Achilles mansion, Leticia was still troubled over it. When she subconsciously walked to the drawing room, she came across Elle.

    ¡°You¡¯re here?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I just got home.¡±

    ¡°Would you like a cup of tea?¡±

    ¡°That would be nice, Elle.¡±

    Leticia agonized for a long time, even after Elle handed her a cup of tea. Elle, who¡¯d been quietly watching her, curiously asked her.

    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just wondering what I¡¯m good at.¡±

    Elle gave her a funny look, like what she just said was silly.

    ¡°You¡¯re good at a lot of things, Sister.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re especially good at baking tarts and cookies.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true, but¡­¡±

    She wasn¡¯t as good as a professional baker, but she wasfortable making some for those closest to her.

    At Elle¡¯s word, Leticia thought of something and jumped to her feet.

    ¡°Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to the kitchen.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡±

    Leticia immediately went to the kitchen and Elle followed her.

    Contrary to doing something as soon as she arrived in the kitchen, Leticia faltered briefly in front of the flour.

    ¡°I want to give cookies and notes together.¡±

    It seemed awkward to give it to someone separately. She was wondering if there was another way to give cookies and notes at the same time, when Elle piped up beside her.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you put a note inside the cookie?¡±

    ¡°In the cookie?¡±

    ¡°Yes, is that going to be too weird?¡±

    While speaking, she nced at Leticia. Leticia was staring back with a stunned look, then she smiled brightly.

    ¡°That¡¯s a great idea.¡±

    Leticia thanked Elle and immediately began making the dough. The hand-made dough was spread thinly into the shape of small pancakes so that the size and shape could be even.

    ¡®I think I can put in a long note.¡¯

    Leticia tried baking some dough in the oven, but she couldn¡¯t put notes in the first patch because she overbaked them and they broke apart in her hand. The next batch, Leticia took out as soon as she saw the edges were slightly dark, this time she pulled them out at the perfect time. As soon as she folded them down the middle, the half-moon-shaped cookies wereplete.

    ¡°How about bending it a little in the middle so it¡¯s easier to break open?¡±

    ¡°I think that¡¯s a good idea.¡±

    She thought it was very nd looking, so Leticia did what Elle suggested and gently folded the cookie in the middle.

    ¡°So I break the cookie at the folded part?¡±

    ¡°Yes, then you¡¯ll get the note.¡±

    The ingredients didn¡¯t cost as much as she thought, and it was easy to make. So she was going to be able to make more than she thought. It takes a little bit of work, but it definitely wasn¡¯t difficult.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to make several notes.¡±

    Elle was quietly listening to Leticia say this. Come to think of it, she forgot that she needed as many notes as there were cookies.

    ¡°Yes, I should¡­¡±

    She thought it might have been better to make the notes first, but Elle tilted her head towards Leticia.

    ¡°Can I help, too?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d appreciate your help.¡±

    ¡°Then let¡¯s do it together.¡±

    They immediately returned to the drawing room with a pen and paper. Elle sat beside Leticia and began writing her notes. Elle followed Leticia¡¯s instruction to write positive affirmations, and nced at what Leticia had written already.

    Leticia was writing one word at a time with a serious expression.

    ¡®Hm¡­¡¯

    While looking at Leticia, Elle looked down at the note she¡¯d written.

    ¡®I wish you could have this one.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t know if she could keep it, but she wrote it down anyway.

    ¡®It¡¯s not a bad statement, so it¡¯ll be okay.¡¯

    Leticia could feel Elle¡¯s gaze on her as she concluded her current note and started on the next one.

    ¡°What did you write?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a secret.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m curious.¡±

    She poked Elle in the side, but she shook her head in refusal.

    Elle made another suggestion to distract Leticia from her disappointment at being rejected.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you have Ian and Enoch try the cookies?¡±

    ¡°Should I?¡±

    She wanted to know what those closest to her would think before she tried selling them to strangers.

    Acting quickly, Letisha made cookies with the notes in them and showed them to Enoch and Ian. As the two looked at the cookies, Letisha wasn¡¯t quite sure what they were thinking.

    Enoch immediately smiled and said to Leticia.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s a good idea. It¡¯s interesting that there¡¯s a note in the cookies.¡±

    ¡°The cookie shape is unique, but it¡¯s easy to break in half.¡±

    Ian also said it was a good idea, and Leticia was feeling more rxed. She asked them to pick out a cookie and check their notes.

    Enoch had been looking at the cookies for a while before slowly picking one.

    ¡°What does it say?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia asked what Enoch¡¯s note said with a twinkle in her eyes, but Enoch nced at Elle instead of answering. It wasn¡¯t Leticia¡¯s handwriting, so he could recognize it at once.

    Even though she knew that re well, Elle pretended not to know and snuggled up close to Leticia.

    ¡°Mine says:?If you try without hesitation in what you want to do, you will get good results.¡±

    ¡°Ian picked a good note for this time of year. What about you Lord Achilles?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a secret.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She didn¡¯t know what Enoch and Elle were hiding, while saying it was a secret.

    She couldn¡¯t ask anymore because they obviously didn¡¯t want to talk about it, even though it seemed like nothing.

    ¡°Sister, let¡¯s hurry up and go to the square.¡±

    ¡°Huh? Do you have something you want to buy?¡±

    When Leticia looked at her curiously, Elle just pulled on her wrist to try and urge her along.? Elle¡¯s actions seemed indecipherable.

    ¡°We need to see other people¡¯s reactions.¡±

    ¡°Today?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­ wait a minute¡­!¡±

    Elle took Leticia out, saying that there was no time to hesitate.

    Enoch was staring silently as their figures disappeared in the distance. Once more he looked down at the note he had chosen.

    [Express your feelings honestly to other people.]

    It sounded like it was saying ¡®Confess quickly!¡¯ and augh slipped out.

    ***

    ¡°It¡¯s going to be great.¡±

    When they arrived at the square to present the cookies, Leticia began to tremble. Elle immediately recognized that Leticia was nervous and began to rub her back tofort her.

    ¡°Is this how you felt, Elle?¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    ¡°When we came to show off your wishing bracelet.¡±

    ¡°I was nervous, but¡­¡±

    It was the moment when she finally took a step towards her dream.

    It was hard at first because her dream was a secret. When she told Enoch about her dream, he cheered her on. She was happy and it felt like she was given permission to dream big.

    It was then.

    ¡°Oh, is that you Leticia?¡±

    ¡°Countess Aster?¡±

    A bright smile spread over Leticia¡¯s face as she recognized the Countess. When Countess Aster¡¯s gaze drifted to Elle, Leticia introduced them.

    ¡°This is Elle of the Achilles family, who I¡¯m indebted to. Elle, this is Countess Aster, who cared for me as a child.¡±

    She looked at the two of them with hope that they would get along. The two were looking at each other as if they were observing the other and trying to decide if they were worthy of being around Leticia.

    Countess Aster, who had been staring at Elle for a while, slowly turned her head and asked Leticia.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°I was selling cookies.¡±

    Leticia smiled broadly and showed her the cookies she¡¯d baked. As the Countess looked at her proud look on her face, she suddenly remembered the cookies that Leticia brought her a long time ago.

    Every time she came to visit the Countess, she brought something with her. One day, she brought small cookies, another time she brought little flowers, and she always brought a smile.

    Countess Aster smiled excitedly and looked down at Leticia¡¯s cookies.

    ¡°It¡¯s a unique shape.¡±

    ¡°Yes, when you break it in half, you get a note.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    With a curious look, the Countess asked Leticia.

    ¡°Can I buy one?¡±

    ¡°Sure, pick one.¡±

    Leticia nodded and the countess picked up one of the thickest of the cookies. Perhaps because it was empty inside, it broke easily with just a little bit of effort.

    The moment she checked the note.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°What does it say?¡±

    She was curious why the Countess¡¯ expression had darkened when she only wrote positive words.

    Countess Aster, on the other hand, read the note over and over again without saying a word.

    [It¡¯s been a hard few days, but don¡¯t me yourself. You¡¯ve done well.]

    She remembered the sad and heartbreaking memory of losing her child. Her child was a gift from God, but she worried that she¡¯d lost him because she was an inadequate mother.

    She was doing better now, but doubts still lingered in a corner of her mind, and sometimes she suffered alone.

    Looking at this little note, she thought it was time to forgive herself.

    ¡°Can I buy several of these?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I want to give some out at a party.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t just leave, she wanted to convey this lovely child¡¯s warmth to other people.

    ¡°No, you can just take them.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    Countess Aster spoke to Leticia with a determined look.

    ¡°If you give something, you get something.¡±

    ¡°But¡­.¡±

    ¡°If you have timeter,e visit me like you used to.¡±

    Countess Aster proudly paid and received Leticia¡¯s cookies, then looked at Elle slowly.

    ¡°Your name is Miss Elle Achilles, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right.¡±

    There was no looking away from the straight stare, but it didn¡¯t feel bad because the Countess¡¯ eyes were full of worry for Leticia.

    ¡°Please take care of Leticia from now on.¡±

    She hadn¡¯t expected those words, Elle¡¯s eyes opened wide and nodded with a smile.

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    Leticia once again thanked Countess Aster as she was leaving. Leticia turned towards Elle as the Countess disappeared into the distance.

    ¡°It was only one person, but it didn¡¯t go as badly as I thought.¡±

    ¡°I told you so, it¡¯s going to be great.¡±

    Countess Aster bought all of the cookies, so Leticia and Elle quickly returned to the mansion.

    The next day, a letter arrived for Leticia.

    The letter said that a student named Ronan Hiry, whom Leticia had sponsored, had cheated.

    *********************************************************************

 Chapter 42 - I Didnâ€™t Want You To Be

    <h4>Chapter 42 - I Didn¡¯t Want You To Be</h4>

    Chapter 42. I Didn¡¯t Want You To Be

    ¡®Cheating¡­?¡¯

    In case she misread it, Leticia checked the letter once again, but the content didn¡¯t change.

    The day she decided to sponsor that child, she asked them to contact her in case something happened. She didn¡¯t imagine it would be about something like this.

    ¡®I didn¡¯t think he¡¯d cheat.¡¯

    We had only seen each other once, but she didn¡¯t think he would do anything disgraceful with that sincere face.

    ¡®I¡¯d better go see him.¡¯

    Come to think of it, she was just supporting his tuition. She suddenly wondered if it was okay to visit him just because of the news that he had cheated.

    She really wanted to make sure if the child had actually cheated, or if there was a misunderstanding.

    Leticia sighed and put the correspondence in the drawer and stood up.

    ¡®It¡¯s better to go check for myself.¡¯

    She would be disappointed if he cheated, but if it was a misunderstanding she wanted to help as his sponsor.

    ¡®I hope it¡¯s a misunderstanding.¡¯

    Nothing is certain yet, so she hoped the child was not a dishonourable child.

    ***

    Upon arriving at the Academy of Magic, Leticia went to the teacher¡¯s office first. She was going to listen to the circumstances first.

    Even before the teacher¡¯s door opened, a loud voice could be heard from inside.

    ¡°I told you, it¡¯s not my brother!¡±

    The voice sounded familiar.

    Leticia opened the door cautiously, thinking she was imagining it. She was sure it was a person she knew who was arguing with the professor.

    ¡°Everyone saw the cheat sheeting out of that child¡¯s desk.¡±

    ¡°Please listen to my brother, he says he doesn¡¯t know where it came from.¡±

    As she slowly approached, the sorrowful voice became closer.

    She¡¯s shorter than me, with long brown hair tied in pigtails. When she checked the side of her face, Leticia found out that she was correct that she recognized the woman¡¯s voice.

    ¡°Mary¡­?¡±

    At the call of her name, Mary turned around curious about who called her.

    Then Mary¡¯s eyes opened wide in surprise as their eyes met. At the same time, Leticia remembered what Mary had told her before.

    [My brother entered a magic academy.]

    ¡®Right, she said that.¡¯

    She never thought the magic academy would be this one.

    Mary seemed puzzled as well.

    ¡°How long have you been here, My Lady?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been here for a little while¡±

    ¡°Oh, I see¡­¡±

    Mary nodded her head without responding to Leticia¡¯s casual answer.

    The professor btedly noticed Leticia.

    ¡°Why are you here?¡±

    ¡°I got a letter about the child I¡¯m sponsoring.¡±

    ¡°Can you tell me the name of the student?¡±

    She could feel Mary¡¯s eyes on her when the professor asked for the name, but Leticia remained calm while answering.

    ¡°It¡¯s Ronan Hiry.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    When Leticia answered quietly, Mary was the first to respond.

    ¡°Do you happen to know thisdy?¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Mary was having trouble answering because she looked like she was going to cry at any moment.

    .

    .

    .

    She went to the lounge for Academy guests, but both Leticia and Mary stood in awkward silence.

    Mary looked as if she did not know what to say, so Letitia began first.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that the child I was sponsoring was your brother.¡±

    Leticia gave a friendly smile to try and ease her mind.

    Mary had her head bowed down when she slowly began to speak.

    ¡°First of all¡­. Thank you so much, My Lady.¡±

    Mary clenched her hands on the table to help hold back her tears before she continued.

    ¡°I was happy to hear that Ronan has a talent for magic, but it was actually very difficult to pay for his tuition.¡±

    She had worked hard to earn money for her sick brother¡¯s medicine. When she was told her now healthy younger brother had a talent for magic, she congratted him more than anyone else.

    What awaited Mary was a huge amount of tuition for the schooling, whichmoners could not easily afford.

    ¡°I was very happy and grateful to hear that Ronan had a sponsor and that he didn¡¯t have to worry about his tuition fees anymore.¡±

    Even now, she could recall his face clearly.

    Her brother had always felt badly about the sacrifices she made to pay for his medicine, and then his tuition. He was determined to care for his sister once he graduated.

    ¡°He said he would study hard and repay those who supported him so that he could live without regret.¡±

    ¡°Mary¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not because he¡¯s my brother, but Ronan¡¯s isn¡¯t a child who would cheat. He¡¯s a child who would never think of doing such bad things, even though he¡¯s still so young.¡±

    Tears that Mary had been holding back for so long began to flow down her cheeks.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know why this happened¡­¡±

    If Ronan was to me for anything, it was studying so hard he lost sleep.

    The result of trying to be a distinguished student who his sister, and sponsor, could be proud of.

    Mary couldn¡¯t stop crying because she still couldn¡¯t believe what happened.

    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, Mary. Hmm?¡±

    Leticia handed over a handkerchief because Mary¡¯s crying face made her sad.

    Mary simply wiped her tears with her sleeves, saying she did not dare to receive her handkerchief.

    ¡°I can¡¯t face you.¡±

    ¡°Mary¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to show you such a disgraceful sight when you¡¯ve helped my brother and I so much.¡±

    Mary kept saying thank you, sorry, and thank you to Leticia, even as she tried to swallow her tears.

    Mary¡¯s sobbing continued in the lounge.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Haaaa¡­¡±

    As soon as she left the lounge, a mixed sigh came out.

    By the time Mary¡¯s tears had stopped, Ronan had arrived and Leticia could talk to Ronan properly. He also seemed to have suffered a lot, and couldn¡¯t speak properly because his voice kept breaking.

    However, she was able to read enough of what he was trying to convey with his face.

    This is unfair and angering. At the same time, he felt frustrated.

    When he made eye contact with Leticia, he shook his head with a mortified expression.

    ording to Ronan, there was a cheat sheet in his desk that he¡¯d never seen or made before. He asked if anyone had seen someone suspicious, but it was difficult to find the culprit since all of the noble students were hostile towards him.

    ¡®I wish there was a way I could help him.¡¯

    She walked down the halls for a while, when Leticia came across Irene and she stopped in her tracks.

    ¡®What is this?¡¯

    She seemed to be nervously looking around for some unknown reason, so Leticia watched her.

    Irene¡¯s body was tense, and she was unaware of her surroundings.

    There were obvious signs of anxiety.

    ¡®That¡¯s weird.¡¯

    Irene had always been sensitive to trivial things since she was young. After Leticia was judged not to be family anymore, her feelings towards her family were frighteningly gone, so she felt very detached watching Irene now.

    Just as Ronan was being bullied and they were acting ignorant of the situation.

    ¡®Maybe¡­¡¯

    Is it rted to Ronan being used of cheating?

    She knew it was a far-fetched idea, but she couldn¡¯t shake her suspicions.

    Recognizing Leticia btedly, Irene was startled as soon as she made eye contact with Leticia and quickly left.

    It looked like she was running away.

    ¡°Irene¡­¡±

    No, right?

    I don¡¯t think so.

    Deep in thought, Leticia slowly turned around.

    Somehow she had a bad feeling.

    ***

    ¡°How was it?¡±

    Leticia arrived at the Achilles¡¯ mansion in the evening.

    Enoch approached her with a soft smile, as if he had been waiting for her toe home. She was trudging along without any strength, and as soon as she was close enough she hung off of Enoch¡¯s sleeve.

    ¡°Lord Achilles¡­¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    Leticia slowly told Enoch everything that had happened. From the day she decided to sponsor a child by chance, to her visit to the academy today because she¡¯d heard the child had cheated.

    As she spoke, she was confused and her face turned gloomy.

    ¡°He said he would never do it. I even asked him the test questions just in case, and he was able to answer them easily.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t think he was lying.¡±

    She wanted to clear up the misunderstanding that he¡¯d cheated, but she couldn¡¯t figure out a way to help. Leticia sighed sadly.

    ¡°Are there any other things you can tell me about the test?¡±

    ¡°I heard they introduced descriptive questions on this exam.¡±

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t that make this easier?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t understand what he meant, she looked at him in question and he lightly shrugged his shoulders.

    ¡°You should just look for someone who wrote the same short answers as the cheat sheet.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­!¡±

    Leticia briefly admired his unexpected suggestion, but soon another concern came to her.

    ¡°Would the person have written the exact same thing as the cheat sheet? I don¡¯t know if we¡¯ll catch someone with that method.¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re a first-time cheater, you¡¯ll definitely do something clumsy like that.¡±

    Leticia was surprised and shut her mouth.

    ¡®First-time cheater¡­¡¯

    Irene¡¯s face lingered in her head for a long time.

    Irene was always a precious and cute little sister to Leticia, who she always held in her arms because she was such a scaredy cat. However, now she felt a bit bitter when she thought of Irene.

    The next morning, Leticia left for the Academy in a rush.

    The professor was not pleased with Leticia¡¯s early visit, and refused Leticia¡¯s proposal immediately.

    ¡°I can¡¯t show you my student¡¯s tests.¡±

    She had already anticipated that the professor would refuse her request to see the cheat sheet and tests, so Leticia began to exin her reasoning with a calm expression, without showing a single sign of panic.

    ¡°If it¡¯s clear that Ronan really cheated, I will sponsor the school instead of him.¡±

    ¡°Still¡­¡±

    ¡°Sponsoring the school, not a student, doesn¡¯t sound like a bad deal, does it?¡±

    Unlike her gentle impression, she was determined not to step down easily, and the professor seemed troubled and stroked his chin for a moment.

    Soon he sighed as if it couldn¡¯t be helped.

    ¡°All right, I¡¯ll show you, but don¡¯t let others see you.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Professor.¡±

    Leticia thanked the professor and began topare the students¡¯ test to the cheat sheet.

    ¡®Hopefully¡­¡¯

    It was harder to find that she thought because there were a lot of students attending the academy.

    It was after checking half of the tests.

    ¡®There it is!¡¯

    As Enoch had theorized, there was a test who¡¯s answers were written exactly like the cheat sheet. Leticia immediately looked to confirm the name with a cheerful expression.

    As soon as she saw the name, her bright smile suddenly stiffened.

    ¡®I thought it was impossible¡­¡¯

    She couldn¡¯t believe what she was seeing, a sigh of disbelief escaped Leticia¡¯s lip.

    On the test, the name ¡®Irene Leroy¡¯ was neatly written.

    *********************************************************

 Chapter 43 - I Cant Protect You Just Because Youre Family

    <h4>Chapter 43 - I Can''t Protect You Just Because You''re Family</h4>

    Chapter 43. I Can¡¯t Protect You Just Because You¡¯re Family

    ¡®That¡¯s why you were so anxious.¡¯

    Leticia grasped Irene¡¯s test paper tightly.

    There was no mistake, the test and the cheat sheet had the same answers. Even the handwriting matched and could not be denied.

    ¡®Why¡­¡¯

    She had been admitted to the Academy of Magic based on her own merit, and had achieved excellent results.

    She couldn¡¯t understand why she suddenly started acting in such a spineless manner.

    Leticia jumped up and walked out of the staff room. She wanted to talk to Irene face to face right away.

    Fortunately, she was able to find Irene loitering near the corridor. Leticia sighed to herself as Irene looked around with a nervous expression on her face.

    As she slowly approached, Irene was startled by someone approaching and turned away as if to flee.

    Before she could escape, Leticia caught Irene.

    ¡°Irene, look at me.¡±

    Irene¡¯s eyes shook violently even though they¡¯d only just begun to talk.

    ¡°I have nothing to say.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Irene turned her head away as if she didn¡¯t want to look at her, and Leticia let go of her wrist.

    There was no way she was going to back down from this.

    ¡°You¡¯ll regret this.¡±

    At that, Irene turned around to look at her. As soon as their eyes met, Leticia showed Irene the cheat sheet and test paper, as if she¡¯d been waiting for that moment.

    Irene¡¯s face began to turn blue after she saw the two papers together.

    She immediately tried to snatch the papers away from Leticia, but she lightly dodged her hand andughed.

    ¡°I would love for you and I to have a nice chat in a quiet ce. Shall we?¡±

    Irene swallowed the lump in her throat at the hard look on her gentle sister¡¯s face.

    What happened yesterday came to her mind while she was weakly following Leticia, who never looked back.

    ***

    ¡°Ronan Hiry got a perfect score on his magic history test.¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t he do poorly on thest test?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a little weird.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s unexpected. I thought the other kid had a perfect score.¡±

    ¡°Who?¡±

    When they asked as if they really didn¡¯t know, the student nced at Irene. Only then did they know who they were talking about, then they nodded with a short sigh.

    The conversation was too close to ignore, but Irene looked at her reference book as if she hadn¡¯t noticed.

    Turning the pages helped to give her strength.

    ¡®It¡¯s okay, I¡¯ll do better on this test.¡¯

    The exams are not over yet.

    As soon as the test began, Irene had an unexpected setback.

    ¡®I don¡¯t remember a thing.¡¯

    It was clearly written in the reference book, but strangely, she couldn¡¯t remember anything because her mind went nk. On the contrary, the more she looked at the test paper, the more she couldn¡¯t concentrate.

    ¡®What do I do?¡¯

    Half of the time had already passed. Even if she tried to calm herself down, the anxiety had already eroded her confidence.

    Then something crossed her mind.

    ¡®Just this once¡­¡¯

    Wouldn¡¯t it be okay if it was only once?

    She didn¡¯t bring it with the intention of using it, but she still needed it right now.

    Irene peeked at the note she had written, and filled in the answers.

    As soon as the test was over, Irene looked around. She wondered if someone had seen her. Fortunately, no one seemed to have noticed her strange behaviour.

    Shortly afterwards, the professor entered the ssroom and told everyone there was going to be an inspection. They needed to take out their belongings and make sure to empty their desks.

    Irene felt as if her head had gone nk again.

    Then a way out came to mind.

    [Ronan Hiry got a perfect score on the magic history test.]

    [Didn¡¯t he do poorly on thest test?]

    [That¡¯s a little weird.]

    ¡®There¡¯s no problem if he gets caught.¡¯

    Irene put the note in Ronan¡¯s desk drawer during the confusion over the unexpected inspection.

    When the professor began searching through everyone¡¯s belongings, the note was found in Ronan¡¯s drawer.

    ¡®No one will suspect her.¡¯

    That¡¯s why she put it in there.

    ***

    In an empty lounge.

    Leticia sat opposite Irene and waited to hear her exnation, but Irene just looked at Leticia in silence.

    No matter how long Leticia waited, Irene couldn¡¯t seem to speak. So Leticia started first.

    ¡°I¡¯ll give you an opportunity.¡±

    ¡°Opportunity¡­?¡±

    Her nervous face began to rx, little by little at the word ¡®opportunity¡¯. Her eyes started to twinkle in expectation.

    Irene¡¯s face quickly hardened though at Leticia¡¯s subsequent remark.

    ¡°Tell the professor you cheated.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    Irene asked back with a look of disbelief, as if she thought she heard wrong.

    Leticia repeated herself sternly, as if to reaffirm.

    ¡°You have to own up to your mistakes and take responsibility for your actions.¡±

    ¡°Responsibility? ¡­? What do you mean¡­?¡±

    Irene stuttered as if she wanted to pretend not to know even though she¡¯d heard it properly.

    Leticia felt her heart grow cold.

    ¡°You¡¯ve cheated, so you must be given a zero.¡±

    ¡°Wait, Sister!¡±

    ¡°Also apologize to Ronan, because that¡¯s who you¡¯ve damaged the most.¡±

    Ronan had been falsely used for something he didn¡¯t even do. So it was natural for Irene to apologize to him and score a zero on the test.

    Irene stayed silent.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia waited quietly for Irene, already expecting no immediate answer.

    Irene soon made up her mind and let out a long breath before speaking.

    ¡°Sister.¡±

    Her clenched fists rested on the table while she bit her trembling lip.

    Somehow Leticia had a hunch that something bad was about toe out of Irene¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°I can¡¯t do that. I don¡¯t even have my qualifications for the Imperial Wizard exam¡­¡±

    Even as she shrank back, the words that came out were a stubborn refusal.

    In the end, Irene chose not to correct her mistakes but to cowardly avoid and run away from her problems.

    Leticia sighed and rubbed her hand down her face.

    ¡®I thought there would be no more to be disappointed about.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t even know what to say, because even this time together felt empty and meaningless.

    Leticia turned her head away. Irene, who noticed this as a bad sign, urgently said.

    ¡°Myst test paper suddenly disappeared, so I have to do really well this time!¡±

    It was a risky performance, that¡¯s why she was acting more distressed, desperate and reckless.

    However, Leticia could see her impure intention.

    ¡°I know.¡±

    Leticia paused for a moment and looked at Irene with cool eyes. Irene could feel the energy of rebuke that filled those blue eyes, even though it was just eye contact.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you do something that you wouldn¡¯t be ashamed of?¡±

    ¡°But, sister¡­¡±

    Irene thought Leticia would listen to her after this. Her sweet older sister had never refused her request.

    The problem was she couldn¡¯t see the old Leticia in front of her.

    ¡°We¡¯re family, aren¡¯t we?¡±

    Irene could feel herself losing, she jumped up from her seat and grabbed Leticia¡¯s arm.

    ¡°You¡¯ve been emunicated, but we¡¯re still family.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°So please act like you don¡¯t know. Just this once, please?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Please just ignore it for me this once!¡±

    When Leticia didn¡¯t respond, she grabbed a hold of her hands and shook them.

    ¡®Until you do me this favor.¡¯

    ¡°It¡¯s not difficult.¡±

    ¡°Irene.¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t say anything, no one will know!¡±

    Irene¡¯s voice unconsciously grew louder as her anxiety grew.

    Leticia opened her mouth slowly, to reply to her.

    However, it was not the words Irene expected to hear.

    ¡°What would you do about Ronan, who will be harmed if I let you off the hook.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Do you really think it¡¯s right for him to take responsibility for what you¡¯ve done?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you feel bad for setting him up?¡±

    She was the cute and innocent younger sister she¡¯d always protected.

    Leticia already knew this was a long shot, but she didn¡¯t think it was toote.

    Even now, she hoped Irene would realize her mistake and choose to correct it.

    Sadly.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay because he¡¯s amoner. He¡¯s different from me.¡±

    ¡°Irene, you¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m family, why do you care more about someone unrted to you?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Sitting in front of her now was a stranger who didn¡¯t feel guilty about who their actions hurt, rather she happily allowed someone else to take the me for what she did.

    ¡®What am I doing right now?¡¯

    Leticia felt a sense of cynicism, and she smiled bitterly.

    ¡®There was no point in giving her a chance.¡¯

    She could feel her emotions darken with all of theseplex emotions.

    ¡°Just stop, I don¡¯t want to hear your excuses anymore.¡±

    ¡°Ah, Sister¡­¡±

    Irene¡¯s heart sank at her dull tone and looked away.

    ¡°Sister, I might be expelled.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I might be expelled from school.¡±

    Leticia was looking so different to Irene, so she clung to her with a tearful face. The more she did it, the colder Leticia pushed Irene away.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be responsible for something bad happening to an innocent person, and you act like I¡¯m threatening you with the consequences of your actions.

    ¡°Sister, that¡¯s not it.¡±

    ¡°Since when did you be like this?¡±

    The Irene she knew was a child who would never do something like this.

    She tended to avoid making mistakes, but she never put others in the line of fire when she did.

    ¡°I can¡¯t help it if you¡¯re expelled.¡±

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s all up to you.¡±

    As Leticia turned her head as if she had said her piece, Irene felt something seething inside of her.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you ignore this for the sake of your family?¡±

    That should be enough for Leticia to listen.

    Irene asked her to do this for her.

    She begged Leticia.

    How much more did she need to beg?

    Irene stared at Leticia in spite of herself.

    Nevertheless, Leticia¡¯s attitude remained as still and cold as ake in winter after the sun had set.

    ¡°Oh, I can¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°Sister!¡±

    ¡°This is for your own good.¡±

    Leticia coldly pushed Irene away as she stood up from her seat and left the lounge with the cheat sheet and test.

    Irene stared nkly at her back, then came back to her senses and followed Leticia.

    ¡°Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°The teacher¡¯s office.¡±

    ¡°Why the teacher¡¯s office? Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡±

    The pale-faced Irene quickly stepped in front of Leticia.

    ¡°Oh, no.¡±

    ¡°Move out of my way.¡±

    ¡°I told you no!¡±

    Holding onto Leticia¡¯s arms tightly, Irene began screaming.

    Everyone looked at the noise, wondering what was going on, but Irene was too busy trying to stop Leticia to notice.

    Leticia unintentionally pushed so hard that Irene copsed. At that, Leticia flinched for a moment.

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    As soon as she noticed the crowd, Irene struggled to hold back her tears and looked up at Leticia.

    She looked so sad and pitiful that she wanted to go to her and help her up.

    Then Leticia stopped in ce and recalled the conversation she¡¯d just been having with Irene.

    [Can¡¯t you ignore this for the sake of your family?]

    The harsh words stuck in her ears and wouldn¡¯t leave.

    Leticia had done everything for her family.

    Even at the age of seven, she¡¯d run errands to earn money for just a little bit more food for her siblings.

    ¡®But¡­¡¯

    No matter how hard she thought about it, this wasn¡¯t for Irene.

    Even if she was emunicated and no longer tied together by a family name.

    ¡°Sister¡­ Sister¡­!¡±

    A desperate cry was heard from behind her, but Leticia entered the teacher¡¯s office while biting her lip.

    ¡°You see this, right?¡±

    Leticia put the cheat sheet and Irene¡¯s test down on the professor¡¯s desk with a stony expression.

    The professor looked at Leticia in wonder when he saw the problems that Leticia pointed out with her finger, then his face immediately hardened.

    ¡°No, student Leroy would never do something like that¡­ You¡¯re not going to defend Irene Leroy after seeing her name, are you?¡±

    ¡°Oh no, no! I didn¡¯t do that!¡±

    Irene, who entered the teacher¡¯s officete, ran to the professor and shook her head vigorously.

    ¡°I just happened to write the same answers.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous, Irene. Your handwriting is the same here.¡±

    ¡°No! No!¡±

    Irene shook her head violently, while her whole body trembled.

    Students who¡¯d heard the noise in the hallway snooped around the teachers room, and began to eavesdrop. The professors around them looked like they wouldn¡¯t let this go easily either.

    They were forced to call Irene¡¯s parents, the Marquis and Marquess of Leroy.

    Leticia was also called to attend.

    *********************************************************************

 Chapter 44 - Itâ€™s Not Until Youâ€™ve Lost The Obvious

    <h4>Chapter 44 - It¡¯s Not Until You¡¯ve Lost The Obvious</h4>

    Chapter 44. It¡¯s Not Until You¡¯ve Lost The Obvious

    The letter that Leticia received asked her toe to the academy in connection with the cheating incident, but she guessed that there was a hidden agenda behind the invitation.? However, Leticia did not hesitate to go to the academy.

    When the professor asked her to wait in the lounge, she went ahead and sat down quietly to wait.

    Soon the door opened and an unexpected person entered the room.

    ¡°Long time no see.¡±

    Marquis Leroy sat across from Leticia with a slight disapproving frown on his face.

    He rested his elbow on his knee and put his chin on his hands. She didn¡¯t expect a friendly conversation to ensue.

    ¡°I know.¡±

    Leticia spoke briefly and clenched her teacup.

    ¡®Did they do this on purpose?¡¯

    She wasn¡¯t far off the mark with her guess.

    Looking at the fact that he was invited to the Academy, she could guess what would happen.

    Swallowing the sigh that was threatening toe out, Leticia faced the Marquis squarely. It was the first time she¡¯d seen his face since she was emunicated.

    She knew in her head that she¡¯d eventually have to see him again.

    Leticia felt more anxious meeting one of her parents, then when she met her younger siblings. Her hands trembled at the thought of it because she was always treated as a useless person.

    Leticia had wondered for a long time what she would do if the day came when she saw him again

    She still hadn¡¯t found the answer, then or now.

    One thing is for sure.

    She didn¡¯t want to put up with being hurt or being taken for granted.

    [No one deserves to be hurt.]

    A determined look and a friendly voice.

    That¡¯s what Enoch said to her before.

    Recalling those encouraging words, Leticia slowly began to speak.

    ¡°Why did youe to see me?¡±

    It was not natural for a family to hurt each other, but she was also confident that she would never hurt her family.

    She will always choose the right path no matter what.

    Leticia stared straight into Marquis¡¯ Leroy¡¯s eyes without trembling. The Marquis exhaled loudly, perhaps because he didn¡¯t like the look she was giving him.

    ¡°You ruined your sister¡¯s life, and you¡¯re still acting so self-assured.¡±

    That was expected.

    Leticia clenched her teacup hard without realizing it.

    They must have called her here because she didn¡¯t hide Irene¡¯s cheating.

    ¡°She ruined herself, don¡¯t put the me on me.¡±

    Leticia had never regretted the day when she revealed the truth instead of Irene, who neither admitted nor reflected on her mistake.

    On the contrary, she thought it was a relief that she knew so quickly.

    Marquis Leroy frowned grimly, he had different ideas on the whole event.

    Face to face with him, Leticia calmly arranged her feelings.

    ¡®You can put those feelings down.¡¯

    Even if she couldn¡¯t put all the feelings for her family down at once, she was confident that she would put them down one by one.

    The moment she met Marquis Leroy¡¯s sharp eyes, Leticia hardened at once.

    ¡°I thought you¡¯d wake up a little bit if you were kicked out, but I was a long way off. You still don¡¯t seem to be aware of your reality.¡±

    She felt that every word was meant to weigh down on her with a steely gaze that was meant to intimidate her.

    Her fingertips trembled, but Leticia managed to keep looking calm.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. On the contrary, I came to my senses when I was kicked out.¡±

    There was no more shaking or hesitation.

    ¡°I knew it wasn¡¯t natural to be discriminated against or ignored.¡±

    Her sincerity towards her family was not wrong.

    Leticia realized that they didn¡¯t deserve her sincerity after living with Enoch.

    ¡°It was Marquis Leroy who ruined Irene.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Despite the fact that Marquis Leroy treated her as a pathetic and terrible person, he ced the burden and responsibility for her younger, more capable, siblings on Leticia. If they didn¡¯t live up to his expectations, he ignored them. If they did live up to his expectations, he took their achievements for granted.

    If this was not enough, he also secretly pitted her younger siblings against each other to keep them in check.

    It may have been intended to encouragepetition, but it resulted in jealousy and envy towards each other instead.

    Recognizing this fact, Leticia always told her siblings.

    ¡®Your life is precious to you.¡¯

    ¡®You don¡¯t have to meet other people¡¯s standards.¡¯

    ¡®If you don¡¯t like it, you can say no.¡¯

    ¡®Your value is what you make of it.¡¯

    It was all the things she had wanted to hear. She conveyed these words to her younger siblings and hoped that they would value themselves.

    However, they had all been raised by a coercive father for a long time. They thought that if they made a mistake that it would make them a loser. They had all been living their lives based on their father¡¯s will, all of them trying their hardest not to disappoint him.

    In the end, they didn¡¯t even know what they liked, and they were slowly losing themselves.

    ¡°I¡¯m just helping them take the mostfortable path ording to their abilities and aptitudes.¡±

    The person who ruined everything raised the corners of his mouth in a smirk, as if he was dumbfounded.

    ¡°You¡¯re the one who ruined their nned path.¡±

    It had only been two days, but the fact that Irene had cheated had quickly spread through the Academy. She may avoid being expelled from school because of her past efforts in her sses and the Marquis¡¯ influence.

    Leticia wondered what he meant by his words.

    ¡°Speak truthfully. You didn¡¯t help them, you blocked them.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Parents should not decide their children¡¯s goals for them, but help and support them when their children are struggling.¡±

    Marquis Leroy tried to say something, but Leticia was one step faster.

    ¡°Have you ever thought about why Irene cheated? No, at least do you ever wonder why?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia burst intoughter as he seemed to have never thought about it.

    ¡°I thought so.¡±

    You couldn¡¯t even think about it.

    Leticia rose from her seat with a bitter smile.

    The Marquis¡¯ next words stopped Leticia in her tracks.

    ¡°My only fault was that I should have kicked you out sooner.¡±

    Leticia stared nkly at Marquis Leroy, wondering if she¡¯d heard him correctly.

    His next words didn¡¯t change anything.

    ¡°I did the right thing, even if I waste in doing it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°A useless daughter like you who doesn¡¯t understand the world is nothing but a disgrace to her family.¡±

    Leticia clenched her teeth at Marquis Leroy¡¯s relentless stare.

    To Marquis Leroy, she was a thorn in his eye.

    She was oftenpared to her younger siblings wherever she went because she didn¡¯t have an ability.

    A family who was ashamed of her.

    ¡°You know what?¡±

    Leticia faced Marquis Leroy, who was staring at her fiercely.

    ¡°I¡¯m d I was kicked out.¡±

    She didn¡¯t feel the need to continue this conversation anymore, so she left the lounge. She heard a fierce voice calling to her, but she ignored it and kept walking.

    A small shadow was hovering near the door and quickly hid when she left the room.

    Leticia left the Academy with mixed emotions and returned to the Achilles Mansion.

    ***

    ¡®I didn¡¯t want this.¡¯

    On the way home in the carriage, Leticia leaned her head against the interior of the carriage and recalled what had happened recently.

    Irene had insisted Leticia cover up her mistake and allow Ronan to be falsely used of cheating. Her father also med her for ruining Irene¡¯s life.

    Why was her life happier when she was poor?

    At that time, her father and mother cherished their children and everything seemed like it would be fine.

    ¡®Why are they like this now?¡¯

    She didn¡¯t know when it all changed.

    As soon as she arrived at the Achilles Mansion, Leticia exited the carriage with a troubled look on her face.

    She was about to enter the mansion when she saw someone standing outside waiting. As she approached slowly, the person turned towards her.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    He looked at her with concern, and she felt a surge of emotion.

    Leticia hugged Enoch¡¯s chest. She wrapped her arms around his waist to get closer. Enoch was startled, but he didn¡¯t let go.

    ¡°I¡¯m back. I went there¡­¡±

    As she was speaking, she felt overwhelmed and buried her face in his chest.

    ¡°I met my father.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I think they used the cheating incident as an excuse to call me.¡±

    Leticia slowly confided what happened that day.

    From her father¡¯s rebuke for not covering up Irene¡¯s cheating, to saying he was thankful she was kicked out.

    Enoch¡¯s eyes grew cold while listening without saying a word. He gently patted Leticia on her back.

    ¡°Well done.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I could have covered it up because we¡¯re family, but it didn¡¯t feel right.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia bit her lip and hugged Enoch harder.

    Enoch consoled her as if he knew exactly what she needed to hear the most.

    Like it was the most natural thing.

    She was feeling more rxed after she told Enoch.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t ignore it. No matter how much I thought about it, it was a path that would ruin both of us.¡±

    Even though she knew that her choice was not wrong, her pent up feelings wouldn¡¯t settle easily.

    How long had they been standing out here?

    As the cold wind began to blow, Enoch moved back and asked cautiously.

    ¡°Are you okay now?¡±

    She could tell he was worried about her while he was talking, it made her heart feel warm.

    The wind was getting stronger, but strangely, she didn¡¯t feel the cold at all.

    ¡°I think I¡¯ll be okay if I hug you a little more¡­¡±

    Leticia looked up at Enoch, securing her arms around him as he leaned away.

    When he didn¡¯t answer right away, she started getting nervous.

    She thought she was being burdensome, so she was caught off guard when a big hand stopped her from pulling away. As she raised her head in surprise, Enoch was smiling softly down at her.

    ¡°It¡¯s cold outside, so can we go inside and hug?¡±

    Leticia nodded her head without hesitation as she politely begged for forgiveness.

    ***

    ¡°If you cheat, don¡¯t get caught! What a mess!¡±

    Upon arriving at the Leroy mansion, the Marquis turned on Irene with a fiery anger.

    He thought he could overwhelm Leticia and force her to beg for forgiveness. He¡¯d emunicated her because of how pathetic and embarrassing of a human being she was. He called Leticia to fix the situation, but couldn¡¯t get to that point because she walked out boldly, and he was furious.

    In front of him, Irene couldn¡¯t say anything but droop her shoulders.

    ¡°You¡¯re also a source of disgrace for this family.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Keep out of my sight for a while.¡±

    There was nothing Irene could do, even as he turned away coldly.

    Standing there nkly for a moment, she felt eyes on her. She turned around and made eye contact with Diana, who was looking at her like she was pathetic.

    ¡°You lost your test paperst time, and you cheated this time?¡±

    ¡°Sister¡­.¡±

    ¡°How can you go to the Academy if you¡¯re not confident in your skills?¡±

    Diana clicked her tongue when Irene didn¡¯t answer, and went back to her room.

    Under normal circumstances, she would have demanded why Diana said that, but she didn¡¯t have the energy to do so. Right now, all she could think about was something else

    [Parents should not decide their children¡¯s goals for them, but help and support them when their children are struggling.]

    It was what she heard Leticia say when she was eavesdropping outside the lounge.

    ¡®My goal¡­¡¯

    Come to think of it, she never wanted to be an Imperial wizard from the beginning.

    She just entered the Academy of Magic when her father told her she had the talent for it and she had best be an Imperial Wizard.

    Irene went back to her room with a shallow sigh. She ran into Emil and Xavier on the way.

    Both of them just looked at her with pity and turned around. From that look, Irene remembered why she did it.

    She was afraid to let them down.

    She was afraid of being abandoned.

    No one was curious, let alone aware of her feelings.

    Rather¡­

    [Have you ever thought about why Irene cheated? No, at least do you ever wonder why?]

    Leticia was the only one.

    As soon as she arrived in her room, Ireney weakly in bed and buried her face in her pillow.

    As soon as she realized that Leticia, who she resented for not covering for her, was actually the family that cared for her the most. She burst into tears.

 Chapter 45 - Unwanted Generosity Is Just Unpleasant

    <h4>Chapter 45 - Unwanted Generosity Is Just Unpleasant</h4>

    Chapter 45. Unwanted Generosity Is Just Unpleasant

    ¡°Is it true that the youngest miss med her cheating on Ronan?¡±

    It was the first peaceful morning after a long time.

    Leticia was busily moving around the kitchen, she looked embarrassed for a moment before sighing and answering.

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°Huh, how could she do that?¡±

    Mary gasped, unable to believe what she was hearing.

    ¡°What the heck is wrong with her? Why did she do that to Ronan?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­ um¡­ I don¡¯t know either¡­¡±

    She wanted to ask her why she had gone to such an extent as well.

    Of course, she knew she wouldn¡¯t learn anything from a selfish person who only thought about themself. In fact, it might only make her feel more disappointed.

    ¡°Thank you for helping Ronan, My Lady.¡±

    ¡°Mary¡­¡±

    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for you, Ronan would have continued to be thought of as a cheater, even though he didn¡¯t even do it.¡±

    While facing her heartfelt gratitude, Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her distress.

    ¡°I¡¯m ashamed to show my face to you.¡±

    Her sister was out of her hands, but she still felt bad that she¡¯d harmed others. Leticia felt guilty for not being able to stop her from doing so.

    She¡¯d turn her hard work into cowardly expedience.

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that. I¡¯m just really grateful.¡±

    ¡°I feel a little relieved to hear that.¡±

    With Mary¡¯s words, Leticia felt relieved and began to put her wrapped cookies into a basket. Mary was watching from the side, and asked with her head tilted.

    ¡°What are you taking with you?¡±

    ¡°Oh, this?¡±

    Leticia held out the basket of cookies to Mary, who stared at it curiously.

    ¡°Pick one.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You can take whichever one you want.¡±

    Mary hesisted, unsure if she should really take one. Leticia gestured to the cookies again and Mary finally picked one.

    It didn¡¯t look like a normal cookie.

    ¡°I¡¯ve never seen a cookie like this before.¡±

    ¡°Right? I did it on purpose. I¡¯m trying to make them stand out a bit.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    Mary turned the cookie around with a curious look, before she tried to put the cookie in her mouth.

    Leticia smiled and stopped Mary before she could put it in her mouth.

    ¡°That¡¯s not food.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°If you break it in half, there¡¯s a note inside.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s a note?¡±

    ¡°Just a little pressure with your hand and it will break.¡±

    Mary gripped the cookie tightly like Leticia instructed. With a crunching noise, a long note appeared among the cookie crumbs.

    ¡°Oh, there¡¯s really a note.¡±

    ¡°Hurry up and read it.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s voice went up slightly in excitement as she spoke, but Mary couldn¡¯t take her eyes off the note.

    ¡®The time of heartache has passed, and days of happiness await you.¡¯

    For some reason, the phrase seemed to fit her situation exactly, and it made her smile.

    ¡°What do you think?¡±

    Leticia asked Mary, as she quietly watched her as she began to bite her lips in nervousness. Mary answered her with a big smile on her face.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s good. It says there are happy days awaiting me. ¡°

    ¡°Really?¡±

    After hearing Mary¡¯s answer, Leticia sighed in relief.

    ¡°I hope that other people like them too.¡±

    ¡°What are you nning to do?¡±

    ¡°I want to go outside and see how other people react to them.¡±

    Everyone is moving forward with their goals, and she didn¡¯t want to stay still by herself. She hadn¡¯t found what she¡¯s good at and what she would like yet, but she really wanted to make a difference.

    Mary held Leticia¡¯s hand tightly and said with great sincerity.

    ¡°These words are meaningful, and I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll get a good response.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Mary.¡±

    She felt a little more energized because there was someone cheering her on.

    ***

    Leticia has been working diligently since morning. She went to the square with the basket of cookies in her arms.

    Today was when she¡¯d present the cookies she¡¯d baked with the positive notes.

    ¡®I hope the reaction is good.¡¯

    The first time she came out, Countess Aster bought them all, so she couldn¡¯t see anyone else¡¯s reaction to them.

    Leticia stared at the people walking around, she shifted from foot to foot with a nervous look. Unfortunately, no one passing-by was interested.

    Leticia needed to attract attention to her cookies but she was not good at talking.

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    Leticia let out aplicated sigh as she touched the table.

    ¡®What did Elle do when she came out?¡¯

    She remembered the day when they went to the square to see people¡¯s reaction to the wishing bracelets. That day, Elle actively showed people her wishing bracelets and drew attention to it.

    ¡®I have to be active, too.¡¯

    She tried to smile, but her lips quivered. She lightly pushed at her mouth and cheek, hoping that a touch would make it a little better.

    Then, arge shadow fell over her head.

    As soon as she looked up to see who it was, Leticia froze.

    ¡°Long time no see. It¡¯s difficult to see your face.¡±

    She rolled her eyes at the sight of someone she hadn¡¯t expected to see, but then sighed with an unsympathetic expression.

    ¡®I¡¯m not sure why he¡¯s here¡­¡¯

    She never thought she¡¯d see Levion in a ce like this.

    She felt his purple eyes tantly staring at her, but Leticia turned her head as if she didn¡¯t care.

    Unconcerned, Levion took a step closer to Leticia.

    ¡°You¡¯re selling strange looking cookies

    He frowned as he took the liberty of picking up one of the wrapped cookies and looking it over. He didn¡¯t know what he was supposed to do with it.

    Levion eventually put it down with a click of his tongue and said.

    ¡°I¡¯ll buy what you have, so give them to me.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She didn¡¯t want to be here anymore, so she thought she had misheard him and looked at Levion again.

    He said again, so she understood what he said.

    ¡°I¡¯ll buy it from you, give it all to me.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m saying I¡¯m going to help you.¡±

    She was so taken aback that she was speechless for a moment.

    Leticia barely came to her senses, as she said with bewilderment.

    ¡°How is this supposed to help? Did I even ask for your help?¡±

    ¡°You kept saying that you wouldn¡¯t make any effort to awaken your abilities, and then you got angry when I didn¡¯t help you.¡±

    ¡°What? What are you talking about¡­¡±

    Before Leticia could finish talking, Levion put something down on the table. She heard the clink of metal in the heavy coin purse.

    She could guess what was in the purse, but Leticia hoped it wasn¡¯t what she was thinking it was.

    The words that followed hardened her heart.

    ¡°I think you need money first, so I¡¯ll help you.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s enough money to get out of that mansion and live on your own.¡±

    What Levion was trying to give her was gold coins.

    Leticia couldn¡¯t believe it, so she burst intoughter. Levion ignored Leticia¡¯s reaction and continued what he was saying.

    ¡°Then let¡¯s find a way to awaken your ability together.¡±

    Now that he¡¯d said what he wanted, she was going to ask if he was satisfied. Leticia couldn¡¯t evenugh at the fact that Levion had done this all for himself.

    ¡°You¡¯re not serious, are you?¡±

    She could feel the coldness deep inside. She was so angry she couldn¡¯t stand it.

    ¡°Did you think I would thank you?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Seeing that there was no answering, everything he¡¯d said so far seemed sincere.

    Leticia managed to calm herself down, and spoke with strength in every word.

    ¡°I never asked for help. In addition, I don¡¯t need this kind of help.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°I will not ask you to help me if anything happens.¡±

    ¡°What? You?¡±

    Levion continued to try and push the back of gold coins towards Leticia, and looked at her fiercely.

    Leticia faced his gaze head on, instead of avoiding it, and continued.

    ¡°It¡¯s not about making money.¡±

    If money was the only purpose, she would have never been so nervous or anxious.

    She was only worried about whether her true feelings woulde across to other people.

    ¡°I made them because I wanted to make others smile, even just a little bit, after a hard day.¡±

    He didn¡¯t even care about why she was making these cookies, so he¡¯ll just buy them up or give her money.

    ¡°So I won¡¯t sell them to you.¡±

    She didn¡¯t want to sell them to someone who didn¡¯t even want them, and even more so, she didn¡¯t want to sell them to Levion.

    Levion sighed furiously at Leticia¡¯s unexpected refusal.

    ¡°You¡¯ve been doing this for a while now.¡±

    Levion ruffled his hair in irritation and red at Leticia.

    ¡°How long have we been together? Doesn¡¯t it feel lonely to be called ¡®you¡¯.¡±

    Contrary to his words, the corners of his mouth raise up obliquely, he didn¡¯t look upset at all.

    Leticia gave him a bored look and calmly said.

    ¡°You have no right to talk to me about being lonely.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She never thought she would ever hear the man in front of her talk about loneliness.

    Levion was speechless with a smile fixed on his face.

    Since they were meeting like this, she had something to say.

    ¡°I hope we don¡¯t see each other like this in the future.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m notfortable around you.¡±

    Now she couldpletely let go.

    No, it¡¯s been a long time since she put it so perfectly.

    ***

    ¡°I need you to do something for me.¡±

    Emil couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. He couldn¡¯t concentrate on his second examination for the Imperial Civil service. He had tried to find out after his first exam, but was forced to leave it for the time being.

    ¡°Give me your orders.¡±

    The butler spoke as if he would do anything, Emil ordered in a more subdued voice.

    ¡°Find out what¡¯s been happening around my eldest sister, focus on anything bad.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    The butler looked more curious than Emil expected.

    He nodded and handed a letter to Emil.

    ¡°This is a letter from Young Master Grace.¡±

    ¡°Leave it there.¡±

    He gestured towards the desk, the butler bowed and left the room.

    Emil was left alone in the room, leaned against the chair and rubbed his temples with a tired look on his face.

    ¡®There must be something going on since my eldest sister was emunicated.¡¯

    It reminded him of the gloomy atmosphere around the family.

    He sighed and opened the letter with a letter opener.

    What he read turned his expression stony.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    There was a question about whether he knew that Ian had passed the first round of the Imperial Civil Service exam.

 Chapter 46 - Cookies Sold By An Unlucky Person

    <h4>Chapter 46 - Cookies Sold By An Unlucky Person</h4>

    Chapter 46. Cookies Sold By An Unlucky Person

    ¡®Tired¡­¡¯

    Leticia led her tired body back to the Achilles¡¯ mansion. She was in a bad mood, and felt especially heavy today.

    ¡®In the end, I couldn¡¯t even sell ten cookies.¡¯

    Levion¡¯s constant interference with her work and ruined her goal of presenting her cookies properly today.

    He didn¡¯t like the fact that she was living with the Achilles¡¯ family, and he thinks the reason she¡¯s angry at him was because he didn¡¯t help her awaken her ability.

    Leticia had been right to be upset, rather than angry, at Levion. He never considered her position or situation.

    That was a long time ago though. Now she didn¡¯t feel anything when she saw Levion.

    Now it was merely ufortable to be around him.

    ¡®He¡¯s also trying to give me money.¡¯

    She can still clearly recall the moment when he put down the purse of money on the table.

    Leticia did need the money, with that money she wouldn¡¯t have to be a burden on Enoch anymore.

    The first thing she felt at the thought of taking the gold coins was unbearable difort.

    What she needed the most was not money.

    The more she thought about it, the more her stomach churned and she clenched her fists.

    Leticia wanted a rtionship that was not about money, but about mutual respect and care.? She hade to know such a rtionship while spending time with the Achilles family.

    There were days when they argued, but they always quickly made up again.

    Leticia had trouble hiding her envy when she saw Elle, Ian and Enoch. She could not help but feel a vain desire to be a natural part of it.

    She knew better than anyone that she couldn¡¯t be a real family with them. That¡¯s why Leticia decided to do her best with their current rtionship.

    So that one day when they parted, there would be no regrets.

    ¡®I don¡¯t want to say goodbye.¡¯

    That thought alone made her feel depressed and slower.

    How long had she been walking like this?

    Leticia stopped suddenly.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She thought she¡¯d heard something behind her. As Leticia began to walk again, She could faintly hear footsteps following her. Leticia tried to calm down and walk naturally.

    ¡®Who is it?¡¯

    The sun was starting to set, but it wasn¡¯t very dark yet. The thought of someone following her gave her goosebumps.

    ¡®What should I do?¡¯

    Just as Letica was worrying about what would happen if someone suddenly attacked her from behind, she spotted a familiar face not far away.

    Happy to see his face, Leticia quickly made her way towards him.

    ¡°Lord Achilles!¡±

    Enoch heard Leticia calling to him, and approached her.

    ¡°I was worried that you hadn¡¯t arrived home yet.¡±

    ¡°Did youe to pick me up?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I was feeling too troubled to wait inside.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    As Leticia spoke, she nced behind her while holding Enoch¡¯s sleeve tightly. The sound of someone following her had disappeared.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°No, nothing.¡±

    As soon as Enoch noticed the signs of anxiety, he wrapped his arm protectively around Leticia¡¯s shoulder and looked around.

    Fortunately, there was no sign of danger.

    Only then did the relieved Enoch look down kindly at Leticia and ask.

    ¡°Come to think of it, how was the reaction to your cookies?¡±

    He said this to cover up the fact that he was still sneaking a peek behind her, but Leticia¡¯s expression got worse.

    ¡°Oh, well, uh¡­¡±

    Leticia looked down at the cookies in her arms and let out a shallow sigh.

    Enoch had been quietly watching her, and could guess exactly what had happened.

    ¡°How about I go with you tomorrow?¡±

    ¡°No, you must be busy. Don¡¯t do that.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m really fine.¡±

    It would be nice to be with Enoch, but she wanted to get results with her own effort.

    Whether the results are good or bad.

    ¡°Please trust me, and wait a little longer.¡±

    Enoch closed his mouth as he looked down at the little fingers sping his sleeve.

    There was no way he could follow her if she put it like that.

    ¡°As you always say, don¡¯t overdo it.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I won¡¯t. But¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Enoch took the basket of cookies from Leticia¡¯s arms. With his other hand, he held Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Have you been waiting long?¡±

    Leticia asked carefully, because his always warm hands felt cold today.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting a long time.¡±

    She thought he would say he didn¡¯t wait long. When he said the opposite, she felt embarrassed.

    ¡°It¡¯s windy today.¡±

    As Enoch smiled casually, Leticia shut her mouth. She was at a loss for what to say.

    They eventually stopped walking, and Leticia gestured for him toe closer. Dubiously Enoch bent at the waist slowly as Leticia wanted.

    When he was about to ask her why, her small white hands gently wrapped around his cheeks. Enoch¡¯s cold cheeks began to warm up a bit.

    ¡°Do you feel warmer now?¡±

    It was obvious from the question that she was worried about him

    When he saw those round blue eyes looking up at him, Enoch¡¯s greed unintentionally burst out.

    ¡°Well¡­. I don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    He furrowed his brow slightly as if he was troubled and soon her hands fell down from his cheeks. Just as Enoch was about to say that he would feel better if she hugged him.

    The retreating hand suddenly reached behind Enoch¡¯s neck and pulled him closer. With that small amount of force, Enoch was helplessly held against Leticia¡¯s chest. He couldn¡¯t help but notice the immediate smell of warm sunshine.

    ¡°Is this warmer?¡±

    Unlike her calm voice, her ears were turning red.

    Enoch frowned slightly while he pretended to be calm.

    She¡¯s driving me crazy.

    Dissatisfied, he released Leticia¡¯s hand that had been hugging Enoch¡¯s neck. Leticia looked a little sheepish and tried to lower her head, as she thought he was rejecting her.

    Before she could, Enoch wrapped his hands around Leticia¡¯s cheeks first. The gaze that had been staring into Leticia¡¯s blue eyes finally looked to her lips, which were stained like a blooming bud.

    Gradually his head went down, close enough to feel each other¡¯s breath.

    She couldn¡¯t stop watching, even during this suffocating time.

    The distance between their lips narrowed further, Leticia eventually closed her eyes tightly.

    How long have they been standing like this?

    Nothing seemed to be happening, until she felt a big hand on her lips. Leticia opened her eyes in confusion. Her gaze intertwined with Enoch¡¯s as he kissed the back of his hand that covered her lips.

    The intense gray eyes[1] seemed to be saying to her.

    ¡®As if you wanted to reach me¡­¡¯

    There was only Enoch¡¯s hand between their lips.

    What she felt was Enoch¡¯s hand, but something hotter grazed her lips.

    Enoch was enjoying watching her without saying a word. He took a step back and waited quietly by her side.

    Leticia finally managed to calm down. She wanted to know his intention, so she asked.

    ¡°Ha, what did you just do?¡±

    She was so surprised that her voice trembled, but she did stop herself from stuttering.

    Her cheeks, which were already heated, were now visibly red in the evening light.

    Enoch was smiling, and replied with an innocent face.

    ¡°Punishment for ying with me.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    When on earth did she y with him?

    What kind of punishment was that?

    Enoch continued, pleasantly delighted by her re.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s warmer now.¡±

    ¡°Enoch!¡±

    Enoch moved quickly to escape with thosest words, and Leticia ran to catch up to him.

    She thought about it.

    ¡®I¡¯m a little disappointed.¡¯

    Wait, what was she thinking?

    Startled, Leticia swatted at Enoch¡¯s arm. He only smiled brightly at her weak blow that felt like a kitten batting at him.

    He said that it¡¯s a pity that their fun had to end like this, which made Leticia¡¯s face hot again.

    She felt like Enoch was ying with her from start to finish, but she didn¡¯t hate it.

    ¡®Rather.¡¯

    It was so nice that it was a big deal.

    ***

    Leticia went to the square the next day without fail, but was unable to concentrate on her work for other reasons this time.

    She remembered the evening before. The memory of the two of them sharing warmth alone in the middle of nowhere with no one else passing by came to mind. Enoch¡¯s eyes and expressions as he covered her lips with his hand and kissed her the back of his hand, as if he dared not to touch directly. All these memories kept her awakest night.

    His eyes were filled with only her, and it touched something precious inside her.

    ¡®It¡¯s like we¡¯re real lovers.¡¯

    As soon as that thought crossed her mind, Leticia mmed the table.

    ¡®Wake up, Leticia.¡¯

    Her greed was never ending. She couldn¡¯t even stand the shame of getting ahead of herself.

    She barely came to her senses and raised her head.

    ¡°Why are you doing that alone? Is that a new way of gaining attention?¡±

    She could see the short blonde hair cut sharp, and Keena¡¯s vivid red eyes blinked slowly at her.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    Why did she only meet people who are ufortable to be aroundtely?

    As soon as she recognized Keena, Leticia asked without hiding her difort.

    ¡°It¡¯s not like I can¡¯te.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s not a ce I shoulde to?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s now against it.¡±

    As if she was hurt, Keena pouted her lips. Leticia looked down at the cookies she brought while pretending not to see her.

    ¡®Come to think of it, it would be nice to name this cookie.¡¯

    Like the wishing bracelet.

    ¡°What should I name it?¡±

    Crossing her arms, Keena responded to Leticia¡¯s mumbling.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Someone¡¯s already named it.¡±

    An ominous smile spread across Keena¡¯s face.

    Hoping it was just her imagination, Leticia asked.

    ¡°Who?¡±

    ¡°Well.¡±

    She hoped Keena would answer, but all she did was shrug her shoulders without answering her. Leticia began to be increasingly anxious.

    ¡®Did someone sell the same cookies as me first?¡¯

    If that was true, then Leticia was the unfortunateter, but it would only be right to stop selling them. First she needed to find out where and who was selling simr cookies.

    She immediately started to sort out what she needed to do, one by one.

    ¡°What are you still doing here?¡±

    Leticia sighed as she heard Keena¡¯s voice, which she was not happy to hear at the moment.

    She was sick and tired of the Leroy family. She didn¡¯t want to deal with them anymore, so Leticia was trying to find a job she was good at.

    ¡°You really don¡¯t know. I feel sorry for you.¡±

    At the cynicalugh of pity, Leticia involuntarily turned her head toward Diana, the owner of the voice.

    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Diana paused, nced at Leticia¡¯s cooking, and said again.

    ¡°The rumour has spread that you¡¯ve been emunicated because of your ability to cause bad luck.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    ¡°Anyone living in the capital should know by now.¡±

    Leticia thought, even as she listened.

    Diana¡¯s words were not finished yet.

    ¡°Who would buy cookies from a person who brings bad luck?¡±

    ******************************************

 Chapter 47 - I Want You To Believe That Rumor

    <h4>Chapter 47 - I Want You To Believe That Rumor</h4>

    Chapter 47 I Want You To Believe That Rumor

    Leticia looked down at her cookies in a daze. The excitement to name them copsed in an instant.

    Leticia raised her eyes to look at Diana as she lightly touched the cookies.

    ¡°Was it you?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Was it you again?¡±

    She did wonder who else would spread the rumor beside her family.

    Leticia bit her lip, while standing in front of Diana.

    This was her first dream. It may seem small and insignificant to others, but it was precious to Leticia.

    Then a false rumor casually trampled it, so it was hard to get back up.

    ¡°I know you don¡¯t like me.¡±

    Her family members always looked down on her, but Diana was the worst among them. She knew that Diana condemned her for herck of ability.

    At least now she knew that it wasn¡¯t her fault.

    ¡°I don¡¯t like you either.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Do you know how dirty it is to spread rumors like this?¡±

    While speaking, she couldn¡¯t control her overwhelming emotions from boiling over. Now she¡¯d reached the point of screaming.

    ¡°What did I ever do to you!¡±

    She couldn¡¯t think of anything.

    Leticia cared for Diana as if she was her own child. She never neglected her even once.

    She ran errands here and there to earn even a little bit more money. No matter how tired she was at the end of the day, she spent time reading fairy tales to her younger siblings. When she couldn¡¯t be with them, she felt bad and tried to do better.

    Then received nothing in return.

    ¡®I¡¯m sick of it.¡¯

    She was so angry that her eyes were burning with rage.

    It wasn¡¯t something that she started out hoping for. It didn¡¯t mean that she wanted to be rewarded for the affection she gave.

    She wanted them to know that she¡¯d always been sincere, at least for the time they spent together.

    When it came back to her like this, it was very upsetting to Leticia.

    ¡°What have I done so wrong besides not having an ability.¡±

    That wasn¡¯t her fault either.

    Why do they have to take out their frustrations on her?

    ¡°Do you think you¡¯re some kind of genius? All you can do is make it rain flowers.¡±

    ¡°Hey, you listen here!¡±

    Diana was embarrassed at first by Leticia¡¯s anger, but began to shout back in irritation. Somehow, she even looked like she¡¯d been wronged.

    ¡°I fully understand that you suspect that I did this, but it wasn¡¯t me.¡±

    ¡°Then who else is there?¡±

    ¡°I guess there is someone else besides me who hates you.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    The emotions that had been controlling Leticia¡¯s mind went cold.

    As soon as she noticed, Diana looked at her with a smirk.

    ¡°Surely there is one or two somewhere?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Maybe you should take better care of your image?¡±

    The look of pity on Diana¡¯s face was so abominable that it made Leticia¡¯s lips tremble.

    Before Leticia could rebut, a short exmation interrupted the two.

    ¡°Wow.¡±

    Keena was still watching with her arms crossed. She alternated between looking at Leticia and Diana with a crooked smile.

    ¡°Family is family, you and the fourth are just like each other.¡±[1]

    From the first moment they met at the banquet during the Hunting festival, she knew Keena wasn¡¯t normal. The more she saw her, the more she realized she didn¡¯t have an answer.

    Keena nodded to herself, while keeping her eyes on Diana.

    ¡°Well, your family¡­ hmm¡­ I guess it¡¯s a bit of a thing.¡±

    ¡°What? You!¡±

    Diana snapped back with a ferocious look, she was annoyed by the sudden interjection. Soon enough she openly looked Keena up and down, then scoffed at her.

    ¡°You don¡¯t seem to be from around here. What are you wearing? You¡¯re obviously not a child from a noble family.¡±

    Keena¡¯s clothes were too in to be a nobledy. A white shirt and ck pants, they were clothes that anymoner man would wear.

    To Diana¡¯s eyes, it looked disheveled and shabby.

    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re a noble?¡±

    ¡°Not now, no.¡±

    Leticia suddenly had questions at Keena¡¯s offhand answer.

    ¡®Not now?¡¯

    Unlike Leticia, who felt there was something strange in Keena¡¯s answer, Diana¡¯s attention was distracted elsewhere.

    ¡°Why are you talking to me like that?¡±

    ¡°You started talking informally first?¡±

    ¡°Do you want to be dragged away for contempt of nobility?¡±

    Before they knew it, the situation had turned into a fight between Keena and Diana.

    Keena¡¯s face was indifferent to the fight though, so Diana seemed to be angry unterally.

    ¡°They can even grab your whole family for this.¡±

    ¡°Whatever.¡±

    Even when Diana said she¡¯d report her to the guards, Keena responded as if it was someone else¡¯s problem.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have a family.¡±

    Leticia had been thinking about how to clear up this situation. At Keena¡¯s admission, she looked up in shock. Keena, who was a head taller than Leticia, smiled nonchntly and said.

    ¡°That¡¯s a pretty good reaction.¡±

    While Leticia was surprised to hear it for the first time, Diana red at Keena with her chin up.

    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t even know what you¡¯re going on about.¡±

    ¡°Diana.¡±

    Leticia called out to stop her, but Diana¡¯s words were not over yet.

    ¡°I¡¯ll cut you some ck because I feel sorry for you. You¡¯d better be careful next time.¡±

    Unlike her words, that sounded merciful at first nce, her eyes were filled with contempt. Keena faced it calmly without averting her eyes.

    It was only when Diana was so far away they couldn¡¯t see each other anymore that Keena muttered quietly.

    ¡°That family is still like that¡­¡±

    ¡°What did you just say?¡±

    ¡°No, nothing.¡±

    Keena waved her hand as if it didn¡¯t matter.

    Leticia was still worried about Keena.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    ¡°Huh? What?¡±

    ¡°Well Diana¡­¡±

    She couldn¡¯t bear to say the end, so her words trailed off.

    Keena understood what Leticia was trying to say, and lightly shrugged her shoulders.

    ¡°You don¡¯t understand? It¡¯s all just crap anyways.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s all?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I mean, I don¡¯t feel sorry for myself.¡±

    So there¡¯s nothing to hurt.

    She didn¡¯t want to see herself suffer by what someone said purposely to harm her.

    It¡¯s what the other person wants.

    ¡°Come to think of it, I want to try this.¡±

    To turn the mood around, Keena smiled brightly and picked up a cookie Leticia baked and opened the note inside.

    ¡°Hm¡­¡±

    Keena checked the note, then peeked at Leticia.

    Leticia quickly approached Keena.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°I thought you were trying to help me.¡±

    ¡°Just¡­¡±

    She hadn¡¯t meant to, but somehow it turned out that way.

    Leticia must also have realized, but she was less wary of Keena then before as she seemed to think that she¡¯d helped her.

    As soon as she saw Leticia¡¯s pale hand held out to her, Keena thought she was right.

    So she grasped Leticia¡¯s hand. Leticia pushed her hand away, gently but firmly, with a look of difort.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    ¡°You put your hand out.¡±

    ¡°If you take one, you have to pay me.¡±

    Keena had been wondering what she meant, then she asked to be paid for the cookie.

    ¡°What? Do I have to pay?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that obvious?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°This is something I¡¯m sure of.¡±

    Unlike her meek impression, her eagerness to be paid was clear.

    Keena pouted with a discontent look on her face.

    ¡°What a cruel thing to do when we have that kind of rtionship¡±

    ¡°What kind of rtionship is that?¡±

    ¡°Okay, I don¡¯t have any money right now. So I¡¯ll pay you back next time.¡±

    She even pulled out her pants pockets to show that she was broke.

    Keena looked carefully at Leticia and asked.

    ¡°What about you?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    Keena asking about her wellbeing was unexpected, so Leticia paused for a moment.

    The look on Keena¡¯s face showed that she didn¡¯t know how to deal with Leticia¡¯s feelings. It was toote to pretend nothing had happened, so Leticia turned her head away in embarrassment.

    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ I don¡¯t want to think about it too much right now.¡±

    She never imagined that the rumor that had spread among the Leroy family would drag her down now.

    She was feeling confused about what to do, and felt like all her hard work in baking the cookies had gone to waste.

    Watching her quietly, Keena told Leticia.

    ¡°I¡¯m the same age as you.¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°So the next time we meet, say hellofortably.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll pay you back for the cookie too.¡±

    Somehow she looked grim, so Leticia smiled without realizing it.

    ¡°Got it.¡±

    Keena looked a little relieved only after seeing a smile spread across Leticia¡¯s face. She left while saying that she¡¯d see her again soon.

    As soon as she moved away from Leticia, Keena took the note back out of her pocket.

    ¡®You will meet the noblest person in your life soon.¡¯

    ¡®Noble¡­¡¯

    Keena stopped walking and looked back at Leticia.

    ***

    ¡°How did it go?¡±

    ¡°Everyone believes the rumor.¡±

    ¡°Good, the rumor has circted quickly.¡±

    The rumor was spread in such a way to make it unclear whether it was true or not.

    Emil had been anxiously waiting for the butler report. He took a sip of team with a calm expression on his face to cover up that fact.

    ¡°Is there anything else that the Young Master would like me to do?¡±

    ¡°Keep monitoring and reporting on my eldest sister like you are already doing.¡±

    ¡°Understood.¡±

    Once he received his orders, the butler bowed and left the room.

    Only then did Emil finally rx, and lean back in his chair.

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    He felt his bodypletely rx and suddenly felt very tired. He thought he might finally be able to concentrate on the second test.

    Emil had thought that Leticia¡¯s ability was to make others unhappy, or at least unlucky, but his prediction had been wrong.

    That was the reason Leticia had been ousted from the family, but so far nothing bad had happened around her. She just lived a peaceful life at the Achilles¡¯ mansion.

    Eventually Emil had to admit it.

    Leticia did not have the ability to bring misfortune.

    Still, he couldn¡¯t bear to tell his family.

    ¡®I¡¯d have to admit that we threw someone away who didn¡¯t do anything wrong.¡¯

    Emil sighed painfully and rubbed his face.

    ¡®This is the best I can do.¡¯

    As long as Leticia is quiet, and no other family members know, there won¡¯t be any stigma attached to our family.

    Rumors had circted inside the family of the misfortune she could bring, so he spread it outside as well.

    People were not interested in the truth or reality of a rumor. All they wanted was a subject to gossip about.

    Rumors are easier to believe if there was a little bit of truth mixed in.

    Thus, Emil imprinted in people¡¯s heads that Leticia was capable of making others unhappy.

    ¡®It couldn¡¯t be helped.¡¯

    He knew what he did was bad.

    He also knew it was vicious.

    It¡¯s the method Emil chose, because he couldn¡¯t afford for his family to lose status.

    ¡®It¡¯s okay.¡¯

    No matter how fast and wide the rumor spreads, people will eventually lose interest.

    ¡®You¡¯ll be fine soon, too.¡¯

    Emilyed down on his bed while thinking about it. The fatigue that he had endured spread throughout his body.

    His eyelids became heavier and he tried to close his tired eyes.

    [Your value is what you make.]

    His eyes opened wide at the sound of a voice brushing against his ear.

    It was one of the things Leticia always said to him in times long forgotten.

    He still didn¡¯t know why she said that. He thought it was something that was more necessary for Leticia to hear, not him.

    Who are you to give advice when you don¡¯t even have an ability.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay¡­¡±

    Emil murmured this to himself like a spell, and closed his eyes again.

    He didn¡¯t think they would understand why he did this.

    What he wanted was consistent from the beginning.

    ¡®I hope all of you believe the rumor.¡¯

    ***********************************

    [1] So it took me a bit to figure out what the heck Keena meant, she was saying that Diana and Xavier are the same. I¡¯m assuming she means they both have a temper.??¨r(£þ¦Ø£þ;)¨q

 Chapter 48 - The People Who Love Me

    <h4>Chapter 48 - The People Who Love Me</h4>

    Chapter 48. The People Who Love Me

    ***

    She felt that the rumor had definitely spread when people passing by nced at her. Leticia shrank at the sound of whispering that she could hear.

    She stayed up all of that night, knowing that such a rumor had spread about her.

    She worried about whether to give up or move forward.

    Leticia wanted to wait until the rumor disappeared, because she couldn¡¯t stand people¡¯s eyes watching her.

    It was not that difficult to wait for when the rumor subsided. She was familiar with holding back and hiding.

    But¡­

    ¡®I don¡¯t want to hide.¡¯

    Leticia didn¡¯t want to be ashamed of herself anymore. She didn¡¯t want to make her hard-earned work meaningless with just one rumor.

    She knew best that no matter what she did, the rumor would follow her like a ck mark.

    So Leticia went to the square today with her baked cookies, but people were still reluctant to buy from her. Some people would even be angry at her, demanding why she was selling such ominous things, so it was even harder to endure today.

    ¡®I thought it would be like this, but¡­¡¯

    Leticia sighed, and hugged her basket of cookies that she couldn¡¯t sell at all.

    She was about to enter the Achilles¡¯ mansion like that, when she found someone standing at the front door waiting for her.

    Leticia¡¯s pace elerated as soon as she noticed that it was Elle.

    ¡°Why are you waiting outside? It must be cold.¡±

    ¡°Come on, it¡¯s not that cold. Let¡¯s go inside.¡±

    Elle, who had been pacing with her arms crossed, stopped with a wee expression as soon as she saw Leticia. She paused for a moment when she looked up at Leticia questioningly, then Elle asked carefully.

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t look good.¡±

    Worried eyes looked at her, Leticia let out a small sigh.

    ¡°Actually, the cookies aren¡¯t selling very well.¡±

    ¡°Hmm? Why? I can¡¯t help right now, but I wish I could.¡±

    Elle frowned at Leticia, who was smiling in embarrassment.

    She didn¡¯t seem to have heard anything about the rumor.

    Even if she had heard the rumor, Leticia had no doubt that this family would defend her.

    ¡®Yes.¡¯

    It¡¯s okay because there are people who trust her.

    Leticia said to Elle with a smile on her face.

    ¡°Come to think of it, I¡¯m a little hungry. Elle, did you have dinner yet?¡±

    ¡°Right, instead of doing that now, let¡¯s go to the drawing room together.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°Hurry up!¡±

    Elle was in a hurry and Leticia worried it might be something distressing. When she saw Elle¡¯s mouth lift up in a smile, she knew it wasn¡¯t anything bad.

    Relieved, Leticia followed her to the drawing room, where Enoch was already there waiting for them.

    As soon as she made eye contact with him, Elle pointed to something on the table.

    ¡°Look at this, Sister! It¡¯s the pink diamonds that just came out!¡±

    Elle seemed unable to control her excitement as she talked.

    ¡°Wow¡­¡±

    As soon as she saw it, Leticia was in awe.

    They were about the size of a small blueberry, but it was definitely much clearer and more brilliant than thest pink diamond she saw.

    ¡°It looks like it would make a great essory.¡±

    Elle said, while looking down at the pink diamond with a covetous look on her face. Enoch flicked Elle on the forehead for being so outrageous.

    ¡°There¡¯s already an owner.¡±

    ¡°What? Who are you going to sell it to?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that.¡±

    Stopping for a moment, Enoch nced at Leticia and answered casually.

    ¡°I¡¯m sending it to the Count of Aster.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia had been looking at the pink diamond for a long time. She opened her eyes wide in shock and raised her head to look at him.

    As soon as their eyes met, Enoch said with a slight smile.

    ¡°I want to thank him with a pink diamond for investing in the mine.¡±

    ¡°Count Aster invested in the mine?¡±

    ¡°Yes¡±

    Leticia approached Enoch as he nodded matter of factly, she then asked.

    ¡°Since when? No¡­¡±

    ¡°He invested on the day of the Hunting festival. He said to me; ¡®Please take care of Leticia¡¯.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my God¡­¡±

    The more she heard, the more she couldn¡¯t hide her surprise. She could feel Count Aster¡¯s affection that she hadn¡¯t known about, and she felt very moved.

    When Enoch noticed, he moved a strand of Leticia¡¯s behind her ear, and suggested.

    ¡°Would you like to go with me to Count Aster¡¯s mansion?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d love to go with you.¡±

    Enoch smiled as Leticia replied quickly before he could finish his sentence.

    ¡°I¡¯d rather it look like a finished gift, then a rough gemstone.¡±

    Standing beside him, Leticia mentioned cautiously.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we get matching rings for the Count and Countess?¡±

    Count Aster and his wife were known for their gentle andpassionate personalities, but they were more respected for their close rtionship. She thought it would be nice to give them a gift as a couple, so she suggested the matching rings.

    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea. Then the jeweler should be¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll ask the owner of Pegasus!¡±

    Everything went better than Leticia expected.

    Except for the fact that the rumors about her were spreading in the Capital.

    ¡®What should I do?¡¯

    It was unfair to give up on her dream like this. However, she couldn¡¯t stand the nces and murmurs from people, so she swallowed the sigh that was threatening to escape.

    Leticia struggled to bear it and smile whilementing on how pretty the rings were.

    She didn¡¯t realize that Enoch was staring at her silently.

    ***

    When Enoch asked for the pink diamonds to be made into rings, the owner of Pegasus was thrilled that he was entrusted with the most precious gemstone in the Empire.

    A few dayster, a set of pink diamond rings arrived.

    As soon as she saw the rings, that were more borately crafted than she had expected, admiration flowed from Leticia.

    ¡°They¡¯re so pretty! I¡¯m sure the Count and Countess will like them!¡±

    Leticia said while holding Enoch¡¯s arm in excitement. The radiance was so bright that it looked like it would shine in the dark.

    There was a reason the jewel was called ¡®Forever Youthful and Beautiful¡¯ and ¡®Makes WIshes Come True¡¯.

    ¡°Thanks to Leticia¡¯s suggestion.¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m more grateful that you listened to my suggestion.¡±

    Enoch looked at Leticia, as she thanked him. He smiled and reached out to her.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Leticia smiled in response and took hold of his outstretched hand.

    .

    .

    .

    The two climbed into the carriage with the rings for the Count and Countess of Aster. Since it was the first time for the two of them to ride alone in a carriage like this, Leticia touched the ring box with a slightly awkward expression.

    Enoch was quietly watching her, and slowly began to speak.

    ¡°Is there anything going on these days?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s hand, which had been touching the ring box, stopped for a moment. She then raised her head with an indifferent expression.

    As soon as her eyes met Enoch¡¯s, Leticia was startled into silence.

    Enoch¡¯s face was the same as always, but somehow he seemed to know everything. Then, as soon as she heard the words that followed, she realized he knew to some extent what she had been hiding.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to hide your hardships and try to endure them alone.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I wish you would give me the chance to be of help.¡±

    At first, it sounded like a rebuke. When she looked at him, she could see that he was worried.

    She could feel his affection, so Leticia swallowed her excuses and smiled helplessly.

    ¡°I guess it¡¯s be a habit. I¡¯ll try to slowly be better at speaking about it from now on.¡±

    ¡°So what is going on?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ um¡­¡±

    She hesitated for a moment, and then the carriage stopped. They heard the voice of the coachman saying that they had arrived at the Aster¡¯s residence.

    Enoch sighed, and alighted from the carriage with Leticia.

    As soon as they arrived at the mansion, Count Aster and his wife were waiting for them at the door. They approached them with a bright smile.

    ¡°Wee, Duke Achilles.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for your kind invitation, Count Aster.¡±

    While Enoch and Count Aster greeted each other, the Countess moved to greet Leticia.

    ¡°How have you been, Leticia?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve been well. Has the Countess been healthy?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been well, and haven¡¯t been sick recently. Did you have any difficulties with your trip here?¡±

    Worried that she might be tired, she held Leticia¡¯s hand tightly.

    The Countess¡¯ hands, wrapped around her own, warmed her heart and made her smile.

    ¡°Not at all, I was happy just thinking about visiting with the Count and Countess.¡±

    The Countess smiled at her sincere words. The Count approached the two and said.

    ¡°It¡¯s notfortable here. Let¡¯s go sit and talk inside.¡±

    At that everyone nodded and entered the mansion.

    As soon as they entered, they felt a warm and weing environment, as if they were embraced by a gentle spring atmosphere. Leticia was feeling more at ease as she walked through the mansion, which was filled with the personality and ambiance of the Aster couple.

    The four arrived at the drawing room and began to talk in earnest.

    Enoch was the first to speak first.

    ¡°We¡¯ve brought a gift to thank you for your kind help.¡±

    Count and Countess Aster opened their gifts, confused but grateful.

    ¡°This is¡­¡±

    ¡°They are rings crafted with a pink diamond.¡±

    As if he couldn¡¯t believe it, Count Aster kept alternating looking at Enoch and the rings.

    When he invested in the mine that hadn¡¯t produced any gemstones for 10 years, he did so without any expectation. Enoch must have known this, but he couldn¡¯t hide his difort at the Count¡¯s surprise.

    ¡°Are these couple¡¯s rings?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Leticia advised me that a matching set that you can wear together would be best.¡±

    ¡°Oh, really. Leticia said that?¡±

    The Countess, who was listening quietly, smiled brightly and asked Leticia.

    The Count and Countess seemed to be pleased with the rings, even though she had merely asked for them to be made as a pair. Leticia was touched by their happiness, but waved her hand in embarrassment.

    ¡°Yes, but I didn¡¯t do anything but suggest the rings.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that, I¡¯m so grateful that you prepared these for us. Of course, I¡¯m grateful to Duke Achilles too.¡±

    Countess Aster added thest part really quickly, in case Enoch was upset by what she was saying to Leticia.

    Recognizing that the Countess¡¯ eyes were still on the ring, Enoch pushed the ring closer.

    ¡°Try it on now.¡±

    ¡°Haha, then I won¡¯t say no.¡±

    As if waiting for those words, Count Aster quickly took the smaller of the rings and spoke to his wife.

    ¡°Here you go, mydy.¡±

    ¡°Oh my! It fits perfectly.¡±

    After putting the rings on each other, the two of them showed off the rings to Leticia and Enoch.

    Their faces were as bright as children who had received the gift they wanted most on their birthday.

    ¡°I¡¯m d the rings fit perfectly.¡±

    ¡°They look good on you.¡±

    Leticia and Enoch smiled as they watched the couple with satisfaction.

    After admiring her ring for a while, the Countess turned to Leticia and asked in a cautious tone.

    ¡°But what¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You look a little under the weather.¡±

    Leticia smoothed her dress with her fingers in embarrassment.

    It was the third time she¡¯d heard that she looked unwell.

    They were worried about the dark bags under her eyes. Enoch, who was sitting beside her, gently took her hand and his eyes were telling her something important.

    It¡¯s okay.

    So you can say itfortably.

    Somehow, his eyes gave her the boost she needed, and Leticia slowly unfroze while holding Enoch¡¯s hand tightly.

    ¡°The thing is¡­¡±

    It was only hard at first, but once she began to confess, the rest came out more easily.

    She told them about the rumor that had been circting around hertely.

    The three, who listened in silence to Leticia talk, looked increasingly grim. Leticia bowed her head and quietly finished her story.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know who spread the rumor, but I think it was someone from my family.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Count Aster, who had been holding back, involuntarily raised his voice. Seeing Leticia¡¯s startled expression, he then took a deep breath to calm himself down.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s such a¡­ Ha¡­¡±

    However, the more he tried to calm down, the more the anger built up. Count Aster was struggling to endure, before he sighed and said.

    ¡°Wait a little bit, it¡¯ll all be settled soon.¡±

    Count Aster nodded firmly, as he wanted her to trust and rely on him.

    There¡¯s only one way to deal with such a situation.

    Rumors are always covered by a new rumor.

    *************************************************************

 Chapter 49 - Using A Crisis As An Opportunity

    <h4>Chapter 49 - Using A Crisis As An Opportunity</h4>

    Chapter 49. Using A Crisis As An Opportunity

    ¡°Now I feel fortunate that Leticia has been emunicated.¡±

    Count Aster said bitterly as he sat alone with Enoch. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Leticia and Countess Aster sitting in the distance.

    They were drinking tea with cheerful faces. To anyone who looked at them, they looked like a mother and daughter.

    ¡®I wish she could only have days like this.¡¯

    For Leticia, who was quickly engulfed in a bad rumor, times like this were a luxury.

    When you¡¯re around her, you¡¯ll be unlucky, you¡¯ll lose all your luck, you¡¯ll be unhappy.

    This malicious rumor was aimed at Leticia, as if trying to create an indelible brand on her.

    She was so distressed that Count Aster wanted to do whatever he could to help her.

    ¡°I think so, too.¡±

    Enoch nodded heavily with a sigh because he felt the same way as the Count.

    He felt badly for Leticia, but she looked much happier now that she was living with his family. Enoch was greatly relieved to see her believing in herself more, even though she stillcked a lot of confidence in herself.

    Leticia was depressed again by the vindictive spread of the bad rumor.

    Seeing her pale face smiling as if everything was alright, Enoch felt like his heart was breaking. At the same time, he even felt the urge to find the culprit and step on their neck so that they couldn¡¯t breathe properly.

    ¡°Let me put the rumor to rest first.¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be counting on you.¡±

    Enoch looked at Leticia, then nodded to ask for his kind cooperation.

    He felt a little relieved because herplexion was looking better than when they first arrived at the Aster¡¯s mansion. However, her listless voice lingered in his ears.

    [I don¡¯t know who spread the rumor, but I think it was someone from my family.]

    What was Leticia thinking as she told that story?

    He didn¡¯t dare to guess, Enoch rubbed his face with a troubled expression.

    Even if Leticia had given up on her family, it must still have hurt.

    ¡®It¡¯s bad enough to abandon your family, and now you¡¯re spreading bad rumors¡­¡¯

    Thinking about it made Enoch¡¯s anger rise, but he managed to calm down again and said.

    ¡°I¡¯ll try to find out who spread this rumor.¡±

    The number of suspects was already limited, so it won¡¯t be that difficult to find them.

    ***

    After having a good time at Count Aster¡¯s home, she was on her way back to the Achilles¡¯ mansion.

    Leticia nced at Enoch, who seemed to be in a bad mood. He was looking out the window with an unfathomable expression on his face.

    Leticia gently held Enoch¡¯s little finger with a sad look on her face, and said.

    ¡°Are you angry?¡±

    She seemed anxious when she asked him.

    Enoch looked down at her nervous and teary eyes, then sighed.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m angry. It¡¯s just¡­¡±

    The target of his anger was not Leticia.

    ¡°I¡¯m mad at myself.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia opened her eyes wide as she didn¡¯t expect that answer.

    Enoch slowly turned his head away, as if he didn¡¯t want to say anymore. Leticia sped his hand even tighter.

    ¡°Is it because of me?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles didn¡¯t do anything wrong. I¡¯m just¡­¡±

    It¡¯s just be a habit to hold back.

    It would be a lie if she said she didn¡¯t want someone to help her.

    Nevertheless, the reason for not being able to tell the truth about all of this was simple. Before she met Enoch, there was no one to ask for help. Whenever she¡¯d asked her family for help, they would simply refuse.

    In the end, Leticia had no choice but to ovee it alone or swallow down her feelings. Even though she knew that it was eating her up inside.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t me yourself, Lord Achilles.¡±

    Leticia knew he was upset that she hadn¡¯t asked for his help.

    Enoch quietly stared at Leticia, then slowly spoke.

    ¡°I¡¯m not like the people who hurt you.¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles¡­¡±

    ¡°I always want to help and do whatever I can for you.¡±

    He sincerely hoped that his feelings would reach Leticia this time.

    Leticia briefly closed her mouth at his words. Then slowly leaned her head on Enoch¡¯s shoulder, as if she¡¯d wanted to lean on him from the beginning.

    ¡°Really, thank you.¡±

    While speaking, Leticia held Enoch¡¯s hand tightly with both hands.

    ¡°Next time, ask for help if it¡¯s hard.¡±

    However, Enoch was still feeling slightly hurt and tried to let go of her hand.

    Leticia was making him feel helpless from one heart-rending look. It was a little mean if he was the only one who felt this way. He wanted to hear a definite answer from her now. He didn¡¯t want it to be a habit for Leticia to hide things from him, and he has to hear about it from strangers.

    With Leticia leaning against him and holding his hand tightly, Enoch felt like he might give in to her at any moment.

    Surprised, Leticia raised her head and looked up at Enoch, who was doing his best to look indifferent.

    ¡°Are you still mad?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not going to hide it again, are you?¡±

    ¡°It will never happen again.¡±

    Leticia nodded solemnly, but Enoch still looked suspicious.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    ¡°Yes, but maybe I¡¯ll just be a bother to Lord Achilles.¡±

    ¡°That will never happen.¡±

    ¡°I think so, too.¡±

    As Enoch said, he¡¯s different from her family.

    Leticia leaned closer to Enoch, and gently closed her eyes.

    She was happy that there was someone who cared about her so much.

    ***

    The rumors surrounding Leticia were oversized, and there was no sign of it subsiding. Wherever she walked outside, she could hear people whispering and pointing their fingers at her. There were people who ignored Leticia and showed little sign of caring. That was mainly because she was emunicated from her family and had no home to return to.

    Leticia, however, was no longer distressed or suffering.

    It was because Count Aster said he would somehow put the rumor to rest. Even if the rumor didn¡¯t go away, there were people who believed in her. So she no longer needed to endure everything alone like before.

    ¡°There¡¯s someone who believes that rumor? I don¡¯t think I want to talk about how stupid they are.¡±

    Elle said this with a look of bewilderment. She was apanying Leticia to the square to sell cookies.

    If she caught someone whispering, they would catch an earful from Elle.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine now.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not fine, I want to kick the whole thing.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Elle.¡±

    The warm sincerity in her rough tone made Leticia smile.

    At that moment, Enoch¡¯s words from a few days ago echoed in her ears.

    [I¡¯m not like the people who hurt you.]

    ¡®Right.¡¯

    Enoch was not like her family, the same was true for EIle and Ian.

    It gave Leticia the confidence to not give up on her idea, and she managed to push through the rumor.

    It was then.

    ¡°Excuse me.¡±

    Leticia was nervously calling out to passerbys. Everyone just nced as they passed, so she decided to try saying something out loud this time.

    Despite her nervousness, something unexpected happened.

    ¡°I¡¯d like one of these, please.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°Give me one of these.¡±

    ¡°Oh, yes.¡±

    She thought she heard wrong, but the woman pointed her finger at the cookies. Surprised, Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her awkwardness as she handed over a cookie with a trembling hand.

    It was only when the woman moved away that the tension in her body rxed.

    ¡°Someone finally bought one¡­¡±

    ¡°I know! Finally, someone who knows what they¡¯re worth.¡±

    Elle shook Leticia¡¯s hand with a squeal of delight, she was happy to know that she wasn¡¯t the only one doing well in business.

    The next day she had two customers, the day after that she had five, then she had ten, and so on. It increased everyday, as if by magic.

    ***

    Just a few days ago.

    ¡°Long time no see, Count Aster. Here¡¯s everything that you were looking for right here.¡±

    ¡°I know. I can¡¯t tell you how surprised I was to find out that something serious had happened.¡±

    ¡°Do you like it when you¡¯re called like this?¡±

    The nobles who came to the mansion at the Count¡¯s request all spoke caustically. However, from his expression it was obvious he liked it.

    ¡°I called you because I missed you, but you¡¯re embarrassing me. Let¡¯s not stand like this, let¡¯s just go inside.¡±

    Count Aster hade out to meet his guests. He smiled nicely and led them to the drawing room.

    As soon as they sat down, one of the Count¡¯s guests had a question for him.

    ¡°What are you wearing?¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    ¡°The ring, the ring.¡±

    ¡°Oh, you mean this?¡±

    Only then did Count Aster, who knew what he was referring to, raise his hand. As soon as the ring hits the light, the already shiny gemstone shines even brighter.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seen it before, is it new?¡±

    At first nce, it was a simple design. Once they looked closer, they could see the borate workmanship.

    A Marquis, who was quietly listening to the conversation between the two, asked with a slight frown.

    ¡°The color of the jewel is unique, is it from Marquis Leroy¡¯s mine?¡±

    His difort could clearly be felt while he was asking.

    The moment he saw the ring, he thought of Marquis Leroy¡¯s secret boasting about starting a business with an ore that could rece pink diamonds.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s not the ore from Marquis Leroy¡¯s mine.¡±

    ¡°Then what kind of gemstone is it made of?¡±

    ¡°Do you mean there¡¯s another jewel that has this particr color?¡±

    Count Aster pretended to be unsure, while urging on their curiosity to find an answer.

    ¡°There¡¯s only one jewel that is that color.¡±

    ¡°No way¡­¡±

    The Marquis immediately realized what he meant and asked with a look of incredulity.

    ¡°You mean it¡¯s a pink diamond?¡±

    ¡°Hey, that mine hasn¡¯t produced gemstones in ten years.¡±

    ¡°You have to say something that makes sense.¡±

    Everyone bit their tongue, and waited for the Count¡¯s words.

    Count Aster casually nodded.

    ¡°It¡¯s a pink diamond.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Is that true?¡±

    ¡°Are you saying this came from the mine that hasn¡¯t produced anything in ten years?¡±

    The noblemen kept asking over and over again. They were doubtful, even though the answer was right in front of them.

    In spite of the distrust directed at him, Count Aster replied with a friendly smile that he¡¯d maintained from the beginning.

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. I recently started investing in that mine.¡±

    ¡°Oh my God. What made you trust in that investment?¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t you lose a lot of money if something goes wrong?¡±

    When asked why he was doing business with that mine, Count Aster shrugged his shoulders.

    ¡°Have you ever seen me fail in business?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Everyone mmed up at the words that he said without changing his expression. It sounded conceited, but Count Aster wasn¡¯t wrong.

    ¡°So you made a ring out of that jewel?¡±

    ¡°It was a ring given to me by the Duke of Achilles, who is taking care of the child who I care for like my own daughter.¡±

    It was the moment when the purpose of calling them was finally revealed.

    Holding his breath, Count Aster secretly waited for someone to take the bait he¡¯d thrown out.

    ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve heard that the Count has a child he cares for so deeply.¡±

    Fortunately, the Viscount was listening intently, and curiously asked for rification. Count Aster spoke calmly, trying to not be impatient.

    ¡°Leticia Leroy, she¡¯s the child I¡¯ve long regarded as a daughter.¡±

    ¡°The daughter who was emunicated by Marquis Leroy?¡±

    ¡°If you get close to her, the rumors say something bad will happen¡­¡±

    The reaction he expected happened, everyone seemed reluctant to even mention Leticia.

    Count Aster acted surprised, as if he¡¯d never heard the rumor, thenughed aloud.

    ¡°If the rumor was true, there was no way a pink diamond would havee out of that mine.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true, but¡­¡±

    ¡°Come to think of it, every time I was with her, only good things happened.¡±

    Count Aster spoke as if he had realized anew, this time what he said wasn¡¯t intentional.

    A long time ago, when young Leticia visited the mansion, the countess was sickly.

    One day, after meeting Leticia by chance and receiving a wishing bracelet from her, her body became remarkably healthy. To the point where no one would believe that she had been life-threateningly ill in the past.

    ¡°Come to think of it, it¡¯s a miracle. My wife is well now and a jewel that hasn¡¯t been seen in ten years came out of the mine¡­¡±

    ¡°Is that true?¡±

    ¡°Oh, what I just said is a secret, so please pretend you didn¡¯t hear it.¡±

    Count Aster acted like he¡¯d been mumbling to himself and smiled awkwardly.

    They assured the Count that they would keep his secret and not to worry.

    However, secrets originally existed to be revealed.

 Chapter 50 - What Do You Think About Him?

    <h4>Chapter 50 - What Do You Think About Him?</h4>

    Chapter 50. What Do You Think About Him?

    At first she thought people were buying them out of curiosity.

    It wasn¡¯t until two dayster that she realized it wasn¡¯t just that.

    ¡°They¡¯ve already sold out and now we¡¯re getting a flood of orders!¡±

    Elle was trying to speak calmly, but the excitement was written clearly on her face. Leticia nodded with a thrilled smile stered on her face.

    ¡°I know, I¡¯m so d.¡±

    The sale of the cookies was now at a level that Leticia couldn¡¯t handle alone, so she asked for help from the Pegasuspany.

    The owner had a certain knack for business. So he never misses a good opportunity to attract people¡¯s attention and curiosity by naming the new product ¡®Lucky Cookies¡¯.

    Thanks to this, the rumor surrounding Leticia ended more easily than expected.

    ¡®Come to think of it, I haven¡¯t seen Lord Achilles these past couple of days.¡¯

    She wanted to let him know that she was okay now, but strangely it had been very hard to even see his facetely.

    Leticia nced at the closed front door, hoping that Enoch would open it and walk in.

    Elle noticed immediately where Leticia¡¯s gaze was straying and shrugged lightly.

    ¡°He must be very busy. I asked what was going on, but he wouldn¡¯t answer.¡±

    ¡°Oh, okay¡­¡±

    Leticia¡¯s face heated up as soon as she made eye contact with Elle, who seemed to be in a good mood.

    ¡°Who said I was curious?¡±

    ¡°You said it based on the look on your face.¡±

    Leticia turned her face away coyly, even though she was already caught.

    ¡°Sister, are you going to keep acting cute?¡±

    The way Elle rubbed her face on Leticia¡¯s shoulder was like a catining to their owner.

    Leticia stroked Elle¡¯s hair gently.

    ¡°You¡¯re the only one who thinks I¡¯m cute.¡±

    ¡°Come on, my brother adores Sister so much, too.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia opened her eyes wide, thinking that she had heard wrong. Elle simply shrugged like it wasn¡¯t surprising.

    ¡°Whenever I see you together, Brother always looks happy.¡±

    Leticia looked at Elle, and poked her cheek with a yful smile on her face. No matter how hard she thought about it, Elle seemed to be having fun teasing her.

    ¡°Are you going to keep teasing me?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s true, that¡¯s why I¡¯m saying¡­¡±

    Hangly tightly onto her shoulder, Elle asked.

    ¡°What do you think about him?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s voice rose at the unexpected question.

    Elle pretended not to notice Leticia¡¯s panic and pressed on with determination.

    ¡°I¡¯m not saying this because we¡¯re family. To be honest, my brother isn¡¯tcking in anything.¡±

    Then Elleid it out inly; he¡¯s handsome, but not funny. He¡¯s a responsible person, and he¡¯s always sincere with Leticia.

    Elle held onto Leticia to stop her from escaping.

    Leticia had the urge to run away, because her face had a feverish flush as the conversation continued. She couldn¡¯t push Elle away, who was clinging to her shoulder, so she lowered her head.

    ¡°Enough, that¡¯s enough¡­¡±

    Her flustered reply was muffled.

    She could admit that there was nothing wrong with anything that Elle said.

    Saying those words herself was another matter. Nevertheless, there was one thing she wanted to say.

    ¡°He¡¯s kind and¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the only one who he¡¯s sweet to.¡±

    ¡°Is that so¡­¡±

    She wanted to move onto another topic, but it seemed Elle still had a lot more to say.

    ¡°My brother is perfect, except for hisck of money. Is it because of the dowry?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Ian and I will provide the dowry.¡±

    Leticia was bewildered and perplexed by the casual way Elle said it.

    ¡°Elle, the dowry is originally prepared by the bride¡¯s family. Wait, why are we talking about marriage right now?¡±

    Leticia was feeling embarrassed, so she intentionally asked that question in a distrustful way.

    Elle did not back down.

    ¡°The groom¡¯s family can take care of it. I¡¯m not as tight on money as I¡¯d thought I¡¯d be.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡±

    ¡°If we don¡¯t have enough, I¡¯ll make more money for you.¡±

    Elle¡¯s eyes were glistening as she said this. With a slight frown on her face, Leticia then asked.

    ¡°Are you still making fun of me?¡±

    ¡°How did you know?¡±

    ¡°Huh, really?¡±

    How did her teasing keep getting worse and worse.

    Leticia nced at her, then removed Elle¡¯s arm from her shoulder.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have time for this.¡±

    ¡°Why? Is there somewhere else for you to be?¡±

    Elle looked disgruntled from her arm being pushed away.

    Facing her gaze, Leticia gently smiled and held out her hand toward Elle.

    ¡°I have somewhere I want to go with you.¡±

    ***

    Leticia took Elle to a street that sells expensive essories and dresses.

    She¡¯d received her money from the director of Pegasus for the Lucky Cookie contract, and she wanted to give them all thank you gifts for taking care of her.

    ¡°Tell me if there¡¯s anything that you want. I¡¯ll buy it for you.¡±

    Leticia nodded firmly as if to tell her to trust her. Elle¡¯s eyes widened, then she immediately had a big grin on her face.

    ¡°Really? I have very expensive tastes.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how expensive it is, but to the best of my ability I will buy it for you.¡±

    Leticia was worried about her choosing something too expensive, and held her hand tightly with a grim look.

    Elle felt warmed and contrite at the same time, because Leticia looked like a parent trying to buy their child whatever they wanted, even if it was too much.

    ¡°I¡¯m not kidding.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve received so much from you that I want to give back to you as well.¡±

    Leticia was referring to the money Elle had given her for the wishing bracelets. She¡¯d received so much that she didn¡¯t deserve. She wanted to buy something for her this time, and hoped she would ept it willingly.

    Elle never regretted giving Leticia the money. Rather, she was sad that she couldn¡¯t give Leticia more.

    ¡®It was a fair price.¡¯

    If Leticia hadn¡¯t given her the idea, she would never have had the opportunity to make her dreame true or the tform to seed.

    Elle was rather touched by Leticia treasuring her.

    ¡°Then can I buy two of the same essory and share them with you, Sister?¡±

    ¡°Which one?¡±

    ¡°Like a bracelet or ne. To be honest, I always wanted to do this with a friend.¡±

    Elle¡¯s eyes twinkled as she sped her hands together. She looked like a child desperately asking for a toy that she really wanted.

    One thing stuck in Leticia¡¯s mind though.

    ¡°Are you sure you want to do that with me?¡±

    ¡°Of course! You¡¯re more precious to me than a friend.¡±

    Her response to the question made Leticia smile and she nodded.

    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s get the prettiest essories and wear them together.¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t take it off, okay?¡±

    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go and buy them.¡±

    Leticia had promised to never remove it and excitedly grabbed Elle¡¯s hand. Only then did Elle smile in satisfaction and follow Leticia.

    Leticia scratched her cheek with a perplexed look on her face.

    ¡®Come to think of it, I need to buy something for Ian and Lord Achilles.¡¯

    She¡¯d already bought a present for Countess Aster.

    ¡°Was there anything that Lord Achilles always wanted or liked?¡±

    ¡°My brother?¡± My brother is¡­¡±

    Elle was trying to remember if there was something he needed, but couldn¡¯t think of anything. She cautiously answered.

    ¡°He used to love collecting famous swords.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Leticia was confused about why Elle had aplicated look on her face.

    Before she could ask what was wrong, Elle smiled bitterly.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing left after my father went into debt.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    At those words a sigh flowed out.

    Elle turned her head awkwardly because she was embarrassed just saying it.

    As soon as she saw how self-conscious Elle is, she gently pulled on her hand.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll buy him a sword.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°A very good sword, even if it¡¯s expensive, it¡¯ll be worthwhile.¡±

    Leticia smiled and squeezed her hand gently.

    Elle¡¯s heart gradually lightened from her words offort.

    ¡°Would he like it if I gave him a sword?¡±

    ¡°Yes, he might die of happiness. He locked himself in his room for days after he sold his prized sword.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Of course, he¡¯ll like it even more if you gave it to him.¡±

    If Leticia gave it to him, he¡¯d definitely love it. Even amon flower bes precious if given to you by the person you like.

    Leticia chuckled at Elle¡¯s confident nod.

    So the two went to the weapon merchant together.

    The first merchant had all kinds of weapons on disy. Among them, she saw one that was particrly shiny.

    Leticia approached it as if possessed, and quietly eximed.

    ¡®Pretty¡­¡¯

    She knew she wasn¡¯t buying a sword based solely on appearance, but she kept looking at the jewels and it¡¯s elongated form.? In her imagination, she could see Enoch receiving it with a pleased expression and she felt a deep sense of satisfaction.

    The weapon¡¯s merchant noticed Leticia staring and approached.

    ¡°You have a good eye, this wonderful sword arrived today.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    How much does something like this cost?

    Leticia slowly reached for the sword. However, warmth ovepped the back of her hand even before she could touch it.

    She raised her head in surprise, and made eye contact with a frowning man.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Xavier could not hide his difort after touching Leticia¡¯s hand. He even wiped his own hand with a handkerchief from his pocket.

    Anyone could tell he acted as if he¡¯d just touched something dirty.

    Leticia didn¡¯t evenugh at the sight. She felt her heart grow heavy and tried her best to hold the sword again with an indifferent expression.

    Before she could, an irritable Xavier stopped her again.

    ¡°I saw that first, Sister. No, you¡¯re not my sister anymore, are you?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Elle clenched her teeth and began to approach with a sarcastic remark on her tongue.

    Before she could, Leticia looked Xavier in the eyes and said.

    ¡°Right, so don¡¯t call me that. I don¡¯t feel very good to be called?sister?by you either.¡±

    He could no longer smother her with his words, it was almost pathetic to watch him trying to hurt her.

    Xavier was ring at Leticia, when he smirked at her.

    ¡°You don¡¯t even know the value of this sword.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business because I¡¯ll give it to someone who deserves it.

    The weapons merchant was standing there alone with a bewildered expression at the confrontation where neither party wanted to give an inch.

    *****************************************************

 Chapter 51 - Luck Itself

    <h4>Chapter 51 - Luck Itself</h4>

    Chapter 51. Luck Itself

    ¡°I saw someone following after herst time.¡±

    Mary answered Enoch¡¯s question about whether she¡¯d seen anyone suspicious from the Leroy household following Leticia.

    At the time, she thought it was just a coincidence. Now she wondered why someone from that household was following Leticia when she was already emunicated.

    ¡°Do you know who it was?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s the butler who works directly for the Third Young Master.

    ¡°Third Young Master¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Master Emil Leroy.¡±

    Even before Mary was done talking, the memory of a listless voice was heard in his ears.

    [I don¡¯t know who spread the rumor, but I think it was someone from my family.]

    He¡¯d hoped that she was wrong, but Leticia¡¯s guess was correct.

    Enoch nodded with aplicated sigh.

    ¡°I see, thank you for telling me.¡±

    ¡°Was it Master Emil who spread the rumor?¡±

    Mary gasped with an incredulous look on her face.

    There might be another reason for it, but Enoch smiled bitterly.

    ¡°There¡¯s a good chance of that.¡±

    There was no hard evidence, but the circumstances pointed to it being the work of Leticia¡¯s younger brother, Emil.

    ¡°How could he do that¡­¡±

    Mary was having trouble getting over the shock after Enoch¡¯s matter-of-fact answer. She did her best to calm herself and said.

    ¡°Is there anything I can do to help?¡±

    She looked determined to do anything she could to aid Leticia.

    Enoch felt relieved by the sight of her hands sped tightly together. It was a greatfort to know that there was someone by Leticia¡¯s side who cared for her.

    ¡°You just have to take care of her like you do now. I¡¯ll deal with the rest.¡±

    Enoch spoke quietly and clenched his fist.

    Now it was his turn to confront the person who returned Leticia¡¯s good will with venom.

    ***

    ¡°There is only one sword, so I think it¡¯s best if one of you yields.¡±

    The weapons merchant was watching the two people who had no intention of backing down and looked around for help.

    He wanted one of them to back off, but Leticia and Xavier just kept ring at each other.

    ¡°Then can I just pay more for it?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Tell me how much, I¡¯ll give you what you want.¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    Xavier acted as if the amount was irrelevant, the merchant nced at Leticia, but soon turned back to Xavier.

    ¡°The more you put on, the better for me.¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t say that, I picked it up first.¡±

    Leticia had been watching quietly, when she piped up with a frown on her face.

    Her words were not wrong, and the merchant sighed with a troubled expression.

    Then Xavier took a step closer to Leticia.

    ¡°Please understand the reality.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You won¡¯t even be able to lift this sword.¡±

    Leticia bit her lip at his tant disregard.

    ¡°I chose it as a gift.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if that person is worth having this sword. If you¡¯re going to give this to someone worthy, it obviously should go to me.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s expression hardened as he casually looked down on someone else.

    She could always handle when she was ridiculed, but she could not stand for anyone to speak poorly of Enoch.

    ¡°Come now, Xavier Leroy. How great can you be? There¡¯s a limit to how far you can cross the line.¡±

    ¡°What if I don¡¯t care?¡±

    Elle began to shout before Leticia could say anything more.

    ¡°Oh I see,I see! Did your family never give you a proper education at home?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t you hear me? I don¡¯t think your family is very well educated! I can see your dirty personality on disy!¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m saying it in innguage too.¡±

    Elle really couldn¡¯t understand how all the words he said were so offensive to other people¡¯s feelings.

    At the same time, it was amazing that a good person like Leticia came from such a family.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I don¡¯t want to talk to you.¡±

    Unlike his apology, Xavier¡¯s expression was very unpleasant. Leticia clenched her fists, knowing that he still believed that the Achilles family was unlucky.

    Just as she was about to say something, the store bell over the door rang. She turned her head in that direction, and a familiar person stood there with a curious look.

    Leticia recognized her first and her eyes widened in surprise.

    ¡°How can you be here?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I was going to say. I¡¯m a regr here.¡±

    As soon as they made eye contact, Keena expressed her surprise as well.

    She soon noticed the heavy mood and looked around.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on here? The atmosphere is a bit like that, isn¡¯t it?

    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ umm¡­¡±

    The weapons merchant btedly noticed Keena. He quickly approached her and exined the situation.

    Keena was listening quietly, she nodded slightly and slowly spoke up.

    ¡°Then let¡¯s make it fair, and the winner of the Swordsmanship tournament gets to buy it. I¡¯ll fight for Leticia.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear that there¡¯s a tournament being hosted by the Empire soon?¡±

    Unlike Leticia, who had never heard of the swordsmanship tournament, Xavier stood there with his arms crossed, as if he already knew about it.

    ¡°What a waste of time. Stop being petty and just give up.¡±

    Keena stepped forward and looked down her nose at him, as if she was being considerate for thest time.

    ¡°You¡¯re not confident? Well it happens, I understand.¡±

    As she nodded with a generous expression, like she¡¯d figured it all out, Xavier¡¯s temper rose.

    ¡°You don¡¯t know how to take an opportunity when it¡¯s given to you.¡±

    His oldest sister was still gifted at doing useless things.

    Xavier clicked his tongue and turned to the weapons merchant.

    ¡°Merchant, I¡¯ll leave my deposit and see you soon.¡±

    He was acting like he¡¯d already won.

    After his remark, Xavier passed Leticia as if it was all decided. He didn¡¯t forget to re at Leticia as he passed by her.

    Leticia watched him leave without avoiding his gaze, then she asked Keena.

    ¡°Why did you do that?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think you know, but Xavier¡¯s ability is Swordsmanship.¡±

    She said this because Keena seemed to be the only one who didn¡¯t know.

    Keena shrugged her shoulders without a worry.

    ¡°Oh, really? That¡¯s a big deal.¡±

    Unlike her surprised expression, Keena¡¯s tone was awkward, like she was yacting.

    ¡°I¡¯m a little confident in using my body.

    She tapped her chest with a trust me grin on her face.

    Leticiaughed at the sight, and asked curiously.

    ¡°Why are you helping me?¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you? I want to look good in front of you.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Elle, who had been looking at Keena suspiciously, stepped close to Leticia and asked.

    ¡°Are you a friend?¡±

    ¡°Huh? No, not a friend¡­¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll be the closest of friends in the future.¡±

    Leticia tried to correct Elle¡¯s assumption, but Keena casually cut her off.

    ¡°We just know each other a little bit.¡±

    ¡°If you say it like that, I¡¯m a little hurt hearing that.¡±

    Keena was approaching her with a hurt look, then she slowly looked Leticia up and down. When Leticia was about to ask what was wrong.

    ¡°Come to think of it, you look better. I thought the rumor wouldst a long time.¡±

    ¡°Did you spread it?¡±

    Elle reacted sensitively to the mention of the rumor and quickly hid Leticia behind her. She immediately stared fiercely at Keena without hiding her hostility.

    ¡°You can¡¯t keep spreading false rumors like that! I¡¯ve had so many good things happen to me since I met my sister.¡±

    ¡°Yeah¡­?¡±

    ¡°Of course! My sister is a lucky charm, no, a living blessing.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    ¡°So don¡¯t say that to a person¡¯s face.¡±

    When she was done speaking, Elle hugged Leticia protectively. The sight reminded Keena of a mother hen protecting her chick from a ferocious predator.

    She pouted her lips in discontent at the wary way Elle looked at her.

    ¡°What did you hear me say? I want to look good in front of thedy.¡±

    Keena turned her sad eyes towards Leticia at the injustice of the usation.

    ¡°So what do you think?¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°Do you think you bring a lot of good luck?¡±

    Her yful attitude made the heavy atmosphere from earlier fall away like it never happened.

    Leticia noticed the change and asked with an uncertain expression.

    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m curious, and it¡¯s important to me.¡±

    Keena began to approach Leticia in hopes of a quick answer, but Elle blocked her way.

    ¡°Why does it matter if she does or not?¡±

    ¡°Elle.¡±

    ¡°My sister is a precious person in her own way.¡±

    Elle knew why Leticia was expelled from the Leroy family. She wanted to take care of her and protect her from harm.

    When people made a fuss about Leticia¡¯s ability in her vicinity, Elle naturally became angry.

    ¡°Oh, my. I must have offended you.¡±

    ¡°Yes, so don¡¯t pretend to be close to my sister from now on.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Because your intentions seem impure.¡±

    ¡°Even though I¡¯m going to fight for Leticia in the Swordsmanship tournament?¡±

    ¡°Who asked you to do that? It¡¯s not like you¡¯re doing it purely to help her.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡±

    Unlike Elle, who had her guard up and was quite vocal about it, Keena was still rxed.

    It was hard to believe that she wasn¡¯t even trying to hide her ulterior motives, which made the situation all the more unbelievable. Everytime she came to her rescue with that mysterious smile, she couldn¡¯t help but say thank you.

    Leticia let out a shallow sigh at Keena¡¯s skill.

    ***

    Seios was in the midst of researching about the Erebos family in the magic tower when he came across an old text. It was a book that told the story of the three families who inherited their abilities from God during the early days of the Helios Empire.

    ¡®I wonder if there¡¯s a story simr to Leticia¡¯s.¡¯

    It was possible that she had an ability that was not as obvious as those of her other siblings. Seios still had no doubt that Leticia had a superior ability.

    Then a phrase caught his eye.

    ¡®A giver of good fortune?¡¯

    [The energy was warm and cozy, as if the sunshine had wrapped all around my body. Sometimes it shone brighter and more dazzling than the sun.]

    They can¡¯t bring good luck to themselves, but have the benevolent ability to spread it to those around them.

    ¡®The sun¡­ wait, the sun?¡¯

    It was in that moment that he remembered the day when he went to see Marquis Leroy after such a long time. He remembered the Marquis introduced Leticia first, and then Diana second, at the birthday party.

    He saw Leticia and felt an energy as strong and brilliant as the sun.

    Seos really wanted to help her because she had a special energypared to Diana, but she was ignored by her family because she had no ability.

    ¡°No way¡­¡±

    Something only given to the most beloved by God, ¡®Luck¡¯.

    Leticia¡¯s ability was ¡®luck¡¯ itself.

    **************************************************

 Chapter 52 - Donâ€™t Mess With Me

    <h4>Chapter 52 - Don¡¯t Mess With Me</h4>

    Chapter 52. Don¡¯t Mess With Me

    ¡°I can¡¯t help but think of her as a strange woman.¡±

    Elle said this with an ufortable expression. They had finally shaken off Keena¡¯s attempts to follow them to the Achilles Mansion. Leticia, who was walking beside her, only smiled awkwardly.

    ¡°So you should be careful too. I keep thinking she¡¯s trying to trick you.¡±

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be careful.¡±

    ¡°I knew my sister was too pretty for her own good.¡±

    Somehow the whole world seemed to be after Leticia, so Elle walked with her arm around her shoulder.

    ¡°Elle is the only one who likes me.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re saying that again, there¡¯s someone over there who likes you too.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t understand what she meant. She blinked and turned her in the direction Elle was pointing.

    There she found Enoch standing at the entrance, and a big smile spread across Leticia¡¯s face.

    ¡°Lord Achilles!¡±

    Perhaps it was because she¡¯d only been getting brief glimpses of his face every morning, but today she felt even happier to see him.

    Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her happiness, and ran towards Enoch.

    Maybe it¡¯s because she was rushing, and not paying attention. She stepped on some uneven ground and stumbled. Leticia closed her eyes tightly as she was about to fall forward.

    What she felt wasn¡¯t the hard ground, but a warm embrace. She could tell without looking who it was.

    He barely managed to catch her and stop her from tumbling to the ground. Unlike Leticia, who was sighing in relief, Enoch¡¯s face was slightly stiff.

    ¡°If you run like that, you¡¯ll fall.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s so good that¡­ Ah¡­¡±

    Leticia shook her head with a short gasp. She btedly realized what she was about to say.

    Thanks to this, Enoch¡¯s stiff expression became more rxed.

    Embarrassed, Leticia squeezed Enoch¡¯s arm and looked up at him with a sharp look.

    ¡°Why is it so hard to see your face these days?¡±

    Her tart words seemed strangely loving, and a smile spread across Enoch¡¯s face.

    ¡°There was some work.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    Leticia asked him what it was. Instead of answering, Enoch gently stroked her hair. Leticia grabbed hold of his arm harder. Her heart was feeling ticklish even though all he was doing was patting her head.

    ¡°I won¡¯t be busy anymore, so you can rx.¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t hear anymore of his soothing words. Instead, she buried herself in Enoch¡¯s chest.

    ¡°Um, actually¡­¡±

    She¡¯d missed him.

    She wanted to say these words, but strangely, the words were stuck in her throat and she couldn¡¯t seem to get them out.

    The beating of her heart seemed audible to her ears, so Leticia stopped talking and took a deep breath.

    Just as she was about to try and say she missed him again.

    ¡°I missed you.¡±

    Surprised by the words, Leticia¡¯s eyes widened and she looked up at Enoch.

    ¡°How did you know I was going to say that?¡±

    ¡°What? I was just saying what I wanted to say.¡±

    ¡°What? Ah¡­¡±

    Leticia¡¯s face began to turn red, she couldn¡¯t believe she thought that he knew how she was feeling and said it. She was so ashamed that she wanted to turn around and run away.

    As if he¡¯d noticed, Enoch leaned back and met Leticia¡¯s gaze.

    ¡°Did you miss me?¡±

    The sweet voice that reached her ears began to make her face unbearably warm. Eventually, Leticia tucked her face down to hide how red it was.

    The more she did this, the closer Enoch got.

    Even without looking, she could feel his gaze looking straight at her. Leticia touched her fingertips together nervously.

    ¡°I think you¡¯re too close now.¡±

    ¡°Well, I can¡¯t hear you.¡±

    Leticia was unable to bear the words, and she tried to back away. Before she knew it, she saw arge hand take hold of both wrists. It was such a weak grip that she could slip out at any time with a little effort.

    If she didn¡¯t like it, she could easily push him away.

    ¡®Really, this guy is¡­¡¯

    Even at this moment, his touch was being considerate of her. She tried to swallow her overwhelming emotions. Leticia bit her lip and looked up at him.

    As soon as their gazes intertwined, as if waiting for this, Enoch said.

    ¡°I missed you so much.¡±

    His eyes were full of longing.

    Leticia tried to tell him that he wasn¡¯t the only one feeling that way, that she also wanted to see him.

    ¡°Oh, my God. My eyes are burning!¡±

    With an expression of disgust, Elle went into the mansion first with a click of her tongue.

    Only then did Leticia and Enoch realize that she was still around.

    ***

    ¡°Young Master, wee back¡­¡±

    The butler greeted Emil as he entered the room, but Emil pretended not to hear him and sat roughly in a chair.

    His head was filled with conversations between his academic colleagues that kepting up.

    [I mean, Ian Achilles. How did he even get past the first round?]

    One of his academic colleagues asked with an inquisitive look when they were talking about how to do well on the second round of exams.

    [Oh, that¡¯s because a professor wrote a letter of rmendation.]

    [Which professor was it?]

    Emil was listening into the conversation while pretending disinterest, he secretly smirked and drank his tea. It was obvious he¡¯d bribed one of the money-crazy professors to write him a letter. If he found out who it was, he was going to turn him into a test administrator right away.

    However, Emil¡¯s prediction was a mistake.

    [Professor Warner Russel wrote the letter of rmendation himself.]

    [Wow, didn¡¯t he reject your request?]

    [Of course, you know how much Professor Russel hates expediency and cheating.]

    [But isn¡¯t this the first time Professor Russel has written a letter of rmendation?]

    It was at that moment that Emil¡¯s expression cracked while he was drinking his tea leisurely.

    ¡®Warner Russel?¡¯

    Emil clenched his teeth.

    The fact that he wrote a letter of rmendation for Ian Achilles while rejecting his rmendation was a blow to his self-esteem.

    In the end, Emil couldn¡¯t contain his anger and swept everything off of his desk. His quill pen, ink bottle, and various books rolled onto the floor, but his mood didn¡¯t clear up so easily.

    ¡°How dare he write a letter of rmendation to someone who¡¯s not evenparable to me? What a stupid professor!¡±

    The more he thought about it, the more his temper red and he couldn¡¯t bear it.

    As he clenched his fist to calm down, his eyes met with the butler who was just quietly watching him.

    ¡°Come to think of it, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s been any reports about my first sistertely. Am I mistaken?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ The situation has gotten worse.¡±

    Emil paused, surprised by the butler¡¯s words.

    The feeling of having fallen into the abyss began to cool down.

    ¡°Tell me the details.¡±

    ¡°So¡­¡±

    The butler was wondering how to say this, when he carefully began to exin.

    Until a few days ago, the rumor around Leticia that she would make you unlucky and unhappy was spreading around quite virulently. At some point it turned around, people started to talk about how Leticia¡¯s cookies were causing good things to happen, just like the words inside her cookies.

    ¡°With all due respect, I don¡¯t think anything bad will happen around the First Miss.¡±

    The butler said these words without realizing it and quickly shut his mouth.

    But Emil had already heard him.

    ¡°If it¡¯s not bad, then what?¡±

    The butler said reluctantly, Emil¡¯s stern expression urging an answer.

    ¡°It seems like something good happens often¡­¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve investigated and found that since the First Miss entered the Achilles household, only good things have happened to the Duke of Achilles.¡±

    The butler looked troubled as he said this.

    Emil clenched his fist while staring at him, an uneasy and ominous feeling was growing in his chest.

    ¡°What exactly, for example?¡±

    ¡°Recently, Young Master Achilles passed the first round of exams¡­ Ahh¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    It wasn¡¯t a good idea to use Ian as an example, the butler let out a short sigh.

    Fortunately, Emil¡¯s was already distracted elsewhere.

    ¡°It¡¯s not a bad thing¡­¡±

    Emil had been standing there with a nk look on his face, he then sat weakling into a chair.

    He thought there would only be bad things. No, there had to be only bad things. Emil wanted to believe that, even though he knew it wasn¡¯t true.

    Because he had to.

    It would ruin his family¡¯s reputation if they¡¯d condemned an innocent person.

    But¡­

    ¡®Only good things have happened¡­?¡¯

    He couldn¡¯t believe it, he didn¡¯t want to admit it.

    In retrospect, everything had been going horribly well for that family since Leticia entered the Achilles¡¯ mansion. When the bet was made with his second sister, Diana, Elle Achilles wishing bracelets had an explosion of poprity. Then when Ian Achilles failed the first test, Warner Russel wrote him a letter of rmendation.

    ¡®Come to think of it, the Duke of Achilles became an Imperial Knight after meeting her.¡¯

    He was disqualified previously for ridiculous reasons, everyone was saying he¡¯d fail again.

    There was even talk about pink diamonds, which had not been seen in ten years, appearing again.

    ¡®So the pink diamond is real, too?¡¯

    Emil sucked in a breath with a pale face.

    ¡°No, no, no, no¡­ That¡¯s too impossible to be true¡­ That can¡¯t be true¡­¡±

    What should he do? Where could he even start? Where on earth should he start and how should he fix this situation?

    He heard a knock on his door as his mind ran around in confusion. A maid hesitantly stepped in the room when he called for her to enter.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°You have a visitor.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s the guest?¡±

    ¡°The Duke of Achilles said he really wanted to see you today.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s waiting for you in the drawing room.¡±

    As soon as the maid finished her message she bowed her head and left the room.

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    Emil swept his hair back with an irritated look.

    He didn¡¯t feel good.

    .

    .

    .

    Arriving at the door to the drawing room, Emil sighed.

    Somehow he was nervous and his mouth had dried up. He quickly regained hisposure and opened the door.

    Leisurely looking out the window, Enoch slowly turned his head at the sound of the door opening.

    ¡°Wee, Duke of Achilles.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t seem to treat guests well here.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t really expect it.¡±

    At the same time, he nced at the table.

    Emil btedly realized it was a rebuke for not serving him a cup of tea while he waited, and with a calm face, asked for simple refreshments to be served.

    ¡®You came here without giving notice.¡¯

    It was a family as ill-mannered, as they are unlucky.

    He wanted to kick him out as soon as possible, but he was faced with Enoch¡¯s rxed expression.

    ¡°You shoulde another day, Father isn¡¯t here currently.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have to.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Young Master Leroy, I¡¯m here to see you.¡±

    He couldn¡¯t understand why someone, who he¡¯d never had contact with before, hade all this way to meet him.

    He knows that my family hates the Achilles family.

    It was clear to him that whatever Enoch was about to say was not going to be good.

    ¡°Do you know about the rumor spreading about your eldest sister?¡±

    His expectation did not go astray.

    Emil shook his head in wonder at Enoch¡¯s words, which came out just as tea and refreshments had even been served.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not interested in rumors.¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t know, I¡¯ll tell you.¡±

    Enoch, who was currently sniffing the tea with an expressionless face, said calmly.

    ¡°When you¡¯re around her you¡¯ll lose all your luck, be unlucky and be unhappy.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Someone deliberately spread this rumor, with malicious intention of dragging her down.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Thanks to that, she almost gave up on her first dream.¡±

    Enoch¡¯s eyes didn¡¯t fall off of him the whole time he was talking. Emil felt a feeling creep up his spine, his gaze seemed to know everything.

    Emil put a sad look on his face.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear the bad news about my eldest sister.¡±

    ¡°Sorry? Oh, you¡¯re sorry¡­¡±

    Unlike his nk expression, his eyes glowed fiercely.

    Under his stare, Emil felt like a small animal caught in the jaws of arge predator.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you wonder why I¡¯m saying this?¡±

    ¡°Do I have to be curious¡­?¡±

    Fortunately he didn¡¯t stutter, but his voice cracked slightly.

    Enoch raised the corners of his mouth mockingly at Emil.

    ¡°I heard you were smart, but I don¡¯t think you¡¯re as smart as you think you are. Is it that hard to understand what I¡¯m saying?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t think I started the rumor, do you?¡±

    ¡°Then, what?¡±

    Emil had known from the start what Enoch was talking about, but was trying to avoid the topic. He turned his gaze, and faced Enoch head to head.

    ¡°So do you have proof that I did it?¡±

    There would be no evidence that he¡¯d been spreading the rumor anywhere. He¡¯d given orders to his butler directly, so he was confident he would never be caught.

    Enoch let out a coldugh, without a sign of unease.

    ¡°Yeah, I didn¡¯t expect you to admit it easily.¡±

    The purpose of the visity elsewhere, so Enoch managed to swallow down his rising anger.

    ¡°Don¡¯t bother Leticia.¡±

    A warning that he wouldn¡¯t stand back next time.

    ¡°I hate people who touch what¡¯s mine.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°If you ignore this warning, you¡¯d better be prepared.¡±

    Enochid down his teacup with a calm expression and gave a twisted smile.

    ¡°I¡¯ll make you realize what a living hell is.¡±

    He really wanted to show him right away, but he was willing to let it go just this time.

    Enoch¡¯s attitude irritated Emil, he clenched his jaw and asked.

    ¡°Are you threatening me?¡±

    ¡°Threatening? No way.¡±

    ¡°What is this, other than a threat?¡±

    ¡°Do you have proof that I threatened you?¡±

    ¡°Wha¡­ What?¡±

    Emil had not expected his words to be returned to him like this and burst into hystericalughter.

    Enoch was not finished talking.

    Enoch was turning his teacup with a slight frown.

    ¡°I guess the Leroys only drink cheap tea? Or is it because I¡¯m the guest?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you serve decent tea to your guests? What if there are rumors that you treat your guests poorly?¡±

    Emil thought Enoch was really worried with the tone of concern in his voice.

    However, his smiling eyes seemed to swell with murderous intent.

    ¡°It might make you look bad.¡±

 Chapter 53 - You Want To Adopt Me?

    <h4>Chapter 53 - You Want To Adopt Me?</h4>

    Chapter 53. You Want To Adopt Me?

    ¡®Shall I ask him toe with me?¡¯

    It was the first day of the Swordsmanship tournament and Leticia was standing in front of Enoch¡¯s door. She kept raising and dropping her hand.

    Leticia was just going to make a casual request, but she was strangely nervous and let out a long sigh. The door suddenly burst open just as she was going to try reaching out to knock again.

    Leticia was so startled that she couldn¡¯t even scream and almost fell backwards. Enoch quickly grabbed her before she could fall.

    ¡°Are you all right?¡±

    Perhaps from the surprise, Enoch looked stiffer than usual. His eyes were busy checking to see if she was injured anywhere.

    Being in Enoch¡¯s arms unexpectedly, Leticia was so shy that she covered her face with her hands.

    ¡°I¡¯m all right.¡±

    Why did she keep falling like a child who hadn¡¯t taken a proper step yet? She wished she could disappear.

    Enoch only released Leticia from his arms when he was sure that she was fine.

    ¡°What brings you here?¡±

    ¡°Oh, well¡­ Uh¡­¡±

    As soon as she was faced with his soft gaze, Leticia hesitated and started to smooth her dress with her fingers. It wasn¡¯t anything important, she didn¡¯t know why she was so nervous.

    Time with Enoch always gave her a sense of security. She could feel her mouth going dry, because she had never suggested they do something together first.

    ¡°I heard today¡¯s the first day of the tournament, would you like to go with me?¡±

    She finally said it!

    Leticia looked up at him while clenching her hands on her sleeves.

    Enoch rubbed the nape of his neck, as if he was ufortable. Leticia immediately noticed his awkward expression. She couldn¡¯t hide her disappointment and her shoulders drooped.

    ¡°It looks like you have other things to do¡­¡±

    She wanted to go with him.

    As he lowered his head weakly, he quickly told her.

    ¡°It¡¯s not because I don¡¯t want to go with you.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, you must be busy.¡±

    She understood, but that didn¡¯t make her feel any better right now.

    Leticia stood there with a sullen face, and Enoch spoke to her in a soothing tone.

    ¡°It¡¯s because I have training.¡±

    ¡°Training?¡±

    Today wasn¡¯t the day he went to the pce for training. She knew Enoch trained every morning on his own, but she was confused because it was toote in the day for that.

    ¡®Come to think of it¡­¡¯

    Leticia kept her mouth shut for a moment and looked at Enoch.

    He was wearing the same clothes she had seen him wearing during his sword training.

    ¡®No way¡­?¡¯

    As the thought passed through her head, Leticia looked surprised and asked.

    ¡°Are you participating in the tournament?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    There was no answer when she asked if she was correct.

    Leticia frowned at Enoch¡¯s furtive nce, then he tried to exin himself.

    ¡°The Knights have a separatepetition.¡±

    It was kind of like an initiation.

    Since it was unfair for them to participate in a tournament with ordinary people, the members of the Imperial Knights had a separatepetition.

    ¡®I don¡¯t want him to get hurt.¡¯

    Leticia knew it was inevitable as long as he held a sword.

    Even though she understood, her mind could not deal with the situation, and in the end she turned her head away from Enoch.

    As she turned her head away, Enoch¡¯s heart dropped. As soon as he realized what she was worried about, he firmly said.

    ¡°I won¡¯t get hurt, I won¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    It didn¡¯t sound very reliable, because he couldn¡¯t help if he got hurt.

    She felt a small arm hug her drooping shoulders. Before she could turn around in surprise, Elle piped up.

    ¡°If he gets hurt, it¡¯s his loss. Leave my brother behind and let¡¯s go.¡±

    ¡°Shall we?¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    Feeling nervous for some reason, Enoch quickly reached out to Leticia.? However, Leticia gently avoided his hand.

    Without time to be puzzled by the way she rejected him for the first time, Elle stuck her tongue out at Enoch tauntingly.

    ¡°We¡¯re busy now.¡±

    She quickly took Leticia away with her.

    Behind them, Enoch called out to Leticia anxiously, but she was only dragged further away by the victorious Elle.

    ***

    It was the first day of the tournament, and there were already a lot of people around. Leticia and Elle walked around while holding hands tightly, because they were worried they would lose each other if they even looked away for a moment.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t Iane with you?¡±

    The thought suddenly came to Leticia, so she carefully asked. Elle just shrugged nonchntly.

    ¡°He didn¡¯t want toe because he¡¯s busy studying for the second exam that¡¯sing up.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    It¡¯s like that.

    Leticia walked slowly, unable to hide her regret.

    ¡°I wish he¡¯de with us.¡±

    ¡°I know, but you can¡¯t force someone toe when they want to study.¡±

    They didn¡¯t want to interfere with Ian, who had always lived apathetically with a look of disinterest in everything he did. He was finally making an effort with enthusiasm for the first time in a long time.

    ¡°I¡¯m d I got my sister all to myself.¡±

    ¡°Me, too.¡±

    At that, Elle pouted her lips with a discontent look on her face.

    ¡°Lies, you were sad you couldn¡¯t go with my brother.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s not it.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because you like my brother.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    As if shocked by Elle¡¯s words, Leticia suddenly stopped and gasped.

    Elle looked at her curiously.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you like my brother?¡±

    ¡°How did you know that?¡±

    ¡°How could I not know?¡±

    Why did she say it like that?

    Elle managed to swallow theughter that was bubbling up. She pointed to Leticia¡¯s face and said.

    ¡°It¡¯s written all over your face.¡±

    Her face was already red, which informed anyone watching of the answer.

    Leticia covered her face in embarrassment, and tearfully said.

    ¡°Is it really that obvious¡­?¡±

    It was an unspeakable shock to Leticia, who thought she had hidden her thoughts well in her own way.

    Elle didn¡¯t give Leticia time to calm down.

    ¡°How can you not tell when your face turns red just by asking if you like my brother?¡±

    ¡°Then did Lord Achilles notice?¡±

    Her blue eyes teared up in anxiety. Elle quietly watched her and sighed instead of answering.

    Her brother was quick-witted, not a slow man. He was actually a frighteningly clever man, and it was clear that he was looking for a clear opportunity to strike.

    ¡°He probably doesn¡¯t know.¡±

    Elle gave a ¡®trust me¡¯ nod.

    She didn¡¯t want to mess up Enoch¡¯s chance by telling Leticia the truth.

    Leticia was going to be her future sister-inw.

    ¡°Really? Phew¡­ That¡¯s a relief.¡±

    Fortunately, Leticia did not know the insidious truth of the matter, and let out several long breaths of relief.

    Elle quietly watched Leticia calm down and suddenly asked something she was curious about.

    ¡°Why do you hate the idea of someone being injured so much?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think anyone likes to see someone get hurt, but you care a lot more than most.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­ well¡­¡±

    Leticia touched her cheek like she was feeling troubled. Elle immediately tried to take back what she said.

    ¡°If it¡¯s hard to say, you don¡¯t have to.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, it¡¯s not hard.¡±

    Leticia shook her head in denial and slowly spoke up.

    ¡°There was a time when my brother was seriously injured.¡±

    Xavier was exceptionally talented in swordsmanship as a child. He realized his ability before he was even ten years-old. To see how good his sword skills were, he fought with wooden swords at first, butter began to use real swords in matches.

    Leticia strongly opposed it, but Xavier insisted that he was confident. So the match began as a match with real swords. His opponent¡¯s sword came at him faster than he expected, and Xavier couldn¡¯t avoid it. Despite his dyed reaction, he ended up with only a minor stab to his forearm, but it still almost ended in a real disaster.

    ¡°I guess that¡¯s why I¡¯m a little sensitive about things that could end up with someone hurt.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t stand the helplessness she felt when someone was hurt right in front of her. It was upsetting to see his bandaged arm. Every time she saw his wound, she was reminded that he could have died and it sent a chill down her spine.

    All she could do was pray that Xavier would not get hurt, so Leticia stood by until the end of the day the next time fought with the real sword.

    Fortunately, or by chance, there was no injury on the days Leticia went to see Xavier¡¯s duels.

    Elle hade to understand Leticia better. They entered the hall together, and she squeezed Leticia¡¯s hand to make sure she was okay.

    ¡°Come to think of it, she¡¯s here.¡±

    Leticia btedly noticed who Elle was talking about and nodded.

    ¡°Is she really going to fight for you in the tournament?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡±

    She paused temporarily and let out a long sigh.

    ¡°I¡¯d rather she not participate.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Because it¡¯s ufortable.¡±

    It didn¡¯t feel good to be favored by someone who she still didn¡¯t know if they¡¯re a good or a bad person yet.

    Elle nodded in understanding, then pointed to a ce in surprise.

    ¡°Huh? Isn¡¯t that her?¡±

    ¡°Where?¡±

    When she followed the direction of where Elle was pointing, it was a slender woman with a smaller stature than the man standing opposite her.

    ¡®Was it her match today?¡¯

    She hadn¡¯t realized and her eyes opened wide in surprise. Suddenly Keena turned her head and looked precisely to where Leticia was.

    They made eye contact even though she was far away.

    Leticia was about to motion to Keena to look ahead and concentrate on her match, when her opponent lunged forward with his sharp sword aimed towards her face.

    Startled, Leticia paled and covered her mouth with her hands.

    Fortunately, Keena dodged lightly and easily subdued her opponent with a flick of her sword. The difference in ability was overwhelming to anyone watching, as if she was being considerate of her opponent, or had been ying with him until now.

    The referee pointed to Keena, giving her the victory. She smiled brightly and jumped into the stands where Leticia was.

    When they were close enough to hear each other¡¯s voices, Leticia pped her hands lightly.

    ¡°Congrattions on winning.¡±

    ¡°I told you, I¡¯m confident in my body.¡±

    ¡°What if you get hurt from being overconfident?¡±

    Despite the reprimanding tone, Keena shrugged her shoulders lightly.

    ¡°Come on, I won¡¯t get hurt.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re already hurt.¡±

    ¡°Oh, really?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s eyes turned to Keena¡¯s cheek, only then did she notice the throbbing there.

    As soon as she tried to touch her cheek, Leticia fiercely grabbed her hand.

    ¡°If you touch the wound with dirty hands, it will get worse.¡±

    ¡°I was just so happy to see you.¡±

    ¡°You should have been careful, though.¡±

    Leticia had been staring at her with narrowed eyes without any sign of rxing, she then gave a short sigh.

    ¡°Anyways.¡±

    Leticia carefully began wiping the blood off of Keena¡¯s cheek with her handkerchief.

    ¡°Are you worried about me?¡±

    Leticia frowned while she carefully thought about it.

    ¡°If I didn¡¯t, would I be doing this?¡±

    ¡°I thought you didn¡¯t like me.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s a difference between worrying and hating.¡±

    Leticia looked up after herment. She was going to rebuke her again, but Keena¡¯s expression was strange.

    ¡°I see¡­¡±

    The confused look in her eyes that seemed both happy and ufortable.

    ¡°You¡¯re so¡­¡±

    Different.

    She whispered so quietly that when Leticia was about to ask what she was talking about, Keena just shook her head. For now, cleaning the blood up was her first priority.

    Leticia smiled at the sight of Keena, who calmly offered up her cheek to her.

    ¡®As expected¡­;¡¯

    She¡¯s a weirdo.

    Leticia smiled at Keena¡¯s enthusiasm, and carefully cleaned her cut so that it wouldn¡¯t hurt.

    ***

    It was the second day of the Swordsmanship tournament.

    ¡®There are two letters for me?¡¯

    One was a letter from Seios, and the other was from Count Aster. Leticia read the letter from Seios first and nodded.

    His letter said he wanted to visit the Achilles¡¯ mansion soon, because he had a long story to tell.

    ¡®Is it about my ability?¡¯

    Leticia read the letters with a curious expression, then opened Count Aster¡¯s letter. The Count had something important that he wanted to talk to Leticia about. He asked her toe to the mansion, and to bring Enoch with her.

    ¡®What¡¯s going on?¡¯

    Leticia was looking at the correspondence from Seios and Count Aster with a worried expression, finally she let out a long breath.

    First of all, she didn¡¯t know when Seios would visit, so she had to tell Enoch in advance. She immediately went to look for enough and was fortunate enough to run into him in the hallway.

    They greeted each other and Leticia cautiously broached the subject to him.

    ¡°My father¡¯s godfather said that he¡¯ll be visiting the mansion soon. Will that be all right?¡±

    Enoch smiled and gave a quick nod.

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s fine.¡±

    ¡°Oh, and Count Aster asked us toe visit.¡±

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll go with you.¡±

    Enoch nodded casually, as if he had already heard about it from Count Aster.

    Feeling fortunate in her heart, Leticia finished her preparations quickly and went with Enoch to the Aster residence.

    Count and Countess Aster weed Leticia and Enoch happily.? Leticia¡¯s voice rose at the unexpected proposal that came up while they were sharing warm tea and sweets.

    ¡°You want to adopt me?¡±

 Chapter 54 - How Can I Confess First? What Canâ€™t I Do

    <h4>Chapter 54 - How Can I Confess First? What Can¡¯t I Do</h4>

    Chapter 54. How Can I Confess First? What Can¡¯t I Do?

    ***

    ¡°So the person who started the rumor is¡­¡±

    While listening, Leticia bit her lip in disbelief.

    ¡°You mean Emil?¡±

    The story that followed was quite shocking.

    You¡¯ll lose luck, you will be unlucky, you¡¯ll be unhappy. Leticia felt an indescribably? dismay at the fact that Emil was the one responsible for the malicious rumor.

    Enoch was sitting beside Leticia and was gently holding her hand when he said.

    ¡°There¡¯s no clear evidence that he did it, but the circumstances are pretty d*mning.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡±

    Leticia was trying to act like she was okay, but her hands were shaking.

    The reality was, that she had vaguely realized.

    Diana was the type to stomp others into the ground directly, and she often avoided mercy as if it was filthy. Irene never did anything unless she was directly affected.

    Emil, on the other hand, always guided other people in the direction he wanted without getting his hands dirty and there was always a reason for what he did.

    That didn¡¯t mean that what he did was justified.

    ¡°This may hurt to hear, but I still want you to be careful.¡±

    ¡°I know you¡¯re saying this because you¡¯re thinking of me.¡±

    How could she not see how worried he was while he was speaking?

    It was hard to hide herplicated feelings, so she tried to shake her head weakly.

    ¡°So, Leticia.¡±

    As Leticia looked up in curiosity, Count Aster slowly began to broach the subject.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you let my wife and I adopt you?¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    Count Aster smiled, as surprise crossed Leticia¡¯s face.

    He didn¡¯t say this lightly. Since he¡¯d heard of Leticia¡¯s emunication he¡¯d been troubled and agonized over what to do.

    He couldn¡¯t bring himself to ask her, and swallowed the words, because he was afraid that his proposal might be a burden to her.

    However, after learning that the person behind the rumor was Leticia¡¯s younger brother Emil, he could no longer sit still. He didn¡¯t know how they might try to harm her in the future.

    Although he didn¡¯t share blood with her, he was at least confident that he would be able to protect Leticia with his status and title.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean for you to answer right away. You¡¯ll need to think, too.¡±

    Leticia smiled softly as she realized this was something that they¡¯d been thinking about for a while.

    ¡°Thank you. I¡¯m going to think about it, too.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t get rid of her muddy feelings yet, but she was able to cheer up a little bit because their worry touched a corner of her injured heart.

    ***

    ¡°Are you all right?¡±

    They were on their way back to the Achilles¡¯ mansion after talking to the Count and Countess.

    Sitting side by side, Enoch looked worried. Leticia smiled unconsciously at the sight.

    ¡°I¡¯d be lying if I said I wasn¡¯t upset, but I¡¯m much better since I¡¯m with you.¡±

    ¡°What do you want to do?¡±

    Leticia knew what he wanted to do without having to ask.

    If she wanted him to, he would pay back Emil a hundred times for the false rumor he spread.

    ¡°I¡¯m angry and upset. But¡­¡±

    People who cared about Leticia surrounded her, so she could stand firm.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to push my hurt onto that child. I¡¯m fine with how things are right now.¡±

    Looking at Enoch, Leticia entwined her fingers with hisrge ones.

    ¡°It¡¯s a waste of time, I¡¯d rather hold your hand.¡±

    She didn¡¯t want to waste time on her family who¡¯d given up on her a long time ago. She just wanted to make good memories with the people she liked.

    Even if it was slow, she wanted to keep moving forward without hesitating.

    Enoch gently covered both of Leticia¡¯s cheeks with his hands as Leticia smiled broadly.

    ¡°I¡¯m worried about how you¡¯ll live in this harsh world while being so kind.¡±

    Leticiaced her hands through Enoch¡¯s, his eyes showed the sincerity he felt towards her.

    ¡°Then Lord Achilles will protect me.¡±

    Right?

    When asked with sparkling eyes, Enoch grinned and said reproachfully.

    ¡°You¡¯re not very cunning.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because I like it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Leticia could only look up at Enoch with a shy expression as he opened his eyes wide in surprise.

    As soon as she btedly realized what she had said, Leticia sucked in a breath.

    ¡°My, I just, uh, just¡­¡±

    She was so ashamed that she wanted to disappear into thin air.

    Just then, the carriage stopped and a voice told them that they had arrived at the Achilles¡¯ mansion. As if she had been waiting for this, Letisha sprang up quickly.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    She could hear Enoch calling to her, but Leticia quickly took the coachman¡¯s hand and alighted from the carriage. She practically jumped down.

    She fled to her room and flopped onto her bed. She buried her face in her pillow, and screamed.

    ¡°Crazy, crazy, crazy!¡±

    Why did she use the word?like?in that situation?

    In the meantime, Leticia remembered a face that seemed to smile happily at what he said, and her chest felt suffocated because her heart was beating fast.

    ¡®Did it show too much?¡¯

    Leticia had managed to calm her excitement to some extent and stood in front of her mirror with gloomy thoughts. As soon as she saw her cheeks were still flushed, she felt unbearably embarrassed again.

    She leaned her forehead against the mirror and murmured.

    ¡°It¡¯s so obvious¡­¡±

    Elle, you liar.

    ***

    After that, Leticia wasn¡¯t sure she could face Enoch, so she only went out at times when he wasn¡¯t around, and only on roads he didn¡¯t frequent. She avoided him so much that she didn¡¯t even notice when Enoch¡¯s gaze on her became unusual.

    Apparently he had noticed that she was running away.

    She went to the square this time because she knew that she couldn¡¯t keep avoiding him.

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    She couldn¡¯t do this forever.

    Leticia sighed to herself and wondered what she should do.

    ¡®Is it better to just confess? How do you confess first?¡¯

    There¡¯s nothing she can¡¯t do, but shouldn¡¯t the person she loves approach her first.

    Mad at the thought, Letisha took a long, deep breath and walked down the street. First, she had to figure out how to confess.

    Suddenly she realized that it was crowded today.

    ¡®Right, the tournament.¡¯

    She forgot for a moment about the Swordsmanship Tournament and the festivities around it.

    ¡®How do I confess?¡¯

    It was very embarrassing, but she¡¯d never confessed or been confessed to.

    As she touched her fingertips with a troubled expression, she heard a nervous voice right next to her.

    ¡°I¡¯ve liked only you for a long time!¡±

    Even those who passed by were surprised and looked back. A man held out a bouquet of flowers that were too big to hold in one hand towards the woman in front of him.

    ¡°Will you ept them?¡±

    She could see his hands shaking.

    ¡®Flowers¡­¡¯

    Leticia paused and imagined a picture of her confessing to Enoch, while giving him a bouquet of flowers.

    ¡®Hm¡­¡¯

    No matter how hard she thought about it, something about it was weird. As she walked away again, Leticia nced back to watch the confession.

    ¡®Do I have to be in public like that?¡¯

    That¡¯s a bit ufortable.

    The more Leticia thought about what to do, the more she couldn¡¯te up with an answer, and all she could do was sigh.

    ¡°I want someone to teach me how to confess¡­¡±

    As she mumbled to herself, an excessively shy store caught her eye. Enchanted, Leticia approached it and the shopkeeper said with a broad smile on her face.

    ¡°If you share the same ring, your love wille true. Miss,e and see what I have.¡±

    ¡°Really¡­?¡±

    It was a in-looking silver ring on the outside, but it had an unusual blue sheen to it.

    Leticia picked up one of the silver rings, and looked at it closely. The owner said with a proud look.

    ¡°If there is a shape or letter you want, I can engrave it very beautifully for you.¡±

    ¡°Does it take a long time?¡±

    ¡°Not long at all. I¡¯ll do it super quick.¡±

    As she tapped her chest with confidence. Leticia frowned in thought, but her worry didn¡¯tst long.

    ¡®I¡¯ll face this head-on.¡¯

    Havinge to a decision with a grim determination, she quickly fell into another dilemma.

    ¡°Come to think of it¡­ What shape or letter should I use?¡±

    She couldn¡¯t think of anything in particr, so Leticia stood in front of the store for a while, trying toe up with something.

    Then she suddenly remembered that Enoch had cherished the handkerchief she¡¯d given him.

    ¡°Ah! a four-clover.¡±

    ¡°Do you want a four-leaf clover on both of them?

    ¡°Uh¡­ Well¡­¡±

    Leticia hadn¡¯t yet thought that far ahead, and mmed up again.

    The owner, who was quietly watching her, carefully suggested.

    ¡°How about a three-leaf clover?¡±

    ¡°A three-leaf clover?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it has the meaning of ¡®happiness¡¯. The person who just visited had one engraved on his ring.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes. I¡¯m going to scold him this time if he doesn¡¯t confess! Haha!¡±

    The shopkeeperughed aloud, as if it was funny to remember that figure.

    ¡°Then what size would you like?¡±

    ¡°I think this ring size will do for me.¡±

    Leticia paused.

    Come to think of it.

    ¡®I don¡¯t know Enoch¡¯s ring size.¡¯

    Leticia looked down at her hand with a troubled look. She¡¯d held his hand many times, so maybe it was possible to guess to some extent.

    ¡°Umm¡­ I think this is close.¡±

    She had no choice but to choose a moderatelyrger size than her own.

    The owner asked her to wait a little while, since the engraving wouldn¡¯t take long.

    Leticia was left alone and sighed mncholically.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know buying a ring would be this hard.¡±

    The next time they held hands, she would check the size of his fingers.

    ¡®Huh? I think this would look good on Elle.¡¯

    Leticia had been waiting for the store owner when a ribbon caught her eye. She reached out to see how it would feel when she touched it.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    A hand ovepped over her own.

    As soon as she raised her head to see who it was, Leticia¡¯s face turned cold.

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    She didn¡¯t hold back her sigh, as she took two steps back. Levion frowned at her behaviour, wondering what he¡¯d done that she didn¡¯t like.

    ¡°Why can¡¯t you control your expression better? It puts me in a bad mood.¡±

    ¡°Do I have to take care of your feelings?¡±

    Being face to face with him made her feel exhausted. She just wanted the owner of the store toe out quickly.

    Leticia turned away with a loud huff, as if she no longer had anything to say. Levion stared down at the ribbon that Leticia had tried to pick up.

    ¡°Do you want me to buy this for you?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You were upsetst time when your other ribbon broke.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean¡­ Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡±

    It reminded him of the broken ribbon she¡¯d lost before she was expelled from the Leroy family.

    The ribbon was still meaningful to her, she could only guess that Levion couldn¡¯t understand why she¡¯d been so angry.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡±

    It would hurt her if she had to exin it to him.

    Levion was not done talking though.

    ¡°I want you toe to the Knight¡¯s Swordsmanship tournament.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t you?¡±

    He seems to have be used to Leticia ignoring him, so he kept talking to himself without any sign of difort.

    ¡°I won¡¯t make you feel frustrated or upset anymore, I promise.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I suppose.¡±

    She replied insincerely, as she was waiting for the shop owner toe out. Finally, the shopkeeper returned with a happy smile and handed Leticia the rings with the engraved pattern she had requested.

    ¡°I¡¯ve made it especially pretty for you.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for your help.¡±

    Leticia immediately turned away after thanking the shopkeeper, but it wasn¡¯t long before Levion caught up to her.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    The voice calling out to her sounded aggrieved, but the sound of his voice infuriated Leticia.

    Leticia suddenly stopped walking and firmly shook off Levion¡¯s touch. She looked straight at him and said.

    ¡°You said you¡¯d buy me as many ribbons as I wantedst time, right?¡±

    Leticia continued on, not expecting an answer.

    ¡°Can you buy what I like, what would you buy for me, what would suit me?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°What I wanted wasn¡¯t a new ribbon.¡±

    She was annoyed that she had to exin to him what she¡¯d been thinking so long ago.

    ¡°You still don¡¯t understand? I wanted you to think of my feelings.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the one who treated my heart as insignificant.¡±

    The more she spoke, the more she couldn¡¯t stand her twisted emotions. Leticia turned her head away.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to understand.¡±

    ¡°Leticia¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll just take it, I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll give it away.¡±

    Leticia said this in a dry, emotionless voice and brushed past Livion. Fortunately, Levion was no longer following her.

    However, her depressed thoughts did not calm down so easily.

    As she was walking endlessly through the city, someone reached out their hand from an alleyway.

    Caught by surprise before she could avoid it, Leticia looked up with a pale expression.

    ¡°I think I said itst time, I¡¯m narrow-minded and I hold a grudge.¡±

    ¡°Lord Achilles!¡±

    As she was about to greet him, she saw a ring on Enoch¡¯s finger that had never seen before. She knew that he didn¡¯t usually wear trinkets, or essories, very often.

    Leticia¡¯s expression hardened as soon as she noticed that the ring Enoch was wearing was silver with a bluish tint, like the rings she had seen in the store.

    ¡®You¡¯ve already received one from someone else.¡¯

    That was the moment that her excited heart sank to the pit of her stomach.

 Chapter 55 - I Like You More

    <h4>Chapter 55 - I Like You More</h4>

    Chapter 55. I Like You More

    ¡®Who gave it to him?¡¯

    As she walked beside him, Leticia couldn¡¯t look away from the ring on Enoch¡¯s finger.

    She was sure Enoch had feelings for her too.? He always had a cool look on his face, but when he was around her, he smiled gently and she felt special.

    The ring he was wearing seemed to be mocking her, saying that she was the only one thinking that way.

    ¡®You told me that you missed me¡­¡¯

    Leticia clenched the envelope with the rings in it.

    Rather than being ashamed of misunderstanding, selfish resentment got the better of her.

    ¡®Why did he ept it?¡¯

    She wondered what kind of person confessed to him.

    They must be kind and lovely, right? She must be a good person, if Lord Achilles epted their confession.

    When she thought of Enoch, who would only smile at that person from now on, something deep in her heart began to sink.

    ¡®What will I do all alone¡­¡¯

    Her shoulders slumped at that thought.

    ¡®I really wanted to be honest with you this time.¡¯

    Leticia nced down at the rings she¡¯d bought. She couldn¡¯t hold back the shabby and miserable feelings, and her eyes began to tear up.

    When did her heart be so full? When did her greed get this big?

    The desire to confess, even if she was rejected, popped up and tormented her.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Leticia?¡±

    ¡°Oh, did you call me?¡±

    Leticia heard his voice calling to her btedly, she looked up with an indifferent expression.

    Enock looked worried and asked Leticia.

    ¡°What the matter? You don¡¯t look well.¡±

    ¡°I guess it¡¯s just because I¡¯m a little tired.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m telling you, I¡¯m fine.¡±

    Leticia waved her hands as if she were innocent and smiled awkwardly.

    At that moment, Enoch¡¯s gaze turned towards Leticia¡¯s envelope.

    ¡°Do you want me to carry that for you?¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    When Enoch casually nodded towards it, a sigh escaped Leticia¡¯s mouth.

    Leticia looked down at the envelope with a troubled expression on her face.

    ¡®Speaking of which, what should I do with this?¡¯

    It was very painful to think that this gift, which had nowhere to go like her heart, became meaningless.

    In the end, she would have to throw away this burden along with her greed.

    ¡°I bought it as a gift.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t think of a good excuse, so she said the first thing that came to mind.

    Somehow Enoch¡¯s face darkened even more.

    ¡°A gift? For who?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you giving it to Levion El?¡±

    ¡°What? No, not at all!¡±

    This man, really! Levion had ignored her feelings and thrown them away.

    Leticia had a genuinely irritated look on her face.

    He was once a precious person, but now it was ufortable to even look at him. There was no way she would give such a person a precious gift that has all of her heart in it.

    Enoch still squinted down at Leticia.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    ¡°If you keep saying that, I¡¯ll really give you a piece of my mind.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s a famous tart store over there, let¡¯s go together.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    He quickly changed the subject, as if he had never been suspicious of her.

    Leticia looked at him disapprovingly, but Enoch pretended not to notice. He brought her over to the tart store that he¡¯d pointed to.

    ¡°The wild strawberry tarts sold at this store are delicious.¡±

    Leticia red at him, annoyed by his refreshing smile, but it was too warm for her to shake off his gentle grip.

    Leticia looked at Enoch, who was walking with a happy expression.

    This made Leticia¡¯s mind even more restless¡­

    ¡®Why do you keep¡­¡¯

    If she didn¡¯t know better, he was being jealous.

    Anyone could tell that¡¯s what was going on, even she couldn¡¯t think of it as anything else.

    She wanted to ask if he was jealous, but remembered the ring on Enoch¡¯s finger.

    ¡®Come to think of it, isn¡¯t it rude of me to hold his hand like this?¡¯

    She wondered if Enoch cared for her like a younger sister, and she was mistaken in thinking he favoured her. That thought alone made her feel like a heavy rock was weighing down her heart, but she wanted to enjoy holding his hand a little bit longer.

    Enoch stopped walking when they reached the store, he then reached out and caught her other hand.

    ¡°I¡¯ll listen to you.¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t understand what he was trying to say and just nodded.

    She btedly realized what he meant when she saw his gaze directed towards the ring envelope.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s nothing important.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s still bothering you.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true, but¡­¡±

    Enoch was offering to listen to her about the envelope, it was very kind of him.

    Leticia didn¡¯t notice the strangely desperate tone to his voice, and smiled softly.

    She was feeling jealous of the woman who was lucky enough to be lovers with such an attentive man.

    Something was rising in her, but Leticia deliberately kept a calm expression on her face as she walked into the store. Luckily, she was able to buy thest remaining wild strawberry tarts in the store.

    ¡°Next time, I¡¯lle with Elle and Ian.¡±

    She was sure they would love them.

    She was imagining the two of them enjoying eating these delicious tarts together.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to go with me?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I hope you think about only me when we¡¯re together.¡±

    The slight frown and his clenched jaw seemed to be telling her that she was being heartless.

    At that look, Leticia couldn¡¯t help butugh.

    ¡°When Lord Achilles isn¡¯t around, I think about you a lot.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°So don¡¯t be too upset.¡±

    Leticia smiled brightly and suggested they eat their tarts quickly.

    For some reason, Enoch remained stiff and didn¡¯t eat his tart.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Does it not taste good?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t even know what I¡¯m talking about¡­¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing.¡±

    Enoch said it wasn¡¯t a big deal and motioned for Leticia to eat. She wondered what he¡¯d meant, but didn¡¯t say anything and took another bite of her tart.

    .

    .

    .

    After eating the wild strawberry tart and walking around the square, the evening was almost over. As the bright day passed and the pitch-ck darkness began to darken the sky, people began to set off firecrackers eagerly.

    ¡°Look at that!¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her excitement and pointed to the night sky. Before she knew it, the sky was filled with fireworks of all colors, and she could not help but shout out in admiration.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°What? What did you just say?¡±

    What he¡¯d said was buried in the sound of the fireworks and Leticia asked him to say it again.

    This time, she tilted her head closer to Enoch to hear him properly.

    ¡°I like you, Leticia.¡±

    Behind the sound of the low whisper of his voice, she could hear the fireworks popping. Leticia blinked her blue eyes several times, wondering if she¡¯d misheard him.

    ¡°I like you a lot.¡±

    His confession confirmed what she¡¯d heard and stopped any doubt.

    Enoch captured her hands in hisrge ones, and he held on tightly.

    ¡°So don¡¯t give that ring to anyone, only give it to me.¡±

    As she stared mesmerized into his eyes, that were clearly looking at her alone. Leticia suddenly had a question.

    ¡®How did he know she¡¯d bought a ring?¡¯

    She bit her lip as she realized that Enoch saw the store trademark on the envelope in her hand.

    Leticia looked up in surprise, and then she saw the three-leaf clover engraved on the ring on his hand.

    ¡®This¡­¡¯

    A ring that looks just like the one she bought.

    Leticia was confused for a moment about why he had a ring simr to hers, then remembered what the store owner had said earlier.

    [The person who just visited had one engraved on his ring. I¡¯m going to scold him this time if he doesn¡¯t confess!]

    ¡®No way¡­¡¯

    Was that Enoch?

    She couldn¡¯t believe it even as she looked at the ring, and had to check several times to see if this was a dream or reality.

    As soon as she realized that what was happening in front of her was real, she felt her heart begin to race and her eyes began to water.

    ¡°I have someone I want to give this to.¡±

    ¡°I refuse.¡±

    ¡°But I still want to give it to him.¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t give it to anyone, but me.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why I have to give it to him.¡±

    She looked up slowly, and firmly looked into his sharp gaze.

    This man, who didn¡¯t realize, kept telling her no.

    Somehow, it was funny and made her feel happy, so she kept smiling.

    Enoch, who was still ignorant, spoke with more force in response to Leticia¡¯s smile.

    ¡°Never¡­¡±

    ¡°I was going to give it to you.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°May I?¡±

    Only then did Enoch realize that she¡¯d bought the ring for him.

    It was the first time Leticia had seen Enoch with a stunned look, she smiled and brought it out.

    Enoch chuckled when he looked down at the ring and the resemnce between the two.

    ¡°I thought you were giving it to someone else, and I thought my heart would shrivel up.¡±

    ¡°I saw you wearing one, and thought you¡¯d received one from someone else.¡±

    Leticia nced at the ring on Enoch¡¯s finger with an aggrieved look.

    Enoch looked confused for a moment, then he grinned.

    ¡°I guess I was in a hurry.¡±

    He¡¯d been a fool and forgotten to take the ring off his finger and caused her to misunderstand.

    Enoch looked Leticia in the eyes and apologized sincerely.

    ¡°Will you still ept it?¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t help butugh as his eyes sparkled and he looked like a sad puppy waiting to know if she¡¯ll receive his ring.

    ¡°I¡¯d be happy to.¡±

    As she offered her hand with a shy look on her face, Enoch put the ring on Leticia¡¯s finger as she waited.

    Then she noticed that he¡¯d already put the ring she¡¯d bought on his finger.

    ¡°If I buy you another ring, may I put it on you?¡±

    She felt somewhat badly that she¡¯d missed out on a good opportunity.

    Enoch nodded as if he understood how she felt, then he suddenly remembered.

    ¡°If you feel the same way as me, I¡¯d love to hear it.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Enoch tilted his head slightly, he grinned and put his mouth close to her ear.

    ¡°No, that¡¯s, uh, that¡¯s¡­ You already know everything.¡±

    As soon as she felt his warm breath on her ear, Leticia hurriedly covered her red face with the back of her hand. As she tried to take a step back, Enoch came closer.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if you don¡¯t tell me.¡±

    ¡°Lies.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­. So my unrequited love isn¡¯t over yet?¡±

    ¡°Oh, unrequited love!¡±

    The mere mention of Enoch¡¯s unrequited love made her cheeks burn hotter.

    His misty grey eyes were full of love for her. Leticia nodded, unsure of how to face his gaze.

    She didn¡¯t want to hide her feelings anymore.

    ¡°I like you a lot, too. Enoch¡­¡±

    It was almost a murmur.

    She looked up at him, worried that he might not have heard her correctly. Her eyes met Enoch¡¯s, as he smiled more happily than she¡¯d ever seen before.

    ¡°I like you even more, Leticia.¡±

    ***

    For Xavier, the Swordsmanship tournament was as easy as an eagle striking down a chick. Perhaps because of his ability, there wasn¡¯t a single person who couldpete with him.

    Strangely enough, two voices alternately tormented him.

    [Come now, Xavier Leroy. How great can you be? There¡¯s a limit to how far you can cross the line.]

    She was emunicated, but she had no sense of shame and was holding her head high.

    [You¡¯re not confident? Well it happens, I understand.]

    Then there¡¯s the blonde woman, who¡¯s been acting like a jerk ever since he first met her.

    He felt sorry for her. She wouldn¡¯t even be able to beat back his sword. What was she so proud of?

    ¡®People need to face reality¡¯

    Xavier clicked his tongue, and swung his sword faster.

    Maybe it was because he¡¯d been training for so long today, but his shoulder felt stiff.

    Just as he was about to put his sword down and take a break.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    His sword suddenly broke in two before his eyes and fell to the ground.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Somehow, it felt ominous.

 Chapter 56 - Worth The Price O

    <h4>Chapter 56 - Worth The Price O</h4>

    Chapter 56. Worth The Price Of A Cookie

    ***

    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seen this ring before.¡±

    On a sunny afternoon, while quietly enjoying tea together, Countess Aster asked about the ring on Leticia¡¯s finger.

    ¡°It¡¯s pretty, it suits you.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Leticia, who was having a sip of tea, smiled brightly. WIth a happy sparkle to his eyes, Count Aster asked with a mysterious smile.

    ¡°I think I saw Lord Achilles wearing a simr ring. Are you wearing matching rings?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±

    At that, Leticia shyly yed with her ring. She didn¡¯t think he¡¯d notice so quickly, and she slowly bowed her head.

    She wanted to be honest with Countess Aster.

    ¡°Actually, Lord Achilles confessed to me.¡±

    ¡°Oh, really?¡±

    ¡°Yes. I was actually going to confess, but he did it first.¡±

    She could still recall clearly what happened that day.

    Fireworks beautifully bloomed across the night sky, the clear eyes that only looked at her and the steady voice that flowed quietly to her.

    [I like you, Leticia.]

    [I like you a lot.]

    She still couldn¡¯t believe it, everything felt like a dream. She could still remember the warmth from his hand as he put the ring on her hand.

    When she¡¯d finally confessed that she liked him.

    [I like you more, Leticia]

    As she spoke, Enoch looked as if he had the whole world in his hands and that he might die of happiness. Enoch didn¡¯t know how that look stirred her heart.

    ¡®I also felt like I had the whole world in my hands.¡¯

    She almost cried because she could clearly see that he felt the same way as her.

    ¡°I¡¯m a lot happier right now, aren¡¯t I?¡±

    She worried momentarily if she deserved this happiness.

    The person she liked and cared about felt the same way about her. She used to think it was greedy to harbor these feelings, that a rtionship woulde to her if she just gave enough affection.

    It was different now.

    ¡°I want to be happier now.¡±

    With people she cherishes, and who cherish her.

    ¡°You¡¯ve changed a lot, Leticia.¡±

    Count Aster had been listening to Leticia and Countess Aster¡¯s conversation.

    ¡°I¡¯m willing to help you be happier, too.¡±

    ¡°I think I can make you happy first.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    He was curious about what Leticia meant. She yed with her teacup, then slowly spoke up.

    ¡°I¡¯d like to be adopted by the Count and Countess.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I want to continue living at the Achilles mansion though. May I?¡±

    She liked the idea of being their adopted daughter, but she didn¡¯t want to be away from Elle, Ian and Enoch.

    She knew she was being greedy, but didn¡¯t want to give them up. The Count answered her carefully ced question.

    ¡°It¡¯s only natural. Don¡¯t feel too burdened by the fact that you¡¯ve been adopted, it¡¯s not a big change.¡±

    ¡°Oh, honey. What do you mean, there are no major differences? How can there be no change when we¡¯re going to be a family?¡±

    The Count and Countess¡¯ attitude was that there was no need to worry, she was embarrassed about worrying that she would have to live at the Aster¡¯s mansion after she was adopted.

    This made Leticia feel more rxed.

    ¡°Thank you for understanding.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for epting our offer, Leticia. Actually, I was worried that you might feel ufortable.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean ufortable? This just means you care about me.¡±

    She was so happy that they wanted her to be their daughter.

    Count Aster and his wife chuckled as Leticia waved her hands and jumped to deny being uneasy.

    Count Aster, who looked at Leticia with a warm gaze from the beginning, said.

    ¡°Now remember, that we are your parents now, just as you are now our daughter.¡±

    ¡°Count¡­¡±

    ¡°It means you can ask for help whenever you¡¯re in trouble.¡±

    ¡°Since we are to be your safe harbor, don¡¯t you think you shoulde and rest in it?¡±

    Leticia felt her heart fill with joy at the Countess¡¯ words that came right after the Count¡¯s.

    For those who care about her so much, she wanted to keep moving forward without hesitation towards her own happiness.

    ¡°Thank you for epting me as your daughter.¡±

    Leticia smiled even more brightly, hoping that they could feel her sincerity.

    She now had a new family, she was so happy she thought she might cry.

    ***

    ¡°You¡¯re going to be Count Aster¡¯s adopted daughter?¡±

    Leticia was walking with Elle through the festivities before they went to watch the Swordsmanship tournament.

    Elle asked her where she went that morning, and was slightly hurt when she told her what had happened.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you only told me about this now. I¡¯m a little upset.¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you the first one I¡¯ve told?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t say I was upset yet¡­¡±

    Leticia squinted at Elle who was quickly changing her words. Quick changes of mood seemed to be a characteristic of the Achilles family.

    ¡°Remember when I said I wanted the same essory as you? Let¡¯s try to buy it now.¡±

    She quinted down at Elle, who¡¯d skillfully changed the subject, but quickly gave up being upset when she saw the eager glint in Elle¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°I give up.¡±

    Elle immediately recognized Leticia¡¯s capittion, and pretended like she hadn¡¯t won. She crossed her arms and grinned.

    ¡°It¡¯s all because I like you, Sister.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything. So what kind of essory do you want?¡±

    ¡°A hair ribbon! With matching hairstyles!¡±

    She wanted to show people that they were wearing the same ribbons.

    Elle couldn¡¯t stop grinning at the thought of it.

    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s go pick one.¡±

    Leticia promised to buy whatever Elle chose and took her to a store that sold a number of different hair ribbons. There was a festival going on, so they were selling more colorful and diverse hair ribbons than normal.

    A shallow sigh escaped Leticia¡¯s mouth as she looked around at some of the ribbons on disy.

    ¡®What color would be good?¡¯

    She wanted to choose a color that would suit Elle¡¯s dark hair color the best.

    Leticia nced at Elle, who was busy trying to pick out a ribbon.

    ¡®I think Elle would look good in anything.¡¯

    Leticia was thinking about which one would look the best, so she tried to put a purple ribbon close to Elle¡¯s ck hair.

    ¡°Your hair color is so vivid that I think bright or dark ribbons look best on you.¡±

    ¡°Huh? Me?¡±

    ¡°Everything suits you¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°What should I do? They all look good on you.¡±

    Leticia was speechless that she would talk about something so trivial with a serious look on her face.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, so pick whatever you want.¡±

    ¡°No, I have to pick a color that suits you best.¡±

    ¡°Elle¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m being serious right now.¡±

    Elle slipped away from Leticia so that she wouldn¡¯t be disturbed anymore.

    Leticia stared at her preposterous behaviour, but Elle was too distracted by the ribbons to even notice her.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Are you sure you want this one?¡±

    The hair ribbon that Elle chose was a light green color that reminded Leticia of the fresh green buds of spring. Elle nodded quickly when she looked at her in question, since the color suited Leticia¡¯s hair more than Elle¡¯s darker hair.

    ¡°Of course. I¡¯m very happy with it. We can just tie our hair the same way with these ribbons now.¡±

    ¡°You like it that much?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m saying. It means we¡¯re really close.¡±

    Leticia looked surprised that Elle had put so much meaning on a little ribbon.

    A smile spread across her face at sight of Elle¡¯s excitement.

    ¡°Next time, we¡¯ll try another essory.¡±

    ¡°Really? I¡¯d love that!¡±

    Elle told her not to forget her promise many times as they entered the stadium.

    There were a lot of people at the Swordsmanship tournament on the first day, but it seemed to be overflowing today.

    ¡°There¡¯s going to be a winner this time.¡±

    ¡°Who do you think it¡¯s going to be?

    ¡°Who do you think? It¡¯ll be the Leroy family¡¯s son.¡±

    Leticia was listening to the conversations around her about the tournament, she grabbed Elle¡¯s hand without realizing it.

    ¡®It¡¯s already the finals.¡¯

    She had no idea that Xavier would bepeting today.

    ¡®Come to think of it, what happened to her.¡¯

    Leticia almost fell over when she saw a familiar face on the stadium grounds.

    ¡®No way¡­¡¯

    Shocked, Leticia blinked several times, but nothing changed.

    She knew Keena was good from herst match, but she didn¡¯t know that she would reach the finals and bepeting against Xavier.

    ¡°She¡¯s better than I thought.¡±

    ¡°I know, I¡¯m surprised too.¡±

    Leticia nodded vacantly at Elle¡¯s words.

    Before they knew it, the stadium was filled with people and thest match had begun.

    ¡®I think she might be overdoing it.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t know anything about Keena yet, but she still felt a sense of attachment to her.

    The first confrontation was a draw, contrary to Xavier¡¯s expectation of an easy win. When Keena was dealing with Xavier without much difficulty, the people who were watching began to whisper to each other.

    ¡°That girl¡¯s abilities are quite extraordinary.¡±

    ¡°It looks like he¡¯s going to lose.¡±

    They couldn¡¯t believe that a strong candidate for champion was suddenly being pushed around by a random stranger who¡¯d rolled in off the street.

    The second sh was a draw again, the atmosphere was heightened, but Keena remained rxed.

    Xavier, on the other hand, had a grim expression while he ground his teeth.

    The third and final confrontation. Xavier¡¯s sword suddenly broke. The referee, who had decided that he could not fight any more, called the match for Keena.

    ¡°No way! That woman won!¡±

    Elle let out a high-pitched scream and pointed at her. Leticia looked at her in disbelief, and then her eyes met Keena¡¯s.

    As soon as the match was over, Keena approached them through a group of people congratting her. She was covered in perspiration and had a big grin on her face.

    ¡°How about this?¡±

    ¡°What? What?¡±

    ¡°Worth a cookie.¡±

    Leticia blinked in confusion for a moment. Soon she realized what she meant and she raised her voice in shock.

    ¡°Is this to pay for the cookie?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m paying you back with interest. Now, shall we go pay for a sword right away?¡±

    ¡°What, the sword¡­ The sword I was going to buy from the weapon shop?¡±

    ¡°Of course. Do you have another sword besides that one?¡±

    Keena¡¯s match was over. She grabbed Leticia¡¯s arm and rushed her out of the stadium.

    She heard Elle calling to her from behind, but she couldn¡¯t turn around because she was already being dragged away.

    Keena took her to the weapon¡¯s dealer from before. Upon their arrival, she gestured to Leticia to hurry and get the sword.

    Leticia looked at her quietly, then raised her head and called out to her.

    ¡°Keena.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡¯

    Keena stood there in shock for a moment, thinking she¡¯d misheard. It was the first time Leticia had called her name, she couldn¡¯t hide the surprised look on her face.

    That was short-lived, as she stared at her in curiosity. Leticia slowly continued what she was about to say.

    ¡°You earned this through your own hard work. You should have it.¡±

    ¡°But I told you I wanted to help.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°Still¡­¡±

    Keena gulped at the unexpected remark.

    Leticia didn¡¯t notice, and shook her head firmly with a smile.

    ¡°I¡¯ve never seen you so passionate about anything before.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s enough for me.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s words sounded warm and Keena couldn¡¯t say anything.

    She managed to recover and was about to say something when the door opened violently. She heard heavy footsteps, before she could turn around, a rough voice caught her ear.

    ¡°Did you do that?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re kicked out, you should be quiet. Why are you cursing a hardworking man?¡±

    He approached quickly with the threat of violence in his eyes.

    Keena stepped in front of Leticia to try and stop Xavier.

    ¡°Stop, please.¡±

    Irene had followed Xavier and grabbed onto his arm from behind, but all Xavier saw was Leticia in front of him.

    ¡°Go away, Irene.¡±

    Before Leticia could say anything, Irene shouted.

    ¡°You¡¯re being embarrassing, so please stop!¡±

    ***

 Chapter 57 - May Luck Pour Down Like Rain

    <h4>Chapter 57 - May Luck Pour Down Like Rain</h4>

    Chapter 57. May Luck Pour Down Like Rain

    ***

    The longer they fought against each other, the more he felt his hands gradually tremble in exhaustion. Xavier gritted his teeth and continued to face Keena.

    Keena, on the other hand, showed no signs of struggling and said in a worried voice.

    ¡°Oh, are you tired already?¡±

    ¡°Nonsense.¡±

    The look of disappointment in her eyes was hateful.

    ¡®Why¡­¡¯

    Biting his lips, he gripped his sword tighter.

    She was a strange woman. No, she was a monster.

    Even though they had beenpeting for a long time, Keena wasn¡¯t out of breath. The way she swung her sword around so lightly, it was as if she didn¡¯t want to take him seriously.

    ¡®I can¡¯t believe it.¡¯

    His ability was in Swordsmanship. Even Levion, who was an Imperial Knight, could not easily deal with him.

    He couldn¡¯t believe that this woman, who¡¯d rolled in out of nowhere, was able to fight him as if she was ying around.

    ¡°Do you want me to read your fortune?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t do anything unnecessary, just concentrate.¡±

    He knew she was a bad omen, from start to finish.

    Keena took a step back. Without missing his chance, Xavier rushed forward. Keena smirked obnoxiously, with no sign of panic.

    ¡°The best swimmers drown.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Xavier stared suspiciously at her outrageous words. At that moment, Keena¡¯s mouth lifted smoothly.

    ¡°After being so arrogant.¡±

    He could see his sword slowly cracking with a low groan each time they shed.

    ¡®Why all of a sudden?¡¯

    He held his breath while looking at it, but now wasn¡¯t the time to hesitate. The match had to be won before the swordpletely broke.

    However, the sword could not withstand the next blow and shattered in two with a loud reverberation.

    The sound of it breaking pierced his ears.

    ¡®I can¡¯t believe it.¡¯

    How can two swords break in one day?

    Xavier stood in a daze, looking down at the broken sword. In his hand was handle with only half of the de. He didn¡¯t even have the strength to grip it any more, and dropped the sword he was holding.

    At the same time, he felt a sharp touch against his neck. As he turned his head with gritted teeth, he saw Keena pointing her de at him.

    She was smiling so brightly that he wanted to rip it off of her face.

    ¡°This is what it means to be humiliated.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    ¡°I was a little nervous because of all the fuss about the Swordsmanship genius, but it wasn¡¯t as big a deal as I thought it would be.¡±

    The match was over, and the referee pointed to Keena as the winner of the tournament.

    While being sarcastic to Xavier, Keena smiled brightly at the audience. The next words she uttered soon reached his ears.

    ¡°This is so boring.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    ¡°Le-Ti-Cia!¡±

    As soon as she saw Leticia¡¯s face in the crowd, Keena ran to her without hesitation. She looked like a puppy running towards it¡¯s master while hoping for praise.

    ¡°Why¡­¡±

    Xavier went to the waiting room in a state of shock.

    Soon after, Xavier turned around and chased after Leticia and Keena. They were far away, but he could tell it was them. He could see Leticia congratting Keena.

    ¡®No way¡­¡¯

    Xavier¡¯s shoulders began to shake at the thoughts that shed through his mind.

    The rumors that she could steal your luck and make you unhappy. The rumor was now dormant, but it was never disproven.

    ¡®My eldest sister put a curse on me.¡¯

    He wouldn¡¯t have lost if it wasn¡¯t for that.

    Somehow bad things always happened around his sister. It was clear that she wanted to? get revenge for her emunication.

    Xavier followed Leticia to the weapon¡¯s shop, and began to angrily shout at her.

    ¡°If you¡¯re kicked out, you should be quiet. Why are you cursing a hardworking man?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not good enough to ruin your little sister¡¯s life, now you are trying to ruin mine?¡±

    She was no longer worthy of respect, so he approached her threateningly. Leticia, on the other hand, seemed to be puzzled about what was going on.

    It was disgusting that she only blinked her eyes in confusion.

    He wanted to wrap his hands around her neck right now and make it impossible for her to breathe. Before he could take a step forward, Irene grabbed Xavier¡¯s arm.

    ¡°Stop it, brother. We¡¯re going back.¡±

    ¡°Stay out of the way.¡±

    There was no way she could get through to Xavier, who could not see anything except what was already in front of him. In his rage, Xavier was unable to adjust his strength and pushed Irene away violently.

    At that moment.

    ¡°You¡¯re being embarrassing, so please stop!¡±

    The dangerous atmosphere that had been increasing rapidly, cooled down in an instant.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Father would be upset if he knew about this.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    As Irene uttered those words, Xavier felt like his ankles were shackled.

    Xavier let out an annoyed sigh, because he knew better than anyone else how sensitive Marquis Leroy was about his reputation and how people viewed him.

    He was forced to turn away. He red onest time at Leticia and left the weapons shop. Irene nced at Leticia before the door mmed shut.

    Leticia tilted her head slightly at the gaze Irene sent her way.

    It wasn¡¯t a look of trying to avoid conflict or anxiety that misfortune might spread.

    ¡®It¡¯s weird.¡¯

    Leticia stood still and looked at the spot where her two siblings had just been.

    Irene had changed somehow.

    ¡°Phew, I was scared to death.¡±

    Keena remained vignt until Xavier left. She clicked her tongue and leaned her chin on Leticia¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°You¡¯re heavy.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not heavy. It¡¯s probably light because there¡¯s nothing in my head.¡±

    ¡°Why are you saying that like you¡¯re proud of it?¡±

    Leticia pushed Keena away with a look of difort. Keena stepped back suddenly, as if she¡¯d suddenly remembered something.

    ¡°Right, you know what?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s ore pouring out of your father¡¯s mine.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s mouth shut tight in shock.

    Keena¡¯s words weren¡¯t over yet.

    ¡°By the way, it¡¯s ore that¡¯s meant to rece pink diamonds.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to exin it to me.¡±

    ¡°People are moring to get their hands on it.¡±

    While she was speaking, Keena didn¡¯t take her eyes off of Leticia. It was as if she wanted to know what she was thinking.

    ¡°What do you want me to say?¡±

    ¡°I want to know your honest feelings.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t lie.¡±

    In a weary mood, Leticia let out a long sigh.

    ¡°This is a bit sudden, I¡¯ll need some time to think about this.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like you don¡¯t have an idea of what you¡¯re thinking.¡±

    Rather than beating around the bush, Keena asked her very directly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you ever think about blowing up his mine?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°If it was me, I would wish for all the family members who abandoned me to perish.¡±

    Leticia felt sick at the words that fell from her mouth while her eyes twinkled brightly.

    ¡°Is that what you wanted to say?¡¯

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°As expected¡­¡±

    Aplicated smile crossed Leticia¡¯s face.

    She turned her head away from Keena and took a step back. Keena was about to ask what was wrong with her, as Leticia tried to put distance between them.

    ¡°I thought you might be a good person, but I must have misread you.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Keena began to feel nervous at the look of disappointment on her face.

    Leticia continued.

    ¡°I¡¯ve told you a few times already, but I don¡¯t have the kind of ability that makes people unlucky, or unhappy. If that were the case, something bad would have happened to the people around me first.¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m¡­¡±

    ¡°Thank you for helping me when I was here with Xavier.¡±

    The soft words were drawing a clear line.

    Leticia used to push her away all the time, but never anything like this. So Keena couldn¡¯t hide her bewildered expression.

    ¡°Wait, listen to me.¡±

    ¡°Congrattions on winning. I hope we don¡¯t have to see each other again.¡±

    The congrattion was dry andpletely devoid of emotion.

    Keena tried to open her mouth to say something, but Leticia had already passed by.

    ***

    ¡°Do you know how much I¡¯ve been looking for you when I couldn¡¯t find you at the weapons shop?¡±

    It was when she arrived at the Achilles mansion. Elle was waiting at the gate, and began to? scold Leticia as soon as she spotted her.

    From the gaze that was checking her up and down, Leticia could really sense how worried she was about her.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Elle. Did I make you worry?¡±

    ¡°Of course I was! Tell me what happened.¡±

    Elle was staring at Leticia with narrowed eyes. She shook her head, and quickly took hold of Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Phew, let¡¯s just go in and talk.¡±

    ¡°Elle, you didn¡¯t tell Lord Achilles, did you?¡±

    She was about to ask her to keep what happened today a secret from Enoch.

    Leticia¡¯s heart sank as arge profile appeared in front of her eyes.

    ¡°This must be something that I shouldn¡¯t be hearing.¡±

    ¡°What? No, it¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°I heard the story. You were almost hurt by your brother.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    He could tell, even if she didn¡¯t say anything, who the culprit was.

    Leticia¡¯s head turned towards Elle. Elle looked at her with a troubled expression and quickly left the scene.

    A sigh threatened to escape, but Leticia swallowed it.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°You look too pale to be fine.¡±

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s not for that reason. It¡¯s for a different reason.¡±

    Leticia had been waving her hands in the air, asking him to believe her. When she suddenly started to blurt out the words and quickly shut her mouth.

    [There¡¯s ore pouring out of your father¡¯s mine.]

    [By the way, it¡¯s ore that¡¯s meant to rece pink diamonds.]

    [People are moring to get their hands on it.]

    She kept hearing what Keena had said today in her head. Those were the words that had bothered her the most.

    [Don¡¯t you ever think about blowing up his mine?]

    ¡®What on earth made her say that¡­¡¯

    She actually knew. Keena wants Leticia to think about how Marquis Leroy¡¯s mining business was seeding.

    To be honest, Leticia had never really cared about it.

    She had a different wish.

    ¡°Father¡­ No, Marquis Leroy¡¯s mine is filled with ore that can rece pink diamonds.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡±

    Enoch reacted like the statement was insignificant. It was an attitude that asked what concern it was to him.

    Leticia spoke frankly to him.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid it¡¯ll affect the mine the Achilles family owns.¡±

    Since it was an ore meant to rece the pink diamonds, it was clearly nning to take over the market the diamonds were in.

    ¡°Some diamonds have alreadye out, but I hope there will be a lot more.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s voice gradually subsided as she tried to hide how upset her feelings became while she spoke.

    ¡°People can no longer ignore theck of diamondsing from the mine.¡±

    Despite the fact that she was talking with a more serious expression than ever, Enoch only looked at Leticia as if she were cute.

    Leticia noticed that he wasn¡¯t taking it seriously and said discontendly.

    ¡°I¡¯m not saying this lightly, I¡¯m being serious.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I know.¡±

    However, there was no way that Leticia could not know that it wasn¡¯t overconfidence.

    ¡°I hope it rains! With high quality diamonds!¡±

    ***

 Chapter 58 - The Ability â€˜

    <h4>Chapter 58 - The Ability ¡®</h4>

    ¡°I knew my brother¡¯s ability wasn¡¯t anything to be ashamed of, but I didn¡¯t expect him to make it this far.¡±

    It was already the day of the semi-finals for the Imperial Knights tournament.

    Elle chose the seats with the best view in thepetition hall, she shrugged her shoulders with a proud expression. Leticia did not look well at all, as if something was bothering her.

    Ian noticed immediately and carefully asked Leticia.

    ¡°Sister, are you all right?¡±

    ¡°Huh? Oh, sure. I¡¯m fine.¡±

    He could see her pale hands shaking a little. Unlike her words, she seemed quite nervous.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much, because everything will be fine.¡±

    Elle said and held tightly onto Leticia¡¯s hand. Ian, who was sitting on the other side of her, took hold of her other hand, and the tremors subsided little by little.

    ¡°I hope he doesn¡¯t overdue it.¡±

    Leticia was fine with Enoch losing his match, as long as he wasn¡¯t hurt.

    As she took deep breaths and tried to calm herself, a cheer spread through the crowd.

    Her mouth dried up as the match began.

    ¡®It¡¯s going to be okay, it¡¯s going to be okay.¡¯

    Enoch was very skilled. Leticia knew this quite well and he¡¯d promised her that he wouldn¡¯t get hurt, so she didn¡¯t have to be so nervous.

    Why am I so worried?

    Leticia gasped as soon as she looked at Enoch, and tried to pull herself together by saying that it will be okay.

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    A sword grazed Enoch¡¯s forearm as he tried to avoid the weapon. Leticia¡¯s heart sank as soon as she saw this and she frowned slightly.

    ¡°Sister, he¡¯ll be fine.¡±

    Elle tried to reassure Leticia as soon as she saw her face pale, but Leticia¡¯s gaze never turned away from Enoch¡¯s form.

    Fortunately the fight ended with neitherbatant being injured again, and Enoch was able to move on to the finals. Elle and Ian both pped and rejoiced, but Leticia quickly ran to see Enoch in the infirmary.

    As soon as she entered, she saw Enoch sitting on a chair having his wound dressed. As soon as she saw the red blood on his white shirt, she felt emotional.

    ¡°How is your injury? Does it hurt?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s just a minor cut.¡±

    He showed his forearm like it was nothing, but Enoch soon closed his mouth. It was because his heart sank at how coldly she was looking at him.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be careful from now on, I won¡¯t get hurt.¡±

    As soon as he said that excuse, her white hands wrapped around his cheeks.

    Surprised by the sudden touch, Enoch¡¯s mouth dried up as her blue eyes quietly looked down at him. Then Leticia pinched Enoch¡¯s cheeks.

    When he looked up in surprise, he met Leticia¡¯s frowning face, her eyes full of disapproval.

    ¡°You promised you wouldn¡¯t get hurt.¡±

    ¡°Ah shorry, Ah wont.¡±

    I¡¯m sorry, I won¡¯t.

    His pinched cheeks may hurt a lot, but Enoch looked sincerely sorry.

    The corners of his mouth slightly raised, as if it felt good that Leticia was worried about him.

    ¡®You¡¯re really mean.¡¯

    Thanks to his smile, she couldn¡¯t hate him to her heart¡¯s content. So she pulled harder on his cheeks.

    ¡°Ow! My cheeks ache now.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m pinching you because you got hurt. If you get injured again¡­¡±

    Leticia leaned down and put her lips close to Enoch¡¯s ear. His shoulders trembled as he felt her breath on his cheek.

    However his face stiffened at the words she whispered to him.

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a bit of a problem.¡±

    ¡°Just don¡¯t get hurt.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a bit¡­¡±

    As soon as he thought about the consequences of being hurt again, he frowned.

    Leticia smiled slightly as she watched Enoch worry with a serious look on his face.

    ¡°Then what do I get if I don¡¯t get injured?¡±

    Once again, Enoch¡¯s body tensed when he felt her breath against his ear, but there was no way he could let her realize how she affected him. Leticia smiled brightly, but this time she straightened without grabbing his cheeks again.

    Enoch stared nkly as she walked away, then breathed out slowly.

    ¡®It still tickles.¡¯

    The feeling of her soft breath on his red ear, Enoch recalled what Leticia had whispered to him.

    [If you get hurt, I won¡¯t let you get away with it, but I¡¯ll adore you even more if you don¡¯t get hurt.]

    He almost asked how much more she¡¯d adore him, but he didn¡¯t dare ask. He was worried he wouldn¡¯t be able to concentrate on the match if he heard.

    ¡°Saying you¡¯ll hold or release a person¡¯s heart while wearing such an innocent face¡­¡±

    She was really impertinent, but still adorable. Leticia lingered in his head for a long time after she left.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡®Why did I say that I¡¯d adore him more?¡¯

    Leticia was on her way back to the stands where Elle and Ian were. She stopped walking for a while, and covered her face with her hands.

    She didn¡¯t care at the time, but she felt incredibly shy after the fact.

    ¡®If you get hurt, I won¡¯t let you get away with it.¡¯

    Leticia stopped walking again.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    The finalists for the tournament were Enoch and Levion.

    But she hadn¡¯t expected to bump into Levion in front of the infirmary, so Leticia tried to pass by him as if she hadn¡¯t seen him.

    ¡°Are you serious?¡±

    Leticia slowly turned around at the sound of the voice she heard from a few paces away.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Are you serious about him?¡±

    She could tell without asking who Levion was talking about.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m serious.¡±

    At first, she thought he was a friendly person, unlike his cold impression. When they became closer, she found him to be sincere and responsible.

    Now she had a great and unshakeable desire to move forward.

    By his side.

    ¡°Does he feel the same way as you?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s any of your business.¡±

    She didn¡¯t want to tell him that she knew Enoch¡¯s sincerity better than anyone else.

    Levion frowned at what she said, then changed the subject.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seen that before.¡±

    Levion knew Leticia well, and she never wore essories. He was suspicious of the ring she was currently wearing.

    It wasn¡¯t that Leticia didn¡¯t like jewelry, but she just didn¡¯t care to wear it. It wasn¡¯t that she was particrly disinterested, it was just that it was a bit inconvenient.

    ¡®It was definitely for that reason.¡¯

    There was a ring on Leticia¡¯s slender finger that he¡¯d never seen before.

    It was a ring that could be sold from any street vendor. The only thing unusual about it was the blue tint, otherwise it was amon ring.

    ¡°Even if you¡¯re emunicated, you should still try to keep up appearances.¡±

    Levion said this angrily, as he ran his hand through his hair in irritation. It seemed she¡¯d fallen in his estimation because she was wearing a cheap ring.

    Displeased by his remark, Leticia¡¯s lips crept up.

    ¡°Please take care of your appearance. You shouldn¡¯t be so mean to your ex-fianc¨¦e.¡±

    Levion gasped at words that came out of Leticia¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°I¡¯m being mean to you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m done talking about my ring. I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll look like I¡¯m acting like you.¡±

    After she¡¯d said her piece, Leticia turned around, as she didn¡¯t want to deal with him anymore.

    Levion wanted to grab her right away and ask what she meant, but he didn¡¯t want to look any more pathetic. Levion decided to be patient and went to the waiting room.

    ***

    Thest final match had begun. The predictedpetitors had moved up to the finals, and people were making bets on who would win. Everyone was saying that Levion would win because of his fame in sword fighting, but there were also many who said that Enoch was likely to win.

    The trumpet sounded out the beginning of the match, and the crowd turned to the arena in anticipation.

    ¡®Please, please, please.¡¯

    Leticia looked nervously at Enoch, her eyes kept returning to his injured forearm.

    ¡®I hope you don¡¯t push yourself too hard.¡¯

    She was afraid that the wound would open up again. Fortunately, Enoch showed no signs of pain and was calmly dealing with Levion.

    She was nervously watching as the sharp sounds of swords shing against swords and the menacing attacks on each other.

    Enoch faltered for a moment when his bandaged arm throbbed. Without missing his chance, Levion thrust his sword at Enoch¡¯s neck. Leticia almost rushed down to the arena floor before she stopped herself.

    Fortunately, he was not stabbed in a vital area, but blood trickled down from Enoch¡¯s hand as he grabbed Levion¡¯s de to prevent it.

    While she was relieved that he wasn¡¯t seriously hurt, Leticia was still upset he was hurt and felt a pang of worry.

    So far, the match was one win for Enoch, and one win for Levion.

    Somehow, thanks to his opponent¡¯s inattention, Enoch became the final winner with two wins. People wondered what had distracted Levion, but cheered happily for the new champion.

    Amidst the powerful cheers, Leticia went to find Enoch at the infirmary.

    ¡®You said you weren¡¯t going to get hurt.¡¯

    Even though she knew it was too much to ask, she still felt resentful. At the same time, she was worried about his hand, that he¡¯d injured when he¡¯d grabbed the de.

    She was moving quickly to check on Enoch.

    ¡°Me, too. I¡¯m hurt, Leticia.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m hurt, too.¡±

    So please look at me.

    The moment she encountered the deep purple eyes, they seemed to be begging her.

    Leticia had turned around unintentionally. Behind her stood Levion, who looked at her like a child longing for affection. He had his hand wrapped around his injured shoulder.

    ¡®When did he get hurt?¡¯

    Leticia was very sensitive and perceptive to people¡¯s wounds, but she was so distracted by Enoch¡¯s injured hand that she hadn¡¯t notice when Levion was hurt.

    She could see a lot of blood on his hand, it must be quite a deep cut.

    He didn¡¯t look good. There must be a lot of people here that could support and take care of him. She didn¡¯t know what his intention was bying all the way here and showing her his injury, but she didn¡¯t think it was good.

    The fact that he knew she was going to Enoch and called out to her. It seemed as if he was trying to use her to relieve his frustration at losing to Enoch.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know about anyone else, but aren¡¯t you worried about me?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Or were you always like this and I didn¡¯t know?¡±

    She stared silently at him, while he poured sharp words out towards her as if he¡¯d been waiting for that moment.

    It seems that he was taking out his anger on her.

    ¡°Comin to others, it¡¯ll look less pathetic.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    There was no more worry about giving to people who only thought of wounding her.

    As soon as Leticia turned away calmly, Levion¡¯s face crumpled.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°You¡¯re hurt.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    The doctor was just leaving the infirmary after applying medicine and a white bandage to the sword wound on Enoch¡¯s hand.

    Leticia had waited until the two were alone to say this. Enoch was frowning slightly at his hand that was tingly at the slightest movement, but quickly raised his head.

    ¡°I won.¡±

    Leticia had been watching, so there was no way she didn¡¯t know.

    ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°But I still won.¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t count.¡±

    ¡°I worked hard and won.¡±

    ¡°It was on the condition that you wouldn¡¯t get hurt, so no.¡±

    ¡°Still¡­¡±

    Enoch slumped his shoulders weakly, gently grasped Leticia¡¯s hand with his uninjured hand and looked up at her.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you please forgive me?¡±

    He said this anxiously, hoping that his earnestness would reach Leticia. He was curious about how much Leticia liked him and wanted to be adored by her.

    He purposely looked up at her with puppy dog eyes, and saw a smile on Leticia¡¯s lips.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±

    Leticia pushed Enoch¡¯s hand away with a bright smile.

    It was no use for Enoch to pretend as if he was hurt by the unexpected rejection.

    As soon as they arrived at the Achilles mansion after the Knights tournament, they held a celebration in honor of his victory, but Enoch¡¯s face looked strangely dark for someone who¡¯d won.

    ¡°People are going to think you lost. Can you at least smile?¡±

    Elle was scolding him, but Enoch only looked at Leticia sadly. Even though she felt his gaze, she pretended she didn¡¯t know and congratted him on his win.

    ***

    The next day, Seios stopped by as promised.

    ¡°Do you have something important to tell me about my ability?¡±

    Leticia led him to the drawing room, he looked both nervous and excited.

    Seios had been quiet until the tea came out, then he slowly started to speak.

    ¡°I think your ability is luck.¡±

    **

 Chapter 59 - Love Yourself More

    <h4>Chapter 59 - Love Yourself More</h4>

    Chapter 59. Love Yourself More

    ¡®Good luck¡­?¡¯

    Leticia blinked because she didn¡¯t understand what he was saying.

    So far, she¡¯d been used of causing bad luck or misfortune. She even questioned herself whether it was really her ability.

    Suddenly she was lucky instead.

    Seios was watching Leticia with a serious look.

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen an intense sunlighting from you that is only given to people blessed with luck.¡±

    ¡°From me?¡±

    ¡°Yes, on your sister¡¯s birthday.¡±

    ¡°But still¡­¡±

    It was hard to believe, and she started to fiddle with her fingers. Seios brought up the stories he had discovered one by one, so that Leticia could ept that her ability was luck.

    ¡°I believe something good happened to Marquess Leroy after you were born.¡±

    Leticia didn¡¯t understand and tilted her head in confusion.

    ¡°But my parents said good things started happening after Diana was born.¡±

    That¡¯s why Marquis Leroy always lectured her to be grateful to Diana, he said this to her so often that she was sick and tired of hearing it.

    Somehow Seios¡¯ expression was a mixture of bitterness and resignation.

    ¡°Leticia, your mother couldn¡¯t have another baby after she had you.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°She was diagnosed by the doctor to be too weak to safely have any more children.¡±

    As soon as he discovered Leticia¡¯s ability, Seios began to research all the good things that happened to the Leroy family.

    ¡°The timing tells us that things began to go well for them after you were born.¡±

    With Leticia¡¯s ability, it was clear that Marquis Leroy¡¯s wife became healthy again and was able to have Diana. However, everyone seems to have attributed it to Diana after she was born.

    ¡°In fact, the Leroy family rarely awakened to special abilities, even though they have a lot of unusual abilities. Look at your siblings, they all have good abilities.¡±

    ¡°That means¡­¡±

    ¡°It means they may have been influenced by your ability.¡±

    She wasn¡¯t sure, but it was possible.

    He then listed all the good things that had happened to the Achilles family after she arrived, while bad things kept happening to the Leroy family.

    Leticia was quietly listening to Seios¡¯ exnation and said weakly.

    ¡°Then why did I get kicked out?¡±

    ¡°Leticia¡­¡±

    ¡°There was no need or reason for me to be kicked out¡­¡±

    She no longer felt frustrated or conflicted. She was just confused about how to feel about the years of hurt, neglect and discrimination she¡¯d suffered.

    On the other hand¡­

    ¡®It ended up rather good.¡¯

    It didn¡¯t make a difference even if her family knew what her ability was.

    From what they¡¯ve done to her so far, it was obvious that she¡¯d be hurt or used again.

    ¡°Did you happen to tell my family?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to say anything to them until I talked to you.¡±

    It was Leticia¡¯s ability, so he thought it was best that she knew first. It was also her choice whether he informed her family or not.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, can you keep it a secret from my family?¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s what you want, I will.¡±

    As their conversation ended and he prepared to leave, Seios told her to contact him whenever she needed help.

    Left alone in the drawing room, Leticia thought about the conversation she¡¯d had with Seios.

    ¡®Lucky¡­¡¯

    The ability to convey good luck to others, even if it doesn¡¯t bring good luck to herself.

    Seios couldn¡¯t confirm that she was lucky, but it was clear that something good was happening to those around her.

    ¡®Is that really true?¡¯

    She thought he was right, but it was hard to believe. So Leticia sat in the drawing room lost in thought for a long time.

    Then Enoch, who¡¯d been waiting outside for Leticia, entered cautiously.

    ¡°Did he tell you good news?¡±

    ¡°Yes, in fact¡­ He told me what my ability is.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s face looked strangely dark though.

    Enoch noticed this and asked with a curious look.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you want to know what your ability is?¡±

    He didn¡¯t know why she was more depressed than happy.

    Worried, Enoch kneeled down in front of Leticia. She felt a bit lighter as soon as she was faced with his warm gaze. She slowly began to exin to him.

    ¡°Good things happen to the people around me when they¡¯re with me.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡±

    That sounded like it was a good ability, so why did she look like there was a problem. Leticia was silent for a moment, then said.

    ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Actually, I can¡¯t believe that good things happen when I¡¯m around you.¡±

    She wanted to believe it more than anyone else, but she hesitated to believe it because she¡¯d been neglected for so long.

    Recognizing what she was thinking, Enoch slowly rose and reached out to Leticia.

    ¡°Then we can check.¡±

    ¡°How?¡±

    Is there such a way?

    She couldn¡¯t think of a way, no matter how hard she thought about it. She blinked up at Enoch as he smiled down at her and said.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go for now.¡±

    When Leticia hesitated, Enoch gently took her hand and left the mansion. Leticia was dragged away by Enoch without knowing where she was going.

    It was none other than the square where Enoch took Leticia.

    Leticia stared at him, wondering what they could do here to prove that her ability worked. Enoch was still smiling and looking around with her.

    ¡°Now! Which cup is the ball under?¡±

    Leticia turned her head towards the sound of a loud voice.

    There were three cups and a small ball on an old wooden table.The operator[1] gestured mboyantly towards his cups, beckoning people to guess where the ball was.

    ¡°Do you want to try?¡±

    ¡°What? No, I was just watching in amazement.¡±

    When Enoch stopped walking and asked Leticia, she waved her hands in denial.

    Enoch already grabbed her hand and quickly approached the operator.

    ¡°I really don¡¯t want to try.¡±

    ¡°I want to try.¡±

    What he said was absurd and she was forced to follow him.

    ¡°In fact, I¡®m not good at this kind of game.¡±

    ¡°What? Then why are you here?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re supposed to be checking.¡±

    ¡°No way¡­¡±

    Leticia looked up at Enoch to check if he was serious.

    ¡°Do you really think being around me will work?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Even when she was looking at him like he was being absurd, Enoch was seriously focusing on which cup the ball ended up in.

    ¡°Now, where¡¯s the ball?¡±

    ¡°Second! I saw the cup with the ball stop at the second spot.¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about? It¡¯s obviously in the third one.¡±

    Everyone said it must be the second or third cup. Leticia also thought shest saw the ball between the second and third cup.

    Enoch thought differently.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll pick the first cup.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, the ball is in the third cup¡­ What?¡±

    The operator smiled nicely and picked up the third cup, but there was no ball under it. Then he checked the second cup, just in case, but there still wasn¡¯t a ball. When he lifted thest cup, curiously the ball was under it.

    ¡°Huh¡­ It was under the first cup.¡±

    The operator muttered with a nk look. He didn¡¯t know why the ball was under the first cup and not the second or third one. Enoch smiled at Leticia as they received their winnings from the confused operator.

    The smile on his face was quite smug, and it made Leticiaugh. However, there were still some doubts.

    ¡°You¡¯re actually lying to me, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve ever won that game.¡±

    After that, they went to y more games of chance. They kept smiling at every little good thing, like when Enoch caught the one and only golden fish in the tank.

    It was already evening and the two of them were about to return to the Achilles mansion.

    Stopping in front of arge fountain, Enoch whispered softly to her.

    ¡°If you put a coin in the top part of the fountain, your wish wille true.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Enoch hands over a coin to Leticia as soon as he realizes she wants to give it a try. Unfortunately, Leticia misses and it falls into the water.

    Then Enoch threw a coin, and it went straight in.

    ¡°Wow! It¡¯s in!¡±

    The coin went straight in, as if it knew its way. It was fascinating to see, and Leticia pped in excitement.

    ¡°Hurry up and make a wish.¡±

    Leticia was happier than Enoch, and rushed him to make his wish.

    After a moment of confusion, he closed his eyes. His wish was quickly made, as if it was merely an afterthought. Leticia then cautiously asked.

    ¡°What did you wish for?¡±

    ¡°Secret.¡±

    ¡°Why is it always a secret?¡±

    Leticia pulled Enoch¡¯s arm with a look of frustration, but he remained adamant.

    ¡°I heard it doesn¡¯te true if you say it.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s just a superstition.¡±

    ¡°Still can¡¯t tell.¡±

    She told him that he was too much, Enochughed and held Leticia¡¯s hand.

    Maybe it was because of all the discrimination and disdain she had been subjected to, Leticia didn¡¯t seem to know how to trust or love herself. She was infinitely affectionate to others, but she did not know how to receive it.

    So he prayed with all of his heart.

    ¡®May you love yourself more.¡¯

    May she cherish herself as much as he cherishes her.

    ***

    ¡°How can you disgrace us by not being able to beat some random stranger who rolled in off the street!¡±

    Marquis Leroy shouted at Xavier, and stared at him in disgust.

    It had been like this for some time. When something good seemed to happen, something bad immediately came up.

    ¡®Just when my business is finally going to pick up, my children are in trouble.¡¯

    A colorful ore hade out of the mine and his spirits had been lifted.

    As he sighed deeply in frustration, Xavier bit his lip and said.

    ¡°It¡¯s all because of my eldest sister.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because she doesn¡¯t want me to do well.¡±

    It was ridiculous that he¡¯d lost the swordsmanship tournament, there was no other exnation. Xavier told his father that Leticia had ced a curse on him to cause misfortune to befall him.

    The Marquis was listening to him quietly, so Xavier was thinking that he was in agreement, and said even more loudly.

    ¡°There¡¯s been rumors recently about my eldest sister. They¡¯ve been saying her ability is to cause bad luck.¡±

    ¡°For now, stay put. I¡¯ll look into it.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t bring shame to the family again.

    Xavier nodded quickly when his father said he¡¯d let it slide this time. As there was nothing more to be said, Marquis Leroy left and Xavier could breathefortably again.

    However, the memory of losing that final match came to mind.

    ¡®Damn it, I could¡¯ve won¡­¡¯

    On second thought, he was furious. He thought there wouldn¡¯t be that much of a difference in skill between them, but he was overwhelmed. It was no different than being treated like a toy.

    Xavier gritted his teeth and promised himself that he¡¯d win next time.

    ¡°Anyways, this was all my eldest sister¡¯s fault.¡±

    These days, the atmosphere in the family was unsettled and he was falling behind in his work.

    Xavier went to his room, thinking about how he¡¯d rather go somewhere far away.

    Irene, who¡¯d been hiding nearby, slowly crept out.

    *********

    [1] This is the term used for someone who runs a shell game.

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shell_game

 Chapter 60 - I Hope Youâ€™re Ready For Everything To Come Back

    <h4>Chapter 60 - I Hope You¡¯re Ready For Everything To Come Back</h4>

    Chapter 60. I Hope You¡¯re Ready For Everything To Come Back

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    Leticia asked curiously after she had just returned from seeing Enoch off. Considering the suspicious look in Elle¡¯s eyes as he left. She seemed to be trying to hide something from him.

    It wasn¡¯t until he¡¯d left, that Elle took Leticia to the drawing room.

    ¡°It¡¯s a secret, so don¡¯t tell him what we said.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Actually¡­¡±

    These days, pink diamonds have been increasing in poprity. Although there weren¡¯t very many of them, the color was good and the gem was quiterge. So nobles were asking for him to sell the diamonds to them.

    Thanks to this, the Achilles family situation had be mentally and physically more rxed as their debts were almostpletely paid back.

    Finally, Elle and Ian have the opportunity to solve a problem that had been on their minds for a long time.

    ¡°I want to have a session ceremony for my brother.¡±

    ¡°Are you talking about a Duke¡¯s session ceremony?¡±

    Ian was listening to the conversation, he nodded and answered.

    ¡°We were supposed to have done it already, but we didn¡¯t because we couldn¡¯t afford to.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    ¡°So our goal is to prepare one and notify the guests ourselves. If we tell our brother in advance, he¡¯ll probably tell us that the family hasn¡¯t recovered yet, so we shouldn¡¯t bother.¡±

    Leticia nodded in agreement with Ian¡¯s words. Even she thought that if Enoch heard he would say it¡¯s fine and try to stop it.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to prepare properly this time, and make sure he doesn¡¯t ignore it again!¡±

    Elle put her hands on her waist with a grim look on her face.

    It was her turn to make an example of those who whispered behind their back, mocking them for not having enough money to do the session ceremony.

    Leticia was quietly watching Elle, who was more motivated than ever, when she asked.

    ¡°Can I join you?¡±

    ¡°Of course. That¡¯s why I called you over secretly.¡±

    Elle hugged Leticia as she asked if it was really okay.

    Ian smiled slightly at the friendly atmosphere between the two and calmly said.

    ¡°I¡¯m off to the exam then.¡±

    ¡°Is today the second exam?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Ian was acting like he was merely going for a stroll outside, not leaving for an important exam.

    Leticia was surprised by Ian¡¯s attitude and unwound Elle¡¯s arms from around her shoulder.

    When Ian realized that she was going with him, he smiled and said he was fine.

    ¡°I can go alone.¡±

    ¡°Then can I pick you up after the exam ends?¡±

    Ian nodded, pretending not to be won over by the earnest look that begged him not to refuse.

    Elle hugged Leticia from behind, then looked at her brother and sarcastically remarked.

    ¡°Would it hurt you to be that nice to me?¡±

    ¡°Are you and Sister the same?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m the real thing!¡±

    Elle frowned fiercely at Ian, before she pretended to be choked up about the tant discrimination.

    ¡°Go ahead and take a good look. Don¡¯t think abouting home if you don¡¯t meet that person. ¡°

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that.¡±

    Ian left the drawing room after telling her to stop stating the obvious.

    Leticia watched Ian leave, then patted Elle¡¯s arm that was around her shoulder.

    ¡°Elle, who were you talking about?¡±

    ¡°There are some things.¡±

    ¡°Why? Who is it?¡±

    Leticia grabbed Elle¡¯s arm when she dropped her arm away and stepped back. She was quite curious.

    Elle didn¡¯t want to upset Leticia, so she changed the subject.

    ¡°We don¡¯t have time for that. We need to n for the session ceremony.¡±

    ¡°Oh, right.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to prepare for the ceremony.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know much either¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    For a little while, a strange silence hovered over the drawing room.

    In the end, they changed around their ns to hold a party to properly demonstrate the position of the Achilles family. The goal was to have a grand party with maximum pomp and circumstance so that they would not be treated as a family that couldn¡¯t even hold a session ceremony.

    They wanted to surprise Enoch as much as possible with the ceremony, but it was difficult for Ian, Elle, and Leticia to prepare alone.

    Leticia thought about it for a while, and slowly said.

    ¡°I think it would be better if we asked Count Aster for advice.¡±

    ¡°Great! I¡¯d like to prepare as much as I can for now.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s do that. Next time, why don¡¯t we donate a reasonable amount and do some charity workter?¡±[1]

    ¡°Okay, I need to improve my image, too. I care about my reputation.¡±

    Leticia was relieved to a certain extent, and slowly rose from her seat. It was almost time for Ian¡¯s exam to end.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to have to go now.¡±

    ¡°Have a safe trip.¡±

    Strangely, Elle remained seated and waved goodbye from her spot.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t youing with me?¡±

    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t like it if I went, it¡¯s obvious why you want to go.¡±

    ¡°Okay, then I¡¯ll go by myself.¡±

    Leticia nodded and said she¡¯d be back soon, leaving the drawing room.

    ***

    ¡®There¡¯s no way Ian won¡¯t like it.¡¯

    Leticia was pretty sure Elle wanted her to go pick him up. She tried to persuade her toe along, but there was no way she could interrupt Elle, who was preupied with the preparations for the party.

    ¡®Elle was alwaysining about Enoch, but she would do anything she could to help him.¡¯

    Maybe it was because there was finally something that she could do for him, but you could see the excitement on her face.

    ¡®That¡¯s what family is.¡¯

    A rtionship where they care for each other, and take care of each other.

    Leticia thought about her family as she walked alone to Ian¡¯s examination site, somehow she felt heavier when she thought about them.

    ¡®I¡¯m sure it must be Emil.¡¯

    A sigh flowed from her mouth.

    It was still hard to believe that Emil was the culprit behind the malicious rumor. There was no obvious evidence, but if Enoch said so there must be some clear connection.

    ¡®You¡¯ll know it when you see it.¡¯

    Apart from believing Enoch¡¯s words, she wanted to talk to Emil face to face. In fact, this was the other reason she wanted to pick up Ian.

    ¡®I think it¡¯s time to pursue this.¡¯

    It was when she was leaning against a wall and looking at the front door.

    The students began to exit, one by one, because the exam was over. Among them was Emil, who was seen talking to his colleagues.

    As soon as Emil looked back slightly, their eyes met. Leticia slowly began to approach him.

    ¡°I have something I want to talk to you about.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have time.¡±

    ¡°It will only take a minute.¡±

    Conscious of the curious stares of passersby, Emil let out an annoyed sigh.

    ¡°I can¡¯t give you much time, so keep it short.¡±

    As soon as they moved to a secluded corner, Leticia asked with a calm look.

    ¡°I¡¯ll get straight to the point. Was it you?¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    It felt like he realized she already knew everything, and was acting like he¡¯d done nothing wrong.

    Leticia felt something rise inside her, even though she¡¯d already expected him to show this brazen attitude.

    ¡°The one who spread the false rumor about me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure what you¡¯re talking about.¡±

    Emil replied nonchntly without changing his facial expression. It would look like he knew nothing to anyone else, but Leticia felt her heart grow cold.

    ¡®I didn¡¯t think it was possible¡­¡¯

    There was a bitter taste in her mouth.

    Emil himself didn¡¯t know this, but he had a habit of looking straight at you, without avoiding your eyes, when he lied or felt embarrassed. As if he was trying to say that he wasn¡¯t ashamed at all.

    Just like now.

    ¡°It really was you.¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t hide the miserable look on her face.

    It had been a long time since she¡¯d left her family, but every time she was confronted with a moment like this, it was inevitable that a part of her would feel conflicted.

    ¡°I said it wasn¡¯t me.¡±

    ¡°Emil.¡±

    Leticia stared at Emil, who was ufortable about the encounter, and said.

    ¡°Don¡¯t get caught.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia clenched her hands as Emil looked at her like she was talking nonsense.

    The reason why she had kept quiet until now was because she was worried that he might bother the people around her for no reason.

    Even though she¡¯d endured it, she knew the people around her were having a hard time, and there was no reason for her to stay quiet anymore.

    ¡°If you get caught, prepare to have everything you¡¯ve done returned to you.¡±

    She was sick and tired of being mocked.

    Leticia decided that for the sake of those who cared for her, she would return good intentions with good intentions and bad intentions with bad intentions.

    Emil smirked at her as if she was being ridiculous.

    ¡°What are you expecting to give back to me when I haven¡¯t done anything?¡±

    How are you so confident?

    Emil was not amused by what he was hearing. He sighed and took a step closer to Leticia.

    ¡°Sister, I¡¯m saying this out of concern.¡±

    At first nce, it seemed like he was really worried, but there was an obvious sneer painted on his stony face.

    ¡°Please figure out reality.¡±

    ¡°Emil.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing you can do, so don¡¯t even bother trying.¡±

    Lately, his head had been killing him. Then she came out of nowhere asking questions, and unbearable anger erupted at Leticia for scratching at his heart.

    ¡°Just live quietly.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    ¡°Act as if you¡¯re dead.¡±

    Then the position of the family should not be lowered just because they kicked out an innocent person.

    If Leticia had just lived like she was invisible after she was kicked out, he wouldn¡¯t have done anything. Leticia, who keeps going around despite her emunication, had forced him to do something annoying, which was making him nervous these days.

    It was all Leticia¡¯s own fault that things had gotten so out of hand.

    Why does she keep doing things, when all she needs to do is stay quiet and still?

    Emil swept his hair back angrily. He thought that she would be able to understand what he was saying as long as she wasn¡¯t stupid.

    That was Emil¡¯s mistake.

    ¡°You¡¯re the one who poked someone who was being quiet.¡±

    The mouse¡¯s hands trembled while he spoke.

    Everything was her fault. It was her fault that she spoiled her younger siblings too much.

    It seems that she loved them too much and they grew up rude, cowardly and petty.

    Diana, who doesn¡¯t do anything right, but lives with a smug look on her face. Emil who often looks down on others for being stupid. Xavier, who only relies on his ability and brags about it. All of them hurt her, even Irene,

    ¡°When did you fall to such a low point?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°I thought you would know better, but this isn¡¯t like you.¡±

    Leticia considered Emil to be the most reliable and dependable of all of her siblings. Sometimes he was too ruthless and cold-hearted. She was willing to ept it, because he usually had his reasons.

    At this moment, Leticia realized that she had misjudged Emil.

    ¡°You¡¯re not smart, you look stupid to me.¡±

    ¡°Who are you calling stupid?¡±

    Emil let out a gasp of astonishment as he listened.

    Leticia¡¯s words were not over yet.

    ¡°So don¡¯t let yourself get caught in the act.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia smiled brightly at his fierce re.

    ¡°You know I¡¯m just saying this out of concern, right?¡±

 Chapter 61 - My Brother-In-Law And My Sister-In-Law

    <h4>Chapter 61 - My Brother-In-Law And My Sister-In-Law</h4>

    Chapter 61. My Brother-In-Law And My Sister-In-Law

    ***

    As the days went by, Leticia grew farther and farther beyond his reach. When he bumped into her she acted like apletely different person, so he couldn¡¯t even think of what to say.

    He was still deluding himself into thinking it wasn¡¯t toote. He didn¡¯t want to admit it, even though a part of him knew it was over a long time ago.

    What she said continued to resonate in his head.

    [Yes, I mean it.]

    Leticia¡¯s answer when he asked if she was serious about Enoch before the final match.

    Her answer, without any hesitation or doubt, broke his heart and caused a bitter smile to cross his face. He could endure it though, because he believed it was Leticia¡¯s one-sided feelings.

    When he entered the arena to face off against Enoch for the finals, he saw something sparkling on his shirt. At first, he thought it was amon ne. Then he saw the ring on the ne, and his mind went nk.

    It was a ring with the same design as the one on Leticia¡¯s finger.

    After that he couldn¡¯t concentrate on the match. In the end, he made a series of unexpected mistakes and lost to the opponent he wanted to win against the most.

    ¡°Since when¡­¡±

    When did they start feeling the same way?

    The more he thought about it, the angrier he got. Levion tried to settle down and leaned against the chair.

    ¡®If Leticia had awakened her ability, this wouldn¡¯t have happened.¡¯

    Even though he¡¯d tried to help Leticia awaken her ability, she was always ufortable. No, it was right to say that she found it unpleasant.

    ¡®If I tried to help you, you acted like that.¡¯

    He didn¡¯t know what the heck she wanted him to do.

    As he let out a conflicted sigh, he heard a knock on his door.

    ¡°Come in.¡±

    As soon as permission was granted, the butler quickly approached Levion.

    ¡°I¡¯m here because I have something to report.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s voice, coldly telling him how pathetic he was, still lingered in his head.

    Levion asked him to report without looking towards him, the butler began to slowly speak.

    ¡°I heard the Great age recently visited the Achilles¡¯ mansion.

    ¡°The Great Sage would¡­¡±

    He seemed to be referring to Seios.

    It was strange for him to go to the Achilles¡¯ mansion, and not the Leroy¡¯s. Furthermore, Seios was said to have only visited the one household, and immediately returned to the Magic Tower.

    ¡°He didn¡¯t go to the Leroy mansion?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s correct.¡±

    He knew that Seios was Marquis Leroy¡¯s godfather, so something didn¡¯t make sense.

    No matter how much he thought about it, there was no reason for him to go to one mansion and not the other.

    ¡®Could Leticia have awakened?¡¯

    He didn¡¯t know, but he needed to try and find out.

    As soon as Levion became besotted with the idea, he sat down and quickly began to write a letter.

    ***

    ¡°IRENE apologized to RONAN?¡±

    The weather was nice, so Leticia was drinking tea outside. Her eyes widened in amazement at the unexpected news. In fact, this little surprise destroyed her preconceived notions about Irene since she¡¯d seen her at the academy.

    ¡®Even if she apologized, she would¡¯ve had no choice but to do it.¡¯

    She was a child who couldn¡¯t admit their mistake until the end.

    Mary watched Leticia as a dark look crossed her face, and she quickly said.

    ¡°It was her first time, so she wasn¡¯t expelled. They ended up just disciplining her.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    Leticia smiled bitterly and put down her tea cup. Marquis Leroy seems to have persuaded the Academy Director. Otherwise, it wouldn¡¯t have ended up this way.

    ¡°It¡¯s important that the misunderstanding has been resolved.¡±

    It was only after Maryughed and said that she was okay, that Leticia¡¯s expression eased a little.

    ¡°How is Ronan doing?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s doing well. He told me to give his regards to the young miss.¡±

    Furthermore, he had done much better than the previous semester, and Leticia congratted him for doing so well.

    ¡°By the way, a letter arrived from Count Aster.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    At Mary¡¯s words, Leticia smiled brightly and received the letter. She had already sent a letter asking for advice, she needed help preparing for the party. It seems that she had just received a reply.

    Leticia was reading the letter with excitement, and became emotional.

    ¡®They¡¯re going to help me.¡¯

    The description was quite long. In short, Count Aster and his wife were grateful to Enoch, and were asking for permission toe help personally.

    ¡®I should hurry up and go tell Elle.¡¯

    Leticia told Mary that she would go in first and quickly went to find Elle. Fortunately, Elle hadn¡¯t gone out and she found her in the drawing room. Ian had just returned from outside and handed something to Elle.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Is this for real?¡±

    Elle couldn¡¯t hide her shock as she read the letter in disbelief. Ian, on the other hand, stood by calmly.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you tell from what you¡¯re looking at?¡±

    ¡°Crazy, crazy, crazy!¡±

    Elle couldn¡¯t hide her excitement, and pped Ian¡¯s forearm. She btedly realized that Leticia was there, and ran over to greet her.

    ¡°Hey, hey! Look at this!¡±

    ¡°Why? What¡¯s this?¡±

    She thought something big happened, but seeing the smile on her face, she figured it was good news.

    Leticia was very excited and checked the paper that Elle handed to her.

    ¡°Did you pass the second exam?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­ That¡¯s what happened.¡±

    Ian said it as if it was insignificant, but he couldn¡¯t hide the look of pride in his eyes.

    ¡®The results already came out.¡¯

    She could see the words clearly written on the crisp white paper; Ian Achilles passed. The number of students taking the second round of the Imperial Civil Service examinations was significantly less than the first, so the results were released almost immediately.

    ¡°Oh my little brother! I¡¯m so proud of you!¡±

    ¡°Go away, you¡¯re disgusting! Who is your younger brother?¡±

    When Elle began ruffling his hair, Ian freaked out and pushed her away, but there was no sign of displeasure.

    ¡°Then, did he get in too?¡±

    ¡°I think so?¡±

    Elle asked as soon as it came to mind, Ian frowned as if he didn¡¯t like the answer.

    Leticia was quietly watching the two for a while and smiled. She could tell who they were talking about without having to ask.

    ¡°I hope he fails the third exam!¡±[1]

    ¡°Elle, no matter how much¡­¡±

    ¡°Why is that? I¡¯m not saying anything.¡±

    ¡°No, that¡¯s not what I¡¯m talking about.¡±

    Elle spoke with a disappointed look on her face, Leticia kept her mouth shut as she was? confused for a moment. Next to her, Ian was also quietly waiting for Leticia to say something. He wasn¡¯t in the mood to overlook her feelings.

    Leticia was thinking for a while on what to say, then she slowly opened her mouth.

    ¡°Some things are obvious and don¡¯t need to be said.¡±

    Elle didn¡¯t understand what she was saying for a moment, then realized what she meant and began clinging to Leticia.

    ¡°Right? You want him to fail too, don¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­ A little bit?¡±

    ¡°Is it really only a little bit, Sister?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia acted as if Elle¡¯s persistence to hear the answer until the end had not won her over.

    ¡°A lot, actually.¡±

    ¡°I knew you felt the same way, Sister!¡±

    Elle clung to Leticia¡¯s shoulders in an endearing hug, as she liked her answerpletely. However, her gaze was still fixed on Ian.

    ¡°Ian, even if he passes the third round, you have to get higher grades. Even if you both be Imperial officials, you should never lose to him. Do you get it?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll try.¡±

    ¡°Effort alone is not enough. This is about the pride of our family, you should risk your life.¡±

    Elle suddenly looked at Leticia with a worried look.

    ¡°We didn¡¯t offend you, did we?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°Well, he¡¯s still family¡­¡±

    Elle seemed to be worried because she casually said that she wanted a member of Leticia¡¯s family to fail the exam, even if they had no connection now.

    Even though realized it was toote to take back her words, Leticia gently stroked Elle¡¯s head.

    ¡°My family is here. What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    When there was no reply.

    Leticia felt embarrassed with the unexpected heavy silence left.

    ¡°Oh, am I not family?¡±

    ¡°Of course we¡¯re family. Soon you¡¯ll be my sister-inw too.¡±

    ¡°Sister-inw?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s face began to blush, and turned redder and redder, as Elle spoke casually about it with a straight face.

    ¡°What is up with that?¡±

    She was embarrassed and tried to squirm out of Elle¡¯s arms, but Elle hugged her harder and didn¡¯t let go. Ian, who¡¯d been still until now, took a step closer to Leticia.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to be my sister-inw?¡±

    ¡°You want me to be your brother¡¯s bride?¡±

    They had not officially announced that they are dating, but Elle and Ian already knew there was a rtionship between the two.

    Leticia gently looked away in embarrassment, and wondered if they had been too obvious.

    ¡°We¡­ We¡¯ve just started dating, but getting married¡­¡±

    However, Elle and Ian¡¯s reactions weren¡¯tpletely unexpected.

    ¡°What? I thought you were dating him.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia raised her voice in shock at his words. Ian nodded in agreement with Elle.

    She could feel her face blushing fiercely as they asked questions about Enoch and her dating.

    When she thought about how close they looked, she felt self-conscious and tried to escape Elle¡¯s arms again. Suddenly she felt an eerie gaze from somewhere, Leticia raised her head and looked out the window.

    ¡®What was that?¡¯

    Leticia loosened Elle¡¯s arm and quickly went to the window. She didn¡¯t see anyone out there and figured it was just her imagination.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Sister?¡±

    Ian realized something was amiss, so he carefully asked her what was wrong.

    Leticia looked out the window for a long time, then shook her head with a shallow sigh.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing.¡±

    Leticia answered offhandedly, then returned to Elle and Ian.

    However, the persistent gaze was still bothering her. It wasn¡¯t an illusion, but the gaze she felt when she was emunicated and wandered through the streets alone.

    .

    .

    .

    Leticia let out a long sigh as she returned to her room. She was trying to avoid Elle and Ian after they chided her about how long she¡¯d hidden her feelings for Enoch and let him confess first.

    She¡¯d broken out in a cold sweat when they came at her with so many questions.

    ¡®I think they¡¯re having fun teasing me.¡¯

    She¡¯d expected it from Elle, but didn¡¯t realize that Ian would enjoy it too. At first nce, it seemed like he was trying to stop Elle, but secretly he encouraged her.

    It didn¡¯t feel bad at all, because she could feel the affection they had for her.

    ¡®What do they mean by sister-inw?¡¯

    They said it so casually that she was mortified.

    She went to rest on her bed with a sigh, then noticed the book with flowers on the cover sitting on the bookshelf.

    ¡®This¡­¡¯

    It was a book that Seios had left for her. He said he¡¯d discovered it suddenly at the Magic Tower, as if it had fallen from the sky.

    Leticia slowly picked up the book. The outer cover was old. She was being careful looking through it, so she was slowly turning the pages so she didn¡¯t identally rip it.

    Someone knocked on her door. Leticia left the book on her desk and went to see who it was.

    When Leticia opened the door, she found a brightly smiling Elle standing there.

    ¡°What are you going to do for dinner?¡±

    ¡°Well I don¡¯t know. Is there anything you want to eat?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s see what ingredients we have.¡±

    She sent Mary home early because of how excited she was that Ronan wasing home after so long. So today they had to prepare their own meal.

    ¡®I should find someone to work in the mansion.¡¯

    The Lucky cookies were still selling well, so she could afford to hire someone. It might be disruptive if she did it on her own, so she thought it would be better to talk to Enoch properly about it first.

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be right there.¡±

    Leticia nodded and asked Elle to go first. She was worried that she¡¯d left the book out, without properly putting it away.

    When she returned to the desk, she stopped short and stiffened.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    The book that had been neatly ced on the desk had disappeared.

    The window was left open for all to see.

    ********************************

    [1] So I¡¯m not sure why it¡¯s now 3 exams/tests when it was originally saying 2. I have a feeling it might be 2 tests and an interview. It would probably make more sense if I was familiar with how the school system works in Korea.

 Chapter 62 - Things Only You Can Do

    <h4>Chapter 62 - Things Only You Can Do</h4>

    Chapter 62. Things Only You Can Do

    ¡°Are you serious, Irene Leroy?¡±

    After all the sses were finished, the professor was looking at the documents he had received in disbelief. He wanted her to reconsider.

    Even though she knew this would be his reaction, Irene answered without changing her expression.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°I want to ask the Marquis if he feels the same way.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Irene snapped her mouth shut at those words.

    The documents that Irene handed over was a letter of resignation. She didn¡¯t want to take a leave of absence from the academy, but wanted to leave permanently.

    However, the professor asked if she¡¯d gotten permission from Marquis Leroy first. He knew better than anyone else that the Marquis wouldn¡¯t allow Irene to drop out.

    Irene quietly listened to the professor, then firmly said.

    ¡°Father¡¯s opinion doesn¡¯t matter.¡±

    ¡°Student Leroy.¡±

    ¡°The important thing is that I have no will to attend the academy anymore.¡±

    The reality was that she didn¡¯t go to the Academy of Magic because she wanted to. Just because she was talented in magic, her father decided her future for her. He ordered her to attend the Academy and be an Imperial wizard after she graduated.

    Irene had no specificint. She thought it would be better to go to a ce where she could show off her talent. It wasfortable, and as easy as walking down the street as others supported her.

    She realized toote that it wasn¡¯t necessarily correct.

    [Parents should not decide their children¡¯s goals for them, but help and support them when their children are struggling.]

    Her eldest sister, who she always thought was useless and foolish, already knew the truth.

    That there was no meaning in following the path that someone else has decided for you.

    After secretly listening to her conversation with Marquis Leroy from the hallway, Irene had a long time to think alone.

    At some point, she realized her father followed a pattern. If you aren¡¯t recognized by him as being talented, then you¡¯re a useless disappointment and he¡¯ll abandon you. It wasn¡¯t just her who felt it, her other siblings recognized it as well.

    ¡®It was meaningless from the beginning.¡¯

    As soon as she had this crazy idea, she didn¡¯t want to follow a path she wasn¡¯t passionate about.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell my father, I¡¯ll talk to him about it.¡±

    ¡°Ha¡­ I understand what you¡¯re saying, but there is still a period of deliberation. So one more time¡­ please think about it¡­¡±

    ¡°Thank you, please take care of it as soon as possible.

    She firmly cut off the professor¡¯s words, as she didn¡¯t want to hear them.

    Irene went to meet Ronan immediately afterwards. She¡¯d been afraid to see his face, so she had avoided him and hid until she finally came to the decision to visit him.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for everything I put you through.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not asking you to forgive me. I came here because I wanted to apologize to you properly.¡±

    She could feel Ronan staring at her in shock, since he never expected her to express regret. Irene continued to clench her hands tightly because she was not confident enough to face his gaze.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I med you for all of my mistakes and pretended not to know.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll ept your apology.¡±

    At his unexpected remark, Irene looked up in surprise. Ronan had a conflicted and bitter look on his face.

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯ll forgive you.¡±

    ¡°Still, thank you¡­¡±

    From the start she didn¡¯t expect forgiveness when she apologized, so this was enough.

    Irene returned to the Leroy mansion, leaving the nces of the other students behind. She nned to visit Emil, her most reliable sibling, and ask for advice first.

    However, he had an unexpected reaction.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you see I¡¯m busy? If you have time for this, go study more and get good grades on your next test.¡±

    ¡°But Brother¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t try to cheat likest time to get good grades.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Ha¡­ The more I think about it, the more hopeless you are. Cheating because you lost a test paper. I¡¯m so ashamed to be rted to you.¡±

    The fact that Irene had cheated had already spread through Emil¡¯s academy.? He had to hold back the words from his seething heart, as he listened to his peers condemn him for having such a sibling.

    ¡°Please, it¡¯ll only take a moment. I just want to ask for some advice.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have time to deal with you, just leave Irene Leroy.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    The moment she was about to say something else, Emil cut her off by turning away quickly. His attitude said that he didn¡¯t want to deal with her any more, so Irene fell silent and left Emil¡¯s room.

    The same thing happened when she went to Xavier to check his reaction.

    ¡°Please pull yourself together, because I¡¯m ashamed to even look at you.¡±

    Irene responded sharply to the contempt they sent her way.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯vee to my senses about you.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She heard a sharp voice calling to her from behind, but she didn¡¯t look back.

    Irene hade to her senses quitete, but her brothers still had a long way to go.

    ¡®I¡¯ll just end up in a yelling match if I visit Diana.¡¯

    Irene knew Diana would just treat her like she was pathetic. So she didn¡¯t visit her since she could do even less for her than her brothers.

    That was when.

    ¡°The gemologist said it was as fine as a pink diamond.¡±

    ¡°So you think it can beat the pink diamond?¡±

    Irene stopped in her tracks when she heard the conversationing out of her father¡¯s office. Marquis Leroy and Marquis El were talking with the door open.

    ¡°Soon I¡¯ll have a jewel that can beat the pink diamond, why don¡¯t you just wait a little bit?¡±

    ¡°I hope it all goes ording to your ns, but I think you¡¯re misjudging the situation.¡±

    Marquis El was saying that the pink diamonds were still scarce and valuable. The value was probably because of the meaning behind the diamond.

    Everyone knew their meaning was ¡®Forever Young and Beautiful¡¯ and ¡®Making your wishe true¡¯, but most people didn¡¯t actually believe that.

    Irene had hidden herself behind a pir, and nced at the office again after Marquis El had left.

    ¡°Pink diamonds! I should give meaning to my ore!¡±

    A sprout will appear after a drought.

    Marquis Leroy grinned for a moment, then mmed his fists on the desk in annoyance.

    ¡°No, no.¡±

    He thought it might be easier to change the meaning than to insert a new one.

    Irene watched Marquis Leroy, who started to hum before she knew it.

    She was thinking that her father was the most distracted out of all of them.

    ***

    As soon as she woke up the next morning, Leticia left to tell Enoch what happened the previous day.

    When Leticia woke up in the morning, she saw the book lying on her desk and her heart went cold. It was ced in such a way to be noticed, and that gave her goosebumps. The part she was going to look at yesterday was torn out of the book.

    ¡®Is someone aiming for me?¡¯

    The book had returned, so there was no damage except for the one page.

    When Leticia had left her room yesterday, she hinted to Elle and Ian that something had happened. Fortunately, there was no reaction from them.

    Leticia wasn¡¯t feeling safe and immediately tried to visit Enoch. She wasn¡¯t able to talk to him though, because he was busy and left for the Pce early.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Elle carefully asked after she noticed that she was looking unusual. Leticia shook her head quickly.

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    ¡°Why? What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Ian also noticed and asked. Leticia smiled calmly at their worried questions.

    ¡°I was thinking about hiring a servant.¡±

    ¡°No way. Now that our financial condition is better, we¡¯d better get one.¡±

    Ian¡¯s face rxed after listening to Leticia and nodded in sympathy.

    She decided to talk properly to Enoch about it when he came home. Ian returned to his room to study for the final interview. Leticia watched Ian leave, then took Elle¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Elle, are you busy today?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not busy. Even if I was, youe first.¡±

    ¡°Then, can you go to the za with me?¡±

    ¡°Do you have something you want to buy?¡±

    Elle looked at her strangely when she saw Leticia verifying that Ian had returned to his room.

    ¡°I want to buy some gold thread.¡±

    ¡°What? Oh, because of Ian¡¯s test?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I ordered it in advance.¡±

    Now that they had some extra ie, she was able to reserve some gold thread. It cost quite a bit, but it was worth it.

    ¡°Ian will like that.¡±

    ¡°I know. Let¡¯s split the cost for the bracelet 50/50.¡±

    ¡°Sounds great! I can¡¯t make it very well, is that ok?¡±

    When Elle suddenly looked worried, Leticia smiled gently and said.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, because I¡¯m not very good at it either.¡±

    Now that Ian¡¯s third exam was just around the corner, she felt a pressing need to get the gold thread and make it quickly.

    Elle was dragged away by Leticia without much of a fight.

    ***

    As soon as they arrived at the square, they retrieved the gold thread from the jeweler and tried to return to the Achilles Mansion. On the way back, they ran into the owner of Pegasus, so Elle apologized to Leticia and left with him. It seemed that they were going to discuss which essory to release next.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, you¡¯re just getting started.¡±

    It had been a while since she¡¯d released her very sessful wishing bracelet, so it was time to prepare a new essory.

    Leticia looked excited for Elle, who she could see conversing in the distance. Elle always looked cute despite her young age, but today she looked impressive.

    At that time, she felt someone approach her from behind.

    ¡°Hi.¡±

    It was the first time she¡¯d seen her since the Swordsmanship Tournament.

    Since they didn¡¯t part on the best of terms, Leticia didn¡¯t greet her. Keena, however, spoke to her without any signs of difort.

    ¡°Your expression is full of worries.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s none of your business.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll feel sad if you say that.¡±

    Leticia turned away with the clear message that she didn¡¯t want to talk anymore. Even though she knew that was her intention, Keena followed Leticia around.

    ¡°Is it because of your father¡¯s mine?¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re still slow with getting news.¡±

    Leticia opened her eyes in surprise at her words, Keena just casually shrugged.

    ¡°The rumors are mouring about which is more valuable, the ore from Marquis Leroy¡¯s mine or the pink diamonds.¡±

    While the color wasn¡¯t close enough to say they were simr, the ore came out much more frequently than the pink diamonds. More and more people began to prefer the ore extracted from Marquis Leroy¡¯s mine. On the other hand, some people said it was too early to judge the value of the ore that had juste out.

    Keena told an unexpected story and raised concerns, but there was another problem that bothered Leticia more.

    ¡°It¡¯s not that.¡±

    Someone broke into the Achilles mansion with impunity. Took the book lying on her desk, it seemed to say that the intruder coulde and go whenever they wanted. They only broke into her room, but there was a good chance that they could invade Elle¡¯s, Ian¡¯s or Enoch¡¯s room silently.

    ¡°Yeah, then there¡¯s only one exnation.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Keena smiled calmly as she casually said something disturbing.

    ¡°Is it because I took the book? I put it back in the morning.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    At that, Leticia closed her mouth in shock.

    Keena continued to stare at Leticia with a smile on her face. For Leticia, it was like everything felt distant, as if time had stopped.

    ¡°No way¡­¡±

    Leticia faltered and widened the distance between them. However, Keena didn¡¯t even give her a chance to escape and stepped forward as much as Leticia moved away.

    ¡°Yes, it was me.¡±

 Chapter 63 - Itâ€™s Not That I Donâ€™t Want To Get Married

    <h4>Chapter 63 - It¡¯s Not That I Don¡¯t Want To Get Married</h4>

    Chapter 63. It¡¯s Not That I Don¡¯t Want To Get Married

    It was a sunny and clear day with moderate sunshine. Despite the cloudless weather, Leticia was feeling chilled by the wind blowing past her.

    ¡°Why did you do that?¡±

    She clenched her fist and looked straight at Keena. Her question contained many meanings.

    Why enter her room so brazenly? Why did she take the book, then give it back to her? Also, what made her honestly tell Leticia that she¡¯d done it.

    Leticia bit down on her lip hard, because she could feel it trembling.

    Keena answered as if it wasn¡¯t a big deal.

    ¡°I told you, I¡¯m curious about your ability.¡±

    ¡°Is that really all?¡±

    Come to think of it, Keena had always helped her and never harmed her. Nevertheless, there were many awkward aspects to their interactions. So the more they met, the more ufortable she felt.

    When Leticia asked suspiciously with a sharp look, Keena smiled obliquely.

    ¡°I¡¯m not interested in your luck.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s body hardened up like a temple statue when Keena tantly stated her ability. Keena, on the other hand, was rxed from start to finish.

    ¡°I¡¯m interested in what you would call misfortune.¡±

    ¡°What does that mean?¡±

    A corner of her heart was chilled by her words.

    Come to think of it, Keena always asked if her ability was to make others unhappy. She always approached her with an eager look, rather than with reluctance or avoiding herpletely.

    ¡°If you¡¯re calling for luck, can¡¯t you bring misfortune?¡±

    At those words, Leticia shed her gracious smile. Despite the fact that she¡¯d already said it several times, Keena still seemed to believe that she had the ability to make people unhappy. No, to be more exact, she wanted her to be able to do so.

    For some reason, she felt a mix of emotions that she¡¯d experienced from the beginning. Leticia felt pathetic for thinking that she might be a good person.

    ¡°Tell me exactly what you want from me.¡±

    Leticia asked in a tired voice, but she did not expect an answer. Contrary to her expectations, Keena answered her question quite easily.

    ¡°That you don¡¯t go back to your family.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s all.¡±

    Leticia was speechless from how candid Keena was being for the first time.

    It had been a long time since Leticia had stopped thinking about returning to her family. She didn¡¯t understand what Keena meant by telling her not to go back.

    Soon after, Leticia¡¯s face paled at the words that followed.

    ¡°If you go back, it won¡¯t end with just a book being torn up.¡±

    It was a threat.

    A clear warning to listen to her, because she could enter the Achilles mansion anytime she wanted.

    Her mind went nk and her heart shriveled inside her chest. However, this was not an emotion that glowed with fear or horror.

    ¡°I guess you¡¯re not scared of anything.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to lose.¡±

    Leticia smiled coldly as she looked up at her shamelessly smiling face.

    ¡°What are you going to do if I decide to stop doing whatever it is you want?¡±

    Leticia was a person who tried to swallow her words, even if she was feeling frustrated. However, the story changed when the people she cared about were brought into it.

    ¡°Even threats should be subtle.¡±

    Leticia said this while keeping her eyes on Keena.

    While her ability was to call luck to others, Keena didn¡¯t seem to know exactly how her ability worked. If she knew, she wouldn¡¯t have said nonsense about whether she could call misfortune.

    ¡°You know how to speak so cruelly.¡±

    ¡°If you realize, then be more careful.¡±

    ¡°As long as you don¡¯t go back to your family.¡±

    ¡°It won¡¯t happen, so I hope we don¡¯t see each other after today.¡±

    Leticia turned her head and frowned, she was tired from all of the times they kept facing off with each other. As she began to leave to search for Elle, she looked back when she felt a touch on her wrist.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Why are you going?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She didn¡¯t understand what the heck she was doing.

    With eyes that were questioning about why she needed to go, Leticia thought for a moment about what to say.

    ¡°Do you know what I hate the most?¡±

    She continued to talk because it was not a question that needed an answer.

    ¡°Someone who doesn¡¯t admit their faults until the end.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be around someone like that.¡±

    Keena gave her a bitter look at the tone of criticism that anyone could understand.

    ¡°If I asked you kindly, would you have agreed?¡±

    Leticia no longerughed at her shameless attitude, still acting like it was not her fault. She just wanted to get back to Elle as soon as possible.

    ¡°I forgot you don¡¯t like people who don¡¯t know how to self-reflect.¡±

    As soon as Leticia noticed the hand holding onto her began to lose strength, she pushed it away without hesitation and then turned around.

    Keena seemed to be in shock, but it was no longer a problem for Leticia to care about.

    ***

    The preparations for the party had begun at the Achilles mansion, and it was easier than expected. All thanks to the active help from Count Aster and his wife. Count Aster watched Leticia, who was grateful but kept apologizing, and said.

    ¡°Of course I would help, he¡¯s my future son-inw.¡±

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right¡­ Huh?¡±

    Thinking she¡¯d heard incorrectly, Leticia looked up at him in shock.

    However, the Count only looked at her as if there was no problem with what he said. Soon enough, he smiled with a strained smile.

    ¡°Would it be too much to call the Duke my son-inw?¡±

    ¡°No, that¡¯s not it. What do you mean by son-inw?¡±

    She remembered not long ago that Elle and Ian began to call her sister-inw. Even before the shock disappeared, Count Aster began to call Enoch his son-inw and Leticia¡¯s face turned red.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to get married?¡±

    ¡°I think talks of marriage are too early¡­¡±

    She was happy just imagining it, as she fanned herself to calm her heated face. She was grateful that Enoch was currently away because he was busy today.

    It was clear that if he was next to her, she would have run away to avoid enduring the shame.

    ¡°Oh, my. What do you mean? We all know you like each other.¡±

    ¡°Still¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not getting married yet?¡±

    The Countess, who was standing next to her husband, asked with sparkling eyes. Leticia bowed her head to hide her blushing face, as the Countess waited for her to answer.

    She was avoiding making eye contact, so she didn¡¯t notice Countess Aster¡¯s gaze was on someone standing behind her.

    ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to marry him.¡±

    Of course, she wanted to marry Enoch. To the point where she couldn¡¯t imagine being married to anyone but him.

    Enoch was the kindest person she¡¯d ever met, and he understood and respected her for who she was. Leticia would definitely be happy to be married to him.

    ¡°His thoughts are important, too.¡±

    ¡°I want to get married.¡±

    ¡°If so, I¡¯m d¡­¡±

    A sigh of relief escaped her, then Leticia stopped talking with a stunned look. Leticia was hoping she¡¯d heard wrong, but Enoch was standing next to her and looking down at her.

    ¡°When did you get here?¡±

    ¡°Just now?¡±

    ¡°Oh, uh¡­¡±

    As soon as she was about to ask if he¡¯d heard, she snapped her mouth shut. It was clear that he heard her when he responded that he¡¯d want to get married.

    Leticia immediately looked at Count Aster and his wife. Her eyes were full of resentment as they didn¡¯t tell her that Enoch had arrived.

    Count Aster just smiled nicely.

    ¡°The party is soon, and the main protagonist has to know.¡±

    It was something she couldn¡¯t hide forever, but right now it was time for Enoch to check the list of nobles invited to the party.

    She understood that, but Leticia was unbearably ashamed to think that Enoch had heard her say she wanted to get married.

    ¡°Count!¡±

    ¡°Hmm? I need to check the list of food that needs to be prepared for tomorrow¡¯s party.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go together, honey.¡±

    Count Aster, who was alternating looking between Leticia and Enoch, was wearing an awkward expressions. He coughed and quickly left, Countess Aster followed suit.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Silence descended when Enoch and her were left alone.

    Unlike Leticia, who was ufortable and didn¡¯t know what to do, Enoch was still looking at Leticia with a friendly smile. The gaze felt intense, so Leticia avoided it by ying with her fingers.

    However, as she touched her hands together gently, she raised her head and looked up at Enoch.

    The moment their gazes intertwined, Enoch asked as if he¡¯d been waiting.

    ¡°What¡¯s your favorite flower?¡±

    Leticia, who closed her mouth at the unexpected question, felt relieved. Thanks to this, the conversation about marriage seemed to have passed safely.

    ¡°I like all flowers.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Why ask about flowers all of a sudden?¡±

    Is he going to give me flowers?

    When she felt excited about the idea, Leticia began to think about what her favorite flower could be. However, no matter how much she thought about it, any flower was good. Especially if it was given to her by Enoch.

    When Leticia looked up at him with anticipation, Enoch smiled and said.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to make a bouquet of the flowers I like best.¡±

    ¡°Oh, um¡­¡±

    Leticia was thinking she shouldn¡¯t have let go of the marriage conversation.

    What did he mean by bouquet? She couldn¡¯t believe he was going to make a bouquet of his favorite flowers for her.

    At his unexpected remark, Leticia grasped Enoch¡¯s hand without realizing it with a red-hot face.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t marriage too early? I think the progress is too fast¡­¡±

    The idea of marrying Enoch made her feel dizzy.

    However, Enoch misinterpreted Leticia¡¯s words and asked with a worried look.

    ¡°You don¡¯t want to go fast?¡±

    ¡°No! It¡¯s not that I hate it!¡±

    Then with a look asking what the problem was, Leticia groaned shallowly and was held in Enoch¡¯s arms. She was no longer confident in being able to face him anymore.

    Still, she wanted to show her heart to him a little bit, so she whispered while holding onto Enoch¡¯s sleeve tightly.

    ¡°Whatever I do with Enoch is good.¡±

    Simply holding hands and hugging each other like this. It was good to even be together quietly.

    ¡°It¡¯s just that I¡¯m shy.¡±

    It was awkward and unfamiliar because it was the first time she felt so loved. She was just so happy that she couldn¡¯t stand it.

    As soon as she desperately hoped that her heart would reach him, Enoch lowered his head. As she faced his gaze, she could see the corners of his mouth smoothly smile right in front of her.

    Then she felt a light touch on her cheek, then the moist feeling fell away.

    Leticia wrapped her hand around her cheek with a nk expression.

    ¡°What did you just do?¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t know, it¡¯s okay.¡±

    Enoch smiled pleasantly and patted Leticia¡¯s hair affectionately.

    Leticia was touching her cheek nkly, when she btedly realized that Enoch¡¯s cheeks were slightly red. As soon as she noticed that he was stroking her hair to hide his embarrassment, Leticia¡¯s lip slowly curled into a smile.

    ¡°Enoch, wait a minute.¡±

    When she beckoned him to crouch down. Enoch calmly met her at eye level, and looked at Leticia curiously.

    She lifted up on her tiptoes and lightly kissed Enoch on the cheek.

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    Surprised, Enoch quickly stepped back and covered his face with the back of his hand. It was obvious that he was embarrassed, as if he had not expected this counterattack after he¡¯d done it first.

    ¡°Ha, just now, what¡­¡±

    Perhaps because of how surprised he was, Enoch stuttered his words differently than usual. Leticia looked at his figure with great satisfaction and smiled brightly.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t know, it¡¯s okay.¡±

    She shrugged her shoulders yfully, but felt embarrassed on the inside.

    Eventually, Leticia ran away, leaving Enoch staring at her nkly.

 Chapter 64 - An Uncomfortable Guest

    <h4>Chapter 64 - An Ufortable Guest</h4>

    Chapter 64. An Ufortable Guest

    Count Aster, and his wife, rmended aristocrats who would be good for Enoch to share a friendship with and prepared items for the party. Enoch was grateful and asked them to have dinner together that night, but the two returned to their mansion, saying they should work hard.

    At dinner, while they were sitting and eating their meal, Elle peeped at Enoch.

    ¡°Since when did you two be like this?¡±

    Leticia was quietly eating her soup while looking straightforward, she hurriedly covered her mouth with a napkin.

    Unlike Leticia, who was embarrassed and didn¡¯t know what to say, Enoch looked unconcerned.

    ¡°I don¡¯t take personal questions.¡±

    ¡°Then, what about marriage?¡±

    ¡°When are you doing this?¡±

    Who said they weren¡¯t twins? If the conversation wasn¡¯t enough, their expressions and eyes were the same.

    They knew they were asking extremely personal questions, but they just waited for an answer as if they didn¡¯t realize. However, Enoch continued to eat quietly as his gaze naturally turned to Leticia.

    Leticia noticed right away, turned her head away and mumbled to herself.

    ¡°I won¡¯t, I won¡¯t do it.¡±

    She meant not yet, but she didn¡¯t know what they understood. Elle and Ian began to look at Enoch with pity.

    ¡°You got dumped.¡±

    ¡°You got dumped.¡±

    Unlike their pitying expressions, their two mouths were suppressing smirks, they seemed to want to keep teasing their brother. Leticia slowly called out to Elle, who had a glint of mischief in her eyes.

    ¡°Elle¡±

    ¡°Yes, Sister?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think I can go to the boutique tomorrow.¡±

    Not going would be more correct.

    Leticia took another sip of her soup after saying that. Elle, who was sitting on the other side of the table, looked at her with an incredulous look on her face.

    ¡°Why all of a sudden? I¡¯m sure you said you¡¯d be free tomorrow.¡±

    The dress she¡¯d ordered for Leticia for the party arrived that day. Elle had been waiting to see Leticia try it on, and now she felt like copsing.

    Leticia was not done yet.

    ¡°Ian, I think you should go see the third exam results on your own.¡±

    Ian felt a heavy rock fall somewhere in his heart.

    A few days ago, he¡¯d asked Leticia to go see the list together on the day the final sessful candidates for the Imperial Civil service was announced. It was because he didn¡¯t want to go alone that day. Fortunately, Leticia answered that she would go with him, as if it was a matter of course.

    Now her words had changed.

    Ian, who was upset by the sudden change in attitude, tried to understand her actions.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for the day you try on your dress.¡±

    Elle began to whine that she¡¯d give anything, except for that. Ian, who would normally tell her not to be stubborn, also yed a part.

    ¡°I wish you could go see the list of sessful applicants on that day.¡±

    Elle and Ian looked at Leticia with pitiful expressions, as she had made a promise with them. Leticia was feeling flustered by their puppy dog eyes. Enoch, who¡¯d been quiet until now, opened his mouth.

    ¡°Elle Achilles, Ian Achilles.¡±

    It was a different voice than usual.

    They had a bad feeling when Enoch called out their full names. Unfortunately for them, their expectations didn¡¯t deviate.

    ¡°Come on out.¡±

    ¡°Older brother.¡±

    ¡°Brother.¡±

    Only then did Elle and Ian start to realize Enoch¡¯s thoughts. He looked at Leticia with the meaning that he would no longer allow them to make her ufortable. His eyes cooled down more.

    ¡°I won¡¯t say it twice.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Knowing that nothing good woulde from any more interruption, they followed Enoch¡¯s order quietly.

    About half an hourter, the three of them finally returned and started to eat again. Not a word was said about what happened, and the evening passed in silence.

    ***

    For a gloomy looking Elle, Leticia rescinded what she¡¯d said the day before and went to the boutique with her. Perhaps because of this, Elle looked more rxed as they looked around at several dresses.

    In the end, as soon as Elle saw Leticia in the dress she had ordered beforehand, she felt so pleased it was as if she¡¯d never been depressed.

    ¡°I knew my eyes were correct! I guess my sister is beautiful no matter what she wears.¡±

    Elle was already so lost in thought that she couldn¡¯t hear Leticia. She began to draw in her head what kind of essories and hairstyle would look good with the dress.

    Leticia grabbed onto Elle¡¯s hand because she was worried she would stay lost in thought if left like that.

    ¡°Elle, you should try on the dress we ordered for you.¡±

    ¡°Will your hair be prettier if we leave it loose or tie it up? I¡¯m worried that you¡¯ll be pretty both ways.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s face grew redder as Elle mumbled earnestly as if there was nothing more important to worry about.

    She wanted to hide in a corner from the unfamiliar praise. Elle opened her eyes wide, wondering if she¡¯d done something wrong.

    Why is shyness her job?

    Leticia hid her blushing face with one hand and pulled on Elle¡¯s clothes.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to look at your dress now.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I forgot.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia was speechless at the expression that she¡¯d sincerely forgotten. It was obvious that Elle hade to the boutique to look at dresses made exclusively for Leticia.

    ¡°I want to see you in a pretty dress too.¡±

    ¡°Um¡­ But there¡¯s still something I have to do first.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    Usually at Leticia¡¯s words, Elle would choose a random dress and wear it right away. Now she frowned slightly, as if she was in a difficult situation.

    ¡°As you know, there will be many aristocrats at this party.¡±

    Count Aster made a list of nobles who had good reputations and it would be important to cultivate their friendship. However, it also included aristocrats who they had no choice but to invite, because nothing good woulde from being caught excluding them.

    ¡°There will be aristocrats who chase after my brother.¡±

    The purpose of the party was to show that the fortunes of the Duke of Achilles had changed. The invited nobles who came were aware of this fact.

    ¡°Brother is older, so there will be talk of marriage.¡±

    Half of the nobles that wereing to the party would naturally aim for the seat next to him. After Enoch was fully recognized as a duke, the person who married him would be a duchess.

    ¡°We should prepare ourbat gear so that we won¡¯t lose.¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯sbat gear, it couldn¡¯t be¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s the prettiest dress in the whole wide world and the most beautiful jewelry to match. Of course, I also need my sister, who¡¯s the cutest in the whole world.¡±

    Leticia, who quietly nodded to Elle¡¯s words, paused for a moment. She thought she¡¯d heard something wrong.

    ¡°What¡¯s the cutest thing in the world?¡±

    ¡°Who do you think it is? It¡¯s Leticia.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You have to get married as soon as possible and change yourst name to Achilles. When will that daye?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t tell on me. I was scolded yesterday because of this.¡±

    Elle¡¯s shoulders began to tremble at just the thought of it.

    Eventually, they chose Elle¡¯s dress and essories so that they matched Leticia, and they finally left the boutique. Contrary to Leticia¡¯s expectation that they would look around in other stores, Elle decided that they¡¯d finished for the day.

    Leticia, who noticed that the carriage was taking them back to the Achilles mansion, immediately asked.

    ¡°Why are we going home early?¡±

    ¡°I have something to do¡­¡±

    While they were talking, Leticia looked at Elle, who was currently making a tearful face.

    The party preparations were somewhatplete, but there was nothing special left to do. She was acting differently from her usual self when she rode in the carriage. She was sitting still, without looking around like a lively person.

    Leticia was worried that something might have happened.

    ¡°I¡¯m going home to pull weeds.¡±

    ¡°Weeds?¡±

    Why weeding all of a sudden?

    She didn¡¯t understand, so Leticia looked at her in confusion. Elle leaned back against the carriage bench and let out a conflicted sigh.

    ¡°He gave me this punishment. I need to weed for a week.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    Only then did Leticia understand. She nodded with a sad look.

    It was a simple task, but it wasn¡¯t easy to squat and weed. In addition, it has been a while since the garden has been managed, and Elle became depressed at the thought of pulling out overgrown weeds.

    ¡°I thought I had graduated from weeding, but¡­ Ha¡­¡±

    ¡°Then is Ian doing it with you?¡±

    ¡°Ian is chopping firewood.¡±

    It would be easier if they did it together. Unfortunately, Enoch never punished the twins together.

    ¡°He begged me to let him pull out weeds.¡±

    He¡¯s a frail guy who only knows how to study, so he¡¯ll probably be exhausted for a while.

    Leticia was quietly watching Elle, as she gave a quick click of her tongue and swallowed another sigh. Unlike her sympathetic expression, the slight smirk on her face made it obvious that she knew she was in a better position than Ian.

    ***

    Enoch was looking into whether anything was missing from the uing party, and was finally checking the invitation list. No matter how much he looked at it, he didn¡¯t like it and the frown wouldn¡¯t leave his face.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Count Aster was a very good person. In addition, he¡¯s learned a lot from him because he is someone who can think of practical benefits.

    Enoch was very grateful to receive a list created by such a person. He still couldn¡¯t help, but not like it.

    [You have to keep your enemies close to you.]

    This was what Count Aster said when Enoch first looked at the invitation list, and saw his face harden. It was clear that Count Aster did not like the invitation list he had written either.

    [Do I have to invite Marquis Leroy?]

    In fact, Count Aster¡¯s intention to include Marquis Leroy on the invitation list was evident.

    Marquis Leroy had achieved great sess with his pink ore, Rose Velvet, these days. It had also attracted attention frommoners by adding the meaning of ¡®A long life without illness¡¯. Anyone could tell that he was keeping the pink diamonds in check.

    He¡¯d ignored it on purpose because it was childish to deal with it, but now it¡¯s hard to pretend not to know. This was because Marquis Leroy was secretly spreading bad rumors about pink diamonds.

    In fact, he could almost understand why Marquis Leroy was invited. However, when he saw ¡®Levion El¡¯ below it, he sighed unconsciously.

    He thought his name was on the list because he was from one of the prominent families of the Empire, but Enoch¡¯s expectations were wrong.

    [I think they know that Leticia has awakened.]

    Leticia told no one about her ability, except for Enoch and Count Aster. It was a wise choice, but he had begun to notice that something was changing around him.

    Count Aster added that he didn¡¯t really rmend inviting them after writing the list. Marquis Leroy and Levion, both of them would make Leticia ufortable.

    ¡°You can¡¯t ruin the party.¡±

    Enoch muttered quietly and firmly erased the two off of the invitation list. It was a party for him, but he was also offended in Leticia¡¯s ce.

    When Leticia returned to her room after visiting the boutiques, she looked over the invitation list and her heart remained undisturbed.

 Chapter 65 - Your Misfortune Is More Enjoyable Than My Happiness

    <h4>Chapter 65 - Your Misfortune Is More Enjoyable Than My Happiness</h4>

    Chapter 65. Your Misfortune Is More Enjoyable Than My Happiness

    ¡®Come to think of it, I don¡¯t know who we¡¯re inviting.¡¯

    While returning to the Achilles mansion in the carriage, Leticia realized that she¡¯d never heard who wasing to the party. It may be good people because Count Aster had chosen them, but strangely, what Elle said kept bothering her.

    [As you know, there will be many aristocrats at this party.]

    [There will be aristocrats who chase after my brother.]

    What Elle said was correct.

    Everyone knew that the Duke of Achilles¡¯ fortunes had improved. Furthermore, the term ¡®dukedom in name only¡¯ had gradually disappeared. Therefore, the wless Enoch had infiltrated the list of potential grooms that everyone wanted.

    [Brother is older, so there will be talk of marriage.]

    ¡®I know. I know¡­¡¯

    However, Leticia almost sighed because she didn¡¯t understand it in her heart.

    As soon as she arrived at the mansion and was about to go inside, she ran into Ian walking from the garden.

    ¡°Ian, are you okay?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±

    He wasn¡¯t okay, but Ianughed helplessly because he couldn¡¯t say it.

    Ian, who would normally stop Elle, was coteral damage and had to split firewood as punishment. He¡¯d never really held an axe before, so he kept missing the wood. His body still felt shaky from putting all the strength into his arms.

    ¡°You know, you should get out of your room more and exercise.¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be weeding?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Elle¡¯s face, which had the word ¡®pathetic¡¯ on the tip of her tongue, hardened at once. As the situation turned around, Ian chuckled and entered the mansion with Leticia, acting like he wasn¡¯t having any difficulties.

    Leticia told Ian that she was going to wash up as soon as they entered the mansion, and told him to take good care of himself. She turned towards her room, then turned away.

    ¡®Can I ask who you invited?¡¯

    She thought about how to make it sound natural, as she walked to Enoch¡¯s room. She knocked on the door, but there was no answer back. He must have gone out a while ago.

    ¡°Enoch¡­?¡±

    Just in case, Leticia carefully turned the doorknob. As expected, she didn¡¯t see Enoch anywhere.

    The first list created by Count Aster was clearly seen on the desk full of documents. Even though she knew she shouldn¡¯t look at it, Leticia walked slowly to the desk.

    The moment she picked up the invitation list.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see?¡±

    ¡°Caw!¡±

    Leticia screamed at the low voice that sounded from behind. As she looked behind her, she made eye contact with Enoch, who was staring at her with a puzzled look. She quickly tried to hide the invitation list behind her back, but she was already caught.

    ¡°Oh no, that¡¯s not it¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was curious about who you were inviting.¡±

    She was ashamed and embarrassed that she¡¯d tried to find out secretly. With the variousplex emotions she was feeling, Leticia bowed her head.

    She wasn¡¯t sure how Enoch interpreted her appearance, but he spoke with a more serious expression than ever.

    ¡°I won¡¯t invite Marquis Leroy or Levion El, so you can feel relieved.¡±

    ¡°What? Oh¡­¡±

    She blinked slowly at his unexpected words, and a sigh came out. In fact, her ex-father and ex-fianc¨¦ did make her ufortable, but not enough to bother her.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    However, Enoch¡¯s face became darker and darker, thinking that she was lying.

    Recognizing right away what he was thinking, Leticia ced the invitation list on the desk and waved her hand.

    ¡°I¡¯m really fine. It¡¯s not because of those people¡­¡±

    How can she exin this?

    She touched her fingertips with a troubled look, and a dark shadow fell over her. As she raised her head, Enoch was looking at her anxiously and gently caressed her face.

    ¡°They will not be invited.¡±

    She could tell without asking who he meant, but it really didn¡¯t matter to Leticia. She would be lying if she said it wouldn¡¯t be ufortable, but there was something else that was bothering her.

    ¡°I¡¯m curious about which youngdies will be invited¡­¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t invite any youngdies, but they mighte with someone else.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Leticia, who was only looking at Enoch, smiled brightly at his answer. Her smiling face was as bright as a spring day full of sunshine.

    ¡°Just in case.¡±

    Wanting to double check because he thought he was imagining things, Enoch touched his neck and asked.

    ¡°Are you jealous?¡±

    Enoch knew well that he needed to tell Leticia that entering his room, and looking at the list without permission isn¡¯t something she should do. But strangely, she reminded him of a cat caught with a fish in it¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°What? No, not at all.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t think so?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±

    Leticia shook her head quickly and stepped back, saying absolutely not. However, there was no room to move back because of the desk. She tried to sneak carefully to the side, but Enoch ced his hands on the desk with Leticia in between.

    ¡°Are you sure you weren¡¯t?¡±

    Enoch bowed his head so they could meet at eye level, making it so close that she could see her reflection in his eyes. As soon as his breath reached her, Leticia shut her mouth and pushed on Enoch¡¯s shoulder with her hand. However, it was too weak to even move him.

    Eventually, Leticia bit her lip with a red face.

    ¡°I think I was a little bit¡­¡±

    ¡°Only a little bit?¡±

    ¡°A lot actually¡­¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Leticia pinched Enoch¡¯s cheek because it was annoying that he kept asking as if he wanted to hear it again, even though he¡¯d heard her properly the first time.

    ¡°Is it fun to tease me?¡±

    ¡°Was it that obvious?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll get in trouble if you keep doing that.¡±

    ¡°How?¡±

    Why does he look so happy when she¡¯s scolding him? If someone else saw this, they would think he was receiving an award.

    Leticia frowned a little, because he was so happy. Even though she knew there was no one else around them, she whispered softly in Enoch¡¯s ear.

    Enoch, who was listening to Leticia¡¯s whisper with an excited face, tapped the desk with his fingertips.

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a littleplicated.¡±

    ¡°So be careful.¡±

    Leticia spoke firmly and pushed Enoch away, so she could look at the invitation list. The list contained the names of Marquis Arthur Leroy and Levion El, which were crossed out.

    ¡°I¡¯m really fine, you can invite them.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°No, I want you to invite them.¡±

    ¡°Are you serious?¡±

    Knowing Leticia¡¯s situation well, Enoch looked at her like he couldn¡¯t understand what she was thinking. Facing his gaze straight on, she put down the invitation list and smiled.

    ¡°I want to show them how well I¡¯m living.¡±

    ***

    ¡®Why didn¡¯t I know then?¡¯

    These days, Irene was always thinking about it. Even when she was awake with her eyes open, eating, drinking tea, reading a book, lying down again and before falling asleep.

    ¡®It was so obvious.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t know it was precious, because it was so normal. It was really foolish to realize it after losing it, but she was thinking about it now.

    By the time she knew, an irreversible bridge had already been crossed. Even in the midst of all this, she saw that her family members didn¡¯t even know what they¡¯d given away, and they didn¡¯t respond as she did. Moreover, seeing even the smart Emil react the same way, she realized once again that there was no turning back.

    At that time, a fierce voice rang loudly throughout the mansion.

    ¡°What the heck are you doing!¡±

    Indeed, he is her father, but she couldn¡¯t handle the breadth of Marquis Leroy¡¯s emotions. One day, his mood was higher than the stars in the sky; but the next moment, he¡¯s fallen to the depth of the abyss. At some point, she¡¯d started avoiding him.

    Today someone else was the object of his anger. Irene felt her heart sink, and took a peek to see who it was. She couldn¡¯t hide the surprise on her face for who it was.

    ¡°You¡¯re making a mess around the house with your ability!¡±

    ¡°Why are you taking it out on me? You said you liked it before!¡±

    As he shifted his gaze between the petals scattered under his feet, Marquis Leroy pointed his finger at Diana and shouted wildly. This was the first time for Emil and Xavier as well, and they were shocked by the sight.

    ¡°He never gets mad at our second sister.¡±

    ¡°I know, it¡¯s strange.¡±

    Xavier said this to Emil, who was looking at him suspiciously.

    ¡°Oh, by the way. I have something to discuss.¡±

    The words ¡®sister¡¯ and ¡®rumor¡¯ came to Irene¡¯s ears, although she couldn¡¯t hear it properly because they were whispering quietly.

    ***

    Finally, it was the day to announce the final sessful candidates for the Imperial Civil service. The expression on his face was harder than usual, as if he was nervous.

    Unable to watch, Elle patted Ian on the shoulder and said slyly

    ¡°You look like you¡¯re about to die.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because I cut firewood all day yesterday. Have you ever cut firewood before?¡±

    ¡°Have you pulled weeds all day? My back hurts too.¡±

    Elle was worried about pulling weeds by herself, so Leticia decided to help her, and she worked twice as hard as her. Enoch, who btedly saw this, freaked out and told her that she could stop picking weeds. Leticia looked like she¡¯d almost died and barely survived. In fact, Elle knew that Leticia was trying to pick weeds together so it would end quickly.

    At that moment, Leticia pped her hands together as if she suddenly remembered something.

    ¡°Right, there¡¯s something Lord Achilles said to me.¡±

    Before she could ask what she meant, Leticia continued to talk.

    ¡°He asked me to tell him when you guys argue.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Only then did Elle and Ian quietly shut up and go to the test site with Leticia to see the announcement of the sessful candidates.

    ¡°Hey.¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    ¡°Did you do well on your third exam?¡±

    Elle asked, not missing the moment when Leticia looked elsewhere. Ian was trying to scold her by saying, ¡°Isn¡¯t it toote to ask?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°What? You didn¡¯t see it?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing you don¡¯t know.¡±

    Elle tapped Ian on the shoulder, but he had nothing more to say. The current Imperial officials¡¯ reactions were lukewarm at best, and the atmosphere was neither good nor bad.

    ¡°The results will tell you.¡±

    It would be a pity if he failed, but he was confident that he would get better soon. Ian nced at Leticia¡¯s back, who was walking ahead of them. Suddenly, the day when the results of the first test were announced came to his mind.

    [I know you¡¯ve been working hard. Good job.]

    [Even if it¡¯s not this, there are many things you can do. So it¡¯s okay.]

    Leticia never asked why he didn¡¯t do better. She just said his options are much bigger and wider, so it¡¯s okay and that he did well. She acknowledged him as a person, saying that he¡¯d done well enough, even now.

    So it was okay if he failed. It would be hard, but he was confident that she would ept that he¡¯d done enough.

    It was definitely like that.

    ¡°Crazy! Ian, can you see that? That¡¯s your name!¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­¡±

    ¡°It says Ian Achilles.¡±

    Elle was one step ahead of Ian, and pointed with her finger saying ¡°look at that.¡± He couldn¡¯t believe it, so Ian nkly checked the list of sessful candidates.

    Nothing changed even if he blinked his eyes several times, he wondered if he was seeing it wrong. Even if he saw it once or ten times, the name ¡®Ian Achilles¡¯ was still there.

    His smile spread at the thought of his achievements, and that he could help his family in the future.

    But there was something else that made him even happier.

    Covering the corner of his uncontrobly rising mouth with his hand, Ian peeked to the side. A little further away, he found Emil checking the list of sessful applicants.

    Somehow he was shaking all over. It was easy to know what the results were without having to check the list.

    In the end, he couldn¡¯t hold it in and he began tough. Leticia was congratting Ian by patting him on the shoulder, and smiled gently.

    ¡°Do you like it that much?¡±

    She thinks he¡¯s happy because he passed.

    However, Ian did not think it was necessary to correct her.

    ¡°Yes, I love it.¡±

    He was more satisfied that a particr person failed, then that he¡¯d passed.

 Chapter 66 - When You Realize How Precious It Is After Throwing It Away

    <h4>Chapter 66 - When You Realize How Precious It Is After Throwing It Away</h4>

    Chapter 66. When You Realize How Precious It Is After Throwing It Away

    He had a strong feeling that something good would happen today. The dream of bing an Imperial civil servant, being envied and celebrated by other people. It was a reality that woulde true today, and it was more enjoyable than he¡¯d thought.

    After such a long time, Emil had woken up in a refreshed mood this morning. He had a light breakfast and went to see the final list of sessful candidates.

    However, the way people looked at him as soon as he arrived was strange. At first, he thought the coughs and nces from his academy colleagues were jealousy. He wasn¡¯t particrly offended because he had received these nces once or twice in the past. Rather, he thought it was all just ridiculous.

    And yet,

    ¡°What is this?¡±

    He couldn¡¯t see his name, which should be at the top. Slightly frowning, Emil looked down the list slowly. In the middle, he felt annoyed when he saw the name ¡®Ian Achilles¡¯, but he continued to look for his name while trying to appear calm.

    But his name was nowhere.

    ¡®How is it possible that they forgot my name?¡¯

    It was clear that his name was missing.

    It was so amazing that he couldn¡¯t help butugh. He couldn¡¯t believe that they¡¯d made such a ridiculous mistake.

    Emil put on his best face and went to the academy. He was about to talk to the professor who participated in thest interview.

    However, Professor Warner Russel looked at Emil like he couldn¡¯t understand what he was going on about.

    ¡°There¡¯s no problem with the list of sessful applicants.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t see my name on it.¡±

    Fail? Me?

    He couldn¡¯t evenugh at the unexpected answer. As soon as he tried to properly protest, Warner handed over the list of sessful candidates to him.

    ¡°Check it again then. If it¡¯s not there, it¡¯s not there.¡±

    Emil was ufortable with the professor¡¯s attitude, but he endured it and carefully went over the list that Warner handed him.

    But, why?

    ¡®Why is my name not here either?¡¯

    That¡¯s absurd. No, it couldn¡¯t have happened.

    The interview atmosphere was good and his results were the best. Why?

    It was clear that something was wrong. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been rejected.

    He crumbled the list of sessful applicants that had uneptable results. It was natural that Emil¡¯s impression was horribly distorted.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Emil Leroy.¡±

    ¡°Why was I rejected?¡±

    As he asked this, he could feel his indignation rising.

    No matter how much he thought about it, he couldn¡¯t understand. There was nothing wrong with his grades, the interviews, his personality test, or the evaluation given by the professors. Everything was perfect, but he still failed.

    When Emil clenched his teeth and asked, Warner said with a more determined look than ever.

    ¡°The Imperial civil servants are responsible for carrying out the business of the Empire on behalf of the people, and you are not qualified for that position.¡±

    Warner continued before Emil could even ask why he wasn¡¯t qualified.

    ¡°You¡¯re spreading false rumors about your family. How can I trust you enough to pass you?¡±

    Emil bit his lip to stop a sigh from escaping. He was apparently referring to the fact that he had spread a bad rumor about Leticia.

    He needed to find out why Warner thought he¡¯d done it, but that wasn¡¯t the main problem right now.

    ¡°I¡¯ve never done that.¡±

    Emil answered, while keeping a straight face. There was no evidence anywhere, so he could confidently deny it. For now, the first thing to do was to exin that it was a misunderstanding, and get his name ced on the list of sessful candidates.

    But Warner had no intention of doing so.

    ¡°Well¡­ That¡¯s what your family member said directly to me.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°They asked me if I thought you were qualified as an Imperial official even though you¡¯d done such a thing.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    After saying that, Warner turned around as if he had no intention of continuing this conversation anymore. Eventually, Emil had no choice, but to leave the office with a gaunt look.

    ¡®Who was it?¡¯

    Who said that?

    Unlike his pale face, his heart was boiling. He had the urge to find the instigator right now and tear them apart.

    He couldn¡¯t breathe and his head burned hot. Emil once again looked at the list of sessful candidates that was posted like this would be thest time.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    As expected, nothing changed.

    The moment he unconsciously clenched his fists, he felt a tant stare. As he looked behind him, he made eye contact with Ian. He was leaning on Leticia¡¯s shoulder and staring at him. The corners of his mouth rose up smoothly.

    Emil¡¯s hands began to shake, then Ian mouthed something to him. Ian frowned with displeasure, and tried mouthing it again.

    ¡®Fire, versus, day,?¡¯

    At that moment, he could clearly hear something disconnecting in his head. The sound of peopleughing at him kept lingering in his ears.

    He couldn¡¯t afford to stay calm anymore. Emil approached Leticia without hesitation, his expression twisting fiercely.

    ¡°I have something to say to you, so please give me a moment.¡±

    He barely calmed down enough to say this. By Emil¡¯s appearance, it seems that he¡¯d lost hisposure and had rushed over here.

    ¡°Do it here.¡±

    Elle, who was standing beside Leticia, wrapped her arm around Leticia¡¯s shoulder when she said this. Ian stood on the other side, perhaps thinking the same thing, he blocked Emil from approaching any closer.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯ll be right back.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Please wait here.¡±

    Leticia soothed Elle and Ian by gently stroking their heads. Emil, who was watching the scene, let out an annoyed sigh. He couldn¡¯t believe they were being affectionate like that when he was upset because he¡¯d failed for a ridiculous reason. He just hoped that this problem could be resolved quickly and there would be no more problems.

    Emil moved to a corner, once he¡¯d confirmed that there was no one around them, he said.

    ¡°Say I didn¡¯t do it right now.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Emil¡¯s voice got rougher at the sight of her confused expression.

    ¡°Do you think this is funny? If you¡¯re trying to provoke me, you should take responsibility!¡±

    He wanted to grab Leticia¡¯s shoulder right away, drag her to the professor¡¯s office and demand she exin to him. However, Emil wiped down his face with a desperate look, because he knew better than anyone else that nothing would change.

    He couldn¡¯t help, butugh at the way she stared at him in the midst of it all. He was about to sarcastically ask the root of her desire to take him down like this, and did she feel better after doing this?

    ¡°I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re acting like this. Don¡¯t grab people that aren¡¯t involved and talk to them like that.¡±

    ¡°Then who else would tell the professor that I spread such rumors?¡±

    Only then did Leticia vaguely realize what Emil was so angry about.

    Soon, an annoyed sighed escaped Leticia.

    ¡°How can I know that?¡±

    Leticia seemed somewhat annoyed, and she turned her head as she didn¡¯t want to get involved anymore. It was an attitude that said she didn¡¯t care to clear up the misunderstanding.

    ¡°Then, who on earth?¡±

    He didn¡¯t know if she¡¯d done it or not. Even though he had no idea, Leticia nced back. She seemed to want to go back to Elle and Ian.

    Emil¡¯s eyes were darkened by the future that wasing for him. When he thought of how the Marquis would reprimand him mercilessly for the news that he¡¯d failed, he couldn¡¯t breathe properly, as if I were immersed in water.

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    They will be so ashamed of him. They will not treat him like he¡¯s a human being. They will criticize him for failing to be an Imperial official because of something that hecked. It was a normal reaction, because he failed to meet their expectations.

    However, he was not confident he could endure their condescending gazes.

    ¡°Sister, sister, sister¡­¡±

    The anger that had been rising inside him disappeared before he knew it. Emil called out to Leticia as if he was barely hanging on. However, Leticia only looked at him with a nk expression. Knowing that, Emil still shamelessly leaned on Leticia¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°Just this once, just this once¡­¡±

    Please tell me it¡¯ll be okay.

    [I know you¡¯ve been working hard. Good job.]

    [Even if it¡¯s not this, there are many things you can do. So it¡¯s okay.]

    [You did a good job. Thank you for doing your best.]

    What Leticia said on the day Ian failed his first test came to mind. He remembered her touching his cheek affectionately to soothe his pain.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to be angry.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°So please¡­ Please say it¡¯s okay.¡±

    He desperately wanted to hear that right now. He needed to hear those words to soothe him.

    Emil grabbed Leticia¡¯s sleeve andid his head on her shoulder. He bit his lip tightly because he was afraid he¡¯d begin to sob.

    [I¡¯m proud of you.]

    He remembered the day the results of his first ever exam at the academy came out. He didn¡¯t know how to study, so his grades were disastrous. Naturally, Marquis and Marquess Leroy made a fuss and said they didn¡¯t want to see him.

    At that time, Leticia was the only one whoforted him.

    [I know you worked hard.]

    The touch that gently patted him, who saw him with a face that wanted to cry at any moment. Her gaze looked warmer than sunlight and her gentle voice was like a spring breeze.

    [You don¡¯t need to meet their expectations.]

    She always whispered to him like this.

    [You make your own value.]

    Whenever he copsed, Leticia was the only one who helped him get back up.

    Good job. Thank you. You¡¯re fine.

    That father, mother, and other family members wouldn¡¯t say it. He was so desperate for what only Leticia could say.

    But,

    ¡°Go to someone else andin.¡±

    His hand was coldly pushed away.

    Leticia shook Emil off of her shoulder with her hand, and faced him straight on with dispassionate blue eyes. This was the first time in his life that he¡¯d seen Leticia¡¯s eyes so cold, and Emil felt like the ground beneath his feet was copsing.

    However, Leticia¡¯s words were not over yet.

    ¡°If something bad happens, you me me. The only person to me for what is happening right now is you.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°And you still want me to say it¡¯ll be okay?¡±

    While talking, Leticia smiled and took a step closer to Emil.

    ¡°I guess you think it¡¯s unfair, but don¡¯t think like that.¡±

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    ¡°This is all what you diding back to you.¡±

    [Get ready to get back everything you¡¯ve done to me.]

    It was what Leticia had told him that one day. He never thought the words woulde back like this.

    Leticia stepped back as if she had finished what she had to say and turned away. He tried to quickly catch up to her, but before he knew it Elle and Ian blocked his way.

    ¡°Hey, since Ian passed, can we eat something delicious today?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m the one who passed. Why are you the one deciding how we celebrate?¡±

    The twins stood casually in the ce where he was supposed to be standing. Watching them leave, Emil couldn¡¯t say anything as Leticia smiled and looked at them affectionately.

    ***

    ¡°Brother, what happened? You passed, right?¡±

    Upon arriving at the Leroy mansion, he encountered Xavier, who had just returned from the training hall. As soon as he saw Emil, he smiled and asked about the results, but Emil didn¡¯t even look at him.

    ¡°I want to be alone, so get out of my way.¡±

    Emil was troubled about how to tell his family that he didn¡¯t pass. Right now, he just wanted to lie down in his room and cool off.

    As soon as he entered his room and wasying down in bed, he heard a knock. The door opened before he could tell them he was tired and toe back another time.

    ¡°Go back, Irene.¡±

    ¡°I have something to say.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m tired right now, so go back.¡±

    ¡°I have to say it now, or else you¡¯ll me our eldest sister.¡±

    Irene said this in a calm voice, while she slowly made her way to his bedside. Until then, Emil didn¡¯t understand what Irene was saying.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°I did it.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Irene was staring at Emil without saying a word for a moment, then she slowly began to speak again.

    ¡°The reason why you failed.¡±

    ¡°No way¡­¡±

    Emil had beenying on his bed and looking up at Irene when she said this. Emil quickly got up, he stared at her hoping that it wasn¡¯t true.

    ¡°I was the one who talked to the professor.¡±

 Chapter 67 - Itâ€™s Late, But Is It Too Late

    <h4>Chapter 67 - It¡¯s Late, But Is It Too Late</h4>

    Irene thought for a long time. When she decided to drop out of the academy of her own free will, she needed to think about what she could do and should do. She¡¯d never thought about it before, so she wanted to ask for help or advice, but no one would answer her.

    She realized it only then. Her life, and her goals, she needed to set them for herself. She needed to decide her own path, not anyone else.

    ¡°Leticia already knew this.¡±

    Irene was crouching down on her bed and hugged her knees harder. She was desperate to visit Leticia right away. However, she tried hard to hold back and sighed.

    Now she¡¯s decided, it¡¯ste, but it¡¯s not toote. What could be corrected, had to be corrected.

    ¡°There¡¯s no way you don¡¯t know that asking for favors is prohibited.¡±

    Irene visited Warner shortly before the announcement of the sessful candidates for the Imperial Civil service. As soon as Warner saw Irene, he frowned as if he didn¡¯t know who she was.

    ¡°I¡¯m not here to ask for a favor, but to snitch.¡±

    ¡°To snitch?¡±

    ¡°About my brother and sister.¡±

    A few days ago, she heard Emil and Xavier secretly talking at the Leroy mansion. She couldn¡¯t hear it properly, because they were speaking quietly, but it was clear that he was trying to spread bad rumors about Leticia.

    [If you¡¯re able to cut ties with someone who was once your family, would they really be able to understand the feelings of the people?]

    Even as she said this, Irene wondered if the rumors that had been spreading about Leticia might have been Emil¡¯s doing.

    At Irene¡¯s words, Warner stood still with a nk look on his face and then gestured for her to go home after saying he understood.

    Irene was returning to the Leroy¡¯s mansion. She felt somehow ufortable, but had no regrets about what she¡¯d done. She¡¯d already walked an irreversible long path, but she had to make it right even if it was toote.

    ¡°Why did you do that?¡±

    Emil, who¡¯d been immersed in thought for a while, grabbed Irene¡¯s shoulder violently.

    ¡°Are you doing this because I haven¡¯t been paying attention to youtely?¡±

    ¡°Brother.¡±

    ¡°How are you going to face Father after what you¡¯ve done to me?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Answer me, Irene Leroy.¡±

    Marquis Leroy was not going to let this go unanswered, since Irene was the main reason why Emil had been rejected. He didn¡¯t understand how on earth she did this without knowing how to handle the aftermath.

    However, Irene¡¯s words were very shocking.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to leave on my own before I¡¯m kicked out.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to stay at Uncle¡¯s mansion.¡±

    As soon as she¡¯d decided to drop out of the academy, the first thing she did was contact her uncle, the brother of Marquess Leroy. Unlike Marquis Leroy, who was strict and only cared about his reputation as a noble, her uncle was free-spirit without being bound by noble society. In addition, he was a person who cared for Irene and felt sorry for her.

    She had already exchanged letters and received permission, so she just had to go to her uncle¡¯s estate. Emil, who was unaware of the situation, smirked at her in amazement.

    ¡°What about the academy? It¡¯ll be a long distance tomute to school.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s none of your business.¡±

    ¡°Did you really drop out?¡±

    He¡¯d heard that Irene was dropping out, but Emil thought it was a false rumor. Irene, who he knew, was a young sibling who believed and followed Marquis Leroy¡¯s words like they were a divine revtion.

    Irene didn¡¯t answer him, she just stood there staring at him.

    Emil had his answer from her gaze, he raised his voice.

    ¡°Are you crazy? Are you out of your mind?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s going to emunicate me, isn¡¯t he?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°If I¡¯m going to be emunicated, then so be it.¡±

    She said this calmly, with a smile that was livelier than he¡¯d ever seen.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to live the way my father wants anymore. If I¡¯m not living the way my father wants, I don¡¯t want to be relentlessly abandoned.¡±

    In reality, she still hadn¡¯t found her path in life. At the very least she didn¡¯t intend to live like her family, who criticized and med each other.

    ¡°IRENE, you¡­¡±

    ¡°I am the worst for avoiding our sister because I thought she was bad luck, but brother is not without fault either. The father who kicked her out and the brother, who created false rumors about her, are both equally as awful.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°So brother, you¡¯d better get your act together.¡±

    Even if he can¡¯t pull himself together, there was nothing she could do.

    Irene shook her head as if she had no answer for Emil, who was staring at her nkly as she left the room.

    ***

    ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you, I can¡¯t believe my brother became an Imperial Civil servant!¡±

    As soon as he arrived at the Achilles mansion, Elle hugged Ian, and didn¡¯t let go. Ian frowned as if the clingy Elle was a burden, but he didn¡¯t push her away and just grumbled.

    ¡°It¡¯s disgusting, so get away from me.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because I¡¯m proud of you.¡±

    As long as Ian tried to avoid it, Elle stuck closer and bothered him.

    During this time Leticia was smiling gently because it was good to see themining, but with eyes full of affection for each other. Ian barely managed to remove Elle, and slowly approached Leticia. She wondered if there was something he wanted to say, but he just stood in front of her and looked at her. Leticia tilted her head and asked.

    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡±

    ¡°Compliments.¡±

    Did he forget that she¡¯dplimented him on all the hard work he¡¯d done?

    Leticiaughed at his cuteness and gently stroked Ian¡¯s hair. She didn¡¯t know how many times he¡¯d heard thatpliment just today. However, Ian had a slight smile on his face from receiving Leticia¡¯s touch.

    The next target was Enoch, who was standing next to Leticia. Enoch had already noticed Ian¡¯s intention, he ruffled Ian¡¯s hair roughly and congratted him.

    ¡°It must have been difficult, but you worked hard Ian.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, brother.¡±

    Ian¡¯s head dipped down slightly, as if he was embarrassed by the praise he¡¯d received from Enoch. It was so cute that Leticia secretlyughed. Seeing Ian want to be loved like that, even though he was so mature, it made him seem so young.

    At that time, Elle was looking at the three of them standing side-by-side when she quickly interrupted and said.

    ¡°I¡¯llpliment you too!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve done enough.¡±

    ¡°This is for you!¡±

    Once again, Leticia wondered if she should stop them from fighting with each other.

    ¡°Mydy, there¡¯s a letter for you.¡±

    ¡°For me?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    Leticia looked at Mary, who was holding the letter with an unusual expression. As soon as she saw who sent it, her expression stiffened. However, she immediately put on a calm face and asked Mary.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, can you put it on my desk?¡±

    ¡°Yes, mydy.¡±

    Mary returned to Leticia¡¯s room with the correspondence. Watching that, she felt a small weight on her shoulder. When she turned her head slightly, Enoch had ced his chin on her shoulder and asked curiously.

    ¡°Who is it from?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a secret.¡±

    ¡°Are you keeping a secret from me?¡±

    Leticia sighed at his disappointed tone. She reached out and touched Enoch¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell youter.¡±

    He smiled as he leaned into her touch, as if he couldn¡¯t get enough of it.

    Elle and Ian, who were looking at the two, slipped away when the two began to be affectionate. When Leticia btedly noticed, she pushed Enoch away, but the twins had already disappeared.

    ¡°Really, whenever you have the chance.¡±

    The biggest problem was that she was falling for Enoch, who liked to casually touch her.

    ¡°I like it. What should I do?¡±

    Unlike Leticia, who was embarrassed about showing her feelings honestly, Enoch didn¡¯t hide it like he used to. It was only recently that he realized that every time he did it, he would be able to enjoy her blushing face.

    ¡°You keep teasing me.¡±

    ¡°Once again.¡±

    Leticia lightly pressed her lips to Enoch¡¯s hateful, yet beautiful smile, and slowly took hisrge hand in hers.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I went outside for a walk.¡±

    Leticia turned around with a coy look, without letting go of Enoch¡¯s hand. She didn¡¯t even know that Enoch was looking at Leticia in an adorable way.

    Leticia didn¡¯t notice it because she always came to see it only during the day, but the feeling of the garden at night was also different. The atmosphere was quiet and peaceful, and it felt like walking on an emptyke.

    Looking around at the roses in full bloom, Leticia sat on the bench beside Enoch and muttered.

    ¡°Come to think of it, the party¡¯s tomorrow.¡±

    Leticia looked up at the night sky with her hands behind her back. She was nervous and excited about tomorrow. It was clear that after the party, the position of the Achilles family would change and their status would rise.

    ¡®I should be able to stand next to you confidently, too.¡¯

    She wanted to be a person who suited Enoch. In addition, she wanted to stand in a position where she could be proud of herself.

    At that time, she felt Enoch¡¯s gaze. As soon as their eyes met, Enoch spoke slowly.

    ¡°Is this too fast?¡±

    Leticia looked curiously at the ring box in Enoch¡¯s hand. The box contained a ring with blue jewels in them.

    ¡°You said marriage was too early, so I wanted to get engaged first.¡±

    Enoch¡¯s ring was obviously an engagement ring. The blue sapphires embedded in the ring were the same color as Leticia¡¯s eyes. It looked like he intentionally prepared it with blue sapphires.

    ck hair slightly blowing in the wind, and serenely sparkling eyes underneath it. She couldn¡¯t take her eyes off of him.

    His expression was calm, but his ears were red, and Leticia tried to notugh.

    Enoch decided that Leticia¡¯s silence was consent, so he picked up the ring and tried to ce it on her finger.

    ¡°No!¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°No, I mean¡­ I mean¡­¡±

    Enoch¡¯s expression instantly froze, as if he had heard it as a rejection, but Leticia wasn¡¯t trying to refuse him

    ¡°If we¡¯re going to get engaged, can¡¯t you do it in front of people?¡±

    At the moment that she said it, Leticia realized that her repressed desire to own and monopolize him had been revealed.

    She wanted to show to everyone that they thought of each other as lovers. She knew it was her own greed, but it grew so big that she couldn¡¯t hide it anymore.

    [I¡¯m sure there are aristocrats who are aiming for him.]

    [Brother is older, I¡¯m sure there will be talks of marriage.]

    A few days ago, she heard what Elle was vaguely saying. When she remembered her words, she couldn¡¯t stand the thought of others eyeing Enoch.

    Leticia looked at Enoch¡¯s face, worried about how he¡¯d taken what she¡¯d said.

    Soon, a pleasantugh reached her ears.

    ¡°I was not thinking clearly.¡±

    Enoch closed the ring box and gently moved a lock of Leticia¡¯s hair behind her ear.

    ¡°Let¡¯s show them tomorrow what kind of rtionship we¡¯re in.¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t stand the pleasant feeling as Enoch smiled down at her. In the moonlit garden, she wrapped her arms around his neck.

    For some reason, she felt overwhelmed because he was allowing her to be greedy.

    ***

    The next morning, on the day of the party, it was more hectic than expected.

    However, the letter Mary brought yesterday was on her mind, and Leticia checked the letter on her desk.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Sister, you need to change into your dress.¡±

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be right there.¡±

    At Elle¡¯s voice, Leticia quickly put down the letter and stepped away.

    ¡°It¡¯ste, but I¡¯m sorry I hurt you with my bad behaviour. Thank you for taking care of me and loving me.¡±

 Chapter 68 - Nothing Changes Now

    <h4>Chapter 68 - Nothing Changes Now</h4>

    The nobles who had received the invitation from the Achilles family wondered whether they should go or not until the day of the event. Even if Dukes Achilles was in a better situation, his family¡¯s status had long since declined, so what good would it do to go?

    However, the nobles who were invited heard news that Count Aster was also participating and they were forced to go to the Achilles Mansion.

    ¡°How did they prepare for a party without any servants?¡±

    ¡°I know, throwing a party is too extravagant under those circumstances.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid it¡¯ll make youugh.¡±

    ¡°I hope this isn¡¯t too painful.¡±

    Some nobles ignored the invitation, worried they¡¯d be aughingstock, but there were quite a few aristocrats who used the party to build a rtionship with the Achilles family.

    In the past, it was only a powerless ducal family, but now Enoch had be a member of the Imperial knights and Elle had a sessful business. In addition, news was spreading among the nobles that Ian had be an Imperial civil servant. Pink diamonds had also begun appearing, so they couldn¡¯t help but covet those as well.

    However, they didn¡¯t have high expectations for the party that the Achilles family had invited them too. They had heard rumors about how the Achilles family had been spending their time.

    Their expectations were quickly proven wrong.

    The party venue was truly perfect. With the dazzling jeweled chandeliers; the beautiful performances of the musicians, who were famous for being difficult to liaise with; the neatly lined food and the luxurious wine; the nobles couldn¡¯t hide their surprise. It seemed that he had returned as a duke in name and reality.

    ¡°I guess things are better.¡±

    ¡°I think it¡¯s safe to say their situation is good.¡±

    ¡°It could be their having a party because their debts have been paid down.¡±

    As she watched them, the some nobles coughed and made sarcasticments, unwilling to admit they were wrong. Other nobles, who hade to make a connection with Enoch, were too busy looking for him to take notice.

    Leticia was quietly watching the scene from a corner while she drank a cup of water. The nobles who talked behind their backs were annoying, but there was something else that bothered her.

    ¡®Will the two of youe too?¡¯

    Marquis Leroy and Levion El.

    When Enoch hesitated to invite them, Leticia sent the invitation herself. It was done because of her shameful desire to show them she was living a good life, and that she had no regrets.

    She was just unsure of what expression to wear when she faced them. She sighed deeply because it was going to be the second time she¡¯d see Marquis Leroy after being kicked out.

    Having barely escaped from the nobles that were surrounding her, Elle approached her. Soon after arriving, she stopped walking and just stared at Leticia nkly.

    ¡°Ha¡­ Isn¡¯t my sister so pretty?¡±

    She¡¯d already seen me wearing the dress at the shop, but she hadn¡¯t seen her after she¡¯dpletely dressed up. The light purple dress with silver embroidery made her white skin stand out even more. Every time she moved, the embroidery shined beautifully, and Elle almost turned red.

    ¡°I can¡¯t do this. I¡¯ll take my sister. You can live with me.¡±

    ¡°Elle, really¡­ We already live together.¡±

    She could feel the clear sincerity from the deadpanned praise, so Leticia smiled and tapped Elle¡¯s arm.

    ¡°Where is brother now? Are you alone?¡±

    ¡°I haven¡¯t met up with him yet.¡±

    ¡°Really? What are you doing over here then?¡±

    Elle held Leticia¡¯s hand for a moment when she frowned at the fact that the party¡¯s main person hadn¡¯t arrived yet.

    ¡°Your hands and arms look so empty.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we go back to your room and put on a ring or bracelet?¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°Oh, well¡­¡±

    Leticia, who¡¯d unintentionally raised her voice, touched her fingertips together with an awkward look.

    ¡°essories are so ufortable.¡±

    ¡°I thought it would look good on you. What a shame¡­¡±

    Fortunately, Elle nodded as if it couldn¡¯t be helped. Leticia was relieved by the sight and sighed secretly.

    ¡®I¡¯m going to wear my engagement ring today.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t wear any essories on purpose. She even put away the matching ring she has with Enoch.

    ¡®I want to hurry up and get the ring.¡¯

    In fact, she wanted to officially show herself as his fianc¨¦e to everyone.

    Wherever her greed popped out, Leticia realized how possessive she was. Luckily, Enoch seemed to like it, even though it embarrassed Leticia.

    As she was thinking how she wanted Enoch to arrive as soon, Elle sighed in annoyance.

    ¡°I think he¡¯s noting, so I¡¯ll go find him.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I understand.¡±

    When Leticia said she would wait here, Elle left the party, saying she¡¯d be back soon.

    Watching Elle leaving, she felt a presence nearby. When she looked back, she found Levion standing nearby with an unhappy look on his face.

    ¡°Please talk to me.¡±

    ¡°I have nothing to say.¡±

    Leticia tried to pass Levion without looking at him. However, he annoyingly blocked her path.

    ¡°Get out of my way.¡±

    ¡°Then should we talk here? It wouldn¡¯t be good for others to overhear.¡±

    Leticia sighed shallowly, as she felt the increased interest of the people around them. There was no one who didn¡¯t know about her broken engagement with Levion, but the gazes and whispering around her were still unpleasant.

    Leticia was forced to follow Levion to a balcony where there was no one around.

    ¡°¡¯Make it short and get it over with. I don¡¯t have time for this.¡±

    While talking, she couldn¡¯t look away from the party. Enoch should be arriving soon, and she didn¡¯t want there to be any misunderstanding because she was alone with Levion.

    Levion pulled on Leticia¡¯s arm and forced her to turn to him.

    ¡°Have you awakened?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Despite it being phrased as a question, he sounded confident. She was surprised for a moment, but Leticia looked up at Levion without saying a word.

    ¡°What answer do you want to hear from me?¡±

    ¡°Leticia?¡±

    ¡°Awakened or not, nothing will change.¡±

    ¡°No, the rtionship between you and I will change.¡±

    ¡°What does that mean?¡¯

    It had been a long time since their engagement had been broken off, so she couldn¡¯t tell what would change.

    She thought it wouldn¡¯t be anything good, so she was about to turn her head away.

    ¡°Since you¡¯ve awakened, Marquis Leroy will ept you back.¡±

    ¡°No way, I don¡¯t think so.¡±

    Levion seemed to think that everything could go back to its original state. As soon as she realized what he meant, Leticia¡¯s face immediately turned cold.

    ¡°So you want to be engaged again?¡±

    She couldn¡¯t believe that he wanted to be engaged, break it off, then be engaged again.

    At the sight of Levion speaking so casually about it, Leticia asked with a tired look.

    ¡°Are you out of your mind?¡±

    ¡°Are you going to get engaged to Duke Achilles?¡±

    The moment she was about to say that it wasn¡¯t any of his business, Levion was one step faster than her.

    ¡°Do you really think amoner is suitable for a duke?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    He could only say that because he didn¡¯t know that she¡¯d be the foster daughter of Count Aster.

    However, the words ¡®suitable¡¯ caused Leticia¡¯s hands trembled, and the water in her ss shook.

    ¡°That¡¯s not for you to judge.¡±

    ¡°Come to think of it, you don¡¯t even have a ring.¡±

    Levion¡¯s gaze suddenly looked to Leticia¡¯s hand. The corner of his mouth turned up when he saw that she wasn¡¯t wearing the ring he sawst time.

    ¡°You see? It seems the duke has lost interest in you¡­¡±

    Even before he finished talking, he felt a cold touch with a sshing sound on his face. He was wet from his face to his neck, Leticia had thrown her cup of water at him.

    Levion looked up with a look of disbelief on his face. Leticia stood in front of him with a radiant smile on her face, but her eyes were not smiling and shone coolly.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    ¡°I thought sshing you with cold water would wake you up, but it doesn¡¯t seem to have worked.¡±

    ¡°Is it so upsetting to hear that it didn¡¯t work out with the duke?¡±

    Levion smirked coldly at her. However, Leticia¡¯s subsequent words hardened his expression at once.

    ¡°So do you think you would suit me?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±

    Leticia took a step closer to Levion and ced her ss on the railing, while firmly saying.

    ¡°Not at all.¡±

    At one time, she thought the sincerity she showed to the people she loved was wrong. No one realized her feelings, so she thought she just needed to try harder to reach their hearts.

    However, she came to a realization when she met Enoch.

    Her true heart wasn¡¯t a mistake. The problem was that they took her sincerity for granted.

    ¡°Please figure out reality, because you always treated me like I¡¯m a waste of time for someone like you.¡±

    At one time, she felt sorry for him and wanted to give him nothing but love and care, but now she no longer felt that. She just felt annoyed and irritated.

    She couldn¡¯t believe that he wanted her to return to the Leroy mansion and be engaged again now that he knew she¡¯d awakened. As the news of his engagement to Diana had already spread, she couldn¡¯t understand what he was thinking.

    In addition, she felt frustrated by him asking her to return to a family that took her for granted.

    ¡°Don¡¯t interfere with my life, it¡¯s unpleasant.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve changed.¡±

    Levion said this and burst intoughter, as he shook out his wet hair. The tone of his words were nasty, and Leticia knew right away that he was being sarcastic.

    ¡°It was you who changed first, not me.¡±

    At a time when they were both struggling because of theirck of ability, Levion awakened first. Leticia sincerely congratted him, and hoped that Levion would show his ability to its fullest potential.

    As soon as he awakened, Levion began to change rapidly. He often ignored her, treated her as if she was pathetic, and would urge her to awaken faster. Nevertheless, Leticia understood that Levion was doing it for her.

    ¡°Look at you. You¡¯re acting like this because you think I¡¯ve awoken.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m tired.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s different about doing this now¡­¡±

    The anger that had been building up died down, and only mixed feelings remained.

    As she lowered her eyes with a tired look, Leticia slowly spoke.

    ¡°Did you know? I once wanted to be a person who suited you.¡±

    ¡°Leticia¡­¡±

    ¡°You took it for granted, but I also thought you were right.¡±

    Just because she hadn¡¯t awakened.

    For only one reason, she was abandoned by her family and abandoned by her fianc¨¦, who was closest to her.

    Come to think of it, it was really ridiculous, but Leticia thought everything had been her fault. She¡¯d spent days ming herself and suffering because she believed she was bad at everything.

    ¡°But Enoch let me know that it wasn¡¯t true.¡±

    It¡¯s not normal to be hurt. She¡¯s a person who deserved to be loved. He was a person who always whispered that she should love and cherish herself.

    ¡°I know better than anyone that I¡¯m not worthy of Enoch.¡±

    Leticia clenched her hand tightly because she felt suffocated. It¡¯s a fact that she knew even if she didn¡¯t say it, but when she heard it from a person who she hated the most, her heart sank.

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    When Levion tried to take a step closer to speak to her. Leticia immediately noticed, and stepped away to deny him.

    ¡°So I¡¯m going to work harder.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°To be a good fit.¡±

    It was a greed and desperation she¡¯d felt for the first time when she was with Enoch.

    It was significantly different from when she¡¯d tried to be next to Levion. It was a feeling that she wanted to be much more deeply intertwined than that.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take this opportunity to say this clearly.¡±

    While talking, she faced Levion with a look of annoyance.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to go back. To my family, or to your side.¡±

 Chapter 69 - When Misfortune Hits A Fun Party

    <h4>Chapter 69 - When Misfortune Hits A Fun Party</h4>

    Chapter 69. When Misfortune Hits A Fun Party

    ****

    https://ko-fi/s/8a8675a5b0

    ***

    ¡°What do you think about the news that Leticia became my foster daughter?¡±

    It was about time to enter the party. Count Aster was waiting for Enoch near the door when he made thatment. Enoch was being cautious because the purpose of the party was to demonstrate the Achilles family¡¯s position.

    He was worried for a while that Count Aster might be offended by what he said, and he felt rather distressed.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t think about it yet. It¡¯s better to announce it as soon as possible, and¡­¡±

    Enoch rubbed his neck, a little embarrassed to be saying it now, and confided the fact that he and Leticia had decided to be engaged.

    While they weren¡¯t blood rted, he felt badly that he¡¯d given the news sote to Count Aster about his foster daughter. However, the Count¡¯s face showed that he wasn¡¯t the least bit disappointed.

    ¡°Please continue to take good care of Leticia.¡±

    Enoch nodded lightly to thank him, and entered the party with Count Aster.

    As soon as he entered, he felt all eyes focus on him, but Enoch was too busy looking for Leticia to care. His heart began to beat faster thinking about officially announcing his rtionship with Leticia today. He was bing nervous, more nervous than during his knight examination, and felt like he was suffocating.

    How happy he¡¯d felt that day when he learned she shared the same possessiveness. His desire to monopolize, which he¡¯d been swallowing so far, had been unmasked.

    Without even realizing it, Enoch felt a pang of conscience when he thought of her pale face that he liked having all to himself. However, he still had no intention of letting her go.

    Enoch put a pleasant smile on his face, and went out to find Leticia. He looked around as he exchanged a quick hello with the nobles approaching him, but he didn¡¯t see anything strange.

    Feeling increasingly impatient, Enoch quickly moved on. By chance he checked to see if she was on the balcony, then he paused. He¡¯d found Leticia, who was turned away with a troubled expression, and Levion, who was talking about something in front of her.

    ***

    ¡°Are you sure you won¡¯t regret saying that?¡±

    Levion said this with a gracious smile.

    Her words, saying that she wouldn¡¯t return to her family or him, prated deep into his heart and struck a nerve.

    ¡°It¡¯s yourst chance, Leticia.¡±

    From Levion¡¯s point of view, the Achilles family wasn¡¯t anything special. It was only recently that you could say that good things were happening.

    Even so, there wasn¡¯t any benefit to Leticia. He couldn¡¯t understand why she kept trying to stay by their side.

    ¡°Rather, you should go back to your family.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You know I¡¯m not doing this to make you like me.¡±

    Levion lightly shook his wet hair as he said this. His voice had rxed even further, but Leticia¡¯s expression had grown colder.

    ¡°Do you realize what you¡¯re doing?¡±

    Leticia had her head bowed down this whole time. She slowly raised her head and looked straight at Levion.

    ¡°That you always tried to teach me as if looking down from above.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Then you would say ¡®I¡¯m doing this all for you.¡¯¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Everytime in this kind of manner, just like now.¡±

    Why does this person treat her like she doesn¡¯t know anything? Did she look that ridiculous to him?

    Leticia has mixed feelings, and a smile spreads across her lips.

    ¡°At first, I thought you really cared about me, but now I know you don¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not true.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t fool yourself.¡±

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    ¡°You were ashamed of me.¡±

    She thought Levion would know, even if she didn¡¯t say what he was ashamed of.

    As expected, he immediately realized, and closed his mouth. He shook his head for a while, then said.

    ¡°You know that it¡¯s not like that.¡±

    ¡°You were embarrassed to have me stand next to you as your fianc¨¦e, but you didn¡¯t want to break it off and look like a bad person.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She didn¡¯t say anything, but Leticia had known everything. She had quietly swallowed it, because she was afraid that the rtionship they had would copse.

    ¡°It¡¯s cowardly and childish.¡±

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    You¡¯re that kind of person.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that¡­¡±

    ¡°Look at you even now. Trying to get what you want, pretending to do it for me, and trying to appease me.¡±

    Leticia turned her head with an expression that she didn¡¯t want to talk more. She felt like she was losing her strength because of how ufortable she felt around him.

    I¡¯m tired, tired and annoyed.

    In the midst of Leticia suffering from herplicated and intertwined emotions, Levion persistently tried to talk to her.

    ¡°I just don¡¯t want you to regret it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Not knowing what to say anymore, Leticia bit her lip tightly. She felt disillusioned with the way he was still pretending to be doing this for her.

    ¡°There¡¯s only one thing I regret.¡±

    Before Levion could ask, Leticia said.

    ¡°That I didn¡¯t take care of myself.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    ¡°So I don¡¯t regret what you think. However¡­¡±

    It¡¯s such a waste that she¡¯d given her heart to him.

    Leticia turned around to say that this would be thest time. She didn¡¯t want to waste any more time dealing with Levion. She just wanted to meet with Enoch as soon as possible.

    ¡°Wait, Letty¡­¡±

    Levion quickly reached out, as Leticia seemed to be walking away without regret. Even before he could reach her, someone blocked his way.

    ¡°I¡¯ve held back my jealousy until now.¡±

    When he stepped out, Enoch coldly looked at Levion as he wrapped his arm around Leticia. The way he was protecting her from Levion made him sigh in frustration.

    ¡°Duke Achilles.¡±

    ¡°I hope you behaved yourself well, so that there¡¯s no misunderstanding.¡±

    The way he casually held Leticia¡¯s hand, it was obvious to anyone that she was special to him. He definitely thought their rtionship had be distant, because there was no ring on her finger. For some reason, Levion felt like his heart was sinking to the bottom of his chest.

    Despite his calm exterior, Levion had stiffened up in shock. Leticia pulled on Enoch¡¯s hand with a serene look.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

    The way she spoke, it was obvious she didn¡¯t want to be there anymore.

    As soon as Enoch arrived, her gaze never left him. She acted as if Enoch was the only person in the world, and Levion gradually lost strength in the hand that had reached out to her.

    When he¡¯d btedly tried to catch up to them, Leticia and Enoch were standing side by side in the center of the party venue. He had a bad feeling about this, and his heart began to beat uneasily.

    ¡°I¡¯d like to take this opportunity to share some good news.¡±

    Enoch, who received everyone¡¯s attention, slowly began to speak. When he raised Leticia¡¯s hand and carefully put a ring on her finger, everyone¡¯s breath caught. It was officially showing to everyone that they were engaged.

    ¡°I thought you had a party to show your social status as a noble.¡±

    ¡°No way. The rtionship between those two seemed unusual.¡±

    ¡°But they suit each other better than I thought.¡±

    ¡°Look at that stony man¡¯s smile.¡±

    ¡°Who knew he could make that face.¡±

    Some people were happy to see the lovely couple, while others questioned it.

    ¡°But didn¡¯t they say she was disgraced?¡±

    ¡°I know. She was the daughter of Marquis Leroy, but now she has no family name.¡±

    ¡°A duke and amoner, I don¡¯t think they¡¯re being realistic.¡±

    Leticia was originally the daughter of a noble family, but she was emunicated. What did they mean by a duke bing engaged to amoner?

    Everyone began to add to the gossip, and then Count Aster approached Leticia and Enoch with a soft look.

    ¡°Please take good care of my daughter from now on, Duke Achilles.¡±

    Those who¡¯d watched Count Aster walk up, and then say those words, could not hide their surprise. The same was true for Levion.

    However, there was something else that shocked Levion.

    The way Enoch looked at her, and the way Leticia looked back at him, her blue eyes filled with affection that anyone could see. His cheeks were hot with embarrassment, but he never avoided Enoch¡¯s gaze.

    Levion clenched his fists and stared at the two. Suddenly, he remembered when he¡¯d be engaged to Leticia.

    At the time, she was definitely smiling at him, but it was significantly different from the smile she had now.

    It was the first time he¡¯d seen her with such a happy face, and he couldn¡¯t stand to admit it.

    ¡®Why¡­¡¯

    She was definitely the same person, and yet she was so different.

    Even if the situation had changed, it was so different that it confused him. In the meantime, her loving gaze directed at Enoch made Levion grind his teeth.

    It was at that moment.

    ¡°Ahh!¡±

    ¡°This woman copsed!¡±

    A youngdy, who¡¯d been pping at the celebration just a moment ago, suddenly fainted. When a short scream broke out, everyone¡¯s eyes turned in the direction of the noise.

    ¡°Wow, isn¡¯t that youngdy Veronica?¡±

    ¡°Someone call a doctor!¡±

    ¡°Miss Veronica, please wake up.¡±

    A youngdy nearby suddenly copsed on the floor. Unsurprisingly, other youngdies lost theirposure and began to panic. The party venue became chaotic and noisy.

    Fortunately, Count Aster quickly brought help and they were able to check the condition of the youngdy who¡¯d crumbled. The doctor sighed deeply, and only said that he couldn¡¯t find the reason for her fainting.

    Eventually, they put the youngdy who¡¯d copsed, and the other panicked young women, into their carriages and sent them back to their respective homes. The nobles that were left seemed anxious and eventually excused themselves as well.

    In the end, the party had no choice but to end on such a dubious note.

    ***

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on all of a sudden.¡±

    The next afternoon, Elle muttered with a downcast face. What had happened at the party yesterday was still bothering her.

    Leticia, who couldn¡¯t sleep for the same reason, asked carefully.

    ¡°I know, what about the youngdy who fainted?¡±

    She started to feel anxious that the food that was prepared had gone off.

    Sitting facing Leticia, Elle sighed with a confused look.

    ¡°She¡¯s okay now, but they don¡¯t know why she copsed. Everyone said she suddenly had a headache.¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m d it wasn¡¯t a big deal.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right. You don¡¯t know how surprised I was yesterday.¡±

    Just as Leticia and Elle were letting out a sigh of relief, Ian quickly entered the drawing room. They were about to greet him, but the stiff expression on his face gave them an ominous feeling.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±

    Elle asked Ian, hoping her hunch was wrong.

    However, Ian handed over the letter he was holding instead of answering her. Elle began to look through the contents anxious, then gave a short sigh.

    ¡°What? What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Leticia asked nervously as she watched her. Ian replied with a conflicted sigh.

    ¡°Some of the nobles who came to the party yesterday are suffering from a high fever now.¡±

    ¡°What? Why?¡±

    ¡°They say they don¡¯t know the cause, but they¡¯re iming they¡¯ve been sick since they went to our party.¡±

    There wasn¡¯t one letter, but several. They quickly understood that all of the ims were the same without reading them.

    ¡°Are they saying it¡¯s our fault?¡±

    Elle looked at the senders one by one and frowned. Unfortunately, all of them were aristocrats that had been invited to the party yesterday.

    ¡°They didn¡¯t say it directly, but in the end that¡¯s what they¡¯re implying.¡±

    ¡°Is there something wrong with the food? If there was a problem with the food, shouldn¡¯t we be sick as well?¡±

    Elle, who was feeling frustrated and couldn¡¯t understand, asked Ian.

    ¡°Where¡¯s big brother?¡±

    ¡°He went to find out what¡¯s going on as soon as he heard the news.¡±

    The three of us sat there in silence, sighing heavily. It wasn¡¯t enough that they had ruined a party that they had barely prepared for, they were also worried that it might lead to more people getting sick.

    ¡°What the heck is going on?¡±

    Leticia swallowed the sigh that was threatening to escape and touched her ring.

    For some reason, she felt like they¡¯d been caught up in something terrible.

 Chapter 70 - When Misfortunes Points To Me

    <h4>Chapter 70 - When Misfortunes Points To Me</h4>

    Chapter 70. When Misfortunes Points To Me

    ***

    https://ko-fi/s/8a8675a5b0

    ***

    The Rose Velvet ore flourished day after day among the nobles, allowing Marquis Leroy to return to the mansion only today.

    After entering the office, he frowned for a moment at the letter beautifully ced on his desk. Judging from the seal, it was clear that it was from the Achilles family.

    After generously looking at the letter, Marquis Leroy threw it on the floor. He was displeased that a duke in name only had the audacity to invite him.

    Who would go to such a shabby party, why were they even sending out invitations?

    He was about to click his tongue when he heard a knock on his door. Emil opened the door and approached him.

    ¡°It¡¯s good that you arrived, I was about to call you.¡±

    Marquis Leroy greeted Emil with a friendly smile. He thought he¡¯d shown up to tell him that he¡¯d passed his exam.

    However, Emil¡¯s expression was unusual. Marquis Leroy had a bad feeling about something, because he didn¡¯t answer readily.

    He thought he was about to say that he¡¯d had a hard time passing the exam.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, father.¡±

    Emil said something different than expected.

    The Marquis looked at him firmly, thinking that he¡¯d misheard. However, Emil just dropped his head in shame.

    ¡®No way¡­¡¯

    He could feel his hands and feet freezing, and his lips were stiffening.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to be sorry about. You would have done as well as you usually do.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Unbelievably, Marquis Leroy denied it, and turned a blind eye to the truth. Emil¡¯s continued silence returned him to reality.

    ¡®What the heck.¡¯

    He thought only good things would happen if he kicked out that useless first child. It was rather upsetting to see the bad things kepting at him, as if they wereying in wait.

    Didn¡¯t the youngest tarnish his reputation by cheating; the fourth lost to a random woman off the street, cing second in a Swordsmanship tournament; and the second was all over the ce, without being able to do anything.

    Marquis Leroy had the highest expectations for his third child, the most skilled of them all. He felt a sense of betrayal at the news.

    ¡°Were youcking in something and that¡¯s why you failed the exam?¡±

    No matter how much he thought about it, he couldn¡¯t understand. It was hard to believe that he¡¯d failed the Imperial Civil Service exam, even though he¡¯d never missed cing first in his academy sses. It was also painful to hear that he failed the final, most important test.

    Emil sighed with an awkward look on his face.

    ¡°Father, that¡¯s not the problem right now.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s more important than this?¡±

    Marquis Leroy raised his voice at the sight of Emil, who showed no sign of reflection.

    However, his following words shocked him greatly.

    ¡°Irene left the house.¡±

    ¡°What? Who¡¯s leaving the house?¡±

    While listening, he couldn¡¯t believe it, and Marquis Leroy stammered without realizing it. When he epted the words as truth, Emil nodded silently.

    ¡°Why did she leave the house?¡±

    The Marquis tensed up at Emil¡¯s news that his quiet and calm youngest daughter had left the house.

    ¡°She left the academy and went somewhere?¡±

    ¡°It seems like she dropped out of the academy too.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    He couldn¡¯t believe that she¡¯d dropped out and ran away from home.

    Marquis Leroy copsed into a chair with a blue face. His mind had emptied from this uneptable reality.

    ¡°The child¡­ Where did she go¡­?¡±

    Irene, who only knew this house or the academy. His youngest daughter, who listened better than anyone else, had left the house.

    There was no time to be sitting nkly in shock. Just then, his wife walked into the room. As soon as he made eye contact with Marquess Leroy, he jumped up from his seat and raised his voice.

    ¡°Wife, what were you doing?!¡±

    He didn¡¯t understand why this happened while he was away. He was angry that the house became like this just because he wasn¡¯t there.

    ¡°What were you doing when Irene left the house?¡±

    ¡°Are you ming me?¡±

    Marquess Leroy yelled at him without backing down to the Marquis¡¯ anger. Emil was about to stop the two because it was likely to turn into a bigger fight.

    ¡°Father, mother, my uncle is here.¡±

    Xavier said this as he entered the room, and looked at the three people with a strange expression.

    The Marquis and Marquess, who were staring at each other fiercely, were forced to go walk to the drawing room. Someone was already sitting there, leisurely sipping tea.

    It was Marquess Leroy¡¯s older brother, Count Keron Mitchell, who was the uncle to the children of the Leroy family.

    ¡°What brought you here?¡±

    Unlike Marquess Leroy, who was happy to see his face after such a long time, Keron¡¯s expression wasn¡¯t very good.

    ¡°I thought it was best for us to talk face to face.¡±

    Keron lightly greeted the Marquis and his wife, then brought up the main topic that brought him there that day.

    ¡°I have Irene, so you don¡¯t have to worry too much.¡±

    ¡°What? Irene¡­ Why¡­?¡±

    Marquis Leroy murmured with a nk look at Keron¡¯s words. There was no way they would have guessed that she went all the way to the Mitchell¡¯s territory.

    Marquis Leroy let out an annoyed sigh and said.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go pick her up.¡±

    He was d to know where Irene had gone, but he was disappointed that she had run away from home. It¡¯s a good idea to use this opportunity to scold her firmly. Keron, who was watching the Marquis closely, shook his head resolutely.

    ¡°No, count. I think it¡¯s better if I keep her.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Irene wants to have time away from her family, so please understand.¡±

    His words froze everyone in ce.

    Irene was a child who was extremely anxious being away from her family. They still couldn¡¯t believe that the youngest child had run away from home just because she¡¯d dropped out.

    Looking at the Leroy couple, who couldn¡¯t shake off their shock, Keron said he¡¯d take care of Irene and to not worry as he left the mansion.

    Eventually, Marquis Leroy was forced to return to his office, he cursed as he closed the door in annoyance.

    ¡°D*mn it!¡±

    He didn¡¯t know what the hell this was all about. When he¡¯d returned, he had nned to take a closer look at how the children were spending their time, but everything was a mess now.

    No sooner had he sat down in his chair while cursing loudly, than he heard a knock on his office door.

    ¡°Cometer!¡±

    ¡°That¡­ that¡­ that¡­ It¡¯s urgent, so you¡¯d better check it out now.¡±

    When he allowed him toe in with a surprised voice, the butler entered the room and handed over the letters.

    Marquis Leroy, who¡¯d stood up when the butler knocked, sat down again and nervously received the letters from the butler. One was from his mine¡¯s manager, and the other was from an unknown sender.

    ¡®This must mean the ore keepsing out, whether we look for it or not.¡¯

    He wondered if he¡¯d need to write a reply to the letters, then frowned as he read them.? The contents of the letter werepletely different from what the Marquis of Leroy had expected.

    ¡®The miners suddenly copsed?¡¯

    If they¡¯re being paid properly, they should work properly. It¡¯s appalling that they were copsing.

    ¡°There¡¯s no one useful!¡±

    He was thinking that he¡¯d need to rece the miners with new ones.

    Annoyed, he pushed the letter to the side and looked at the other letter. He hoped it was good news this time. The moment he unfolded the letter, his expression hardened for another reason.

    ¡°Oh, why¡­.¡±

    It said that the child of the Erebos family, who he thought was dead, had appeared at the Swordsmanship tournament.

    ***

    It was evening, Enoch should have already returned, but still hadn¡¯t arrived. Sitting in the drawing room, Leticia kept waiting with an anxious look. Elle and Ian, who were sitting next to each other, took turns soothing Leticia.

    ¡°Sister, everything will be fine.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, sister. Don¡¯t worry too much.¡±

    Even as it darkened into night, Enoch didn¡¯t arrive. She felt bad for the twins, who were nodding in their seats, so Leticia pushed them to go to bed.

    She pretended to go to bed as well, then returned to the drawing room to wait for Enoch.

    How long has it been? As the sun began to rise and lighten the sky, a tired looking Enoch returned.

    ¡°Did you wait until I returned?¡±

    ¡°I just came out to grab a ss of water.¡±

    She imed that she didn¡¯t wait long, but Enoch realized really quickly that she¡¯d been waiting a long time.

    ¡°You should have gone to rest in your room. When did you think I¡¯d arrive?¡±

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t waiting for you.¡±

    While being tired, Leticia felt choked up by the gentle kindness he showed when he stroked her hair.

    ¡°Did your work go well?¡±

    ¡°I think it¡¯ll be hard to escape responsibility, since it happened at our party. But you don¡¯t have to worry, because it¡¯ll be resolved quickly.¡±

    Enoch said it would be okay, but Leticia knew that it wasn¡¯t something that could easily be overlooked.

    ¡°You look very tired.¡±

    Perhaps because of all the problems he¡¯d been dealing with, his eyes, which are normally full of energy, were as cloudy as a foggy night. Seeing how pale his face had be in a day, Leticia cupped both of Enoch¡¯s cheeks.

    ¡°It¡¯s nice seeing you like this.¡±

    Despite his exhaustion, Enoch¡¯s smile rose smoothly as he pressed his lips to Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°But next time, don¡¯t wait up so long. Go to your room and rest.¡±

    ¡°Okay. Get some rest too, Enoch.¡±

    She still had more to ask, but Leticia went back to her room like Enoch.

    It was not until she saw Enoch enter the mansion that she felt a little relieved, but she couldn¡¯t sleep even while lying in bed.

    ***

    It was concluded that the sudden copse of the youngdies at the party was not due to the Achilles family. However, because it happened at a party hosted by the Duke of Achilles, everyone was reluctant to be around them. The fact that this all happened at their party caused them to lose reputation and avoid them.

    ¡®Rumors are spreading as well.¡¯

    Leticia went to the square to cool her head. She sighed with a conflicted look.

    She thought the rumors would calm down swiftly, but contrary to her expectations it showed no sign of slowing down. Rather, there were conspiracy theories that it was a scheme to harm certain nobles.

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    She couldn¡¯t stop sighing when she thought of Enoch, who continued to be troubled by this incident even though it was supposed to be resolved. News spread among themoners, and the good reputation they¡¯d built up had begun to copse again.

    ¡®What should I do?¡¯

    She sat at the fountain for a long time, and kept thinking about it over and over again. She became more and more depressed because she couldn¡¯t think of a way to help.

    The moment she looked down at her toes, a shadow fell over her head. As she slowly raised her head, she made eye contact with Diana, who was looking down at her with her arms folded.

    ¡°You¡¯ve be more brazen after worming your way into that family.¡±

    ¡°Diana.¡±

    ¡°If it were me, I wouldn¡¯t be able to show my face.¡±

    Leticia stared coldly, as Diana¡¯s sharp tone was getting on her nerves more than usual today.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have the energy to deal with you right now, so go back while I¡¯m still asking nicely.¡±

    ¡°It seems like you haven¡¯t heard yet.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You really didn¡¯t hear?¡±

    Even before she could ask what she meant, Diana shed a malicious smile.

    ¡°They¡¯re saying everyone got sick from the wishing bracelets that unlucky Achilles girl made.¡±

 Chapter 71 - The Reality Of The Misfortune

    <h4>Chapter 71 - The Reality Of The Misfortune</h4>

    Chapter 71. The Reality Of The Misfortune

    ¡°You¡¯re saying something that makes no sense. Other people would have fainted too.¡±

    Leticia said this with a calm expression, after getting over her bewilderment.

    The wishing bracelets were a popr essory, not only for aristocrats butmoners as well. If they were really the problem, then ordinary citizens would have been fainting too, but she hadn¡¯t heard such news yet.

    Leticia looked at her as if she was going to say more, but Diana only shrugged her shoulders.

    ¡°It¡¯ll be revealed soon, because I don¡¯t go anywhere unlucky.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s hands trembled when Diana med her for still being unlucky. Despite the re she received, Diana smiled and said cheekily.

    ¡°Yeah, take care of your image.¡±

    Leticia smiled wryly at her spiteful advice.

    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you take care of your fianc¨¦?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you know that your would-be fianc¨¦ is bothering me?¡±

    Knowing that it was a disgraceful act, Leticia mentioned Levion, something that Diana was really sensitive about. They were still words filled with sincerity.

    ¡°It¡¯s quite troubling, so either manage it properly or get engaged quickly.¡±

    Leticia said this while sighing ufortably.

    Thest party made the nobles aware of the engagement between Leticia and Enoch, but there were still some who had questions about the rtionship between Levion and her.

    She frowned a little because she was displeased just by thinking about it, Diana pressed her lips together and red at Leticia.

    ¡°Don¡¯t make the mistake of thinking I care about you, I just said that because I¡¯mpassionate.¡±

    ¡°You say the strangest things.¡±

    Did an affectionate person ignore people like that and act like they¡¯re pathetic?

    ¡°You should get engaged already, I don¡¯t want my fianc¨¦ to misunderstand.¡±

    ¡°No way, are you really engaged to that unlucky duke?¡±

    As she said this in disbelief, Diana stepped back with a contemtive face. It was as if she was worried that misfortune would spread if she was too close to Leticia.

    Leticia responded indifferently, she was so used to it that it didn¡¯t even make her feel bad anymore.

    ¡°Take good care of your fianc¨¦ before rumors spread that he has lingering feelings for me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m speechless. You don¡¯t really think he still has feelings for you, do you?¡±

    Diana raised her chin and looked down at Leticia like she was insignificant, while her face distorted severely. It was the most disgusted expression she¡¯d ever seen on her.

    Leticia, however, smiled softly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you know that he¡¯s still seeking me out, even though we¡¯ve broken off our engagement?¡±

    Leticia knew better than anyone else that there were no lingering feelings. To Levion, she was nothing more than a toy that he¡¯d discarded and was now trying to retrieve.

    ¡°I¡¯m just saying this out of sadness.¡±

    Leticia said this while taking a step closer to Diana, who was staring at her fiercely.

    ¡°What do you know how to do?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    It wasn¡¯t a tone of criticism, it sounded like sincere curiosity.

    ¡°How long will the good things that happened thanks to youst? What will you do after the good will fades?¡±

    ¡°That can¡¯t be true.¡±

    ¡°What will you do if something good doesn¡¯t happen?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Diana¡¯s face turned pale and she tensed up at the unexpected words. Seeing that, Leticia could not hide her pitying expression.

    Her younger siblings all had different personalities and appearances. Everyone knew that family was a family, but they didn¡¯t. Even though Leticia knew where she stood, they didn¡¯t even consider what responsibility their actions would entail.

    Diana was no exception.

    ¡°If I was kicked out, shouldn¡¯t something better be happening?¡±

    It had been a long time since she was emunicated, so she didn¡¯t know the exact atmosphere in the mansion. However, it was easy to see that it became more abnormal after she left.

    She now knew that the family¡¯s situation had improved due to her ability, not Diana¡¯s. She didn¡¯t want to brag about it, she just wanted her to know the reality of her situation.

    ¡°Wake up, Diana.¡±

    Leticia said this to Diana with a worried look.

    ¡°From the looks of it, it¡¯s your turn to be kicked out.¡±

    ***

    Leaving Diana, who was shocked and unable to say anything, Leticia went to the Aster mansion. Count Aster greeted Leticia with a friendly smile, even though he might have been inconvenienced by her sudden visit. With what had happened recently, his expression looked a little dark.

    Leticia lightly greeted him, and asked Count Aster.

    ¡°How are things going?¡±

    Even if she asked Enoch, he wouldn¡¯t give her a clear answer. She was more worried because he kept saying that it was okay and to not worry.

    When Leticia looked at him anxiously for answers, Count Aster sighed and began to speak.

    ¡°I¡¯m fixing it, but I don¡¯t think it¡¯ll calm down anytime soon.¡±

    The problem, which at first was thought to be a fluke ident, suddenly emerged as a fatal rumor against the Achilles family. It waster discovered that all the nobles that had copsed owned wishing bracelets.

    It was difficult to escape people¡¯s doubts because it happened at a party at the Achilles mansion.

    ¡°What do you think, Count?¡±

    ¡°Of course it¡¯s nonsense! If it was the wishing bracelets, then my wife would still be lying in bed.¡±

    ¡°Count¡­¡±

    ¡°As you know, my wife¡¯s body is weak.¡±

    To be exact, the rumors circting were iming it was because of the pink diamonds on the wishing bracelets.

    ¡°If it was really because of pink diamonds, the problem would have been discovered years ago.¡±

    It was something you would quickly realize if you used your brain a little bit. Unexpectedly, people began to believe the nonsense was real. As a result, the demand for the wishing bracelets had decreased significantly.

    ¡®Elle is going to be upset.¡±

    Leticia was already feeling heartbroken, because she could clearly see that it would trouble her.

    She bowed her head with a pained look, Count Aster carefully said.

    ¡°Stay close by and look after him well. The drought these days will make it harder for the duke.¡±

    ¡°Drought?¡±

    Leticia opened her eyes wide at his unexpected remark.

    It didn¡¯t rain exceptionally well this year, so thend was dry. The drought seemed to have urred nationwide.

    ¡®Is that why he came home to the mansion sote?¡¯

    Leticia¡¯s heart ached as she remembered his face, he looked particrly tired and down.

    ¡®Is there anything I can do for him?¡¯

    She was worried about Enoch because of the bad things that kept happening after the nobles had fallen ill at thest party.

    ¡°Thank you for your concern, Count.¡±

    She barely managed to smile and say this, while her heart continued to sink.

    ***

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    As soon as she left the Aster mansion, Leticia let out the sigh she¡¯d been holding in.

    At the party, where she had hoped to create one of her happiest memories, she was hit by something unexpectedly bitter andplicated.

    Leticia bit her lip and touched the ring she shared with Enoch. It made her feel even worse to think that Enoch, of all people, was in trouble at this moment.

    ¡®First, I need to go back to the Achilles¡¯ mansion.¡¯

    She decided it would be best to return quickly.

    Leticia¡¯s body wobbled as she suddenly bumped into a passerby hurrying the other way. Fortunately, the person she bumped into caught Leticia quickly as she was about to fall.

    ¡°Thank y¡­¡±

    ¡°Shh!¡±

    Even before she finished thanking the person, a hand was roughly ced over her mouth. She was surprised and her eyes widened, but she was doubly surprised by the face of the person who was covering her mouth.

    ¡®Keena¡­?¡¯

    However, Keena put her index finger on her lips and made a gesture to be quiet. Something was out of the ordinary. Leticia immediately understood and nodded calmly, Keena smiled in satisfaction.

    At that moment, she felt the presence of someone nearby. Because they were hidden in a secluded alley, the men in ck cloaks could not find them and hurried past.

    Once they were out of sight, Leticia pushed Keena¡¯s hand away from her mouth.

    ¡°What was that just now?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I think you¡¯re being chased by someone.¡±

    She made sure no one was around when she asked this. Keena just shrugged her shoulders and didn¡¯t answer.

    ¡°Do I look like someone who¡¯s being chased?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    The heavy silence that fellsted for a while, and Keena turned around with a shameless look.

    ¡°Come to think of it, you don¡¯t look good. Is it because of me?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, so don¡¯t worry.¡±

    When Leticia witnessed with her own eyes that Keena was being chased, she knew there was nothing good about getting tangled up with her. Seeing her pretending to be innocent made it abundantly clear that she didn¡¯t need any help.

    Leticia tried to leave in a hurry, but Keena was being uselessly persistent.

    ¡°Is it because of the rumor that¡¯s going around these days?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t ask if you already know.¡±

    She had a personality that would never get better.

    Leticia didn¡¯t want to deal with her anymore, so she turned her head with a huff and began to walk away. Even though she knew this, Keena calmly walked side by side with Leticia.

    She ignored her and stared straight ahead, when it seemed obvious that Keena nned to follow her, Leticia coldly said.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need me anymore. You¡¯re on your way now, right?¡±

    ¡°I was going to help you, but you¡¯re being mean.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t need your help.¡±

    Leticia turned around again, she didn¡¯t want to get involved with her needlessly.

    ¡°I know why the nobles copsed at the party.¡±

    At that, Leticia stopped in ce without realizing it.

    ¡°What¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s all because of your father.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    She didn¡¯t understand why she was bringing up Marquis Leroy.

    Leticia quietly blinked without a word, when Keena began slowly speaking again.

    ¡°This is a secret.¡±

    Even though she knew there was no one around them, she lowered her voice to the point where only Leticia could hear her.

    ¡°Some miners have copsed at the Rose Velvet mine.¡±

    Leticia frowned, it was hard to believe and asked her to rify.

    ¡°How do you know that?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m interested in your family.¡±

    ¡°Does that mean it¡¯s rted to what¡¯s happening now?¡±

    ¡°Maybe not, but we should be suspicious.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°The symptoms are simr. They suddenly fainted and suffered from a high fever.¡±

    The difference was that the miners were still bedridden, but the nobles who copsed at the party were okay.

    ¡°Why are you telling me this?¡±

    It would be a lie if she said she didn¡¯t feel grateful, but it was hard to believe in her after all of the things she¡¯d done.

    Keena had a pained expression at the doubtful look on Leticia¡¯s face.

    ¡°Well.¡±

    ¡°Is it because you want to be rewarded again?

    ¡°Just because.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°It bothers me.¡±

    There was no other answer forting other than.

    Keena smiled casually as Leticia stared at her with a dumbfounded expression.

    ¡°Let¡¯s just say that I¡¯m helping out because I¡¯m sorry for taking the bookst time.¡±

    After that, Keena left as if she had nothing more to say.

    Leticia was left alone, and stared nkly as she walked away. She reflected on what Keena had told her.

    ¡®Rose Velvet mine¡­¡¯

    Marquis Leroy had one of the most thriving businesses. She¡¯d never heard of miners copsing at his mine.

    ¡®I don¡¯t think she¡¯s just saying this.¡¯

    It would be best to discover if what she said was true first.

 Chapter 72 - Weâ€™re A Married Couple!

    <h4>Chapter 72 - We¡¯re A Married Couple!</h4>

    Chapter 72. We¡¯re A Married Couple!

    ***

    The next day, as soon as Marquis Leroy checked his mail, he threw it away violently. Not only were the miners even more distracted, but they were also nervous; about their copsing co-workers, and also about the back pay they were owed.

    Still, he had quite a lot of money he¡¯d earned from the Velvet Rose, so he could repay it right away. There was a separate problem bothering him.

    ¡°The woman who you faced off against in the finals for the Swordsmanship tournament. Have you ever met her before?¡±

    Marquis Leroy had seemed more unusualtely, so being called upon so suddenly made Xavier¡¯s mouth dry.

    ¡°We¡¯ve met several times by chance.¡±

    ¡°What did she look like?¡±

    ¡°It was a blonde woman with bright red eyes.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure it was a woman?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sure.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    That¡¯s why he couldn¡¯t find her.

    Marquis Leroy clenched his teeth and drew in a ragged breath. It was a big mistake to assume it was a man, just because a child from that destroyed family was still alive.

    The Marquis wiped his face in irritation and spoke in a low voice.

    ¡°Do you know anything else? Anything is fine.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­¡±

    Xavier was searching his memory with a troubled expression, then he eximed as something came to mind.

    ¡°She looked like she was close with my eldest sister.¡±

    ¡°Leticia¡­?¡±

    Marquis Leroy frowned slightly at this unexpected news. It was hard to believe that the two were rted.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    ¡°Yes, she talked with my eldest sister every time.¡±

    He added that the two of them didn¡¯t seem to simply know each other either.

    Marquis Leroy was quietly listening to the story, nodded lightly, then motioned that he could leave. As soon as Xavier left the office, he sat down.

    ¡°They looked exceptionally friendly¡­¡±

    There was no way to know why the two had be closer. However, thanks to that, he was relieved to find a way to escape the cliff¡¯s edge and breathe again.

    As expected, God hadn¡¯t abandoned him yet.

    ***

    ¡°Is that true?¡±

    Upon arriving at the Achilles Mansion, Leticia told Elle what Keena had said.

    The nobles who suddenly copsed at the party and the fact that the miners suddenly fainted at the Rose Velvet mine. It was difficult to say whether it was a simple coincidence because both parties suffered from a high fever as well.

    ¡°No matter how much I think about it, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s a coincidence.¡±

    Come to think of it, Keena had never lied to her, she just had a lot to hide. It was just that there was always something she couldn¡¯t exin.

    ¡°I¡¯ll look into it.¡±

    ¡°You will, Elle?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s because I want to find out.¡±

    Unlike her easy smile, Elle was gritting her teeth fiercely as she said this. Apparently, she¡¯d heard about the rumors ming the fainting on the wishing bracelets.

    ¡°What are you nning to do if it¡¯s true?¡±

    Ian had been quietly listening to Leticia and Elle¡¯s conversation and asked.

    Leticia, who had not thought that far ahead, closed her mouth. Then she eventually replied with a calm expression.

    ¡°We have to reveal the truth.¡±

    ¡°Will that be okay?¡±

    Ian was worried because they¡¯d once been family. Leticia smiled gently, showing that it was okay.

    ¡°My family is here.¡±

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    Elle was touched by her words, and hugged Leticia around her shoulders. Her twinkling eyes showed how moved she was.

    It was then that they heard the sound of someone outside. The three of them, who were sitting side by side in the drawing room, jumped up from their seats.

    As soon as Enoch entered the room, Elle approached him as if she¡¯d been waiting.

    ¡°Why were you sote yesterday? I was waiting for a long time.¡±

    ¡°Everything is fine.¡±

    Elle was being usatory, but her eyes looked worried. So Enoch smiled gently and patted her head reassuringly.

    The expression on Leticia¡¯s face, who had been watching the scene from behind Elle, gradually darkened.

    It was recognized that the sudden copse of the nobles was not the fault of the Achilles family, but it seemed that rumors had swelled and the suspicion seemed to have not beenpletely cleared.

    ¡®If it¡¯s really because of my father¡¯s mine¡­¡¯

    She sped his hands together and vowed she would never let it go.

    Enoch, who had been watching Leticia, spoke carefully.

    ¡°Since I have paid vacation, I¡¯m thinking of going down to the family territory.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Paid vacation?

    It was so sudden that her eyes opened wide in surprise, but somehow she could guess what was going on. It was obvious that he was being blocked from entering the pce by giving him paid leave.

    There was no way that he didn¡¯t know that, but Enoch was using this time to check the condition of his territory and the damage the drought had done.

    Leticia quietly grabbed Enoch¡¯s arm, while biting her lip. She knew it was unavoidable, but she was really worried about letting him go alone like this. All of this was due to the fact that he still hadn¡¯t been able to solve the suspicions surrounding the family properly.

    ¡®Elle said she¡¯d look into it.¡¯

    Then what could she do? She wanted to help Enoch in any way that she could.

    At that moment, something came to mind.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, can I join you?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Enoch blinked in surprise, because he thought he¡¯d heard wrong. He smiled gently and shook his head.

    ¡°It might be hard.¡±

    ¡°However¡­ I still want to help.¡±

    She¡¯d forgotten for a moment. Her ability could cause good things to happen to the people around her.

    If it¡¯s true, she suddenly thought that it might help with this drought.

    ¡°I know it might be too much¡­¡±

    ¡°Absolutely not.¡±

    Leticia clenched her hands with an expression telling him to trust her. Ian, who was watching, intervened between the two with a worried look.

    ¡°We¡¯ll protect the house, so don¡¯t worry about going, brother.¡±

    ¡°Yes, sister has something in mind, so you have to take her with you.¡±

    Elle and Ian stood side by side and nodded firmly, as if he had to trust them.

    Even though he liked the idea, Enoch sighed quietly and asked Leticia again.

    ¡°Will it be okay?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll really be fine.¡±

    She thought it wouldn¡¯t be bad to take this opportunity to test out her ability.

    Leticia¡¯s expression also glistened no differently from the twins. Only then did Enoch realize that she wouldn¡¯t back down easily.

    ¡°Okay, but if it¡¯s too hard we can quickly return home.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    As soon as the permission was granted, Leticia smiled brightly and nodded.

    She knew he was saying this because he was worried about her, but she never thought he¡¯d agree so quickly.

    ***

    As expected, the reason Enoch was going down to his territory was because of the drought. She was touched by his upright attitude, how serious he was about it, and how he wanted to see the damage with his own eyes.

    ¡®I guess we can expect a little bit¡­¡¯

    Even though his barely elevated reputation had copsed in an instant, Enoch showed no sign of distress. Rather, Leticia enjoyed seeing his attitude of working the best he could.

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    As they went down to the family¡¯s territory in a carriage, she felt Enoch looked at her with an unusual expression. Leticia stared up at him, wondering why, then btedly realized that she had been squeezing Enoch¡¯s hand without even knowing it.

    ¡°No, that¡¯s what I¡­ It¡¯s been a while since we¡¯ve been alone together like this.¡±

    While talking, she bowed her head deeply and only touched Enoch¡¯s hand.

    Enoch was quietly looking down at Leticia, who was squeezing his hand like she was kneading dough, and said.

    ¡°Thank you foring with me, but why are you going through the trouble ofing down with me?¡±

    Even though he was chastising her, his eyes were kind, and it made Leticia smile brightly.

    ¡°So you don¡¯t like it?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Instead of answering, Enoch sighed loudly, and covered his face with one hand.

    Leticia looked surprised for a moment, worried that he was angry, until she noticed his reddened cheeks between his long fingers.

    ¡°Your face just turned red.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not.¡±

    ¡°Your ears are definitely red too.¡±

    ¡°Never.¡±

    She thought it was cute that Enoch couldn¡¯t even look straight at her, even as he denied that his face was red.

    ¡°I think I know why Enoch teases me all the time.¡±

    ¡°Is it that fun?¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t you tell?¡±

    The situation seems to have been reversed. Not that long ago, he was the one teasing Leticia about her shyness, but now the situation waspletely turned around. This feeling wasn¡¯t so bad either.

    ¡®What would it have been like if he¡¯de alone?¡¯

    Enoch smiled without realizing it, and felt lighter because Leticia was with him.

    ¡°Are you trying to use your skill?¡±

    Enoch barely managed to calm his expression, and brought up a question he¡¯d wanted to ask sincest night.

    Leticia was surprised by the unexpected question and unknowingly lowered her eyes. She hadn¡¯t said anything about her ability, and hadn¡¯t expected Enoch to notice so soon.

    ¡°Actually, I don¡¯t even know how to use my ability.¡±

    All she could do was hope that good things would happen to the people around her, and that they¡¯d be happy.

    She was going to do what she could until the end.

    Seios said that Leticia¡¯s ability would bring good luck to those around her, but not to herself.

    However, Leticia had a different idea.

    ¡°Like Enoch is trying his best right now.¡±

    Her luck was Enoch, who she miraculously encountered on a particrly windy afternoon.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°It¡¯s worse that I thought.¡±

    It was the evening when they arrived at the vige that they¡¯d nned to stay in for a while. Leticia froze, the first thing she saw was a field where you could see the dryness of the field at a nce, even in the dark.

    Enoch also had a dark expression from what he¡¯d seen. As soon as they made eye contact, he wrapped his arm around Leticia¡¯s shoulder tofort her.

    ¡°Let¡¯s rest for tonight, and have a better look tomorrow.

    ¡°Yes, I think that¡¯s for the best.¡±

    Leticia sighed, the situation was more serious than she¡¯d expected.

    ¡®It needs to rain as soon as possible.¡¯

    Leaving behind her mixed feelings, Leticia followed Enoch into the inn. The exterior was shabby, so she didn¡¯t expect much, but the interior was neater than she thought.

    ¡°Do you have two single rooms?¡±

    Enoch asked as soon as he made eye contact with the innkeeper, who was cleaning the entranceway, but the innkeeper answered as if he was at a loss.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but there¡¯s only one room left.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Leticia and Enoch couldn¡¯t hide their embarrassed expressions and raised their voices at the same time.

    In the Helios Empire, a man and woman sleeping in the same room before marriage was a matter of intense scrutiny. Leticia¡¯s head was already spinning just thinking about what rumors would spread if Enoch was discovered to be a duke.

    ¡°You look like a married couple, can¡¯t you use the same room?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    It was neither true, or untrue.

    When they failed to answer quickly enough, the innkeeper looked at the two suspiciously. Leticia unconsciously answered him firmly.

    ¡°We¡¯re a married couple!¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    ¡°Oh, so I¡­¡±

    Leticia btedly realized what she said, she bit her lip and nodded. All she could do was grip her skirt strongly.

    ¡°Because we¡¯re a married couple, give me that room.¡±

 Chapter 73 - Individual Nights

    <h4>Chapter 73 - Individual Nights</h4>

    Chapter 73. Individual Nights

    Is this what it feels like to be so embarrassed that you want to disappear?

    Unable to bear this awkward atmosphere of being alone with him, Leticia leaned her forehead against the wall and screamed soundlessly.

    ¡®I¡¯m crazy, crazy!¡¯

    What was she thinking when she answered confidently that they¡¯re a couple?

    She had no choice, but to say it. Her face burned, as she thought about it again. She wanted to hide somewhere, but there was nowhere in such a small room that only contained a bed, a dressing table and a chest of drawers.

    It was then that Enoch sighed as he sat down in a creaky old chair.

    ¡°It¡¯s bad.¡±

    ¡°Oh, yes¡­ That¡¯s right, it¡¯s a big deal. The drought was worse than I thought.¡±

    ¡°No, not that.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    She didn¡¯t understand what he meant.? Forgetting her embarrassment, Leticia turned to look back at him. Enoch was wearing a rxed expression and was smiling with his chin slightly raised.

    ¡°We have to act like a couple, don¡¯t we?¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    Anyone could tell her was having fun, as he wore a bright smile. Leticia covered her cheek with the back of her hand.

    ¡°No, um¡­¡±

    ¡°How about we decide on what we¡¯ll call each other first?¡±

    ¡°What we call each other?¡±

    ¡°I want to call you ¡®wife¡¯.¡±

    ¡°Huh, what do you mean wife?¡±

    Leticia subconsciously raised her voice. She was dizzy from his unexpectedly sweet words.

    However, when he looked at her as if she was cute, Leticia turned her head with a look of dissatisfaction.

    ¡°Don¡¯t make fun of me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not teasing you.¡±

    Enoch approached Leticia and poked her cheek. As soon as Leticia tried to push him away, his low voice reached her ears.

    ¡°Let¡¯s wash up first.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I understand¡­¡±

    Leticia closed her mouth after answering. Somehow, it felt like the first night of their honeymoon, and she could feel her face heating up again.

    As soon as she noticed, Leticia immediately ran into the bathroom. She was worried about one thing while she was washing up.

    ¡®How can I face Enoch?¡¯

    It was clear her face would turn red again as soon as their eyes met. When she thought of Enoch, who wouldugh at her, a sigh escaped automatically.

    Even after lightly washing up, she encountered a problem she hadn¡¯t thought about in a while.

    ¡®Now that I think about it, there¡¯s only one bed¡­¡¯

    Leticia sneakily checked the bed. Fortunately, or unfortunately, it wasrge enough for two people to sleep together if they held each other.

    ¡®We¡¯re going to get married someday.¡¯

    As soon as she sat on the bed, she covered her face with both hands. They normally held hands and even hugged, but it still made her nervous. When she thought they¡¯d be sleeping alone in the bed together, she could hear her heart pounding.

    Just then, her eyes met Enoch¡¯s as he came out of the bathroom, while toweling off his wet hair.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    They could have said anything, but they both seemed to have made a pact, and they just fell silent.

    ¡®What should I do?¡¯

    Leticia was feeling nervous and bit her lip. She couldn¡¯t believe she was going to sleep side by side with Enoch in the same bed tonight. No matter how much she thought about it, she couldn¡¯t sleep.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to sleep?¡±

    It was Enoch who first spoke in the ufortable silence. Surprised, Leticia smiled awkwardly and ran her hand down the nket.

    ¡°What? Oh, I¡¯m going to sleep. Yes, sleep.¡±

    For some reason, the way he looked at her seemed to be telling her to go to bed quickly, so Leticiaid down slowly as if she couldn¡¯t win.

    ¡®Can I lie down beside him and sleep?¡¯

    Despite her nervousness, Enochid a nket on the floor and tried toy down.

    ¡°Why are you lying on the floor?

    ¡°The floor is morefortable.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    He said it with such a calm voice, that at first, she really thought he found the floor morefortable.

    But Leticia was not fooled by his words.

    ¡°Come up here, Enoch.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°The floor is hard, it must be ufortable.¡±

    Even if his family had been through difficult times, he would have slept in a bed. It bothered her that he wasying on the floor and acting like sleeping there wasn¡¯t a big deal.

    ¡°I¡¯mfortable, so hurry up and sleep.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m ufortable.¡±

    Leticia peeked her head over the bed and tapped the spot beside her.

    ¡°Hurry up.¡±

    It became obvious to him that Leticia wouldn¡¯t back down until he climbed up, so Enoch stopped pretending and gave in to her.

    ¡°I won¡¯t do anything, so don¡¯t worry and get some sleep.¡±

    Enoch smiled sadly at Leticia telling him to rx and get some rest.

    ¡°I think that¡¯s what I wanted to say.¡±

    While he acted fearless, his mouth was dry and he didn¡¯t know how he felt. Enoch pretended to be calm and ced a nket on Leticia.

    ¡°It¡¯ste, you need to get some sleep¡­¡±

    Before he could finish his sentence, Enoch was frozen in ce by a soft touch on his cheek.

    ¡°Just now¡­ What did you do?¡±

    He said this while trying to pull himself together. Fortunately, he didn¡¯t stutter, but his voice cracked at the end.

    It was her first time seeing Enoch half-destroyed, so she smiled gently for a while. Leticia covered herself with the nket so only her eyes peered out.

    ¡°Goodnight kiss¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Goodnight, Enoch.¡±

    She was no longer confident in facing him, so she quickly turned around. In the meantime, she could clearly feel his gaze on her, so Leticia closed her eyes tightly.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Fearless.¡±

    As soon as he heard her sleeping quietly beside him, he carefully sat up from the bed. He let out a long sigh, careful to not wake her up.

    A goodnight kiss between adults.

    ¡°Are you telling me to sleep, or not¡­¡±

    Enoch rubbed his eyes and clenched his teeth. It was clear that she did such a vicious thing on purpose to keep him awake.

    ¡®You don¡¯t know how I feel.¡¯

    Enoch poked Leticia¡¯s cheek because she was adorable, even in her sleep.

    ¡°I won¡¯t let you do something like that again, Leticia.¡±

    He won¡¯t let her sleep.

    Even though he knew that she couldn¡¯t hear him while she was so deeply asleep, he still whispered to her quietly and gently pushed Leticia¡¯s hair back.

    ¡°Good night.¡±

    Thanks to her, he wouldn¡¯t be able to rest at all.

    ***

    ¡°Your eyes look red, are you okay?¡±

    The next morning, Leticia asked this as soon as they left the inn after eating a simple breakfast. Enoch looked particrly tired today and his eyes were red, so it was obvious he hadn¡¯t slept.

    ¡°I¡¯m okay.¡±

    Leticia was forced to nod at his assertion that she didn¡¯t need to worry.

    Enoch patted Leticia¡¯s head lightly, and went to see the vige¡¯s fields. As soon as he saw it with his own eyes, Leticia sped Enoch¡¯s sleeve without realizing it.

    The sight in the daylight was much more horrible than at night. Thend had cracked, and the crops had dried up without a single drop of rain. As soon as she touched it, Leticia turned white as she saw the dead grass crunching and scattering like dust.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know it was this bad.¡±

    The tragedy brought on by the drought felt like it was a terrible living hell.

    ¡°The relief supplies should arrive tomorrow.¡±

    Enoch spoke in a calm voice because he¡¯d already expected it to some extent. However, the look in his eyes as he gazed at the cruelly cracked ground looked pained.

    At the sight, Leticia held Enoch¡¯s hand tightly and whispered.

    ¡°I hope it rains soon.¡±

    So that people don¡¯t suffer anymore.

    Seeing people starving day by day due to the withering of their crops from the drought, she felt a pang in her heart.

    ¡®It would be nice if it rains tomorrow. No, I want it tonight.¡¯

    Before it became toote in the day, Leticia and Enoch left for the next vige, eagerly hoping it would rain.

    It was not until three dayster that they finally heard the news that it had rained in the first vige that night.

    ***

    ¡®I shouldn¡¯t have let my heart go out to you.¡¯

    Thanks to that, she was eventually grabbed by the tail.

    As she hid herself in an alleyway where she couldn¡¯t be seen, Keena grabbed her injured arm and swallowed a sigh. The cut seemed to be quite deep, and she could feel the hot blood flowing all over her palm.

    Keena tore a strip off of the clothes she was wearing and wrapped it around her wound in ce of a bandage. She tied it tightly to stop the bleeding, and a pained sound tried to escape her throat. Keena clenched her teeth to endure it, as the strength slipped out of her body and she sat down.

    ¡®I acted too nosy.¡¯

    The source of her trouble was that she¡¯d impulsively participated in the Swordsmanship tournament, even though she knew she shouldn¡¯t reveal her existence.

    She felt pathetic and let out a fierce huff. What made her more angry was that even if she went back in time, she would do the same thing again.

    ¡®It looks like you¡¯re a lot like me, of all people¡­¡¯

    She leaned against the wall while she was sitting on the ground, and thought of Leticia. She didn¡¯t want to admit it, but they had a lot inmon.

    Fathers, who judge your value solely on your ability; and siblings, who often ignore and me each other because they were busy keeping one another in check.

    ¡°Have you looked on this side?¡±

    ¡°Look for her carefully over there too.¡±

    ¡®Foolish.¡¯

    As soon as she heard the voices close by, Keena hurriedly got up from where she was sitting and moved.

    Perhaps she¡¯d lost too much blood, but her pace was gradually slowing and her vision began to blur. There was only one ce that came to mind right now.

    ¡®You wouldn¡¯t like it if I went to you on my own.¡¯

    It hadn¡¯t been that long since she¡¯d apologized.

    Keena couldn¡¯t stop thinking about how stupid she was for worrying about Leticia not liking her. But for once, she had no choice but to be hated.

    Keena went to Achilles¡¯ mansion, pale and looking like she was about to copse. She didn¡¯t lose her way, because she¡¯d already been sneaking in.

    ¡®I¡¯m tired.¡¯

    Her eyes were growing heavy, but Keena held on tight to the thread of her consciousness as she climbed the wall.

    ¡°Leticia¡­¡±

    She struggled to knock on the closed window, but there was no answer back. When she knocked again, she btedly realized that there was no one there to begin with.

    ¡°Sorry¡­ I know you won¡¯t like it, but I¡¯m going in.¡±

    As soon as she took a step inside without the owner¡¯s permission, her eyes began to flutter. The sound of falling down rang out in the room.

    ¡®If I was going to do this, there was no point in sneaking in.¡¯

    It was clear that someone woulde to investigate the loud noise. Even though she knew she needed to leave now, her eyelids had be heavy and her body wouldn¡¯t move, so shey there helplessly.

    She heard the door open and saw a man standing there, surprised to see her. For a moment, Keena mistakenly thought it was the Duke of Achilles.

    However, he seemed much younger and meeker than Enoch.

    ¡®That¡¯s right, he went on a tour of the family territory.¡¯

    People, who could not possibly know about the circumstances that prevented him from entering the pce due to the paid leave he was forced to receive, sarcastically called him ¡®lucky¡¯ instead of ¡®Duke Achilles¡¯.

    ¡®Did Leticia follow you?¡¯

    Before she even had a chance to sleep, she¡¯d decided to go on tour with Enoch. It was so like Leticia that she started tough, which wasn¡¯t appropriate considering the current situation.

    ¡°Who are you?¡±

    Ian quietly asked this while watching her silently with a wary gaze. At first, he thought it was a thief or robber, but the person in front of him couldn¡¯t move an inch.

    ¡®What should I say?¡¯

    Before she could think of anything, her vision darkened. Keena had fainted without answering.

 Chapter 74 - Starting With Good Faith

    <h4>Chapter 74 - Starting With Good Faith</h4>

    Chapter 74. Starting With Good Faith

    ***

    ¡°Long time no see, Emil.¡±

    ¡°How have you been?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s been hard to see your facetely.¡±

    ¡°We were wondering if something had happened to you.¡±

    He was having dinner with his ssmates from the academy in the main banquet hall. When Emil sat down, everyone began talking as if they were waiting. However, Emil just nodded lightly and gave no answer.

    After confirming that everyone was present, one of his ssmates spoke up first.

    ¡°It¡¯s Ian Achilles.¡±

    At those words, the atmosphere became chilly and Emil¡¯s eyes wavered slightly. However the ssmate seemed to not notice, and continued.

    ¡°He was praised by the professors for a job well done in the third round of interviews.¡±

    ¡°Hey¡­¡±

    The person sitting next to him was finding this unbearable to hear, and secretly hit his arm for Emil¡¯s sake. However, the tactless ssmate pushed the hand away as if it were annoying and eximed.

    ¡°After all, a man who can do something like that can do anything¡­¡±

    The ssmate that was thoughtlessly talking shut up btedly when he finally noticed Emil staring at him.

    At that moment, the butler entered the banquet hall and he was guiding an unexpected guest. Emil froze the moment he saw who it was, turning his face away indifferently.

    ¡°What? Who invited Ian Achilles?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m guessing he was invited because we¡¯re celebrating the people who passed the Imperial Civil exam.¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear the news?¡±

    ¡°What news?¡±

    ¡°The fact that Emil Leroy¡­¡±

    He would have whispered quietly so that he could not be hard, but anyone could tell what they were talking about without asking.

    ¡°I thought this was a party to congratte those who¡¯ve passed.¡±

    Ian said this as he observed the ssmates gossiping. Thanks to this, the atmosphere, which was already dark, became even darker.

    The ssmates were unsure and peeked at Emil. There wasn¡¯t anyone in his ss that didn¡¯t know that Emil Leroy disliked Ian Achilles.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you read the atmosphere?¡±

    ¡°Why are you saying that it¡¯s a celebration for the sessful candidates?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m suffocating to death.¡±

    ¡°Who called this young man?¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe Emil failed the exam.¡±

    ¡°I feel sorry for him.¡±

    ¡°I still think he¡¯s kind of cool though.¡±

    Although he¡¯d never shown off or ignored them, Emil always showed an attitude of superiority.?So it was hard for his colleagues to lose the thought that he looked cool somehow.

    ¡°I think I¡¯m in an ufortable ce.¡±

    His expression was dark and he definitely didn¡¯t look like he wanted to celebrate. Even though he was definitely invited, Ian turned around indifferently and left.

    It was none other than Emil who followed him.

    ¡°It¡¯s obvious that you still don¡¯t understand reality.¡±

    Emil smiled and said this as soon as they¡¯d stepped out into the empty hallway. However, Ian just gave Emil a cold look.

    ¡°That¡¯s what I wanted to say.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You know for sure now, right?¡±

    Even before he asked what he meant, Ian smiled and said.

    ¡°Who¡¯s level will be lowered?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think¡­¡±

    [You don¡¯t have to lower yourself to their level.]

    This was what Emil said to Leticia on the day of the Imperial Knight appointment.

    ¡°Did you take the test because of that?¡±

    ¡°So? Did I need some grandiose reason?¡±

    ¡°This is why you aren¡¯t qualified to be an Imperial official.¡±

    ¡°Then what was the reason you wanted to be an Imperial official?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Emil couldn¡¯t answer his unexpected words, but then he smirked at Ian.

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell the professor everything you said, so enjoy it for now.¡±

    He felt pity for him, but Ian was still calm. At that moment, a chuckle sounded in his ear.

    He thought he¡¯d heard wrong, so he looked at Ian, who was smiling brightly. Emil felt his stomach begin to churn at the tant mockery.

    ¡®Is heughing?¡¯

    He dares tough right now?

    Both of his clenched fists began to tremble as he tried to hold back the anger that was rising inside of him. Ian looked down at him nonchntly and shrugged his shoulders lightly.

    ¡°Do you think they¡¯ll listen to you?¡±

    ¡°What does that mean?¡±

    ¡°Exactly what I said.¡±

    Ian kindly exined to Emil, who didn¡¯t seem to understand.

    ¡°Who would believe a person who spreads false rumors?¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    He didn¡¯t expect Ian to know that he was the one who¡¯d spread them, but Emil immediately stood up with an unconcerned expression on his face.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about. I¡¯ve never spread false rumors.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯re right.¡±

    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for the professor¡¯s rmendation, you wouldn¡¯t have made it here.¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to admit it, that¡¯s fine.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re just bing more unseemingly.¡±

    ¡°Hey!¡±

    ¡°So!¡±

    Ian stopped talking while a smile slowly spread across his face.

    ¡°Who¡¯s lowering their standards now?¡±

    While it was obviously stated as a question, the answer was already known.

    Even if Emil red at him fiercely, Ian smiled at him, as if it was all ridiculous and left first. As soon as his back hadpletely disappeared, Emil let out an angry scream.

    ¡°You son of a¡­!¡±

    No matter how much he thought about it, Ian was no greater than him.

    Ian¡¯s never even been to the academy, and his family isn¡¯t in a good position, but the way he¡¯d? looked down at him was disgusting.

    ¡®I won¡¯t leave you alone.¡¯

    Emil breathed through clenched teeth as he quickly left the banquet hall. No matter what happened, he nned to stomp this idea out with his own hands.

    He swallowed down the urge to strangle him immediately, and tried to return to the Leroy residence, but soon he saw Ian¡¯s back.

    ¡®Unlucky guy.¡¯

    Just as he was about to turn around in annoyance and go on his way, something Ian was doing caught his eye. It was because he was headed to a pharmacy.

    After he talked to the pharmacist, Ian bought something and quickly strode off. Emil took this opportunity to speak to the pharmacist.

    ¡°Who came in? What did he buy?¡±

    ¡°What? Nothing special, just¡­¡±

    The pharmacist, who¡¯d received money from Emil, replied that Ian had bought clean bandages, hemostatic drugs and medicine that was good for cuts.

    ¡®Did he get hurt somewhere?¡¯

    However, Ian seemed to be fine. Enoch, who was the most likely person to suffer from a stab wound, was even less likely because he¡¯d recently gone on a tour of his territory.

    ¡®Suspicious.¡¯

    He had a hunch that there was something going on.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°You keep talking and nothing is getting done!¡±

    As soon as he entered the Leroy mansion, Emil sighed at the bitterly sharp voice.

    ¡®Here we go again.¡¯

    Since Marquis Leroy had returned the fights with Diana had been non-stop. The first thing he did was raise an eyebrow, even though he thought he was already used to it.

    ¡°You said you¡¯d get me engaged to Levion. So why haven¡¯t I heard from him yet?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s going to be engaged to you no matter what. So why are you in such a hurry?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve been saying that for months.¡±

    ¡°I have everything under control, so wait patiently.¡±

    ¡°Father!¡±

    Marquis Leroy looked at Diana in exasperation, he was tired of the argument that had been going on for several days.

    ¡°How the heck do you want me to get an engagement with the El family with such a useless ability?¡±

    Diana seemed to lose her grasp on reason when he murmured that so openly for her to hear.

    ¡°What¡¯s dad¡¯s power?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°How amazing is dad¡¯s ability then?¡±

    When Diana raised her voice to ask this question, the Marquis became angrier and demanded where all of this big talk came from.

    ¡®The house is running well.¡¯

    Emil returned to his room with aplicated expression on his face. These days, the atmosphere in the house had deteriorated, and there were no signs of improvement at all.

    Emil sighed as soon as he entered his room andy down on his bed, exhausted.

    ¡®Come to think of it¡­¡¯

    He¡¯d never heard what Marquis Leroy¡¯s ability was. He¡¯d never really thought about it before.

    ¡®What is his ability?¡¯

    Even though his face had turned red, he couldn¡¯t tell if he was angry or not.

    ***

    The vige that they arrived at this time looked more rxed than the first vige. The fields were cracked from the drought as well, but they were fortunate to have stocked up on food beforehand because of the heat wave.

    ¡°The recent drought has caused a lot of trouble.¡±

    ¡°If we hadn¡¯t been prepared with food, we could have been in a lot more trouble.¡±

    However, the food supplies were gradually diminishing, so everyone was worried. When Enoch told them that relief supplies were arriving soon, everyone¡¯s faces brightened up.

    The Enoch quietly listened as vigers spoke.

    ¡°While the drought continues to be an issue, there¡¯s another problem¡­¡±

    ¡°Shh!¡±

    ¡°Why are you talking about that here?¡±

    Everyone was angry because he was saying something useless, but Enoch urged him to continue what was going on because he¡¯d already heard. In the end, the vige head was forced to sigh and exin.

    ¡°That¡¯s, you know¡­¡±

    In short, several vigers suddenly copsed and were suffering from high fevers. As soon as he heard that, he thought of the nobles that had copsed at the party.

    [Some miners copsed at the Rose Velvet mine.]

    [The symptoms were simr, they suddenly fainted and suffered from a high fever.]

    The symptoms were so simr that it was hard to overlook it as a coincidence.

    Pushing away Keena¡¯s voice from her ears, Leticia looked up at Enoch. Enoch seemed to have the same idea, as they looked at each other quietly.

    ¡°It sounds simr, doesn¡¯t it?¡±

    On the way back from talking to the vigers, Leticia spoke to him as if she¡¯d been waiting for him to start.

    ¡°Yes, I think there¡¯s something to it.¡±

    ¡°Actually, there¡¯s something I haven¡¯t said yet.¡±

    Leticia told Enoch everything she¡¯d heard from Keena. The miners who worked in Marquis Leroy¡¯s mine were showing simr symptoms, Enoch sighed and rubbed his chin.

    ¡°Maybe some of the vigers who are suffering from high fevers worked at that mine.¡±

    Leticia also nodded because she felt the same way.

    At that time, she felt someone pulling on her dress from behind. As she looked behind her, a small child dressed in worn-out clothing looked up at Leticia.

    ¡°I like anything. Can you give me something to eat? I¡¯m so hungry.¡±

    ¡°Here you go, you can take this.¡±

    Fortunately, she had some leftover relief supplies to distribute to starving children. The child smiled as he received grain, dried meat, andmonly used medicine, and bowed his head in gratitude.

    ¡°It¡¯s getting dark, but where are you parents? Why are you out here alone?¡±

    Enoch got down on one knee and made eye contact with the child, and said this with a stern expression, but the child¡¯s expression darkened.

    ¡°My dad is sick and lying down.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    Feeling sorry for him, Leticia let out a sigh without realizing it.

    At that time, Enoch rolled up his sleeve and handed over the bracelet he was wearing to the child.

    ¡°Take it and go.¡±

    ¡°What? Are you giving this to me?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a bracelet that makes your wishe true. If you pray for your father to get well soon, it¡¯lle true.¡±

    ¡°Thank you so much!¡±

    With tears in his eyes, the child thanked them again and went home.

    Leticia watched as the child moved away, then asked Enoch with a strange look.

    ¡°Is it okay if you just give it to him?¡±

    ¡°I just gave it to someone who needed it more.¡±

    ¡°Since when have you been wearing a bracelet?¡±

    Before the wishing bracelets flourished, Elle distributed them to Leticia, Ian and Enoch. However, Enoch looked down at the bracelet, which was too cute for him, and didn¡¯t wear it. When it didn¡¯t appear on his wrist, Elle couldn¡¯t hide her disappointment, saying that she knew it wouldn¡¯t happen.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you show Elle your bracelet?¡±

    Leticia was sure she would have liked it.

    She said this regretfully, but Enoch shook his head firmly.

    ¡°What do you mean? I was worried you¡¯d tease me that it doesn¡¯t suit me.¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t suit you, but you still liked it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just kidding.¡±

    Enoch¡¯s embarrassed appearance was somehow funny, so Leticia crossed her arms with a bright smile.

    What they didn¡¯t know was that the child¡¯s father had gotten better that day and was able to get up from his bed.

 Chapter 75 - We Want To Have Each Oth

    <h4>Chapter 75 - We Want To Have Each Oth</h4>

    Chapter 75. We Want To Have Each Other

    ****

    [When are you going to awaken?]

    It was a question she¡¯d heard many times. Come to think of it, it seemed to have be more frequent after her younger brother awakened.

    [You¡¯ll be quite pathetic if you don¡¯t set an example for your younger brother!]

    He was ashamed of her for not awakening, so the Duke told her to pretend she had.

    A y that wasn¡¯t even funny. What was even more amazing, the fact that the people around her were being deceived by the act. Even though it was a lie that could easily be revealed, the Duke, who was bound by people¡¯s eyes and his reputation, did his best to act out this y.

    [Hold the sword properly. If you don¡¯t know how to do anything, you should just try harder.]

    Even though she was born into a family famous for swordsmanship and martial arts skills, Keena wasn¡¯t very interested.

    Perhaps that¡¯s why she always incurred the Duke¡¯s wrath for not even having an ability. Later, he even became the one to take it out on her.

    The Duchess, who could no longer stand to see her like this, asked Kiena with tears in her eyes.

    [Keena, please do it for mom. Let¡¯s make an effort today, okay?]

    [If you can¡¯t do it even if you try, then mother will persuade father.]

    She was the only person who stood by her side, even if everyone ignored and despised her.

    In the end, Keena had no choice but to make an effort to awaken. No, she rose beautifully to the stage her father had prepared for her, and became the perfect impostor.

    Later, the duke lost interest in her with a look of boredom on his face. To be precise, ¡®abandoned¡¯ was the correct word.

    Nevertheless, Keena did not hate or resent the Duke, whopletely let go of her.

    Her mother, however, wouldfort her like this.

    [I¡¯ve never seen my daughter trying so hard.]

    [That¡¯s enough for mom.]

    She was the only one who loved me and was always on my side. The one person who she wanted to keep until the end, even if she lost everything.

    [I¡¯ve never seen you so focused on something.]

    [Just seeing this is enough for me.]

    She thought she¡¯d never see her again, and that she would never meet anyone who was just like her.

    ¡®I hate you so much, Leticia.¡¯

    Of all things, she had to be breathtakingly simr to her.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°This is¡­¡±

    Keena blinked slowly.

    A soft bed underneath her back and a thick nket covered her. When she looked at her injured arm, it was wrapped in a clean bandage.

    ¡°Oh, right.¡±

    Keena swept her hair roughly and burst intoughter. In her broken memory, she btedly remembered herself copsing in a heap in Leticia¡¯s room.

    ¡°Oh, my¡­¡±

    The moment she slowly got up and tried to get out of bed, the wound throbbed and a curse tried to escape her lips. While barely swallowing it down, she looked around the room for a while, then Keena opened the door with a hand wrapped around her injured arm.

    Fortunately, there was no sign of anyone in the hallway. It was the perfect time to leave quietly.

    ¡®I should change my clothes before that.¡¯

    Keena sighed as she pulled her tattered clothes on. She had a rough idea of what she looked like without having to look in the mirror.

    She had no idea where the clothing were kept, so she entered a room at random.? Looking at the room she¡¯d entered, which was filled with so many books that it reminded her of a small library, she had a feeling that she knew whose room it was.

    Looking around, Keena found a closet in a corner. As soon as she opened the closet door.

    ¡°What are you doing now?¡±

    As soon as the door was opened, she found the master of the room standing there with a disgruntled expression on his face.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m going to borrow one of your shirts.¡±

    Keena calmly searched Ian¡¯s closet while talking. Ian wasn¡¯t even angry with her, even though she was acting like this was her room.

    ¡°This is my room.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    With a casual reply, Keena held the white shirt she had taken out against her body. It was a little big for her, but out of all the shirts he had, it was still the smallest and this one seemed to fit her the best.

    ¡°How long are you going to stand there like that?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to change¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re going to keep watching, I¡­¡±

    The door mmed shut before she could say she didn¡¯t care if he watched.

    ***

    ¡°What are you doing? Not eating?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    There was an appetizing stew in front of her, but Keena just stared at Elle without touching it.

    ¡®I would have gone out the window if my body was healthy.¡¯

    The original n was to get out of Ian¡¯s room and sneak out of this mansion. However, she ran into Elle in the hallway, she couldn¡¯t escape and was dragged to the dining room.

    Keena surreptitiously looked around and said.

    ¡°I¡¯m an intruder, who entered without permission.¡±

    ¡°I know.¡±

    ¡°I even took the liberty of stealing clothes.¡±

    ¡°Oh, really! I know, so don¡¯t waste your breath, and eat! Even if you leave, you should eat something before you go!¡±

    Elle shouted in frustration at her continued hesitation. She wanted Keena to leave as soon as possible, but she was worried that she was thinner than before. She was even hurt, so it was hard to just let her go.

    ¡°Okay, you can eat.¡±

    Keena realized that she wouldn¡¯t let her leave before taking a bite. She took a spoonful, and as soon as she was about to eat it, Ian blocked her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t eat it.¡±

    ¡°She told me to eat, and you told me not to eat. What do you want me to do?¡±

    ¡°If you eat it, your stomach will hurt, so don¡¯t eat it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    The moment Keena turned her head to see what he meant, Elle red at Ian sternly.

    ¡°Who do you think you are? Don¡¯t tell her not to eat what I made.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m worried that someone who¡¯s injured will get sick.¡±

    ¡°Is my dish something that you can¡¯t eat?¡±

    ¡°You didn¡¯t know that by now?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Keena quietly stirred her stew, as she casually watched the twins fighting.

    ¡®It looks delicious to me.¡¯

    The moment Keena took a bite, she was nauseated almost immediately. As expected, warnings shouldn¡¯t be overlooked.

    ¡°What? Why is it so fishy?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by fishy? That can¡¯t be true.¡±

    ¡°See? I told you not to eat it.¡±

    Leaving Ian behind, who said he knew it, Keena checked the stew. Apparently, it was a fish stew, but it was really fishy.

    ¡°Did you boil the fish without removing the intestines?¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­ Do you have to take out the intestines?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    If she knew this would happen, she would¡¯ve just left.

    Keena, who looked at the stew and pushed it to the side with a bted regret, said carefully.

    ¡°I¡­ You have a guest.¡±

    Looking at her expression, it seemed like a difficult guest had arrived.

    Ian reacted first and looked out the window before Elle could even ask who it was, he frowned and sighed.

    ¡°Who is it? Who is it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Leticia¡¯s family.¡±

    ¡°Why is her familying here?¡±

    ¡°How can I know that?¡±

    Leticia, who was the only person the Leroy¡¯s would try to? contact, was currently touring the territory with Enoch. There was no way they didn¡¯t know that, so it was strange that they hade here.

    ¡°I think it has something to do with me.¡±

    Keena, who was still sitting and looking at the twins, said this with a smile. However, the smile she wore was as cold as a midwinter wind.

    ***

    ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    They walked around untilte at night and had finally returned to their amodation.

    They had already been touring for several days and had distributed relief supplies. It was quite difficult to move to a different vige every day, but Leticia neverined about being tired.

    Rather, Leticia asked with a worried look on her face.

    ¡°I¡¯m not tired, but are you okay Enoch?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m doing what I have to do.¡±

    ¡°I hope you¡¯re not overdoing it, but I don¡¯t think you sleptst night either.¡±

    At some point, she¡¯d noticed that Enoch was getting haggard. At first, she thought it was because of travelling. Looking at Enoch, who was always awake before her, she worried that he wasn¡¯t sleeping well.

    ¡°Do you have insomnia?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because you said that.¡±

    ¡°What? Oh, no way¡­¡±

    Another possibility passed through Leticia¡¯s mind, who¡¯d never thought he¡¯d have insomnia.

    ¡°Do I have bad sleeping habits?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Do I talk in my sleep?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She asked in hopes that it wasn¡¯t the case, but there was no answer back. She epted the silence as an answer in the positive, Leticia grabbed Enoch¡¯s arm with a red face.

    ¡°Oh, my gosh.¡±

    epting the silence as affirmative, Leticia flushed and grabbed Enoch¡¯s arm tightly. She didn¡¯t know what kind of a sleeper she was, or what kind of sleeping habits she had. She was about to say something, when Leticia realized that she should apologize first.

    ¡°It would be better if you just talked in your sleep.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You always kiss my cheek before bed, you don¡¯t skip a day.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­ I didn¡¯t know that you wouldn¡¯t like it.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t believe that Enoch didn¡¯t like something that she did.

    Leticia couldn¡¯t stand the embarrassment and scratched her cheek. Enoch spoke first before she could say anything.

    ¡°I¡¯m not saying I don¡¯t want it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°I meant you should be careful.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll be careful. I was going to be careful.¡±

    When Leticia nodded with a somewhat gloomy look, Enoch frowned slightly and slowly approached her.

    ¡°Do you know what you¡¯re supposed to be careful about?¡±

    ¡°That¡­ because you don¡¯t want a goodnight kiss?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡±

    ¡°Then what?¡±

    She didn¡¯t understand why he asked her to be careful unless he didn¡¯t like it, so Leticia tilted her head in confusion. The wind scattered her pink hair from her pale shoulders.

    Enoch captured the picture as he stood in front of her with a smile. Leticia btedly noticed something was wrong, and stepped back without realizing it.

    However, when she bumped into something near her waist and turned around, she saw a wooden table. Even before she could move to the side, Enoch put his hands on the table with Leticia in between.

    ¡°You don¡¯t even know what I¡¯m thinking.¡±

    As soon as her blue eyes intertwined with his, Leticia felt her mouth dry out, but she didn¡¯t avoid his gaze and faced him straight on.

    ¡°What are you thinking?¡±

    ¡°Do you really want to know? About how I want to be with you?¡±

    The hand that had been gently covering her cheek slowly touched her soft lips. The persistent but affectionate touch was unfamiliar to her, so Leticia shrank into herself.

    All she could do was quietly hold Enoch¡¯s wrist and look up at him.

    He was the one she always thought of as neat and serious. Someone who would hug her when she was having a hard time, andfort her when she was down by telling her it would be all right.

    ¡°I¡¯m not that innocent.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°The same goes for me towards you.¡±

    Her heart was overwhelmed to the point of suffocation, to think that the person she wanted desired her as well. However, she couldn¡¯t bear this feeling right now, and Leticia slowly lowered her eyes.

    She still wanted to express her feelings though.

    ¡°So be careful.¡±

    He didn¡¯t know what she was thinking either.

 Chapter 76 - How To Deal With Rude People

    <h4>Chapter 76 - How To Deal With Rude People</h4>

    Chapter 76. How To Deal With Rude People

    ****

    He always enjoyed his time with Leticia. However, behind the happiness, there were hidden feelings that he never wanted to be revealed.

    He must have pushed his feelings down too much. He couldn¡¯t stand it, and Leticia must have been swept away by him.

    A sense of frustration and anxiety that he could never express. All he could do was hide and conceal it as much as he could.

    As if she had read his mind, Leticia put him to the test.

    ¡°I¡¯m not that innocent. The same goes for me towards you.¡±

    The small hand that grabbed his sleeve trembled. However, her blue eyes looked straight up at him.

    He couldn¡¯t decide whether it was fortunate, or unfortunate, that she didn¡¯t retreat until the end.

    Enoch wondered how he would win against her with her clear voice, and her obvious greed for him.

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    He heard how? raspy his voice was, as he suppressed the urge that was rising up inside him. His mouth lifted grimly as she meekly looked up at him without knowing what he was thinking.

    He wanted to treat her preciously, and cherish her endlessly.

    It¡¯s like you¡¯re always testing me. Seeing that I¡¯m not offended, I guess I¡¯m not in my right mind either.

    ¡°Don¡¯t make it worse.¡±

    Enoch said, as he slowly touched her lips with his fingertips.

    So don¡¯t let me cross the line

    While talking, his mouth dried up, and Enoch reluctantly stepped back. As soon as he took a step away, Leticia approached him.

    ¡°If it¡¯s Enoch, I like everything. I mean¡­¡±

    She touched her fingertips shyly, and soon grabbed Enoch¡¯s arm as if she was hanging onto him.

    ¡°I hope you won¡¯t hold back too much.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You know what I¡¯m saying, right?¡±

    Instead of answering,? Enoch cupped Leticia¡¯s cheek gently in both hands. It was a problem telling a person who¡¯s struggling to endure, and telling them not to hold back.

    ¡°I hate myself in ces like this. It¡¯s not enough to make it more special.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I don¡¯t care¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m holding it in, so you should hold it in.¡±

    Enoch cut off Leticia¡¯s worlds and moved to bed.?As they were pulling up the covers, Leticia peeked at him nervously.

    Enoch gently took hold of Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Shall we hold hands while we sleep tonight?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not enough¡­¡±

    The moment he was about to ask her what she wanted, Leticia slipped into Enoch¡¯s arms. She clung to him, and Enoch was beaming without realizing it. Her small body wriggling in his arms was annoyingly adorable.

    ¡°We¡¯re finally going back tomorrow.¡±

    Enoch patted Leticia¡¯s back affectionately, as she closed her eyes.

    He was tempted to go home and spend some time alone with her.

    ***

    ¡°What do you want now that Leticia and my brother aren¡¯t here?¡±

    Elle went to greet the uninvited guests. She asked this as soon as she opened the door, without hiding her hostility. Emil and Xavier frowned in displeasure, not only at the tone of her voice, but the fact that she went so far as to say they had no business being there.

    Emil immediately pushed down his annoyance and broached the reason for his visit.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to meet Ian Achilles.¡±

    However, Elle frowned as if she was displeased at his words.

    ¡°Please use the proper honorifics, even friends don¡¯t call each other like that without first asking.¡±

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    It was clear that she didn¡¯t n on letting this go, so Emil sighed as he pulled at his cor.

    It was obvious that she¡¯s the twin sister of that unlucky fellow. They were very simr in how they bothered him.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to meet Young Master Ian Achilles.¡±

    ¡°Where did you learn the courtesy of showing up unannounced?¡±

    ¡°In that sense, the Duke of Achilles came to our mansion without prior warning.¡±

    ¡°Then you canin to my brother.¡±

    Elle always had a retort the moment Emil was about to say anything, eventually Xavier intervened.

    ¡°Excuse me for a second.¡±

    ¡°What? Wait a minute!¡±

    He suddenly pushed past her, it happened so quickly that she didn¡¯t have time to catch him. Emil and Xavier started to shamelessly stroll through the mansion. If a stranger saw them, they would¡¯ve thought they were the masters of this household.

    ¡°What are you doing now?¡±

    Elle walked faster and tried to block them. Xavier merely pushed her away, as if he was annoyed.

    ¡°It¡¯ll only take a moment.¡±

    ¡°Hold on! What are you talking about? Get out of my house right now!¡±

    Elle hadn¡¯t expected him to act so recklessly, and she was perplexed. They visited without permission, and invaded her home. They were acting in a way that would damage their reputation.

    However, the two opened the doors from room to room without the slightest hesitation.

    Eventually, they reached Ian¡¯s room and opened the door decisively. Inside the room, Ian was sitting on his bed with a nket covering him.

    ¡°What is this?¡±

    Ian had been quietly reading a book when they barged in. He looked up with an irritated expression, but Emil casually said.

    ¡°I have some business to attend to.¡±

    ¡°Is it okay to enter without knocking?¡±

    ¡°Xavier.¡±

    Emil easily ignored Ian¡¯s words. He looked at Xavier and pointed to the room.

    ¡°Find it.¡±

    ¡°Hey, have you gone crazy?¡±

    They acted no different than a guard trying to secure evidence in a suspect¡¯s home. With this insane attitude, Elle violently pushed at Xavier¡¯s shoulder and shouted at him.

    ¡°You guys! Are you crazy? You¡¯re crazy!¡±

    Then Emil¡¯s gaze turned to the bed that Ian was sitting on.

    ¡®What is this?¡¯

    He thought something moved in the bed just now.

    Emil was so taken with the idea that he didn¡¯t hesitate to look under the covers.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    Ian sighed irritably and got up from the bed. He pped the covers and there was nothing to be found.

    ¡°Brother¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Xavier, who¡¯d searched the room, looked at Emil with a troubled expression. Emil said nothing and gritted his teeth.

    [The one who beat you at the Swordsmanship tournament was a woman?]

    Emil heard an unexpected story while he talked to Xavier that day.

    He¡¯d already heard that Xavier had won second ce at the tournament. However, he had no idea that it was a woman who¡¯d beated Xavier and won first ce.

    [Yes, a woman with blonde hair and red eyes.]

    [Blonde hair and red eyes¡­]

    It didn¡¯t sound unfamiliar. He felt like he¡¯d even heard of her somewhere, then something came to mind.

    The Duke of Erebos, who was destroyed for treason when he was young.

    [She looked like she was close with our eldest sister.]

    [What? Is that true?]

    If she had a good rtionship with Leticia, then she must have a contact point with the Achilles family. She might even be secretly staying at the Achilles mansion.

    If that was true, then Ian could be dropped from the Imperial civil service.

    Emil was taken with the idea and took Xavier with him to the Achilles household. He wanted to prevent Ian from destroying possible evidence.

    ¡®If she¡¯s not in this room, there¡¯s only one room left.¡¯

    Only Leticia¡¯s room was left.

    Elle, who¡¯d been watching the bewildered pair, slowly crossed her arms and spoke.

    ¡°Since we¡¯ve made it this far. Ian, why don¡¯t you tell him your secret.¡±

    ¡°What secret?¡±

    ¡°The secret to passing the Imperial civil service examination.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Before Elle could finish her words, the atmosphere sank heavily. Emil, who¡¯d grasped the doorknob, stopped walking and stared fiercely.

    Even with that look, Elle didn¡¯t lose the smile on her face.

    ¡°It¡¯s obvious that you came in without permission, searched every room in the house, and then entered here.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that.¡±

    ¡°To go this far, how desperately did you want to pass? I feel sorry for you.¡±

    Emil told her that it was enough already, but Elle pretended not to hear him.

    ¡°Seeing you being rude like this, it will take a lot of time and effort to be an Imperial official. Don¡¯t worry too much, If you learn well from Ian, you might seed.¡±

    Now she grasped his hands and looked at Emil with an expression of real support. However, the gaze that faced her was piercingly sharp.

    ¡°If you hear the secret of getting epted without having to attend the academy, you¡¯ll definitely get epted next time.¡±

    ¡°Are you insulting me?¡±

    There was no one who didn¡¯t know that he was rejected, but it was unbearably unpleasant to hear this from a member of the Achilles family. Emil gritted his teeth fiercely and took a step towards Elle.

    Ian tried to stop him, but Elle smiled at him with a rather hateful glint in her eyes.

    ¡°What¡¯s that, an insult? I¡¯ve learned to share the good things, but¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve learned that good people aren¡¯t meant to be divided.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Emil quietly furrowed his brow, unable to understand the words that were surely referring to someone else. Elle, who¡¯d been smiling for some time, coldly said.

    ¡°Get out of my house right now. Otherwise, I¡¯ll go to your father right now and demand an apology.¡±

    ¡°If I look in thisst ce, there¡¯s nothing more to see.¡±

    ¡°Hey.¡±

    She yanked Emil¡¯s arm roughly from behind him as he tried to open the door again.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough, there¡¯s a limit to how much I can tolerate.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s funny, cause I¡¯m the one who¡¯s being tolerant.¡±

    Emil roughly pushed Elle, who kept disturbing him, and opened the door. No, he tried to open the door, but someone else beat him to it.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    The person who had opened the door first from outside the room was standing there with a cold, stiff expression on his face. When Emil realized who it was, he cringed.

    ¡°Brother!¡±

    ¡°Big brother!¡±

    Unlike the embarrassed Emil, Elle and Ian approached Enoch with looks of utter joy on their faces.

    ¡°Get out.¡±

    ¡°I came because I wanted to check something.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t say it twice.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Enoch rebuked Emil, cutting off his words halfway.

    Emil realized that he wanted for them to leave quickly, so he was forced to exit the room with Xavier. As he left, he made eye contact with Leticia, who was standing behind Enoch.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    They stared at each other briefly, but it was Leticia who turned away first.

    Xavier was perplexed by her attitude, as if she was disappointed in them or they didn¡¯t have anything worth talking about. He thought Leticia would at least be willing to hear them out about why they¡¯de.

    Emil nonchntly walked past Leticia with Xavier in tow.

    Enoch asked only after confirming that Emil and Xavier had left the Achilles mansion.

    ¡°What was that? What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°No, they suddenly showed up and went crazy.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    Instead of answering, Elle nced at Ian¡¯s bed, as if there was something over there.

    The bed moved up and down just as Leticia approached it with a curious expression on her face. As she was about to step back in surprise, a woman covered with dust jumped out from under the bed. Under the dark gray dust, Leticia could see vivid blonde hair.

    ¡°Oh, I cleaned the floor under the bed.¡±

    Keena finally noticed the gazes focused on her, as she shook off the dust from head to toe.

    ¡°Hello, how are you?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She greeted them politely, but there was no reply.

    Even in the midst of her embarrassment, she knew better than anyone else what to do first.

    ¡°I¡¯ll start first, I¡¯m sorry.¡±

 Chapter 77 - I Want To Avoid It, But I Canâ€™t

    <h4>Chapter 77 - I Want To Avoid It, But I Can¡¯t</h4>

    Chapter 77. I Want To Avoid It, But I Can¡¯t

    ***

    ¡°You don¡¯t think you can end it with an apology, do you?¡±

    Leticia said this to Keena in a dry emotionless voice, as they sat alone together in a room. Keena was sitting across from her and was quietly looking down at the teacup in her hand. She avoided her gaze without saying a word.

    ¡°You were the reason that Emil and Xavier were here, right?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Who are you?¡±

    Leticia knew from the beginning that she wasn¡¯t an ordinary person.

    Looking at Keena, who was always hovering around her. Hiding her name, her age, and everything else, Leticia certainly realized that there was something she didn¡¯t know.

    Nevertheless, she didn¡¯t ask because she didn¡¯t want to know. She had a strong feeling that she wouldn¡¯t want to know the answer for some reason.

    However, it seemed like it was toote to turn a blind eye now.

    ¡°Who are you?¡±

    ¡°Keena.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not asking for your given name, but your family name.¡±

    ¡°Keena Erebos.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    When Keena calmly revealed who she was, Leticia paled and closed her mouth. The sound of her heart dropping was faintly heard in her ears.

    Leticia vaguely remembered the Erebos family from her childhood, but she couldn¡¯t remember the exact details no matter how hard she tried.

    There were three capable families in the Helios Empire[1]. Unlike the Leroy family, who were born with unique abilities, the Elgar and Erebos families had specific, determined fields of study. Elgar had abilities rted to academics and knowledge, but the now destroyed Erebos family were famous for their prowess in martial arts and swordsmanship.

    [I¡¯m confident in using my body.]

    ¡®That¡¯s why she beat Xavier in the Swordsmanship tournament.¡¯

    No matter how good Xavier was at swordsmanship, he couldn¡¯t beat an Erebos, who specialized in martial arts.

    ¡°But as far as I¡¯ve heard they¡¯re all¡­¡±

    ¡°Do you know they¡¯re all dead?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Right. Everyone is dead except for me.¡±

    Keena lightly stirred her tea with a bitter smile. That terrible sight that she¡¯d been struggling to forget still came to mind clearly.

    Blood stter that covered the walls and floors, her ears filled with a mixture of fresh screams and the gasping of the dying. Even though her body was sticky with the still-drying, she couldn¡¯t move because of the knife sticking out of her back.

    ¡®I awakened at that time too.¡¯

    Keena¡¯s awakening, which her father had wanted so badly, was after losing everything.

    It wasn¡¯t enough that she survived that hell, but she gained an ability too. When she thought about it now, it was a miracle. No, it was her punishment.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have to hide what happened any longer.¡±

    Drinking a sip of her cold tea, Keena continued.

    ¡°Did you know the cause of the destruction was all because of your father?¡±

    ¡°What¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because your father framed us.¡±

    Erebos was definitely a family that contributed to the founding of the country. Thanks to this, they received the emperor¡¯s trust and favor more than any other family. As Erebos family¡¯s fame grew, the imperial family sensed a threat, and immediately began to keep them in check.

    It was the Marquis Leroy who took advantage of this estrangement and cut off the strings of their rtionship.

    ¡°Is that why you approached me?¡±

    Leticia, who¡¯d been quietly listening to Keena, looked crestfallen while she bit her lip.

    It was beyond belief. No, it was more correct to say that she didn¡¯t want to believe it.

    ¡°Are you going to get revenge?¡±

    Her voice trembled slightly when she asked this question.

    Before she was emunicated, Leticia was confident that she knew her family better than anyone else. Now that everything she¡¯d known had been refuted, she couldn¡¯t confidently say that Marquis Leroy couldn¡¯t have done this.

    Rather, if it was her father, he seemed like the type of person who could have done it.

    ¡°I think I said this before, but I don¡¯t have a quarrel with you.¡±

    ¡°Do you expect me to believe that?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about. The person I want to take revenge on is your father, not you.¡±

    ¡°Keena.¡±

    ¡°I thought revenge would be easier if I approached you.¡±

    Keena thought that Leticia had the ability to make others unlucky and take away their happiness. Such an ability would¡¯ve been useful for her revenge if true.

    ¡°There were moments when I wanted to help you, regardless of your use. I meant it when I said I wanted to be closer to you.¡±

    At first, she¡¯d definitely tried to use her for revenge, but at some point her purpose had be blurred. Leticia was incredibly nice and sincere for a child born into that family, and soon she spent time with her without a second thought.

    So she hated it, her extraordinary kindness.

    ¡°It¡¯s also true that I wanted to make your father pay by using you.¡±

    Leticia clenched her hands tightly as she quietly listened to Keena. She remembered the day when she encountered Keena as she was being chased by someone.

    ¡®Was she being chased by the people her father had sent? Or did she catch the attention of the Imperial family because she participated in the Swordsmanship tournament?¡¯

    Come to think of it, Leticia was the only reason why she¡¯d participated in that tournament.

    ¡°Why did you help me?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Why did you help me when you wanted to get back at my father?¡±

    Why didn¡¯t Keena just leave Leticia alone when Xavier ignored her?

    Maybe at that time, her help was also a n to make her look good so that she could use Leticia. Strangely though, she thought that Keena was being sincere towards her at that moment.

    ¡°That¡¯s something that you don¡¯t need to worry about.¡±

    ¡°Keena.¡±

    ¡°Also, I will never appear in front of you again.¡±

    As soon as she finished saying that, Keena put down her teacup, and stood up.

    ¡°Then why did youe this time?¡±

    Leticia asked Keena as she turned away without a second thought. Keena mumbled under her, without turning around.

    ¡°Well¡­¡±

    Keena couldn¡¯t put into words what she was thinking at such a difficult time, so she grabbed the doorknob, and left the room. As soon as she stepped out, she encountered Enoch standing right in front of her and had to stop.

    He looked her up and down, as if inspecting to see if she was a dangerous element. Keena smiled crookedly from the pressure she felt in his gaze.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for causing a fuss. I can¡¯t say for sure, but I think there are miners who worked at Marquis Leroy¡¯s mine living in your territory.¡±

    What she meant was that he should visit them and make it clear that the nobles hadn¡¯t fallen ill because of the party that had been thrown at Achilles¡¯ mansion.

    Enoch immediately understood and frowned slightly.

    ¡°Is there a reason why you¡¯re telling me this?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s just say that I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    As soon as she finished speaking, Keena passed by Enoch and tried to leave the mansion. However, Ian held something out to her before she could leave.

    ¡°Take this.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°I think it¡¯s something that you¡¯ll need.¡±

    Keena choked up at the sight of the white bandages and ointment for wounds.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    Keena left the mansion after she¡¯d received Ian¡¯s package. She knew she shouldn¡¯t get entangled with them anymore.

    Enoch watched Keena disappear into the distance, then quickly approached Leticia.

    ¡°What did you talk about?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    Enoch asked anxiously, but Leticia didn¡¯t answer. The words Keena had said kept repeating in her head.

    [It¡¯s because your father framed us.]

    [The person I want to take revenge on is your father, not you.]

    ¡®If that¡¯s true.¡¯

    What should she do?

    Leticia kept quiet, and smoothed down her dress with her fingertips.

    She even thought it would be better if it was all lies. However, looking at what her father had done so far, she couldn¡¯t refute it because he was the type of person who would do that.

    .

    .

    .

    That evening, they all had a meal together after such a long time, but Leticia didn¡¯t say anything. She still had no idea what to do.

    While they were quietly eating dinner, the sound of a horse could be heard outside. Mary was the first to hear it, and opened the door to find a messenger had arrived at the mansion to deliver something. Mary immediately handed over the letters she¡¯d received to Enoch.

    ¡°What color is that envelope?¡±

    Enoch¡¯s hand was filled with all kinds of letters. Elle had spotted a golden envelope that stood out among the many letters, and asked with a curious expression.

    ¡°It¡¯s from the Imperial family.¡±

    ¡°From the Imperial family?¡±

    Elle blinked several times because she couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing. After he opened the letter Enoch made an unusual expression.

    ¡°What does it say?¡±

    When Elle urged him on, Enoch replied with a shallow side.

    ¡°It¡¯s asking me how to make it rain.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s raining only on ournd, so it¡¯s asking what the secret is.¡±

    Leticia blinked in surprise at what had interrupted them in the middle of their meal.

    ¡®Was there a secret to this?¡¯

    She didn¡¯t do anything in particr, she just went down to thend and wished for rain¡­

    Leticia and Enoch looked at each other at the same time, thinking the same thing.

    ***

    ¡°When is this drought going to end?¡±

    Marquis Leroy let out a fierce huff, and threw away the letter. He didn¡¯t know why this was happeningtely.

    Last year, he even made an artificialke after suffering from a drought previously, but the drought was so bad theke had dried up. There were alsoints about people dying, but there was no way to solve this problem.

    ¡°Why is it only raining on that ill-fated family¡¯snd?¡±

    In the meantime, what made him even angrier was the fact that it was raining on the Achillesnd. It hadn¡¯t been that long since he¡¯dughed at Enoch, who¡¯d gone down to hisnd on a tour after being banned from entering the pce.

    At first, he thought it was a false rumor, but when news spread nationwide that it was only raining on the Achillesnd, everyone went to him to ask them how he¡¯d done it.

    ¡®There¡¯s no way.¡¯

    On second thought, Marquis Leroy burst intoughter. It was just a coincidence, but the nobles who were so quick to visit him were pathetic.

    As the sound of his frustration wildly rang out from the office, Xavier was passing by, and suddenly called out to Emil.

    ¡°Brother.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it a little weird?¡±

    ¡°What is?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s about our eldest sister. No matter how much I think about it¡­ She¡¯s changed so much.¡±

    When she was emunicated, he believed that she would return because there was nowhere for her to go. At that time, he¡¯d felt sorry for her and was nning to step up and ask Marquis Leroy to take Leticia back in.

    But Leticia didn¡¯t return. Instead, she went to live with the family that her father hated the most.

    Heughed when he saw this, and clicked his tongue at their mercy. No matter how close they were, he thought it wouldn¡¯tst long.

    Suddenly, the memory of Leticia trying to buy a sword at the weapon shop came to mind. Instead of trying to make a good impression on their father, and trying to return to the family, she was hanging out with that unlucky family. This embarrassed and angered him, so he criticized her by saying something sharper than usual.

    He thought it would help her realize that hanging out with that family was causing her real family to turn away from her.

    However, his expectations were way off. Leticia was doing very well, to the point where it made his heart sink.

    He still had vivid memories of that day when he went to Achilles¡¯ mansion unnecessarily, and locked eyes with Leticia. Her eyes were cold, as if she was sick and tired of seeing him.

    He was dragged away by Emil, without any human courtesies.

    ¡°Brother.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Brother.¡±

    ¡°Oh, sorry. What were you talking about?¡±

    Emil asked with an awkward look, but Xavier looked at him strangely.

    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡±

    ¡°No¡­ Nothing.¡±

    He shook his head, saying that it wasn¡¯t important, but what he¡¯d heard from Marquis Leroy¡¯s office was still bothering him.

    [Why is it only raining on that ill-fated family¡¯snd?]

    When Leticia had entered the Achilles mansion, he thought it would be more unlucky and unhappy at first. After learning that she didn¡¯t have an ability to make others unlucky, he¡¯d spread bad rumors about her to protect the family. Strangely though, only good things happened to Leticia, to be more exact, around Leticia.

    Finally, Emil realized btedly that he hadn¡¯t thought of a possibility that was all too obvious.

    ¡°Xavier.¡±

    ¡°Yes, brother.¡±

    ¡°If there¡¯s an ability to cause misfortune¡­¡±

    His mouth was dry, and he was having trouble breathing.

    ¡°On the other hand, there should be an ability to bring good fortune.¡±

    ¡°I guess so?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Emil hardened at the casual attitude.

    ***

    [1] I¡¯m fairly sure this is referring to ducal families.

 Chapter 78 - . The More You Rush, The Quicker You Fall ***

    <h4>Chapter 78 - . The More You Rush, The Quicker You Fall ***</h4>

    Chapter 78. The More You Rush, The Quicker You Fall

    When the nobles heard the news that it was raining only in the Achilles¡¯ territory, they were quick to send letters. When he replied that he¡¯d only traveled to his territory, everyone went down to their territories and gave relief supplies to the residents who were suffering from the drought.

    Strangely, a few dayster it began to rain in othernds, and people started to gossip that the Achilles family had a special ability. The story even reached the ears of the Imperial family and soon they received an invitation from them.

    ¡°Enoch¡­¡±

    The next day, Enoch and Leticia sat in the office alone to talk about what to do.

    They looked at each other for a while. Enoch slowly started to speak.

    ¡°We could say it¡¯s a coincidence.¡±

    ¡°However¡­¡±

    ¡°Some people are just saying it¡¯s a coincidence, so it¡¯ll be okay.¡±

    Enoch knew that Leticia felt burdened when she talked about her ability. That¡¯s why he hoped that Leticia would be able to hide her ability, and not feel ufortable like this again.

    ¡®If her ability bes known¡­¡¯

    It¡¯s clear that there would be people who approached her to abuse it.

    Unexpectedly, Leticia showed a calm expression even though she wasn¡¯t.

    ¡°I know what Enoch is worried about.¡±

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t be able to hide it forever.¡±

    She had guessed, to some extent, that this day woulde. She didn¡¯t know exactly when, but she¡¯d wondered for a while whether that day was approaching.

    She still didn¡¯t have an answer then and now.

    All that mattered was doing her best.

    ¡®But if I can, it¡¯s better to hide it. It would be best to write to as many people I know as possible.¡¯

    Leticia knew that it would be nice if only good people like Enoch knew, but that just wasn¡¯t realistic. Rather, it was clear that there would be people who tried to take advantage of her.

    ¡®Like Keena.¡¯

    [Don¡¯t go back to your family.]

    As soon as she found out that my ability was luck, and not misfortune, Keena threatened her so that she wouldn¡¯t return to her family and interfere with her ns.

    ¡®Still¡­¡¯

    She wanted to tell Elle and Ian herself.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Your ability is luck?¡±

    She didn¡¯t think she could hide it anymore because they¡¯d find out someday, so Leticia wanted to be honest with Elle and Ian.

    At first, their eyes widened in surprise, but before long the twins began to worry about what was for dinner. It was Leticia who was rather puzzled by their attitude.

    ¡°Are you really okay with it?¡±

    ¡°What? What are you talking about?

    ¡°My ability¡­¡±

    It went much more smoothly than she thought, and Leticia wondered if that was all right. At her confused expression, Elle sighed and calmly said what she was thinking.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s fascinating.¡±

    ¡°Is that all?¡±

    ¡°What else is there, sister?¡±

    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t mean that there should be.¡±

    She already knew that Elle and Ian wouldn¡¯t have any bad intentions after hearing about her ability.

    However, hearing it directly from them, she felt warm and it touched a corner of her heart.

    ¡®If it were her family, then¡­¡¯

    Leticia gently bit her lip and lowered her eyes.

    Naturally, she couldn¡¯t stand greedy people who tried to take advantage of her.

    Elle, Ian, and Enoch, only reacted in wonder. They saw her for who she was, and just like the first time she met them, she realized once again that she¡¯d met some really nice people.

    ¡°I¡¯m just thankful.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She couldn¡¯t control the overwhelming feelings in her heart, so Leticia hugged Elle and Ian at the same time. The two were embarrassed, butughed shallowly and patted Leticia on the back.

    Ian slowly managed to escape from her arms, and said with a calm expression.

    ¡°Does my brother know?¡±

    ¡°Hey, why are you asking her that? Of course she would have told us first.¡±

    Elle tapped Ian¡¯s forearm, wondering why he¡¯d asked, but Leticia just kept quiet.

    The reaction was so strange, that Elle squinted at her suspiciously.

    ¡°What? Are you serious? Did he know about it first?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    As Elle clung to her arm tightly, Leticia smiled awkwardly and asked.

    ¡°I¡¯m hungry, what are we going to eat?¡±

    ¡°Hey!¡±

    ¡°Sister!¡±

    As soon as she pushed Elle and Ian¡¯s hands gently away, they approached her with a scary expression. However, Leticia turned around and ran away.

    She tried to ignore the sound of them chasing after her.

    ***

    ¡®I¡¯m doomed.¡¯

    Emil sat down at the desk and clenched his fists, then slumped down on the desk listlessly.

    ¡®What should I do?¡¯

    It was all so clear once he concentrated his investigation on the fact that Leticia might bring good luck to those around her instead of misery. Now that he knew, he was puzzled as to why he hadn¡¯t noticed.

    Even the butler hinted that only good things seemed to happen, so why did he let it slide.

    ¡®I just thought that it wasn¡¯t misfortune.¡¯

    He didn¡¯t expect that she could bring good luck.

    The Achilles family, famous for being unlucky, flourished noticeably. While his own family was gradually copsing, to the point where others felt it was strange. The main factor was whether Leticia was there or not.

    ¡®There¡¯s no evidence, but I¡¯m certain.¡¯

    All of the coincidences added up to one thing.

    Duke Achilles, who was disqualified from the Imperial Knight examination multiple times for absurd reasons, finally passed. The younger sister, who¡¯d never shown any previous interest, seeded in her trinket business. Ian Achilles had never studied properly, let alone attended an academic institute, and became an Imperial official.

    ¡®Is this because of my sister¡¯s ability¡­ to the point of even making it rain?¡¯

    Then word got out about Leticia and Enoch touring the territory and then it began to rain. In short, word spread that good things happened when you were around Leticia or received goods from her. Some people said it was just a coincidence, but it was only a few.

    ¡®Who knew you¡¯d be called lucky?¡¯

    Emil rubbed his face, and suppressed the urge to scream.

    He should¡¯ve known sooner, then he could¡¯ve secured her to the family before it was toote.

    It was his fault for being so absorbed in what he saw before him.

    ¡®It¡¯s not toote even now. No, I¡¯mte. I¡¯m toote!¡¯

    The more he calmed his mind, the more confused he became instead.

    Suddenly, he remembered the look Leticia gave Xavier and him on his way out of the Achilles mansion.

    Immediately after being emunicated, her bitter and sentimental eyes turned into disappointment and despair, but now it showed nothing at all. Rather, she seemed like a stranger, who didn¡¯t even want to bother looking at them.

    ¡®No, I have to bring her back somehow.¡¯

    He¡¯d managed to do everything in his power for his sake and for the family¡¯s sake. He didn¡¯t have the time to hesitate any longer.

    Emil came to his senses, and stood up to go meet Marquis Leroy. He needed to visit his father so they could talk about the situation, and discuss how to bring Leticia back.

    Unfortunately, as soon as he stepped into the hall he met Diana, and not Marquis Leroy.

    ¡°I thought you¡¯d stay in your room longer. I guess you¡¯re feeling better now.¡±

    There was no way that he didn¡¯t know that she was talking about him failing the Imperial Civil Service exam.

    He could feel the anger rising up, but Emil tried hard to hold it in and walked past Diana. No, he tried to walk past her.

    ¡°Hey, you¡¯ve got to do better than that. Don¡¯t you understand Father¡¯s expectations for you?¡±

    ¡°What did you say?¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t Irene run away from home without dealing with the consequences of her cheating, and then Xavier only ced second in the Swordsmanship tournament.¡±

    ¡°Sister.¡±

    ¡°Of course, you should¡¯ve done better.¡±

    Emil didn¡¯t evenugh at Diana¡¯s crossed arms and her haughtily raised chin.

    ¡°You think you can lecture me when all you can do is make it rain flowers.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°What right do you have to say that to me?¡±

    The Marquis and Marquess always used to say this to him and his younger siblings. The reason why this family flourished and had outstanding abilities was thanks to Diana, their second child.

    Ever since Diana was born, everything went noticeably well. So, their father and mother had always thanked Diana and told them countless times to treat her well. Perhaps that¡¯s why she always received special treatment, even though her unique ability was so useless.

    Thinking about it now, it seemed to be Leticia¡¯s ability that allowed their mother, who was told she was too sickly to conceive anymore, to be healthy enough to give birth to Irene.

    ¡®Then, my eldest sister for a long time¡­¡¯

    It meant she¡¯d been awakened.

    Before Diana was ever born, whether it was business or health, all of it was slowly getting better.

    It just didn¡¯t stand out.

    ¡®I need to hurry up. I need to have a meeting with my father and tell him the situation.¡¯

    Emil passed Diana with a face that had paled with the new truths he¡¯d just realized. However, Diana followed him and pulled on his arm violently.

    ¡°Hey, Emil Leroy. We aren¡¯t done talking.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have time to talk to you right now. Let me go.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll only ignore so much. Say it again. Would you like to repeat what you were saying about my ability?¡±

    Emil tried to ignore her, but the more he did, the more persistently Diana held onto him and stared belligerently.

    Eventually, Emil couldn¡¯t stand it anymore, and spit out everything that he¡¯d been holding in.

    ¡°How long are you going to rely on your flower rain?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Where in the world can you use it? Festivals? Weddings? Maybe a tea party?¡±

    ¡°Hey, you¡­¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it embarrassing that you¡¯re lecturing me about abilities?¡±

    It was something he could never say because he was always told to be nice to Diana.

    Diana had touched a nerve, and he felt relieved after he burst out with everything he¡¯d been holding in until now.

    However, Diana¡¯s face turned blue.

    ¡°You¡­ Are you finished?¡±

    ¡°So, should I avoid saying unpleasant things when I mean them?¡±

    Emil turned away in annoyance, with a face that showed no sign of regret. He didn¡¯t have time to care about Diana¡¯s feelings right now.

    He started to go down the stairs towards the Marquis¡¯ office. Behind him, he heard the sound of footsteps rushing quickly towards him.

    ¡°Apologize.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Apologize before you leave!¡±

    She gripped him tightly, and didn¡¯t seem to want to let him go until he apologized.

    Emil pushed Diana¡¯s hand away with a tired look.

    ¡°Just let it go.¡±

    ¡°What? Aren¡¯t you ashamed? Don¡¯t act like you know everything!¡±

    ¡°Let go¡­¡±

    While struggling on the stairs, Diana roughly pushed Emil¡¯s chest, and the shove tilted his body off center. Emil tried to grab the stair railing, but his body was already falling backwards.

    ¡°Huh¡­?¡±

    Instinctively, he reached out to Diana. Far from helping, Diana just stood there in shock with a puzzled look on her face.

    ¡®I don¡¯t have time for this¡­¡¯

    As he was thinking that he needed to quickly visit his father, he plummeted down the stairs.

    Then it all went dark.

 Chapter 79 - When Weâ€™re Together, We Bring Good Luck

    <h4>Chapter 79 - When We¡¯re Together, We Bring Good Luck</h4>

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it amazing?¡±

    It was a sunny afternoon, just right for a tea party. The countess had organized a tea party with only a few noble women, and said this carefully.

    The other nobledies didn¡¯t understand what she was saying, and asked with a strange look.

    ¡°What¡¯s amazing?¡±

    ¡°It rained first on Lord Achilles territory.¡±

    Strangely, it rained a few dayster as the other nobles followed the duke¡¯s example, and toured their respective territories.

    It may just be an exquisite coincidence, but there has been constant good news from the Achilles family this year.

    ¡°Only good things have happened to them this year.¡±

    ¡°Are you talking about how he finally became a knight to the Imperial family?¡±

    ¡°Miss Achilles¡¯ new business selling to youngdies did well too.¡±

    ¡°Young master Achilles¡¯ even became an Imperial official.¡±

    ¡°Come to think of it, it¡¯s really fascinating.¡±

    Everyone nodded in agreement.

    A baroness, who was quietly drinking her tea, said with a slightly ufortable look.

    ¡°But there were nobles who copsed at their partyst time¡­¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s right. That did happen.¡±

    All the nobles knew that Duke Achilles was banned from entering the pce for a while because of this.

    ¡°There¡¯s gossip around that too¡­¡±

    ¡°Oh, my. What¡¯s that?¡±

    ¡°In fact, all of the aristocrats that copsed¡­¡±

    They all owned Rose Velvet diamonds.

    Surprised by the words the countess whispered quietly, thedies gasped and looked around in shock.

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s true, there are rumors that the miners who worked at the mine copsed in a simr way.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my. Oh, my goodness. If that¡¯s true, weren¡¯t they falsely used?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, so we¡¯ll have to wait and see.¡±

    On the surface, the Leroy family was still in good shape, so everyone decided to be cautious about what they said.

    At that time, one of thedies said something that she suddenly remembered.

    ¡°In that sense, the Leroy family is amazing too.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on with the Leroy family?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve heard any good newstely.¡±

    ¡°The children of that family are all talented, what could be going on?¡±

    Knowledge, swordsmanship, and magic, it was a family that had three geniuses that they could be proud of. There was even a joke that Marquis Leroy was loved by God because all of the businesses he touched were sessful.

    ¡°Wasn¡¯t the young master famous for being a genius?¡±

    ¡°He was very famous, since before he was ten years old. I was eager to see him pass the Imperial exam.¡±

    ¡°But he failed to be an Imperial official¡­¡±

    ¡°I thought he would pass, but I was really surprised to hear that he failed.¡±

    ¡°Did he really fail?¡±

    ¡°Really? I didn¡¯t know, but something must have happened.¡±

    Everyone thought that Emil Leroy would¡¯ve passed the Imperial Civil Service exam.

    However, when he fell short of expectations, the nobles wondered what was going on.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t the young master, who was talented in swordsmanship,e in second ce during the tournament?

    ¡°It¡¯s a pity that he didn¡¯t get first ce, but he did win second ce.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The youngest daughter, who was attending the Academy of Magic, left the house.¡±

    ¡°Oh my, I hadn¡¯t heard that. She left the house?¡±

    ¡°She dropped out of the academy and moved into her uncle¡¯s house.¡±

    ¡°There must be something going on for her to drop out of the magic academy.¡±

    ¡°Are they having a lot of bad luck this year? I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve heard of anything good happening.¡±

    Everyone was gossiping about the unexpected news.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s punishment.¡±

    ¡°Punishment?¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t make sense that you can abandon your biological child and then do well.¡±

    Among the constantly flowing conversations, the main issue by far was the news that Marquis Leroy had emunicated his eldest daughter, Leticia Leroy.

    Some people understood how much of a failure a daughter would have to be for her to be expelled, but many people still thought that abandoning a child was out of the question.

    ¡°I heard this from my husband.¡±

    During the conversation, a viscountess read the atmosphere, and said.

    ¡°This is what I heard Count Aster had said ¡®Everytime I¡¯m with the young miss, who was expelled from the Leroy family, good things happened.¡¯¡±

    ¡°Oh, I heard that too.¡±

    There was once a rumor that Leticia¡¯s ability was to cause misfortune. However, Count Aster quickly stomped out that rumor and erased them from memory.

    ¡°It seems that Countess Aster is in good health thanks to that girl. And this is a bit strange¡­¡±

    ¡°What is it? Hurry up and tell us.¡±

    The viscountess wondered aloud if she should continue. The otherdies, who were listening intently, urged her to quickly speak.

    Eventually, she pretended that she couldn¡¯t win and told them everything that she¡¯d heard from her husband.

    ¡°They¡¯re saying that the pink diamonds, which haven¡¯t been seen in decades, came out thanks to her.¡±

    ¡°What? Does that even make sense?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°But I can¡¯t confirm that it¡¯s not true. Hasn¡¯t only good things happened since she became a member of the Achilles family?¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    At the end, everyone looked at the Countess with questioning expressions. In response, the countess couldn¡¯t hide her embarrassment and spoke as if she was making excuses.

    ¡°Come to think of it, whenever something good happened to the Achilles family, I think she was there.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I heard.¡±

    ¡°These days, more and more aristocrats are willing to invest in the pink diamond mine.¡±

    ¡°My parents also tried to invest, but Duke Achilles refused.¡±

    ¡°But isn¡¯t Count Aster investing?¡±

    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s because Duke Achilles and Count Aster have a special rtionship.¡±

    Before they knew it, the conversation shifted to the banquet at the Imperial Pce that was held around this time of year. It was always dazzling, colorful and luxurious, making it the most anticipated party for the nobles.

    However, thedies were distracted by something else.

    ¡®Good things happen when you¡¯re around her? No way.¡¯

    Knowing what rumors were being spread about Leticia, thedies scoffed and continued to gracefully drink their tea.

    However, as soon as they returned to their respective homes, they were busy asking around if Leticia was nning on attending the Imperial banquet.

    ***

    A few dayster, the meeting that Leticia had wanted to avoid the most had arrived. It was the day she¡¯s supposed to have an audience with the Emperor.

    On the day of the Imperial banquet, Leticia stood in front of the audience chamber¡¯s doors. She bit her lip because she couldn¡¯t refuse the golden invitation she¡¯d received.

    She was already nervous, but when she thought of an unexpected problem, a sigh escaped her.

    ¡®What do they mean¡­¡¯

    Since she¡¯d toured the territory with Enoch, she thought it was only natural that they would enter the room together. However, she was told she needed to enter alone, and she had a strong feeling that this was unusual.

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    Enoch grabbed Leticia¡¯s trembling hand and looked her in the eyes.

    ¡°It¡¯ll be okay.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    Leticia squeezed Enoch¡¯s hand, and lowered her eyes. She didn¡¯t want to let go, but she had no choice and had to put his hand down.

    ¡°Will you wait for me?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    Leticia felt more rxed after Enoch nodded, then she exhaled and entered the audience chamber.

    After taking just a step or two inside, she felt strangely stuffy and suffocated. As she walked impatiently, she saw the Emperor sittingfortably on his throne, silently watching her.

    As soon as she made eye contact with him, Leticia slightly lifted the hem of her dress and bowed.

    ¡°I see the Great Sun of the Empire. I¡¯m Leticia¡­¡±

    She hesitated, but soon she calmly continued her greeting.

    ¡°¡­Aster. It¡¯s an honor to meet you.¡±

    Fortunately, her voice didn¡¯t tremble, but her mouth felt dry from his intense gaze.

    ¡°Please sitfortably.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Your Imperial Majesty¡±

    The Emperor looked curiously at Leticia and pointed to the chair in front of him. Leticia hesitated, then calmly sat down.

    The Emperor spoke, as if he¡¯d been waiting.

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard a lot about you. You even made it rain?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    ¡°Seios has been worried about youtely.¡±

    After hearing that, Leticia recognized what he meant.

    ¡®Already¡­¡¯

    She knew it wasn¡¯t a coincidence.

    Leticia barely held back a sigh and lowered her eyes. Even though she¡¯d already expected it, she felt her heart sink.

    She kept thinking about itst night.

    Should she hide the secret that couldn¡¯t be hidden forever, or should she just tell him? No matter how hard she thought about it, she couldn¡¯t find the right answer.

    ¡®At any rate.¡¯

    Leticia knew quite well that she couldn¡¯t hide it forever. Even if she was lucky enough to escape this moment, it was clear that from now on the Emperor¡¯s eyes would be on her, and he would be watching her for a long time.

    Leticia forced herself to remain calm andposed, then she answered him.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but it was Duke Achilles¡¯ idea to tour around his territory.¡±

    ¡°But it was the youngdy¡¯s ability that made it rain.¡±

    ¡°Your Imperial Majesty¡­¡±

    ¡°So, you do admit that it was your ability?¡±

    He already knew, so there was no point in hiding it anymore. In the end, Leticia was forced to nod and agree.

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s correct.¡±

    ¡°Can you tell us what you¡¯re capable of?¡±

    He seemed to know everything, but wanted to make sure. Although he seemed to be smoothly asking for permission, she knew that she had no choice but to answer.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be so nervous. I didn¡¯t call the youngdy to punish her.¡±

    ¡°Your Imperial Majesty¡­¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe that a person, who will be a noble of the empire, thinks they will be punished instead of rewarded. Of course, I will highly evaluate Duke Achilles¡¯ actions and give him an award separately.¡±

    She was proud that Enoch¡¯s good deeds would be recognized in his eyes.

    For a while, Leticia thought about how it would affect her if she confessed honestly about her ability.

    The Emperor seemed to already know what she was capable of, but her saying it was meaningful because she¡¯d be admitting it to herself as well.

    ¡°I make good things happen around me, so I might be able to help in the future.¡±

    It was better for the both of them to stay on good terms.

    She didn¡¯t know exactly how to use her ability yet, but it was clear that the Emperor would need her.

    ¡°From what I¡¯ve heard from Seios, my ability is ¡®Luck¡¯.¡±

    She answered him honestly, without hiding any of it.

    ¡°Luck?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I was told I bring good luck to the people around me.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s an amazing skill. I can¡¯t believe you have an ability that brings luck.¡±

    The Emperorughed out loud with an amused expression, as he gently stroked his chin.

    ¡°What reward would you like to receive?¡±

    He was willing to listen to anything.

    Leticia had been waiting for those words. She thought it would be okay, but when she tried to say it, she hesitated and fell silent.

    No matter how much she thought about it, the reward she wanted to receive didn¡¯t change.

    ¡°Then, I¡­¡±

    ***

    ¡°Did you wait for a long time?¡±

    As soon as the meeting with the Emperor was over, Leticia exited the audience chambers, and found Enoch leaning against a pir. As she approached him, a bright smile spread across her face.

    Enoch was worried about Leticia until she walked out. He tilted his head in confusion at Leticia¡¯s unexpectedly cheerful appearance.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    When she¡¯d entered the room, her face looked like she was going to die. It was strange how sheughed so pleasantly now.

    However, Leticia tugged on Enoch¡¯s hand without answering.

    ¡°Probably.¡±

    She was so happy that she couldn¡¯t stop a smile from spreading across her face. She knew that Enoch was looking at her suspiciously, but Leticia couldn¡¯t answer until afterwards.

    All she could do was wait for the Imperial banquet to be held soon.

 Chapter 80 - Iâ€™m So Proud Of You

    <h4>Chapter 80 - I¡¯m So Proud Of You</h4>

    ¡°How could Emil get hurt? How did this happen?¡±

    As soon as he entered the mansion, Marquis Leroy started to shout at the news that came out of the blue. The Marquis asked what happened, while sat at Emil¡¯s bedside and held his hand.

    ¡°He was found lying at the bottom of the stairs. We think he fell down the stairs, but thankfully Diana found him, otherwise it could¡¯ve been much worse for him.¡±

    Fortunately, only his leg was broken, and there didn¡¯t seem to be a problem anywhere else. Still, the doctor advised that they should be careful, and it was best that he rest for a few days.

    ¡°You don¡¯t know how long he was looking for you before he fell asleep.¡±

    The Marquess shook her head, and clicked her tongue.

    She had to force Emil to take some medicine because he tried to stay awake until he returned. Now he wasfortably asleep, but sometimes called out to the Marquis and talked in his sleep.

    ¡°Well¡­This means you can¡¯t attend the Imperial banquet today.¡±

    ¡°Yes, we can¡¯t both leave, so you can attend.¡±

    The Marquess thought it would be morefortable for Emil if she stayed to nurse him. Marquis Leroy sighed and nodded reluctantly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t push yourself too hard, Madame.¡±

    Marquis Leroy got up from his seat and left Emil¡¯s room to get ready for the banquet. He found Diana snooping just outside the door.

    ¡°Are you worried about Emil?¡±

    ¡°What? Oh, yes¡­¡±

    Diana faltered in surprise. However, Marquis Leroy failed to notice, and only looked at Diana happily.

    ¡°It¡¯s great that you¡¯re worried about your younger brother.¡±

    ¡°Well, he is my brother¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you found Emil after he fell.¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­¡±

    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be standing around, you need to start getting ready for the banquet.¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes!¡±

    As if she¡¯d been waiting for that, Diana quickly left.

    Marquis Leroy looked at her strangely, then he gave a shallow sigh, and returned to his room.

    ***

    As soon as he entered the banquet hall, many nobles were already enjoying the party. The walls and floor were glittering with tinum work, and therge statues overwhelmed the eyes.

    However, Xavier couldn¡¯t enjoy the banquet alone. No, he couldn¡¯t enjoy it at all.

    ¡°Oh my, Miss Leroy. Do you remember me? I said hello at the party held at the Achilles mansionst time.¡±

    As soon as Leticia entered the banquet hall, nobles began to flock to her. There were so many people around his eldest sister, who had never received this much attention before, no matter how many banquets she attended. It was so unusual that he had trouble watching.

    ¡°Of course I remember, but I didn¡¯t introduce myself properly. My name is Leticia Aster.¡±

    The most unusual thing was the fact that she introduced herself as ¡®Aster¡¯, and not ¡®Leroy¡¯.

    She said ¡®Leticia Aster¡¯ so naturally too, as if she didn¡¯t want to be rted to her family anymore.

    ¡°Ah¡­ I was rude, I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    The youngdy, who was trying to approach Leticia and be acquainted, apologized with an awkward expression.

    As Xavier watched Leticia, he hardened at the distance she was putting between them.

    ¡®We¡¯re not even family anymore. Is it something like that?¡±

    No matter how hard it was, it must be something like that. He didn¡¯t think she had to say it like that. He felt betrayed by Leticia, who he always thought of as a kind and gentle person.

    Then someone approached Xavier from behind.

    ¡°I don¡¯t see Emil, did something happen?¡±

    It was Levion, who was wearing a dazzling white uniform. Levion looked at Xavier curiously because he was alone.

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    Xavier hesitated for a moment, then replied with a shallow sigh.

    ¡°He was injured and is resting at the mansion.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean? How?¡±

    ¡°I guess he fell down the stairs.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±

    It was surprising that Emil, who was always smart and cautious, would fall down the stairs so carelessly.

    Levion clicked his tongue briefly, then looked at Xavier and asked worriedly.

    ¡°Is that why you didn¡¯t look too happy?¡±

    ¡°No, there¡¯s that too¡­ Lately, I¡¯m bothered by something my brother mentioned.¡±

    Xavier turned his head slightly and recalled the conversation he¡¯d had with Emilst time.

    [If there¡¯s an ability to cause misfortune. On the other hand, there should be an ability to bring good fortune]

    Obviously, Emil had asked for a reason. When he¡¯d said that, Xavier had replied ¡®I guess so?¡¯

    ¡®Come to think of it, wasn¡¯t my eldest sister kicked out because it was said she had an ability like that?¡¯

    For some reason, he felt like Emil was talking about Leticia. However, he didn¡¯t understand why he¡¯d asked such a question.

    ¡®Wait, if what he said was about my eldest sister is true¡­ He was implying she had the ability to bring good luck.¡¯

    Was it really about his eldest sister?

    Now that he¡¯d thought of the idea, even though he knew it was ridiculous, it was difficult for him to let it go.

    ¡®Maybe my brother asked for no particr reason.¡¯

    That was doubtful though because he knew well that Emil was a person who always had a reason for what he did.

    Then Xavier suddenly remembered something and carefully asked Levion.

    ¡°Do you know what my sister¡¯s ability is?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know either. I¡¯m sure she has an ability, but I don¡¯t know what it is.¡±

    Seeing that Great Sage met with Leticia at Achilles¡¯ mansion, something must have happened.

    At that moment, Xavier spoke with a dark expression.

    ¡°I know it doesn¡¯t make sense, but do you think my sister¡¯s ability might be good luck?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Well, Emil seemed to think so.¡±

    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have mentioned an ability to bring good luck that day.

    Before Levion could answer, the Emperor entered the hall. He began with a light speech to thank the nobles who attended the Imperial banquet.

    The Emperor seemed to be wrapping up his speech, when he suddenly called out to Marquis Leroy and Duke Achilles.

    ¡°I heard that something unpleasant happened between the two of you recently.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure what you mean, your Imperial Majesty.¡±

    The Marquis told the Emperor, while he nced at Enoch with an uncertain expression.

    As much as he disliked Enoch, there wasn¡¯t anything in particr about him that he could say he hated.

    ¡°I heard your sons went on a rampage inside the Achilles mansion.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Marquis Leroy hurriedly looked back at Xavier, who looked frightened as his shoulders drooped. He almost shouted out that it was impossible, but he managed to hold it in.

    The Emperor looked away from the Marquis and turned his gaze towards Leticia. As soon as their eyes met, he remembered the conversation that had taken ce in the audience room.

    [I want an official apology.]

    [Who are you talking about?]

    When he told her that she could receive a reward, the Emperor had expected her to ask for material wealth. However, he was surprised when she asked to receive an apology.

    Leticia then exined exactly what she wanted.

    The Marquis¡¯ sons, young master Emil Leroy and young master Xavier Leroy, had entered the Achilles mansion and caused a disturbance. She wanted to see Marquis Leroy officially apologize to the Duke of Achilles for not properly educating his sons.

    Simr to the rumors the Emperor had heard, Leticia thought of others before her own interests.

    ¡°The higher the position, the more important etiquette is, the more respectful the person needs to act.¡±

    He meant that if you are an honorable nobleman, you should properly acknowledge and ept your mistakes.

    The nobles began to whisper, and ask each other about what was going on. At their tant gazes, Marquis Leroy¡¯s face flushed with shame and humiliation. He wanted to retreat, but he knew that if he did so he¡¯d cause unnecessary trouble for himself and could incur the Emperor¡¯s ire.

    In the end, he only had one option.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Duke Achilles. Because I didn¡¯t educate my children properly, they acted foolishly.¡±

    The Marquis bowed as he apologized politely. He never imagined there woulde a day when he¡¯d have to apologize in such a manner in front of a crowd.

    ¡°I¡¯ll ept your apology this time.¡±

    Marquis Leroy bristled at the sight of Enoch¡¯s patronizing nod.

    Xavier paled as watched the scene, and he decided to leave first.

    When the official apology ended, the performers began to y music again, and the nobles began to dance one by one.

    Marquis Leroy fiercely gritted his teeth, and left to find Xavier. Enoch sighed when he saw this. Then he felt a presence approach him, and held his hand out with hesitation.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you have a lot to say.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why¡­¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t look straight at Enoch, so she looked down at his hand.

    He didn¡¯t think they would be able to have a proper conversation where they currently were, so Enoch quietly led Leticia away from the banquet hall.

    ***

    It was alreadyte at night. Unlike Enoch, who was sitting near the garden fountain, Leticia hesitated in front of him and looked down at him.

    ¡°Did you feel burdened?¡±

    Her careful tone showed signs of nervousness. When there was no immediate answer, Leticia¡¯s shoulders drooped.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t know you¡¯d feel ufortable.¡±

    ¡°It was cool.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°It was so cool.¡±

    Enoch knew better than anyone else that people were ming him for the aristocrats copsing at the party held at the Achilles mansion. When things were resolved, he was going to demand a formal apology from Emil and Xavier for entering his home without permission.

    Before he could do so, Leticia was able to request the apology first, which raised his position and reputation. She also protected his pride and self-esteem.

    ¡®When did you change like this?¡¯

    Enoch looked up, while holding Leticia¡¯s hand tightly.

    He always thought that he was the one who protected, and that he was the only one who could keep her safe.

    He wanted to protect Leticia so that she would never shed tears. She always seemed soft and meek to him and would cry over the smallest thing.

    However, it was all an illusion. Leticia had enough power to protect herself and the people around her.

    ¡®When did she grow like this?¡¯

    She cared about him, and defended him.

    ¡°I fell in love with you all over again.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you.¡±

    He couldn¡¯t believe that such a wonderful and proud person had be his. He didn¡¯t think he¡¯d lived very well, and he wondered if he deserved to be so lucky.

    ¡°That¡¯s a relief.¡±

    At Enoch¡¯s words, Leticia smiled in relief and gently bowed her head.

    It was the first time in her life that someone said they were proud of her.

    Leticia had grown up in a family who always ignored her and felt ashamed of her. It felt strange and familiar. The way he looked at her, like she was the loveliest person, somehow made her want to cry.

    More than the confession of love, she felt her heart fill with joy at his words of approval.

    ¡°How?¡±

    Did this persone to me?

    Leticia lowered her hand, and touched Enoch¡¯s cheek.

    His dark grey eyes, which only looked at her with affection, were clear and unwavering today.

    ¡°I thought I was the only one who fell in love.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not true.¡±

    ¡°If you keep saying such cute things, I¡¯ll want to adore you more.¡±

    ¡°I wish I could love you more.¡±

    When Leticia lightly stroked his cheek, Enoch ced a kiss on Leticia¡¯s palm, as if he was asking for more of her touch. The feeling was unfamiliar, and it made Leticia shiver, but she didn¡¯t want to avoid it.

    ¡°You¡¯re wonderful enough.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s still not enough.¡±

 Chapter 81 - You Have To Bring Good Luck

    <h4>Chapter 81 - You Have To Bring Good Luck</h4>

    ¡°How should I take care of you?¡±

    Leticia smiled and asked Enoch, who only showed that rxed face in front of her.

    Enoch had been kissing the palm of her hand, and smiled smoothly.

    ¡°Please take care of me whatever way you like.¡±

    ¡°Yeah¡­ In that case¡­¡±

    Leticia fumbled over her words, and slowly lowered her head. The moment Enoch looked at her curiously, he felt the soft touch of her lips on his cheek. It was so gentle, that it felt like a petal gently caressed him.

    As soon as he raised his head, his gaze intertwined with Leticia, who was smiling brightly.

    ¡°Like this?¡±

    For all her insolence, Leticia¡¯s face was as calm and unconcerned as she acted recklessly.

    He felt like he was being pushed around by Leticia all the time. Enoch raised his eyebrows a little, but even in the dark of night he saw the tips of Leticia¡¯s ears turn red.

    He was annoyed by her pretending to be calm, so Enoch grinned.

    ¡°But it¡¯s not enough.¡±

    ¡°Then¡­¡±

    After hesitating for a while, Leticia exhaled as if she had made up her mind and slowly bent down.

    He thought she was going to kiss the other cheek, but suddenly she sat on Enoch¡¯sp, and his eyes widened in disbelief.

    ¡°Are you satisfied with this?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Enoch was dizzied by the fact that she went so far as to sit on hisp.

    Without knowing what to do, her small warmth and the weight on hisp felt so good that he burst out into a smile.

    ¡°Where did you learn how to do such a mean thing?¡±

    ¡°Oh, I just wanted to do it¡­¡±

    Enoch almost chuckled in wonder when she said it was because she wanted to.

    However, he held it in and lightly touched Leticia¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t do this with anyone else. Otherwise, I¡¯ll be jealous.¡±

    Just the thought of her being this loving with someone else made his head burn.

    Leticia gave a smallugh, and hugged Enoch around the waist.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to do this with anyone, but you.¡±

    All the time she spent with him was so precious to her, she really couldn¡¯t imagine being with anyone other than Enoch.

    Until now, Leticia didn¡¯t think she¡¯d ever get back as much as she gave of her heart. However, Enoch always cared for her, treated her preciously, and had shown her how happy a rtionship of mutual love could be.

    Hoping that her heart could touch him even a little, Leticia tried to be honest with him.

    However, she became so ustomed to rejection and denial that her speed of moving forward slowed down significantly. She worried that he¡¯d feel frustrated at her, but not once did he reprimanded her or pitied her. In fact, he always encouraged her, and waited patiently.

    ¡®How can I not like this person?¡¯

    This person who cared about her ceaselessly.

    Even at this moment, Leticia shook her head slowly because she was embarrassed by the adoration in his eyes.

    She touched his hands with both of hers, as if she were joking around, but then she stiffened. Enoch immediately noticed and looked down as if he was wondering why.

    ¡°I can¡¯t see your ring. Where is it?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t see the engagement ring on his left ring finger.

    She felt betrayed and looked at him with an expression asking him to exin himself. Enoch unbuttoned the top of his shirt. Even before she could be surprised and ask what he was doing, she could see a ne around his neck.

    Enoch calmly untied his ne, handed it to Leticia, and said.

    ¡°I wear it on a ne during training.¡±

    The silver ne was looped through a ring with the same design as Leticia¡¯s.

    Leticia, who was disappointed when she thought she was the only one wearing it, smiled brightly and put the ring on Enoch¡¯s finger.

    It seemed perfect atst, and a self-satisfied smile spread across her face.

    ¡°Next time, it¡¯ll be a wedding ring.¡¯

    As soon as he thought of that, Leticia spoke in a calm flowing voice.

    ¡°I want to get married in the spring.¡±

    ¡°Spring would be nice. Our first meeting was also in the spring¡­ What?¡±

    Enoch, who was amazed, paused and grabbed Leticia¡¯s hand, which was so much smaller than his own.

    He thought he¡¯d heard her wrong, and blinked silently. He could see Leticia¡¯s face getting redder and hotter.

    ¡°Did you just say marriage?¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­ You talked about a bouquetst time.¡±

    He was wondering what she was talking about, then he remembered a conversation from a while ago.

    [What¡¯s your favourite flower?]

    [I¡¯m going to make a bouquet with my favourite flowers.]

    It was the truth, wrapped up in a joke. Enoch didn¡¯t expect to hear those words again, and froze in ce.

    Leticia¡¯s expression drooped as she watched Enoch¡¯s face.

    ¡°If I¡¯m too ahead of myself¡­¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s not that. I like things fast¡­ No, I¡¯m not saying that.¡±

    Really, this was making him crazy.

    Before he knew it, his mind had gone nk, and Enoch couldn¡¯t figure out what to say. If he could, he wanted to go somewhere to catch his breath for a moment and calm down.

    But he couldn¡¯t do that, because he didn¡¯t want to move Leticia, who was sitting on hisp looking up at him.

    Eventually, Enoch covered his face.

    ¡°Are you sick?¡±

    ¡°¡­I¡¯m not.¡±

    ¡°Why are you covering your face?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    There was no answer back.

    She was worried for a while that he was really sick, but she noticed that the tips of his ears had turned red. Only then did Leticia realize that Enoch was embarrassed.

    She was always shy herself, so she didn¡¯t realize that Enoch would be shy too. He looked cute, and she had the urge to tease him.

    ¡°Shall we decide what to call each other before we get married?¡±

    [How about we decide on what we¡¯ll call each other first?]

    The night when they went on the tour of thend, they introduced themselves as a couple and had no choice but to use one room. Leticia returned exactly what he said to her.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t¡­¡±

    Enoch said in frustration, still hiding his face.

    However, Leticia wasn¡¯t done teasing him.

    ¡°I want to call you ¡®Honey¡¯.¡±

    [I want to call you ¡®wife¡¯.]

    Enoch had no idea that he would get a response like this, and his face was hot. At that moment, Leticia grabbed Enoch¡¯s wrist and began to kiss the back of his hand with little pecks.

    When he felt her soft lips, he couldn¡¯t take it anymore. No, he didn¡¯t want to hold it in.

    Before he knew it, Enoch lowered his hand and gently nuzzled the side of Leticia¡¯s neck.

    ¡°I feel like you¡¯re always testing me.¡±

    ¡°Enoch¡­¡±

    ¡°I feel like I¡¯m going crazy.¡±

    She looked up at him, while ying innocent. He was happy to y along with her act, to the point where he wanted to be swayed by her.

    ¡°I love you.¡±

    So that she would tell him.

    ¡°I love you, Leticia.¡±

    So that he could be closer to her.

    Enoch was looking at Leticia as if he was urging her. He touched her lips with his fingertips and whispered. His eyes were sweet, but his hands became more insistent.

    Leticia was embarrassed by his gaze, but she wasn¡¯t scared. Rather, she was overwhelmed by his desire to be closer and touch her.

    ¡°I love you too.¡±

    ¡°One more time.¡±

    ¡°I love you, Enoch.¡±

    It was only today that she realized that hearing ¡®I love you¡¯ and saying ¡®I love you¡¯ back gave her a great sense of satisfaction. Furthermore, the fact that it was Enoch made her happy beyond words.

    ¡°I love you more, Leticia.¡±

    As they became so close that they were reflected in each other¡¯s eyes. Leticia couldn¡¯t stand the embarrassment and slowly closed her eyes. The soft intertwining of their breath and the feel of his lips was unfamiliar, so she grabbed Enoch¡¯s hard forearm.

    At that flimsy yet lovely touch, Enoch couldn¡¯t help but smile, as he kissed Leticia¡¯s lips. It went by too quickly.

    ¡°E-Enoch¡­¡±

    Perhaps it was too much, as a sobbing voice flowed from her lips. Enoch managed to suppress his greed, smiled pleasantly, and hugged Leticia. As he thought¡­

    ¡®I wish tonight was a little longer.¡¯

    ***

    ¡°You step through that ill-fated family¡¯s doors, and act like that!¡±

    [I thought you were ignoring me because I¡¯m a duke.]

    [Yeah. Don¡¯t overdo it. You made us feel ufortable for no reason.]

    Marquis Leroy eventually returned to his mansion, too embarrassed by the disgrace he¡¯d suffered in front of all of the nobles.

    As soon as the Marquis arrived at the mansion he began shouting. Xavier, who¡¯d been waiting for him, hastily said.

    ¡°Father, that¡¯s not the problem right now. Eldest sister¡­¡±

    ¡°How long are you going to keep acting like a child?¡±

    Xavier backed up as Marquis Leroy approached him threateningly as if he was going to hit him. But now that Emil had copsed, he thought he was the only one who could tell him about Leticia¡¯s ability.

    However, the Marquis was too angry, and seemed to have no intention of listening to him.

    ¡°First, listen to what I have to say and¡­¡±

    Despite the urgency in his voice, the Marquis didn¡¯t spare him a single nce. Instead, he tantly ignored him and walked past him. The Marquis went straight to Emil¡¯s room, as Xavier tried to catch up to him.

    .

    .

    .

    Marquis Leroy entered Emil¡¯s room, sat on the bench and sighed deeply.

    It was disappointing that he¡¯d failed to be an Imperial official, but he was still worried because he had the highest expectations for him.

    Then Emil¡¯s eyebrows quivered and he slowly woke up. His hazy eyes became clearer as he realized that the Marquis was sitting next to him.

    ¡°Father¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you feeling okay? How could you fall down the stairs so carelessly?¡±

    ¡°That was Diana¡­ No, that¡¯s not important right now.¡±

    In a hurry, Emil quickly sat up. Marquis Leroy couldn¡¯t convince him to just lie down and rest.

    Emil leaned against the headboard, and grabbed the Marquis¡¯ arm.

    ¡°Eldest sister, you have to bring her back!¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    As soon as he woke up, he begged him to bring back the emunicated Leticia.

    Marquis Leroy worried that Emil may have seriously injured his head, and not just his leg.

    ¡°I think it might be a good idea to get another diagnosis from the doctor¡­¡±

    ¡°Eldest sister¡¯s ability is luck.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    He didn¡¯t understand what he was saying, so he stared nkly, and Emil shouted in frustration.

    ¡°It¡¯s too long to exin! First, we need to bring my eldest sister back!¡±

 Chapter 82 - The Person Who Threw It Away Can Also Be Thrown Away

    <h4>Chapter 82 - The Person Who Threw It Away Can Also Be Thrown Away</h4>

    [I know it doesn¡¯t make sense, but do you think my sister¡¯s ability might be good luck?]

    Despite the huge party in front of him, all he could hear was what Xavier had said.

    ¡®Leticia¡¯s ability is good luck?¡¯

    He already knew that Leticia had awakened, but he hadn¡¯t found out what the ability was yet. Nevertheless, Levion wasn¡¯t in a hurry because it was only a matter of time until he found out.

    However, he never imagined that he would find out this way.

    ¡®I have to meet Leticia right away.¡¯

    Levion quickly went in search of her. Fortunately, or unfortunately, he found her as she entered the banquet hall. She was talking to Enoch, and then he walked away.

    He didn¡¯t want to miss this chance, so Levion quickly approached Leticia. However, she felt his presence before he could speak and she turned around.

    ¡°What is it this time?¡±

    She wore an expression that said she was ufortable with even looking at him. Levion bit his lip as he became angry at the horrible treatment he was receiving.

    Leticia sighed as she quietly watched him.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t have anything to say, I¡¯ll be on my way.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯ll only take a moment¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you that desperate for attention?¡±

    As she was about to turn away, Levion tried to talk to her. However, Leticia cut him off, as if she didn¡¯t even want to hear them.

    ¡°It¡¯s not as hard to ignore you as it used to be.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    A calm voice that spoke matter-of-factly, without a hint of doubt.

    Levion felt suffocated by her dismissive attitude. He wanted to cling to her just to make her angry.

    ¡°I, I mean¡­¡±

    He had something to say.

    As soon as he faced that emotionless gaze, his mind nked out, and he stammered.

    He barely managed to calm down, and get the words out.

    ¡°Sorry.¡±

    She was the apple of his eyes.

    But Leticia just stared at him silently. Levion felt apprehensive about her appearance, and his words gradually increased in speed.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I ignored you, and made you feel pathetic. I regret what I did and I¡¯ve been doing a lot of self-reflection.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t make any excuses because it¡¯s all my fault.¡±

    He apologized and hoped that his heart would be conveyed to Leticia.

    However, she didn¡¯t even pretend to listen to him. Rather, she showed signs of difort at his intense gaze.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s something you should be saying right now.¡±

    Leticia neither epted, or refused the apology, and just turned away. As she started to move away, Levion grabbed her wrist to stop her.

    ¡°Wait!¡±

    ¡°Please stop.¡±

    Leticia nced around at the people around them. Then nobles were curious about what the two, who¡¯ve already broken off their engagement, were talking about.

    However, Levion was too distracted by Leticia to take notice.

    ¡°Be honest. Is your ability really good luck?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    He couldn¡¯t work up to asking about the main topic, and had to just ask her. Leticia didn¡¯t answer this time, and just looked down at the hand holding her wrist.

    ¡®That¡¯s right.¡¯

    Leticia smiled bitterly and bit her lip.

    As soon as she epted that her ability was luck, the first thing she realized was how it affected her family.

    Everything that Seios had said was true.

    Her mother, who was diagnosed as being too weak to conceive again, gave birth to four more children. Her father¡¯s business, which was on the edge of ruin, flourished slowly after she was born.

    Leticia felt hopeless at the truth she was faced with. In the end, there was no reason for her to have been abandoned by her family. It was highly likely that she¡¯d awoken before Diana was even born, it was just an ability that was invisible to the eye.

    It took her a long time to ept this fact. She felt better after she admitted it to herself, but the bitterness didn¡¯t disappear so easily.

    ¡°I¡¯m asking, is your ability good luck?¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t evenugh as his hand squeezed her wrist urgently. Then she suddenly thought of something.

    ¡®Maybe it¡¯s because of my ability that he awakened.¡¯

    A long time ago, when she thought that neither of them had awakened, Leticia had made a suggestion to Levion.

    [Hey, why don¡¯t you try working with your body instead? Maybe you should try using a sword or a bow instead.]

    Maybe it was just a coincidence, but now that she thought about it, she didn¡¯t think it was.

    ¡®I really¡­¡¯

    She¡¯d endlessly given everything she had to the people around her.

    That didn¡¯t mean she wanted to get back as much as she gave. She was just confused when she thought about her family, who took her for granted and abandoned her as useless.

    ¡®But if they knew what I was capable of.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t know when the day woulde, but she thought it would be best to take measures in advance.

    However, there were some things that needed to be sorted out first.

    ¡°Is that why you¡¯re apologizing?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Because you think you¡¯ll get something out of me if you apologize?¡±

    ¡°No, I am¡­¡±

    ¡°I knew it.¡±

    There¡¯s no way that his pride would allow him to apologize.

    She didn¡¯t even think that his current apology was sincere. When she confronted him with the fact that he really wasn¡¯t, he felt his heart sink.

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter if my ability is luck or misfortune.¡±

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    ¡°Nothing changes.¡±

    For her, or for him.

    After saying that, Leticia quietly lowered her eyes.

    She didn¡¯t intend to go back to the beginning, she¡¯d already gone too far for her to go back.

    ¡°Leticia, you¡­¡±

    Only then did Levion know that Leticia was done.

    He thought that if it was Leticia, who cared and loved the people around her endlessly, she wouldn¡¯t throw him away even though he¡¯d abandoned her first, but he was wrong.

    ¡°Leticia, wait!¡±

    He believed that if he kept apologizing, she would ept it someday. Even until the moment he apologized, Levion was arrogant.

    He felt suffocated by the fact that he didn¡¯t exist in Leticia¡¯s heart anymore.

    This time, he tried to apologize seriously, but Leticia just pushed him away.

    ¡°It¡¯s ufortable that you keep calling out to me like that, Sir El.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    The gazes of the nobles, who had been stealing nces at the two of them as they conversed,? turned tant. However, Leticia¡¯s wasn¡¯t finished.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to cause me any more trouble.¡±

    A calm voice that only spoke the truth, without the intention to humiliate.

    Upon hearing the conversation, the nobles began to whisper.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t their engagement already broken?¡±

    ¡°I know. In addition, Miss Aster is engaged to the Duke of Achilles.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my. Then the reason why Master El kept following Miss Aster at thest party was because¡­¡±

    ¡°I guess it¡¯s because he can¡¯t let go.¡±

    Levion, who was so shocked that he couldn¡¯t even hear the whispering around him, nkly watched Leticia¡¯s back as she walked away.

    She could feel his gaze, but Leticia didn¡¯t look back.

    Only then did Levion have no choice, but to admit it.

    Leticia had put down all the things she loved, step by step. No, she threw them away.

    Her family and himself.

    ***

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe that Leticia has already awakened¡­ What did he mean by luck¡­¡±

    After he left Emil¡¯s room and returned to his office, Marquis Leroy sat in his chair and tried to calmly grasp the situation.

    When he first heard it from Emil, he tried to pass it off as nonsense. At some point, his business started to go poorly, and bad things happened to his family.

    Maybe it was a coincidence.

    However, everything worked out wonderfully well for Duke Achilles, who used to face misfortune to the point where it was pitiful.

    ¡°I need to meet my godfather.¡±

    Come to think of it, Seios was strangely attentive and caring towards Leticia. Maybe he already knew about Leticia¡¯s ability.

    ¡®If Leticia¡¯s ability really is luck.¡¯

    At that time, he had a headache about how to bring her back.

    It wasn¡¯t difficult to call back a child that was emunicated. However, the problem was that Leticia had already been adopted by Count Aster.

    ¡°D*mn it, D*mn it, D*mn it.¡±

    Marquis Leroy couldn¡¯t stand it and screamed.

    He hoped that Leticia¡¯s ability wouldn¡¯t be luck, but the evidence in front of him was clear. He had no choice, but to admit it.

    He couldn¡¯t believe that it was Leticia, not Diana, who brought good things.

    ¡°Somehow¡­ We have to bring her back.¡±

    As long as he could bring her back by any means necessary, his business would do well, and good things would happen again.

    It bothered him that she¡¯d been adopted by Count Aster, but they weren¡¯t blood rted or a real family.

    ¡®All I need to do is get her expelled from that family, and put her back into my family register.¡¯

    Then all that was left was how to coax Leticia.

    He wasn¡¯t very worried though. Leticia was always a kind and gentle child, who was weak when it came to her family.

    ***

    ¡°Sister, is there something that you¡¯re worried about?¡±

    Before they knew it, the day was approaching when Ian would officially take up his tenure as an Imperial civil servant. Leticia was making a golden thread bracelet to celebrate. She looked up at Elle¡¯s words and soon shook her head.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing like that.¡±

    She smiled like it was nothing, and tried to continue working on the bracelet again, but Elle pulled on her hand gently.

    ¡°Be honest with me. What happened?¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t win against the look in her eyes that told her it would be okay and to speakfortably, and she confided her true feelings.

    ¡°Just¡­ It¡¯s because I¡¯m a little nervous.¡±

    ¡°About what?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid that my family will find out about my ability.¡±

    To be more precise, she was afraid about what her family would do when they found out about her ability.

    She couldn¡¯t even think of a solution.

    ¡°Sister.¡±

    As if her frustration had been transferred to her hands, Elle held Leticia¡¯s hands with her own.

    ¡°You have me, Ian, and my brother next to you. Don¡¯t forget about the Count Aster and his wife.¡±

    ¡°Elle¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. We¡¯ll always be with you.¡±

    Elle nodded firmly, asking Leticia to trust her. Her appearance was somehow reliable, and this made Leticia smile.

    ¡°Thank you, Elle.¡±

    As Elle said, there were people next to her who cared about her and loved her. Unlike before, now she had people who she could lean on when she was having a hard time. Her heavy heart began to lighten little by little.

    That was when.

    ¡°Mydy, you received a letter.¡±

    Mary smiled brightly and handed the letter to Leticia.

    Leticia was happy to receive a letter from Count Aster after such a long time, but her expression slowly hardened as she read the letter.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    It was difficult for her to say, so Leticia handed over the letter instead of answering. Elle quickly read the letter and began tough.

    Marquis Leroy had demanded that Count Aster expel Leticia.

 Chapter 83 - I Wonâ€™t Go Back To My Family That Abandoned Me

    <h4>Chapter 83 - I Won¡¯t Go Back To My Family That Abandoned Me</h4>

    Chapter 83. I Won¡¯t Go Back To My Family That Abandoned Me

    The letter had politely asked for it, but anyone who saw it would recognize it as coercion.

    Also, he¡¯d already expected Count Aster to refuse. In addition, she was btedly told that he¡¯d put in aint to the Emperor that they were her real family.

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    As soon as she received the letter, Leticia immediately went to the Aster mansion. She couldn¡¯t look at the count, so she bowed her head even as he called out to her.

    ¡°We¡¯re fine, so please raise your head.¡±

    ¡°Count¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault.¡±

    The words made her eyes sting.

    As she looked at them with tearful eyes, the Countess moved from her seat beside Count Aster, and sat beside Leticia.

    ¡°We will always respect your opinion.¡±

    ¡°Countess¡­¡±

    ¡°I just want you to make the choice for yourself.¡±

    Realizing that this meant that she only wanted her to be happy, Leticia went straight into Countess Aster¡¯s arms. She wanted to cry, but she tried hard to hold it in.

    Count Aster and his wife said nothing except that they wanted her to be happy.

    Leticia was rather troubled by the way that they tried to not burden her.

    ¡®It¡¯s clear that my father knows.¡¯

    There was no mention of her ability in the content of the letter, but there was no reason for him to try to take her back unless he already knew.

    ¡®The day I didn¡¯t want toe has arrived.¡¯

    She knew it woulde someday, but she didn¡¯t know it woulde this soon.

    Countess Aster patted Leticia¡¯s shoulder silently, perhaps she¡¯d noticed her bitterness. Feeling touched, Leticia slowly lowered her eyes.

    ***

    ¡°Is Leticia really lucky?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Please answer my question, Seios!¡±

    Marquis Leroy immediately sent a letter when he heard that Seios asionally visited the Magic Academy. He never replied, so he visited the academy on his own.

    Fortunately, he happened to encounter Seios, who had something to do at the academy. This meant he was able to talk to him, face to face.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡±

    Seios burst intoughter at the usatory tone.

    ¡°What difference would it have made if I told you?¡±

    ¡°Of course it would have made a difference.¡±

    It meant that if he had Leticia, his business wouldn¡¯t have been disrupted and his family would¡¯ve continued to thrive.

    Seios immediately understood what he meant, and clicked his tongue in amazement.

    ¡°You still haven¡¯te to your senses.¡±

    ¡°Seios!¡±

    ¡°Leticia is much more righteous and wise than you think.¡±

    She was just weak to the people she loved.

    ¡°Do you think that kind of child will return to you just because you called her?¡±

    ¡°She has inherited my blood.¡±

    ¡°What if that child says she won¡¯t go back?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    Of course, he was going to bring her back somehow.

    He couldn¡¯t say that, so he quietly shut his mouth. Seios expression hardened as if he¡¯d already noticed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t let me down anymore.¡±

    ¡°Seios.¡±

    ¡°If you keep doing this, I will not help you any further.¡±

    Seios stood up after saying that.

    Even then, Marquis Leroy didn¡¯t listen and turned away from Seios.

    ***

    ¡°Are they allowed to do this? Are they even human?¡±

    ¡°Elle.¡±

    Enoch called Elle¡¯s name heavily, with the implication that she should stop.

    Marquis Leroy had already brought it in front of the Emperor. Now the Marquis, Count Aster, and Duke Achilles, because Leticia was living with him, were all called to the Imperial pce.

    As they rode in the carriage, Elleined because she couldn¡¯t stand Marquis Leroy¡¯s atrocities. It was Enoch who stopped her.

    ¡°The choice is Leticia¡¯s, not yours.¡±

    ¡°Brother.¡±

    ¡°You have to respect whatever choices she makes.¡±

    Enoch didn¡¯t want to burden or force Leticia to make a choice.

    However, Elle didn¡¯t change her opinion on the way to the Imperial pce or the audience chamber.

    ¡°Respect? Forget it, I don¡¯t know about that.¡±

    ¡°Elle.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t let my sister get away.¡±

    Even though Leticia didn¡¯t say she was going back to Marquis Leroy, Elle hugged Leticia¡¯s shoulder as if she was anxious. Leticia couldn¡¯t help butugh out loud at the stronger than usual touch.

    ¡°I think you¡¯re hugging me too hard.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m worried that you¡¯ll run away, so I need to hold on tight.¡±

    Leticia gasped for air and poked her in the arm, but it was of no use. At that moment, Ian, who had been quietly watching them, secretly stood by Leticia¡¯s side. Before she could even turn her head to ask why, one of his arms wrapped around hers.

    ¡°Ian¡­?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since Elle was correct.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Ian smiled instead of answering.

    Finally Leticia noticed that Ian had also locked his arms with hers, just as Elle had, for fear that she would run away.

    Embarrassed, she stared at Enoch, as if to ask for a hand.

    Enoch took turns looking at Leticia and his younger siblings, then slowly turned his head. Just a while ago, he said he¡¯d respect her choice. When she saw that he didn¡¯t try to stop them, she came to understand that he felt the same way as his siblings.

    As soon as she tried to scold him, she felt a gaze from somewhere. The moment she turned her head, she found Marquis and Marquess Leroy, as well as Diana and Xavier.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    They were looking at Leticia, who¡¯d suddenly stopped walking. Enoch¡¯s expression cooled down when he saw the people from the Leroy family nearby. Elle and Ian were already ring at them with thorns in their eyes.

    At that time, the Marquis and Marquess nced at each other, then slowly approached Leticia.

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    Leticia stepped back in surprise when the Marquis sadly called out to her. The way he looked at her so gently made her think that she was dreaming.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t had an easy day since sending you away.¡±

    ¡°You know very well that there was nothing I could do about it.¡±

    The Marquis and Marquess alternately talked with friendly smiles. The words that came out of their mouths, however, were nothing but mild excuses.

    ¡°Leticia, Leticia!¡±

    He couldn¡¯t watch anymore, so Enoch urged her to go to the audience chamber quickly.

    Leticia came to her senses at his voice, she straightened her shoulders and stepped back. She followed Enoch into the audience chamber, but somehow she feltplicated and her head drooped.

    In the meantime, she felt her family¡¯s gaze on her, so Leticia grasped Enoch¡¯s hand tightly.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Leticia was originally my daughter, and she is my child. She was expelled because of a grave misunderstanding. I just want to bring her back to help resolve the misunderstanding and continue our familial rtionship, your Imperial Majesty.¡±

    The Leroy family had gained great confidence with the Imperial family by tipping them off to Duke Erebos¡¯ rebellion long ago. Perhaps that¡¯s why he took for granted that the Emperor would look on him favourably.

    However, Count Aster wouldn¡¯t give up without a fight.

    ¡°When you put it that way, she is strictly my daughter, your Imperial Majesty, since she is on my family register. She was originally a child I loved like a daughter. After she was emunicated, she said she would be my daughter of her own free will, so she is my family.¡±

    Leticia never told him that she wanted to go back to her family. So, he couldn¡¯t sit back and let the Marquis¡¯ take advantage of this situation.

    Marquis Leroy smirked at Count Aster, who was being more forceful than he¡¯d expected.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you know that blood is thicker than water?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s the Marquis who showed that blood means less than water.¡±

    There was a hint of sarcasm in his quiet voice. Marquis Leroy immediately noticed, and his expression hardened.

    When the atmosphere turned sour, the Emperor interjected.

    ¡°Stop it. I think it¡¯s only right that the youngdy speak for herself.¡±

    When he said this, all eyes in the audience chamber turned towards Leticia.

    ¡°What does the youngdy want?¡±

    ¡°Your Imperial Majesty¡­¡±

    ¡°Will you go back to your original family and live as Miss Leroy, or will you live as Miss Aster with your current family?¡±

    Leticia was standing silently, and quietly lowered her eyes. She could feel countless eyes staring at her.

    The Count and Countess Aster, who¡¯s eyes said that they were going to help her no matter what she chose; Elle and Ian, who¡¯s eyes looked at her anxiously; and Enoch, who¡¯s eyes said that he would protect her no matter what.

    Then there were her parents and siblings, who were already smiling as if they thought she¡¯d go back to them.

    ¡°I am¡­¡±

    At one time, she¡¯d hoped for this day. She hoped that her family, who abandoned her, would want her back like they do now.

    It could even be said that Leticia would¡¯ve embraced them happily, even if they¡¯d abandoned her. Others would¡¯ve clicked their tongues at her, but to her they were family.

    She¡¯d been emunicated for less than a year, but it felt so distant, as if many years had already passed.

    She felt like she was suffocating and slowly dying after she was abandoned by her family.

    But¡­

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to go back to my original family.¡±

    Marquis Leroy and his wife froze in shock at her firm voice that held no hesitation.

    However, Leticia wasn¡¯t done yet.

    ¡°I love my current family.¡±

    With those words, Leticia held Enoch¡¯s fingertips tightly and turned away from her own family. She felt them staring at her incredulously, but she intentionally turned a blind eye to it.

    ¡°Then I think we¡¯vee to a conclusion.¡±

    The Emperor looked a little surprised when the audience was done more quickly than he had expected.

    Marquis Leroy came to his senseste, and quickly opened his mouth.

    ¡°Your Imperial Majesty, I would like to talk to my daughter for a moment¡­¡±

    ¡°With all due respect, your Imperial Majesty, I sincerely ask that you acknowledge Leticia as our daughter.¡±

    ¡°Count Aster!¡±

    Without missing a beat, Count Aster cut off the Marquis. He was going to take this opportunity to clearly show who Leticia¡¯s family was.

    Marquis Leroy realized what he was trying to do and red at him, but the situation wasn¡¯t on his side.

    ¡°By your own admission, she¡¯s already on Count Aster¡¯s family register.¡±

    ¡°Your Imperial Majesty!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll respect the Count¡¯s wishes.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    The Marquis urgently called out to the Emperor, but he¡¯d already recognized Leticia as the daughter of Count Aster.

    The Marquis wouldn¡¯t give up like this, and he turned to look at Leticia. He just needed to talk to Leticia and convinced her that they were a real family.

    Marquis Leroy approached Leticia with the kindest, gentlest smile he could muster, but as soon as he took a step closer, she quietly hid behind Enoch.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Marquis Leroy froze and his face paled. She acted as if she didn¡¯t even want to look at him, as if she had difficulty even facing him.

 Chapter 84 - Let Them Suffer From Regret

    <h4>Chapter 84 - Let Them Suffer From Regret</h4>

    Chapter 84. Let Them Suffer From Regret

    Marquis Leroy thought she¡¯d return right away if he asked her to. However, Leticia hid behind Enoch even more, to the point where she couldn¡¯t be seen.

    The Emperor had arranged the situation so that she could avoid seeing him if she wished. Marquis Leroy tried to ask for a little time, but it was after the order was already issued.

    He had no choice but to back down for now.

    ***

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you up front. Do you know how worried I was that you might say you were leaving?¡±

    As soon as they exited the room, Elle scolded her as if she was waiting. Leticia tilted her head in confusion.

    ¡°I thought you already knew.¡±

    She thought it was a given. It was so obvious that Leticia didn¡¯t feel the need to say anything.

    ¡®I feel better than I thought.¡¯

    Leticia lowered her gaze with a more rxed look.

    She was worried that it would be more difficult. This time, she was letting go of her family, and not the other way around.

    However, it was unexpectedly painless. Rather, her heart felt lighter now that she¡¯dpletely cut the connection between herself and her family.

    But her family didn¡¯t seem to think so.

    ¡°We¡¯re your real family! So what? You don¡¯t love your family now?¡±

    Enoch, who first discovered the Marquis approaching with a ferocious look in his eyes, blocked his way. Leticia stood next to Enoch with a look that said it was okay, as she faced her family properly.

    ¡°I know that we made you sad.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°But we¡¯re still family.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°After you left, we worried a lot.¡±

    Thinking that it was going wrong, Marquess Leroy pushed the Marquis out of the way, and approached Leticia instead.

    However, she only stared at them without saying a word.

    While Marquess Leroy never openly ignored and shamed her like the Marquis and her younger siblings did. However, she never took her side or said anything nice.

    She quietly turned a blind eye to it.

    With mixed feelings, Leticia smiled bitterly and grabbed Enoch¡¯s sleeve.

    At first nce, it seemed like she really regretted what happened and was sincerely apologizing,? but there was no way Leticia could be unaware of the fact that this was not the case.

    ¡°I know that it¡¯s an insincere apology that doesn¡¯t mean anything.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°I know you need me, and you¡¯re just trying to pacify me.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t help, but feel disappointed in her family for apologizing just for their immediate gain and greed.

    ¡°I won¡¯t ept your apology.¡±

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    She thought it was rather strange that they looked so shocked.

    Their confused expressions that said they could let her go, but never thought that Leticia would let them go.

    ¡°No matter how shy and pathetic I was, I never thought I would be kicked out.¡±

    ¡°Leticia, we¡­¡±

    ¡°As the Marquis said, we were family.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°When I was abandoned, it was so hard.¡±

    Everyone was ashamed of her, so she thought it was all her fault. She kept trying to find the reason for them abandoning her.

    The despair she felt when she found out that it wasn¡¯t her fault was indescribable.

    If it wasn¡¯t her fault, then why was she abandoned?

    Where did it go wrong?

    From the beginning, there was no reason for her to be thrown away.

    However, she was able to quickly sort out the emotions that had piled up heavier than she¡¯d expected. Even if they suffered, nothing would change anyways.

    ¡°I hope you live well.¡±

    It sounded funny even after she said it, so Leticia corrected herself right away.

    ¡°Actually, I hope you don¡¯t live well.¡±

    If they¡¯re thoroughly unhappy.

    ¡°That you suffer as much as I had.¡±

    In fact, several times more than that.

    ¡°I hope you regret it and suffer.¡±

    Leticia smiled brighter than ever.

    Now it was her turn to abandon her family.

    ***

    Correspondence poured in for several days after that, all of them were from her family. She didn¡¯t want to know what it was about, nor did she care to find out, so Leticia didn¡¯t bother opening them.

    ¡°I think we can use it as kindling.¡±

    At Ian¡¯s sarcastic remark, Leticia burst intoughter.

    ¡°Why do they keep sending them?¡±

    She leaned back in her chair as she threw the letter that had arrived today on the table. Elle asked cautiously as she offered her a piece of strawberry cake.

    ¡°Do you really think of us as family?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°But we¡¯re not really a family, right?¡±

    At the heart of it, even though she said they were family, there was no official basis to say this. She didn¡¯t understand Elle¡¯s intention when she pointed it out, so Leticia just blinked in confusion.

    ¡°I guess that¡¯s correct?¡±

    ¡°Then isn¡¯t there a good way for us to be a real family?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia finally realized what Elle was trying to say.

    ¡°Enoch and I will discuss marriage on our own.¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll change your mind halfway.¡±

    Elle nced over at Ian, who quickly noticed that she was asking for help, and he moved to support her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s better to get married as soon as possible?¡±

    Now that Ian had joined in, Leticia shook her head and let out a small sigh.

    ¡°If you keep doing this, I¡¯ll tell Lord Achilles.¡±

    ¡°Sister, we just want to be an official family as soon as possible.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, sister. It¡¯s better for everyone if we¡¯re family.¡±

    Their eyes looked at her desperately, as if they wanted her to know how they felt.

    Leticia didn¡¯t fall for it though.

    ¡°What if it doesn¡¯t end with just weeding and chopping firewood this time?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    It was really hard on them when they had to weed and chop firewood all day, so the two stiffened up at the same time, as if they were in sync.

    She was smiling at the funny sight, when Mary approached with a troubled expression.

    ¡°Um, mydy¡­¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    ¡°Someone is here.¡±

    She had a good idea of who it was, but she didn¡¯t voice it.

    ¡°Who is it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s young master Emil.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Actually, he¡¯s been here since this morning. He refused to leave until he met with you.¡±

    She had told him several times that Leticia couldn¡¯t meet with him, but it was useless.

    He was stubbornly waiting outside to meet with Leticia. In the end, she couldn¡¯t just leave him standing out front of the mansion forever, so she had no choice but to let Leticia know.

    ¡°Ha¡­¡±

    Leticia looked tired, and let out a sigh.

    She didn¡¯t think her family would give up on her so easily, but it was ufortable and unpleasant when they kept trying.

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll go and meet with him.¡±

    ¡°Hey.¡±

    ¡°Sister.¡±

    When she got up from her seat, Elle and Ian stood up at the same time.

    Leticia smiled as if she was okay, and told them they should sit again.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be right back, so wait here.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Still¡­¡±

    Elle and Ian looked at each other and frowned slightly in difort. Enoch was worried about Leticia and had asked them to take good care of her.

    ¡°It¡¯s really okay.¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be waiting nearby. If something happens to you, I¡¯ll never be able to face my brother.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Please let us do that much.¡±

    Leticia had no choice, but to nod her head since it seemed like they wouldn¡¯t back down.

    She didn¡¯t want to talk to Emil at the Achilles mansion, so she didn¡¯t bother to invite him inside and just went outside. Emil was pacing in front of the gate, and looked up as soon as she felt her presence.

    ¡°Hey, it¡¯ll only take a moment. Can I talk to you?¡±

    Emil, who¡¯d disappeared so rudelyst time, asked politely and carefully.

    Leticia nodded silently. Emil was relieved and moved to the tea house he¡¯d reserved.

    Elle and Ian followed slowly behind the two.

    ¡®I want to hurry up and get this over with.¡¯

    Perhaps because of that idea, Leticia¡¯s steps elerated. Then she heard a sound of pain behind her, and looked behind her.

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    It was only when she saw Emil, who was being assisted by one of his servants, that she realized that one of his legs was injured.

    In the past, she would have apologized for being inconsiderate, but now it just made her feel ufortable. It felt like he was trying to make her feel sorry for him by acting pitiful.

    However, Leticia sat on a chair without saying anything.

    ¡°What should I do?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°How can we¡­ How can I convince you toe back?¡±

    As soon as he sat down, Emil brought up the main topic.

    For some reason, Leticia almost smiled at the way he was struggling to get her to return with him.

    But it wasn¡¯t a pleasant smile.

    ¡°You still don¡¯t know what your priorities are.¡±

    ¡°What does that mean?¡±

    ¡°You aren¡¯t very smart in these matters.¡±

    Leticia kindly told Emil, who still didn¡¯t understand what she was saying.

    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be right to apologize first?¡±

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    Emil stopped talking for a while, then he apologized quickly.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I ignored you because I thought you were useless.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia wasn¡¯t angry at his insincere apology, and just quietly looked at Emil.

    ¡°And.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t there something else?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    He sat with an expression that said he didn¡¯t know, no matter how much he thought about it. Leticia sighed and put down her teacup.

    He still didn¡¯t seem to realize what his mistake was.

    ¡°You spread false rumors about me.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t do that¡­¡±

    ¡°Emil.¡±

    She remained calm while she faced Emil, who looked straight at her as if he was innocent.

    ¡°Father and mother may be fooled, but I¡¯m not.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Your lies don¡¯t work on me.¡±

    She spent more time with her younger siblings than her parents did. She knew everything about their personalities, tastes, specialties and other trivial things.

    To Leticia, her younger brother¡¯s lies were obvious.

    Emil closed his mouth firmly as if he still didn¡¯t want to admit it. At that sight, Leticia stood up with a small sigh.

    Emil paled as he realized she was getting up to leave, and shouted urgently.

    ¡°I¡­!!! That¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°It was all because of me. I¡¯m the one who spread those bad rumors about you.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s my fault, sister¡­¡±

    Even before she could ask why, Emil honestly conceded that he was afraid the family¡¯s reputation would fall if it was revealed that Leticia had been kicked out even though she wasn¡¯t capable of causing misfortune.

    Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her devastation when Emil said he had no choice, but to create rumors to save their family¡¯s honor.

    ¡°I may have been wrong about you.¡±

    She was confident that she knew her younger brother better than anyone else.

    Now she wanted to bite her tongue for even thinking that.

    ¡°I¡¯m sick and tired of it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    Leticia smiled crookedly, with an expression that said she¡¯d run out of affection. Deep inside, Emil could hear something breaking.

    It was already toote when he realized something was wrong.

    ¡°Reputation? Honor?¡±

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    ¡°I guess you didn¡¯t think about how I would suffer from those rumors.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry about that too.¡±

    ¡°Sorry?¡±

    She felt her anger rise and her blood boiled.

    She felt miserable when she was once again reminded that they never thought of her as family.

    ¡°You think you¡¯re a very logical and rational person, but you¡¯re not.¡±

    Leticia fiercely clenched her teeth and stared at Emil.

    ¡°You¡¯re just a dirty egoist.¡±

    ¡°Sister!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s amazing that you can rationalize with yourself and make the excuse that it couldn¡¯t be helped.¡±

    She never expected him to apologize properly, but his excuse was unexpected.

    She didn¡¯t think it was worth being here anymore, so Leticia said with a dry voice.

    ¡°Live like that for the rest of your life.¡±

    To eventually be unhappy with yourself.

    After saying that, Leticia firmly turned away. Emil stood up quickly, with a strong feeling that he would never be able to see her again.

    ¡°Sister, wait¡­ Sister!¡±

    He called out sadly, unable to follow her with his injured leg. Leticia walked away, even though she must have been able to hear him furiously yelling behind her.

    ¡°Please wait a minute, Sister! No¡­¡±

    He was in such a hurry that he fell down. He tried to get back up to chase after Leticia, but it was hard for him to get up right away because his leg was broken.

    As soon as Emil tried to get up again with a curse, he could feel her gaze on him. Leticia had stopped walking and looked at him with an expressionless face.

    Leticia could¡¯ve helped him stand again, but she just looked down at him coldly. He couldn¡¯t let her go like this.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do what you tell me to do.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Even if you ignore me for the rest of my life, I¡¯ll take it sweetly if you do it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°If youe back, we can go back to normal.¡±

    He could be happy again.

    His father¡¯s business would go well. His mother, who sometimes copsed from fever, would be healthy again. Diana wouldn¡¯t be in trouble anymore, and Xavier could win first ce at the next Swordsmanship tournament. Maybe Irene will return from their uncle¡¯s territory.

    In addition, he would be able to proudly pass the next Imperial Civil service examination, and be the pride of his family.

    ¡°If we have you sister, then¡­¡±

    Everything will be perfect again once they be aplete family.

    Emil started to feel nervous when Leticia stayed quiet, and was about to open his mouth.

    ¡°I realized it after I was kicked out. I hadn¡¯t been considered family for quite some time.¡±

    It was a one-sided love. So many days where she was alone, and hurt by that unrequited love that would never be rewarded.

    Sadly, she believed that one day her heart would reach them, but all she got back was neglect.

    ¡°There¡¯s no way I would go back to a ce like that.¡±

    Now that she¡¯d awakened, their attitude towards her had significantly changed from before she was emunicated. This fact made Leticia more miserable.

    ¡°If I didn¡¯t have an ability, would you have asked me to return like you are now?¡±

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    It wasn¡¯t a question that needed an answer. She just told the truth as it was.

    Their rtionship was just that shallow.

    ¡°There¡¯s only one thing that I want.¡±

    Even before Emil asked what it was, Leticia said the words first.

    ¡°Don¡¯t show up in front of me again.

    ¡°Sister¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to see your face anymore.¡±

    A calm, but firm voice.

    Emil felt his heart shatter miserably at the sincere look in her eyes.

 Chapter 85 - A Bolt Out Of The Blu

    <h4>Chapter 85 - A Bolt Out Of The Blu</h4>

    Chapter 85. A Bolt Out Of The Blue

    Ever since they¡¯d returned to the Leroy residence with nothing to show for it, the conflicts had been constant. Marquis and Marquess Leroy, in particr, had been fighting to the point where even the passing servants were amazed.

    Even today, the Marquess was shouting at the Marquis.

    ¡°What are you going to do now? She¡¯s saying that she won¡¯te back no matter what!¡±

    The situation had worsened for them when the Emperor recognized Leticia as a member of the Aster¡¯s household, making it more difficult for them to have Leticia returned.

    When the Marquess red at him resentfully, the Marquis shouted fiercely in frustration.

    ¡°And you¡¯re ming me?¡±

    ¡°Of course I am! Who kicked her out without even doing a proper investigation!¡±

    ¡°Do you think I did that on purpose? You also said it would be good if I emunicated her.¡±

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t help it because everyone was saying they wanted her kicked out.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you remember that you were the first one to bring it up?¡±

    Xavier, who couldn¡¯t bear to see the two of them snapping at each other, stepped in to stop them.

    ¡°There¡¯s no time for this right now. We need to think about how to bring my sister back first.¡±

    They needed to think of the best possible way to convince Leticia to change her mind and return to them.

    However, the Leticia he¡¯d seen at the audience chamber had firmly and thoroughly let them go. No, she¡¯d thrown them away.

    ¡®Who could¡¯ve guessed that her ability would be luck?¡¯

    He sighed, and bit the inside of his mouth.

    If he¡¯d known about Leticia¡¯s ability, he wouldn¡¯t have ignored her, or mistreated her from the very start. Rather, he would¡¯ve been nicest and more supportive out of all of them.

    ¡®How did we only just find out about her ability?¡¯

    There was a time when he¡¯d hated Leticia, even though she¡¯d done nothing wrong.

    All of a sudden, the surrounding atmosphere suddenly became strangely quiet. Xavier felt it right away and felt confused as he met the Marquis¡¯ gaze.

    The way Marquis Leroy¡¯s face had brighted was eerie.

    ¡°Hey, Xavier. Why don¡¯t you go and talk to her?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°As a parent, there¡¯s a lot she must be feeling disappointed about. So wouldn¡¯t it be better if you, her brother, go and talk to her?¡±

    In fact, Irene would be the best person to go and persuade Leticia or shake her resolve. Among her younger siblings, Irene was the child she cared for and looked out for the most.

    However, Irene was currently staying at his brother-inw Kerron¡¯s territory, and wasn¡¯t currently here. It was a little disappointing, but it could still work with her younger brother Xavier.

    ¡°It¡¯s important for you guys.¡±

    ¡°Father¡­¡±

    The expectant look in his eyes made it very difficult for Xavier to tell him that he¡¯d already tried.

    At that time, when he was at a loss for what to say and could only bite his lip, a servant approached Marquis Leroy. When he heard that there was a guest waiting for him, the Marquis told him they¡¯d continue this conversationter, and walked to his office.

    He found Marquis El sitting in a chair and leisurely drinking tea.

    ¡°What brings you here?¡±

    When Marquis of Leroy asked with a puzzled expression about the sudden visit, Marquis El reacted in confusion

    ¡°I sent you a letter saying that I¡¯ll visit you soon.¡±

    When Marquis El said this, the letter he received a few days ago came to mind.

    ¡°Ah¡­ I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯ve been a little busy.¡±

    Only then did he remember the letter he¡¯d received. Marquis Leroy nced at Marquis El as he sat across from him.

    Was it because bad things continued to happen so many days in a row? He felt like nothing good woulde out of Marquis El¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°You sent me a letter about an engagement with your second daughter.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I did.¡±

    Maybe it¡¯s because things had been so hectic recently, he¡¯d forgotten that he¡¯d decided to get Diana engaged to Levion. As expected, it didn¡¯t seem to be a big deal, so Marquis Leroy breathed a sigh of relief.

    However, his expression hardened almost immediately at the next thing that Marquis El said.

    ¡°That engagement, I¡¯d prefer if it didn¡¯t happen.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    He¡¯d been relieved, but unfortunately those words struck him like lightning,

    ¡°Why on earth not¡­?¡±

    They¡¯d already discussed it, so he thought all that was left was to set an engagement date. He couldn¡¯t understand the sudden wish to withdraw the engagement.

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s eyes were asking him to exin himself. A sigh escaped Marquis El as he awkwardly exined.

    ¡°My son said he didn¡¯t want to.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t force my son to do something he doesn¡¯t want. What parent can win against their child.¡±

    Marquis El acted as if it couldn¡¯t be helped, and was asking for understanding. It was so shameless that Marquis Leroy couldn¡¯t evenugh.

    However, there were more shocking words toe.

    ¡°But¡­ If he were to get engaged to your eldest daughter again, then it might be possible?¡±

    ¡°Marquis El.¡±

    ¡°In fact, wasn¡¯t the engagement original with that child?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Until then, Marquis Leroy really thought that Levion didn¡¯t want to be engaged to Diana. It may still be true, but as Marquis El tried to have the previous engagement reinstated after he¡¯d broken it off originally, he knew that everything he¡¯d said until now was a horrible excuse.

    ¡®I¡¯m sure that he knows what Leticia¡¯s ability is.¡¯

    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have suggested that the two should be engaged again.

    ¡®I can¡¯t believe that others have noticed already.¡¯

    Marquis Leroy quietly clenched his hands. He could feel it all around him. He felt ashamed for only just realizing it, and gritted his teeth.

    However, he had no intention of giving in to the Marquis of El¡¯s wishes at this point.

    ¡°You¡¯re correct. At first, Leticia and Levion were engaged, but there was a misunderstanding and it was broken off.¡±

    ¡°Then the two of them should be engaged again¡­¡±

    ¡°I would love to, but as you know, she is considered Count Aster¡¯s daughter now.¡±

    Marquis Leroy gently cut off Marquis El¡¯s words, and calmly exined the situation.

    Marquis El quietly listened to him, and nodded sympathetically.

    ¡°I heard that Count Aster epted Leticia as his adopted daughter, but she¡¯s still your biological child.¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯m going to have to ask you for a favor.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡±

    Marquis El frowned, as he worried that it would be something unusual. He already knew that it wouldn¡¯t be easy to reinstate the engagement, but he had a bad feeling.

    Marquis Leroy continued to speak in a soft voice.

    ¡°If you can help me get that child back, there¡¯s nothing I can¡¯t do to get your son engaged or married to her.¡±

    Marquis El became quiet, as he agonized over the attitude that he¡¯d do anything asked of him. He didn¡¯t know what kind of request it was, but he thought it wouldn¡¯t be difficult to do that much.

    ¡°So, what is your request?¡±

    Marquis Leroy smirked, even though he¡¯d just said he would only listen.

    He knew better than anyone else that he would have no choice, but to act after what he heard.

    In the private room, where it was just the two of them, Marquis El frowned after he heard Marquis Leroy¡¯s conditions. However, he thought it would be a pity to miss out on a chance to obtain Leticia, who was said to bring good fortune.

    ¡°Well¡­ It shouldn¡¯t be that difficult to find the girl.¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll trust you.¡±

    Marquis Leroy smiled gently, and thanked him for epting his request.

    Even before that, the two had no idea that someone was secretly listening outside.

    ***

    ¡®What? They¡¯re going to get engaged again?¡¯

    Diana had btedly heard that Marquis El had arrived, and she¡¯d gone to her father¡¯s office to greet him. However, the conversation she¡¯d heard through the slightly open doors shocked her.

    [You sent me a letter about an engagement with your second daughter. That engagement, I¡¯d prefer if it didn¡¯t happen. If he were to get engaged to your eldest daughter again, then it might be possible?]

    Diana returned to her room, because she thought she would scream if she kept eavesdropping, but the conversation between the two still bothered her.

    However, it was Marquis Leroy¡¯s words that dug into her chest and caused the most pain.

    [If you can help me get that child back, there¡¯s nothing I can¡¯t do to get your son engaged or married to her.]

    ¡®You¡¯re going to marry her, and not me?¡¯

    Marquis Leroy had clearly said that he would get her engaged to Levion, then suddenly he changed his mind. She couldn¡¯t help, but feel angry and betrayed.

    ¡®If I had that ability¡­¡¯

    Diana bit her lip, and squeezed the skirt of her dress.

    As the rumors spread that good things happened when Leticia was around, people began to look at Diana strangely, who¡¯d been the symbol of luck throughout the mansion. She pretended not to know, but recently she couldn¡¯t stand it anymore because she was being openly ignored by Emil and Xavier.

    She was annoyed by this, but held it in. When Leticia said she wouldn¡¯te back, the anger she¡¯d been holding back finally reached it¡¯s limit.

    ¡®I¡¯m sure she¡¯s dragging it out because she wants to see us squirm.¡¯

    She pretended to be nice, but in the end she refused toe back out of vindictiveness.

    ¡®How dare you!¡¯

    She didn¡¯t want to see her holding her head high, just because she had some skill.

    Diana heard a knock on her door as she was gnashing her teeth fiercely. As she shouted that they could enter, the door opened. Emil and Xavier then walked inside.

    ¡°What do you two want?¡±

    She knew that they would say something horrible, so her voice came out sharp.

    However, Emil showed no sign of displeasure and approached Diana.

    ¡°I have something to say.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°I want you to apologize to our eldest sister.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She looked at Xavier, wondering what this was all about. He just nodded, as if he felt the same way.

    ¡°You treated our eldest sister the worst out of everyone. Apologize to her and bring her back, even if you have to stay on your knees until they hurt.¡±

    Diana was so taken aback by the words he said so casually that she couldn¡¯t evenugh.

    ¡°What? You want me to get down on my knees and apologize? The two of you are crazy!¡±

    She didn¡¯t even know why she should be apologizing, and couldn¡¯t hide the incredulous look on her face at their demands that she should get on her knees.

    Emil looked at Diana seriously.

    ¡°Go and say something nice, then apologize.¡±

    ¡°Why me?¡±

    ¡°This isn¡¯t the time for you to be yelling at me like that.¡±

    Somehow, she could feel a sharp meaning behind his words. Even before Diana could ask what he meant, Emil said.

    ¡°Wasn¡¯t I injured because you pushed me down the stairs?¡±

    ¡°Emil was hurt because Diana pushed him?¡±

    Xavier, who¡¯d been quietly listening to the conversation, was surprised and looked alternately between the two.

    Diana only stared at Emil with clenched fists.

    ¡°¡­So?¡±

    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be difficult for you if Father finds out?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    Marquis Leroy used to care about Diana the most out of all of his children, and would talk about all the good things that happened because of her. However, it turned out that it was all thanks to Leticia, and now her situation waspletely different now.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to look bad in our father¡¯s eyes, then go and apologize.¡±

    Diana didn¡¯t want to hear his firm words, she made an angry noise, and turned her face away from him.

    She didn¡¯t want to go see Leticia and apologize to her. Diana was upset that Emil was trying to coerce her into begging their sister to return.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to.¡±

    When Diana persisted with her arms crossed in a posture of absolute refusal, Emil smiled crookedly at her.

    ¡°I guess you didn¡¯t understand what I meant. This wasn¡¯t a request, but a threat.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll immediately go see Father and tell him it was all your fault that I was injured.¡±

    ¡°Emil!¡±

    At his openly threatening words, Diana jumped up from her seat and red at him bitterly, but Emil was adamant until the end.

    ¡°Go and apologize.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s if you don¡¯t want to be kicked out.¡±

    After saying that, Emil left the room with Xavier in tow. He hadn¡¯t forgotten to threaten her to apologize before he left.

    She watched the two of them leave the room, and screamed angrily as soon as the door closed.

    ¡°How dare you threaten me?¡±

    She still vividly remembered Emil¡¯s expressionless face as he browbeat her. She wanted to rip him apart and kill him right now.

    ¡®If I was lucky.¡¯

    If she was, they wouldn¡¯t be able to ignore or intimidate her.

    Her eyes eventually began to sting due to her anger.

    ¡°You said I was lucky, but I wasn¡¯t¡­¡±

    She felt suffocated because it was so unfair and miserable.

    ¡°I am lucky¡­¡±

    Her family always said that about her. They said it was all thanks to her that Marquis Leroy¡¯s business, which had been failing, started to do well and caused their status to rise again.

    ¡°I have to be lucky.¡±

    Her dress was crumpled mercilessly in her hands. Diana clenched her teeth so hard that her jaw trembled, then she ran to the prayer room in the mansion.

    .

    .

    .

    There was a story that she¡¯d heard a long time ago. The myth was that God had heard the prayers of her family and was so moved that he granted them abilities. Everyone knew the story, but Diana never really believed in it.

    But at this moment, when she had no one to lean on, all she could do was believe in that ridiculous prayer.

    ¡°Just give me that power.¡±

    She said, while she looked up at the statue that rose high above her, as if it was piercing the ceiling.

    ¡°I deserve that ability, so give it to me.¡±

    If she had the ability to call good luck, then her family would be revived, and everyone would be happy again. There would be no Leticia in that happiness either. She knew that her family didn¡¯t actually want Leticia back, but her ¡®luck¡¯.

    ¡®If I had that ability.¡¯

    It shouldn¡¯t have been like this.

    She could feel her stomach burning, as she clenched her teeth.

    ¡°Why am I the only one who you gave a useless power to?¡±

    The more she thought about it, the angrier she felt. Her voice was so loud that it couldn¡¯t even be called a prayer anymore.

    ¡°Why did you give me that ability!¡±

    It was unfair.

    Emil was given high intelligence, Xavier received the swordsmanship ability, and Irene had the ability to use magic. All she got was the ability to summon flower petals.

    However, Diana never felt discouraged. Her parents always told her that it was thanks to her that everything was going so well now.

    Out of all of the siblings, she ignored Leticia the most because she hadn¡¯t awakened to an ability yet. With Leticia around, Diana was able to hide her jealousy and inferiorityplex. Sometimes she felt pity, and sympathy for her, but it was always short lived.

    Then it turned out that all of the happiness she¡¯d enjoyed was because of Leticia¡¯s ability.

    What made her even angrier was that her younger brothers turned their backs on her as soon as they found out. Emil ignored her, as if her flower rain ability was a joke, and Xavier didn¡¯t even pretend to look at her.

    ¡®Those abominable things!¡¯

    When she thought of her brothers, who¡¯s attitudes changed so dramatically, as if they¡¯d just been waiting. Her eyes burned with anger at the injustice.

    ¡®I¡¯d rather your abilities disappeared.¡¯

    They¡¯d enjoyed them for their entire life, so she thought they wouldn¡¯t need them anymore. Then she wouldn¡¯t need to be jealous, and her heart wouldn¡¯t be so twisted.

    Diana fiercely clenched her teeth and stared at the statue. Then she angrily turned away, and mmed the door of the prayer room as she left.

    That night, there was a suddenmotion as lightning struck the Leroy residence

 Chapter 86 - Misfortune Comes

    <h4>Chapter 86 - Misfortune Comes</h4>

    Chapter 86. Misfortune Comes Silently

    ¡°How have you been, Leticia?¡±

    It was their first meeting since she¡¯d firmly said that she wouldn¡¯t go back to her family. At first nce, it seemed like a simple greeting, but Countess Aster seemed cautious while she was asking.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m doing well.¡±

    Leticia had noticed almost immediately that her family was worried about whether she¡¯d been hurt by the whole proceedings, so she smiled for them so they knew that she was okay. It was a brief exchange, but the Count and Countess gave relieved sighs.

    After that, Leticia took a sip of tea, thinking that she was d that she¡¯de to meet them today.

    Countess Aster also smiled, perhaps thinking the same thing.

    ¡°I¡¯m relieved to hear that you¡¯ve been well.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t tell Leticia, but Count Aster and his wife med themselves for forcibly breaking her ties with her biological family. In addition, the Countess had lost sleep thinking about Leticiaing to regret it, and telling them that she was returning to her real family.

    Despite their worries, Leticia looked more rxed than ever.

    This allowed them to feel a sense offort.

    ¡°I actually have a favor to ask of you.¡±

    She said as she snuck a look at Countess Aster. As soon as their eyes met, she felt that Leticia was trying to make a difficult request.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Leticia. Feel free to speakfortably.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll do whatever you want.¡±

    So far, Leticia had never asked for anything difficult before. She seemed to think it was an unreasonable request based on her own standards.

    Their expectations turned out to be correct.

    ¡°Can youe when I get married?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    At her unexpected request, Count Aster and his wife fell silent.

    When the heavy silence continued, Leticia bowed her head and wrung her hands. She was about to apologize for her unreasonable demand.

    ¡°Are you marrying Duke Achilles?¡±

    ¡°Have you set a date? Do you know where?¡±

    ¡°When did he propose to you?¡±

    The Count and Countess jumped up at the same time, ced their hands on the table, and leaned the upper bodies towards Leticia.

    As their questions poured out, Leticia had no time to answer them, as she touched her cheek in embarrassment.

    ¡°No, that¡¯s not what I meant¡­ I think we¡¯ll do it one day.¡±

    She brought it up because she wasn¡¯t sure if the conversation with Enoch was a joke or not.

    The reality was that engagement and marriage hadn¡¯t really meant anything to Leticia before.

    The only reason she decided to get engaged to Livion was that she thought it wouldn¡¯t be bad.

    However, after meeting Enoch Leticia¡¯s thoughts changed.

    She always wanted to be with him, she wanted to stand by him. As the feelings in her heart grew beyond her control, she now had the desire to be his one and only person.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    The Count made eye contact with his wife after he¡¯d quietly called out to Leticia, then he continued to speak.

    ¡°You¡¯re always wee to ask these kinds of requests.¡±

    ¡°Count¡­¡±

    ¡°We would be happy to be with you at your happiest time.¡±

    Count Aster and his wife told her it was a normal request, as if they were scolding her. However, their gazes were warm like a midday spring, which made Leticia smile broadly.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    As soon as the talk of marriage came up, the Aster couple said they would take care of the preparations. So, when they did get married, they would be able to deliver it to them.

    Even though they hadn¡¯t decided on the date, it was already concluded that they were getting married.

    After spending a wonderful time together, the sky began to darken. Leticia decided it would be best to return to the Achilles mansion, so she stood up from her seat, and said that she would visit again.

    Count Aster and his wife watched Leticia climb into the carriage, and asked her toe again soon. Leticia, who¡¯d been climbing into the carriage, paused for a moment and returned to the Count and Countess.

    ¡°Is something the matter?¡±

    They wondered if there was something that she¡¯d left behind, but Leticia didn¡¯t answer. Instead she had a glint in her eyes, as if she¡¯d made up her mind about something.

    As soon as they tried to ask her again Leticia suddenly grabbed one of Count¡¯s hand, and one of the Countess¡¯ hands.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    It was obvious that she wanted to say something.

    Count Aster and his wife waited quietly for Leticia to speak without rushing her. Rather, they gently patted the back of her hand to let her know that it was okay.

    Leticia had finally gathered her courage and said.

    ¡°Thank you. Father, mother¡­¡±

    She really wanted to call them that at least once.

    Before she could even look to see if she made them ufortable, she was wrapped up in an embrace. Only after she looked up at them wide-eyed did she realize that the Count and Countess were hugging her.

    ¡°Thank you for calling us father and mother.¡±

    ¡°My daughter, don¡¯t ever get sick ande back again.¡±

    Leticia bit her lip because she felt like she was about to cry at the sweet voice that fell over her head. She was so happy that she had someone who cared about her, and it felt sofortable in their arms.

    ***

    ¡®People who are more like her parents than her actual parents.¡¯

    On the way back to the Achilles mansion, Leticia couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Count Aster and Countess Aster, who truly cared about her like she was their real daughter.

    The two were a great couple in many ways. Most people don¡¯t share their wealth, despite having more than they could ever use. The Count and Countess actively donated, they served on charity boards, and performed good deeds. They were respected and recognized by many, regardless of their status.

    The only thing they were missing were children, since Countess Aster was too weak to carry them.[1]

    ¡°They are people who will cherish their children more than anyone else¡­¡±

    As she was thinking about how she wanted only good news for Count Aster and his wife, then she arrived at the mansion.

    As soon as she got to the mansion, she immediately went to the drawing room, where she found Enoch sitting. She saw him first, smiled brightly and approached him, but stopped walking suddenly.

    ¡°Why are you looking like that? What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    When she asked carefully about the dark look on his face, Enoch sighed for a while as if he was embarrassed.

    ¡°The rumor that the pink diamonds caused the copse of the nobles at the banquet has spread further.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°So, I¡¯m worried that it¡¯ll cause problems with the wishing bracelets.¡±

    The rumor had spread wider than he¡¯d expected and it would be a matter of time until it reached Elle¡¯s ears.

    Mary, who¡¯d been quietly watching, slowly approached.

    ¡°Someone is here.¡±

    ¡°Who is it?¡±

    ¡°That¡­ They kept saying that they had to meet the Duke.¡±

    Enoch, who¡¯d been thinking for a while about what to do, soon nodded.

    The man who came to visit him looked like he¡¯d been sick for a long time, because of this he looked unhappy and haggard. He studied this depressed man, who hung his head like a sinner. As soon as their eyes met, the man quickly fell to his knees as if he¡¯d been waiting.

    Even before he could ask why, the man slumped forward and began apologizing.

    ¡°I know I don¡¯t deserve to say this, but¡­ Please help me, your Grace.¡±

    The man was a miner who¡¯d worked in the Rose Velvet mine and the pink diamond mine. He confessed that he was threatened by Marquis Leroy, that he would not pay him properly unless he spread false rumors about why he copsed. He confessed with tears in his eyes that he had no choice, but to spread the rumors.

    ¡°What¡¯s the reason you¡¯re here?¡±

    It was obvious that it wasn¡¯t just one or two people who¡¯d spread the false rumor, but he might¡¯ve never known if the man hadn¡¯t shown up like this. Nevertheless, he came to him in person and confessed everything.

    When Enoch asked with an expressionless face, the man replied with his head down.

    ¡°When we had a hard time because of the drought, the two of you handed out your own relief supplies.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t keep my mouth shut when I¡¯ve sinned and wronged my benefactor that I¡¯m grateful to.¡±

    The man once again apologized, then passed something that he¡¯d been holding in his arms to Enoch. When he looked at the bundle of wrapped cloth that looked like something was inside, the man said.

    ¡°I and the other miners think there must be harmful substances in this ore.¡±

    Leticia and Enoch looked at each other at the same time.

    The moment he opened the bundle of cloth in his hands.

    ¡°It¡¯s ore from the Rose Velvet mine.¡±

    The man left the mansion after apologizing onest time. As silence reigned in the drawing room, Leticia said.

    ¡°What are you going to do now?¡±

    ¡°Well, I think it¡¯s better to find out if there¡¯s any harmful substances.¡±

    Enoch decided that he would nt it in a flower bed that was out of the way.

    The next day, the flowers that had been fine until yesterday, had withered as if they had lost all of their vitality.

    ***

    A thunderbolt struck in the middle of the night, and caused a fire on the roof of the mansion. Fortunately, the fire was quickly put out, but it felt strangely ominous, so the house was quiet for a while.

    Emil smiled inwardly, saying he would take it easy and study.

    He never forgot what he saw, even if he only saw it once. Thanks to this, he always had an easy time with tests.

    Something was strange these past couple of days, he was getting the questions wrong one after another. He sometimes got them wrong in the past, so he just let it go, and figured that he was a bit tired.

    Then today, he started getting half of the questions wrong, not just one or two. Unable to look at it and admit it, Emil shoved his hair back with a grim expression.

    ¡®It¡¯s because I¡¯m tired.¡¯

    Otherwise, this wouldn¡¯t have happened.

    He thought it would be better to get some air, so Emil left the room with slightly disheveled hair.

    At that time, he encountered Xaviering from the other side of the hallway. He looked tired after his lessons at the training grounds. Xavier¡¯s expression didn¡¯t look good either, so Emil decided to ask if he was okay.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Did something happen?

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, brother¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, you can tell me.¡±

    He ended up telling Emil that he kept losing in confrontations against other trainees. While this happened to most people, other than thest Swordsmanship tournament, Xavier had never been defeated in a sword fight.

    Emil was surprised at this somewhat unexpected event, but he didn¡¯t show it on the outside.

    ¡°I¡¯m also in fact¡­¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°No, pretend you didn¡¯t hear that.¡±

    Emil, who began to speak without realizing it, immediately stopped himself. However, Xavier had already heard it, and insisted he finished what he was saying. Emil had no choice, but to say something.

    ¡°You can¡¯t solve the problem either?¡±

    ¡°Be quiet! Your voice is too loud.¡±

    As soon as Xavier raised his voice in shock, Emil quickly covered his mouth, and looked around. Fortunately, there was no one around, so he breathed a sigh of relief.

    ¡°By the way, brother.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Are we okay?¡±

    Xavier told Emil that today was the only day he¡¯d lost, but the truth was that he hadn¡¯t been able to practice properly for several days. His physical strength was not what it used to be, his agility was severely impaired, and he began to feel increasingly anxious.

    ¡°It¡¯s not weird, is it?¡±

    ¡°Of course, people can¡¯t always do well.¡±

    Emil patted Xavier lightly on the shoulder in an attempt to reassure him, but it didn¡¯t sound very reassuring as he felt a twinge under his eyes.

    Emil went to the garden with Xavier after suggesting they get some fresh air together.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Did my prayere true?¡±

    Diana, who¡¯d been hiding behind the pir, peeped at Emil and Xavier¡¯s back, and secretly smirked.

    ¡°Then maybe I have a good ability?¡±

    ***

    [1] In earlier chapters, the Countess felt guilty about a child that didn¡¯t survive. I have a feeling she had a miscarrige, and that¡¯s what she felt bad about.

 Chapter 87 - Excessive Greed Causes Disaster

    <h4>Chapter 87 - Excessive Greed Causes Disaster</h4>

    Chapter 87. Excessive Greed Causes Disaster

    ***

    A letter from the Imperial family arrived asking for another audience, more than likely it was because of the rumor that the nobles had copsed at the banquet because of the pink diamonds.

    ¡°Enoch¡­¡±

    Leticia gave Enoch a worried look, but he stroked her hair as if it would be fine.

    ¡°It¡¯ll be okay.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s better this way. We can take this opportunity to set the record straight.¡±

    At first, everyone thought it was because of the pink diamonds. However, the situation wasn¡¯t as disadvantageous as expected due to the emergence of aristocrats who¡¯d suffered from fevers because of the Rose Velvet.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°This is happening because of my ex-family. You¡¯re going through something that you shouldn¡¯t have to.¡±

    Leticia turned her head as if it was her fault. There was no evidence, but it was probably because of them that the banquet was ruined and rumors were spread.

    She didn¡¯t think of them as family anymore, but she still couldn¡¯t look at Enoch.

    Enoch, who was staring at Leticia, said with an exaggerated look of disbelief.

    ¡°Did you order the banquet to be ruined?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Did you ask them to spread false rumors?¡±

    ¡°No way!¡±

    ¡°Then it¡¯s not a problem.¡±

    Enoch sat down in the chair and immediately tugged on Leticia¡¯s hand. She was startled by his sudden pulling on hand and was taken by surprise.

    ¡°Why are you apologizing? It was someone else who did something wrong.¡±

    When Leticia finally came to her senses, she was already sitting in Enoch¡¯sp. As soon as she realized it, she tried to stand up, but his solid arm was already around her waist.

    ¡°Now I want to hear something other than sorry.¡±

    Enoch blinked, then smiled in a way that could melt her away. Leticia clung to Enoch¡¯s arm in embarrassment, because it looked as if he wanted to be even nicer to her.

    ¡°Rx your arm first.¡±

    ¡°If you promise not to say sorry from now on.¡±

    Leticia pouted her lips as if she was being falsely used, with an adamant expression that said was strongly against it.

    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t mean to say that I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s just that I¡¯m sorry that it happened.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault.¡±

    ¡°However¡­¡±

    ¡°If you keep saying sorry¡­¡±

    Enoch nodded, his eyes dropped down as he raised Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°I¡¯m upset, Leticia.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Did you mean to upset me?¡±

    ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡±

    He¡¯s a kind man.

    Enoch smiled satisfactorily as he shook his head firmly and grabbed Leticia¡¯s hand. Then, his expression quickly sank.

    ¡°You have to apologize for this though.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Not knowing what he meant, Leticia blinked her blue eyes several times. Eventually, Enoch raised her hand as if he couldn¡¯t help it, and he bit Leticia¡¯s ring finger lightly.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    It didn¡¯t hurt, but it was an unfamiliar touch that startled her. As soon as Leticia pulled her hand away, her gaze intertwined with Enoch¡¯s, who was staring at her quietly.

    ¡°Ring.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t see it.¡±

    Only then did Leticia notice what he was saying, and she bit her lip with an awkward expression. She¡¯d forgotten that she¡¯d taken it off this morning when she was doing the washing in the morning.

    ¡°You scolded me for not having my ring.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°I was even wearing it on a ne.¡±

    Without giving him time to talk, Leticia excused herself with a pitiful look.

    ¡°I had to take it off for a bit, because it¡¯s important to me.¡±

    ¡°Since it¡¯s so important, do you want me to take mine off as well?¡±

    ¡°No! Absolutely not! I just needed to take mine off for a bit!¡±

    He was about to take off the ring, when she suddenly sped his hand. Enoch tried to gently remove his hand, but her grip tightened to keep him from pulling away.

    Her blue eyes stared at him desperately, so he had the urge to y it off as a joke.

    ¡°Are you still going to take it off?¡±

    ¡°Can I not?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to take off my ring.¡±

    Leticia grabbed onto Enoch¡¯s arm, as she dropped her gaze. Her eyshes fluttered as if to ask him to let her go, but he was looking down at her with something much more frightening and hard.

    When she gently touched the back of his hand, Enoch rubbed her lips and finally responded.

    ¡°Why is it that only you do this to me?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I have to.¡±

    I won¡¯t let you go.

    A rough voice came from between his clenched teeth. Then arge hand covered her white cheek and pulled her closer.

    His lips that collided with hers felt both itchy and gentle, as if flower petals hadnded on them. Then there was a light bite on her lower lip and the warmth that prated deep into her mouth. Unable to bear it, Leticia wrapped her arms around Enoch¡¯s neck.

    He wanted to touch her more. He wanted more.

    When he was with Leticia, who seemed to casually reach out to him, Enoch felt a burst of unfamiliar feelings that he didn¡¯t even know he had.

    The desire to keep her close to him, the possessiveness to hold her in his hands, and the obsession.

    Unlike her, who was filled with a mass of emotions, it always felt like Enoch could do anything for her if she looked up at him with those eyes

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    He called her name as he slowly pulled his lips away, and he pushed her hair back.

    ¡°Instead of saying sorry, please say ¡®I like you¡¯ and ¡®I love you¡¯.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Because I want to hear that more.¡±

    Whenever Leticia apologized like she was a sinner even though she wasn¡¯t at fault, Enoch felt mixed up. So, he asked her to use a word that seemed to satisfy his desires.

    Fortunately, the words got through, and Leticia put them into practice.

    ¡°I love you.¡±

    ¡°Good, that¡¯s how you do it.¡±

    ¡°No, that¡¯s not it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    As he tilted his head slightly, Leticia kissed Enoch¡¯s cheek lightly. She was feeling slightly frustrated and said.

    ¡°What I just said wasn¡¯t because I was sorry, but because I love you.¡±

    He was so happy at this moment that he kept smiling.

    ¡®No more, no less. Just this.¡¯

    He couldn¡¯t have hoped for happiness like this.

    ***

    One afternoon, a few dayster, the day of the audience with the Emperor had arrived. Unlike Leticia, who was very nervous, Enoch seemed to be unconcerned.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    ¡°Is there a reason why I shouldn¡¯t be okay?¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    She looked up at Enoch with concern, but he just smiled as if nothing was wrong. Only then did she feel a little relieved, but as soon as she entered the audience room, she began to feel anxious again.

    The reason was that she could see Marquis Leroy, who had arrived earlier, standing there with an ufortable expression on his face.

    The Marquis then tried to approach her with a smile on his face, as he tried to make himself look as gentle as possible. However, he had to stop walking because the Emperor had entered the audience room and sat down on his throne.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to see you again over something so unsavory, but the rumors have spread too much.¡±

    As soon as he sat down, the Emperor immediately brought up the subject of the summons.

    ¡°People are saying that the pink diamonds caused the nobles to faint at the banquet. Marquis Leroy, what do you think?¡±

    ¡°It may be a false rumor, but¡­¡±

    Marquis Leroy, who frowned slightly with an awkward expression when he replied, then he snuck a look at Enoch.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think a rumor like that would spread without a reason.¡±

    The Marquis¡¯ conclusion was that the pink diamonds were the problem.

    ¡°What do you think about it, Duke Achilles?¡±

    This time, the Emperor turned his gaze towards Enoch, who calmly stated his thoughts without embarrassment.

    ¡°If the rumors are true, I will take responsibility.¡±

    ¡°Does that mean that you admit that it happened because of the duke¡¯s ore?¡±

    ¡°I think it should be confirmed urately beforeing to that conclusion.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by confirming?¡±

    Enoch looked at Marquis Leroy for a moment, then answered the Emperor¡¯s question.

    ¡°Recently, I¡¯ve heard that the Rose Velvet has caused people to suffer from high fevers.¡±

    Marquis Leroy tried to intervene quickly at his words, but when the Emperor raised one hand, he was forced to step back.

    ¡°Duke Achilles has a point. What do you want to do?¡±

    ¡°What about investigating whether the pink diamonds or the Rose Velvets have harmful substances?¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s face, who¡¯d been watching resentfully, began to turn blue. He was afraid of Enoch¡¯s confident appearance, which showed no sign of hesitation.

    ¡°Hmm¡­ Investigate¡­¡±

    ¡°Your Majesty, isn¡¯t it too sudden to consider an investigation?¡±

    ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t have to worry about that. It won¡¯t take long, I have someone to help me.¡±

    As soon as the Emperor finished speaking, someone appeared as if they had just been waiting. Marquis Leroy was shocked to find out who it was, so he almost cried out.

    ¡°Mr. Seios¡­¡±

    Like Marquis Leroy, Leticia immediately recognized Seios. She opened her eyes wide in shock, then she looked back at Enoch.

    Enoch was calm, without any sign of surprise, as if he already knew this would happen.

    ¡°Let¡¯s check them right now.¡±

    When the Emperor nodded, an expressionless Seios walked up to the table. Pink diamonds and Rose Velvets were ced side by side on the prepared table.

    Marquis Leroy swallowed dry saliva, and eagerly looked at Seios. However, Seios didn¡¯t spare him a single nce, and only looked closely at the two gems alternately.

    For some reason she was nervous, so Leticia pursed her lips and grasped Enoch¡¯s little finger. Enoch squeezed Leticia¡¯s hand lightly as if to reassure her.

    On the other hand, Marquis Leroy only watched Seios with an anxious look. He was hoping he¡¯d see the desperate look in his eyes.

    In the breathtakingly heavy silence, Seios slowly opened his mouth.

    ¡°On the Rose Velvet gem¡­¡±

    Please, please, please.

    Marquis Leroy repeated in his mind the prayer that he hadn¡¯t made in a few years.

    But¡­

    ¡°It is true that there are harmful substances, Your Majesty.¡±

    His prayer was not heard.

    Shocked, Marquis Leroy almost lost strength in his legs. Seios, who was watching the scene, continued to talk while staring at him with criticizing eyes.

    ¡°Because of the strong harmful substance, I think there will be symptoms of fainting and high fever.¡±

    ¡°I see. What about the pink diamonds?¡±

    Marquis Leroy still had a little bit of hope at the Emperor¡¯s words.

    Perhaps there were still harmful substances in the pink diamond. He was going to push the me on the pink diamonds somehow, even if it turned out that they were fine.

    However, this also didn¡¯t work out as Marquis Leroy wanted.

    ¡°I can feel the effect of detoxification of harmful substances.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡±

    Leticia was quietly listening to the unexpected words and gasped in surprise. It was the first time Enoch had heard of it, and looked puzzled.

    ¡°So we¡¯ve reached a conclusion.¡±

    The Emperor looked down at Marquis Leroy, and stroked his chin with a rxed expression.

    The marquis had an ominous feeling, and clenched his fists.

    ***

    ¡°What? It¡¯s the same.¡±

    Her prayer was answered. For a while, Diana frowned when the petals fell from the air. Emil and Xavier just didn¡¯t work hard enough, so their abilities didn¡¯t seem to have been properly exercised.

    Then a loud noise came from outside. When she opened the door and went downstairs, she saw Marquis Leroy. He¡¯d entered the mansion with such heavy steps, as if he was trying to break the floor, and then mmed his office door with a loud thud. Soon after, the sound of vile screaming reached her ears.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°D*mn it!¡±

    Anger burned through the Marquis¡¯ entire body, as he threw all the objects he could get his hands on and cursed.

    In the end, the Emperor concluded that all of the fevers and fainting were due to the harmful substance in the Rose Velvet. The Marquis was penalized, and had to paypensation to all of the victims. It ended up costing a lot more money than he expected because he had to take responsibility for the people who¡¯d worked in his mine as well.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have enough money for that right now!¡±

    All the money he¡¯d managed to scrape together was poured into the mining business, and what money he¡¯d earned had been used to pay the miners¡¯ wages. He felt strangled when he was asked to paypensation for the damages.

    In the meantime, the butler had carefully entered the room, and handed over two letters. The Marquis fiercely opened the letters, then burst intoughter because he was speechless.

    The first letter came from the academy where Emil attended. Unlike usual, his performance had dropped significantly, and they were worried. This alone upset his stomach, but the second letter said that Xavier¡¯s sword skills were not the same as before.

    ¡®I have to bring her back.¡¯

    Marquis Leroy crumbled the letters in his hands and ground his teeth.

    It was clear that everything would be solved with Leticia¡¯s return. His business would work out like before, and it would make everything easier.

    He had to bring Leticia back, no matter what.

 Chapter 88 - Our Positions Have Cha

    <h4>Chapter 88 - Our Positions Have Cha</h4>

    Chapter 88. Our Positions Have Changed

    ***

    ¡°It¡¯s good to know that it was the Rose Velvet that had the toxic substances in it.¡±

    On the day the two of them came out to see the square after a long time, Leticia confessed what happened at the Imperial pce. Elle was only hearing the news now, and let out a big sigh with a look of relief. This was because she had been unconsciously stressed out by the bad rumor about the pink diamonds.

    ¡°There¡¯s something else, Elle.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    Elle¡¯s face hardened as she automatically braced herself. However, as soon as their eyes met, Leticia smiled brightly.

    ¡°Pink diamonds have a detoxifying effect against harmful substances.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°It must have blocked the toxins from the Rose Velvet.¡±

    Elle couldn¡¯t believe it when she heard it, so she couldn¡¯t hide her surprised expression and covered her mouth with her hand.

    ¡°Oh my god¡­ No way.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not all.¡±

    ¡°What else is there?¡±

    Elle¡¯s eyes glittered in anticipation. She stared impatiently, and Leticia smiled softly and pretended she couldn¡¯t win against her.

    ¡°Low-grade pink diamonds also have a subtle detoxifying effect.¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­ The pink diamonds that are used in my wishing bracelets?¡±

    Elle asked for confirmation because she couldn¡¯t believe it, but Leticia nodded lightly and smiled. This was what Seois had told her when she was about to return to the Achilles mansion.

    ¡°Oh, I guess that¡¯s why the president asked me to raise the price on the wishing bracelets.¡±

    She thought it was strange because they were suddenly selling so well, but the fact that it had detoxifying effects seemed to have spread.

    Elle muttered as if she understood everything, then Leticia approached her.

    ¡°Are you going to raise the price of the wishing bracelets?¡±

    ¡°If I increase it, we¡¯ll make more money, which would be nice.¡±

    Even if it¡¯s small, it has a detoxification effect, so there must be many people who want to buy it even if the price is raised.

    But¡­

    ¡°I¡¯m going to leave it as it is.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    Elle¡¯s answer was unexpected, Leticia opened her eyes wide and looked at her. She shrugged her shoulders, and replied.

    ¡°You said you wanted to make essories that anyone could easily buy.¡±

    Elle wanted to keep Leticia¡¯s original intention for her first bracelet to the end. Therefore, no matter how much money she could make, she never wanted to raise the price.

    ¡°Are you sure it¡¯ll be okay?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I can use better gems for the next essory, and sell it at a higher price. So it¡¯s okay.¡±

    Elleughed out loud, hugged Leticia¡¯s shoulder, and said.

    ¡°Anyways, I worried a lot, but I¡¯m d things worked out.¡±

    ¡°I know. I¡¯m d it all turned out okay.¡±

    ¡°Then as congrattions, let¡¯s go eat dessert¡­¡±

    ¡°Elle, what¡¯s wrong?¡±

    They¡¯d been chatting happily, but then Elle suddenly fell silent. Her face was also stiff, so Leticia followed her fixed gaze to the ce where she was staring at with a strange expression.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    At the end of her gaze stood Diana.

    Elle frowned at Diana, and tried to walk away from her. However, Diana strode towards them before they could leave, looked at Leticia with dissatisfaction, and said.

    ¡°Hey,e with me for a second.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think we¡¯re close enough to do that.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t want toe here either!¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    Leticia nodded insincerely at Diana, who¡¯d raised her voice sharply, and tried to walk past her. However, Diana suddenly pulled on her wrist, and forced her to turn back.

    ¡°Oh really! It¡¯ll only take a moment.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to, even for a second. Can you let go of my hand?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t interrupt me!¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you the one who started it first?¡±

    When Elle noticed the grip on Leticia¡¯s wrist, she tried to forcibly remove it, but Diana pushed her shoulder.

    ¡°Diana!¡±

    Leticia was angry at her action, and stood in front of Elle to protect her from Diana. At that moment, people around them began to notice themotion, and began to look over.

    ¡°Ha¡­ Follow me.¡±

    She was forced to move to a teahouse with fewer people, but Diana motioned towards Elle, and tried to demand they talk alone.

    At that moment, Leticia¡¯s annoyed voice came out.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t like it, then you can go.¡±

    ¡°I told you I have something to say!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have a duty to listen to you. So if you don¡¯t like it, you can go.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Diana, who was well-versed in a determination that never backed down, clenched her teeth and stared at Leticia. However, Leticia quietly spoke with a detached attitude, like there was nothing she desired from her.

    ¡°If you have something to say, hurry up, and say it.¡±

    ¡°¡­Come home.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Please help me!¡±

    Diana, who¡¯d raised her voice, turned her head nervously, and recalled what happened recently.

    At first, she thought that Emil and Xavier had messed up their grades in an unusual way. They were good at everything, even with so little effort. She considered them pathetic for not putting enough effort in, and angering their father.

    However, when it kept happening she couldn¡¯t pass it off as a coincidence, and Diana started to be nervous. Not long after that, she overheard a conversation between the two.

    [Hey, what should I do? I don¡¯t think I can use my ability properly.]

    [What?]

    [I thought it was an illusion, but it¡¯s not. I can¡¯t use my ability like I used to. No, I think it¡¯s disappeared.]

    Xavier said to Emil, shaking his hands as if he were half out of his mind. Emil¡¯s expression as he looked at Xavier wasn¡¯t good either. Rather than being worried about his younger brother, he seemed to be in shock.

    [What about your ability? Am I the only one having problems?]

    [Xavier¡­]

    [Can you use your ability properly?]

    Even though Xavier grabbed his arms desperately, Emil didn¡¯t answer. He just told him to be quiet because there might be people listening.

    Diana was listening secretly, and realized something was wrong. Unlike Emil and Xavier, who were having issues with using their abilities, Diana¡¯s had remained the same. As if her empty prayer that her younger siblings¡¯ abilities would disappear had been granted.

    It was clear that everyone would find it suspicious that there was no change to her ability. She could¡¯ve tried to deceive them that her¡¯s had disappeared as well, but she was worried that her flower rain would trigger if she lost control of her emotions.

    There was also an even bigger problem. She btedly realized that nothing good woulde out of her younger brothers losing their abilities. As soon as she noticed that she could no longer benefit from them, Diana was in great shock.

    [Baset: (/_-;) ]

    In the meantime, a maid, who¡¯d also overheard the conversation between the two, spread the news throughout the mansion and it eventually reached Marquis Leroy¡¯s ears. As soon as he heard, the Marquis yelled at them until their expressions were severely distorted. After that, she was eager to find a way to restore their abilities.

    ¡®If they find out it was because of her, then¡­¡¯

    Just thinking about it gave her goosebumps from the oppressive fear.

    For her own sake, she had to bring Leticia back. That way Emil and Xavier would be able to use their abilities properly again.

    ¡°So help me out.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia, who had been quietly listening until the end of Diana¡¯s story, couldn¡¯t help butugh.

    She couldn¡¯t even sigh, and wondered how far they were willing to go to reach the bottom.

    ¡°Hey, let¡¯s go.¡±

    ¡°Elle.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to listen anymore.¡±

    Elle, who¡¯d been sitting next to Leticia, pulled on her arm gently with a bored expression. However, Leticia pulled Elle back to her seat.

    ¡°Sit down.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, so sit next to me.¡±

    Leticia affectionately held Elle¡¯s hand, and stared straight ahead. In front of her was Diana, who was biting her lip nervously.

    The fact that she¡¯de to her because of her selfish desire to cover up her mistake felt great in many ways. Fortunately, she no longer felt anything, other than disappointment.

    ¡°That¡¯s not the attitude of a person who came to ask for a favor.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Diana frowned at her words.

    Still, she could evenugh at her arrogant appearance as she crossed her arms, and raised her chin, as if it wasn¡¯t her fault.

    ¡°Who raises their chin so stiffly, and asks for a favor, Diana?¡±

    She deliberately called her name in a cordial way when she said that. However, her gaze as she faced her was cold and threatening, as if Diana was standing on thin ice.

    ¡°You have to ask respectfully and politely.¡±

    ¡°What do I do¡­¡±

    ¡°Uncross your arms, and lower your chin.¡±

    ¡°Are you ordering me around now?¡±

    ¡°What a wonderful way of speaking.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She chewed on her lips at Leticia¡¯s absolute refusal to do what Diana asked unless she did what she asked. So, she unfolded her arms and tried again.

    ¡°Please help me, sister.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Can we go now?¡±

    Diana¡¯s attitude of wanting to get it over quickly, and her tone of speech thatcked sincerity.

    The corner of Leticia¡¯s mouth curled up.

    ¡°No, I don¡¯t want to.¡±

    ¡°What? That wasn¡¯t enough! What more do you want me to do?¡±

    ¡°Do you want me to do you a favor?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±

    ¡°Then beg on your knees.¡±

    ¡°Huh, what?¡±

    Amazed, Diana burst intoughter, and looked at Leticia. She thought she¡¯d heard wrong, but Leticia looked more serious than ever.

    ¡°Who knows? I feel sorry for you, so I wonder if I¡¯ll do this favor.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Can¡¯t you do it?¡±

    Diana began screaming at Leticia¡¯s calm and uncaring tone.

    ¡°Do you really want to see your sister on her knees begging?¡±

    ¡°You said it yourself.¡±

    ¡°When did I do that?¡±

    ¡°On the day of the Knighting Ceremony.¡±

    She frowned for a moment because she didn¡¯t understand what she meant. Suddenly. Diana closed her mouth.

    [Get on your knees and apologize.]

    [It¡¯s not fun to just end it with an apology.]

    It was definitely what she said.

    ¡°You said it first.¡±

    ¡°You still remember that?¡±

    Diana, who hadn¡¯t expected her to still remember that, replied sarcastically.

    Even though she was being treated as a petty person, Leticia spoke quietly without showing any signs of displeasure.

    ¡°You know what? I¡¯ve always felt sorry for you.¡±

    It was always Diana¡¯s responsibility to take care of her younger siblings when Leticia went outside to earn money, even though it was only from running errands. She couldn¡¯t help, but feel sorry because Diana was young at the time.

    So she tried to be understanding and cherish her more than her younger siblings. She wasn¡¯t asking her to recognize her efforts either.

    She just wanted her to act like she was her older sister and family.

    ¡°Rather, you ignored me. No, you didn¡¯t even treat me like I¡¯m your older sister.¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡±

    ¡°So, please don¡¯t call me sister, it¡¯s unpleasant.¡±

    After saying that, Leticia stood up as if she didn¡¯t want to deal with Diana anymore. While holding Elle¡¯s hand casually.

    Shocked by the sight, Diana trembled with a pale face.

    ¡°You¡¯re lying right? Even if my knees were sore from kneeling you wouldn¡¯t have helped them anyways!¡±

    In Diana¡¯s dark blue eyes dark red veins stood out. She started at Leticia with a mixture of resentment, sadness, and dismay.

    Leticia just smiled softly.

    ¡°Oh no, I was caught.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    ¡°I thought you wouldn¡¯t realize.¡±

 Chapter 89 - If You Live A Good Life, Itâ€™ll

    <h4>Chapter 89 - If You Live A Good Life, It¡¯ll</h4>

    Chapter 89. If You Live A Good Life, It¡¯ll Come Back To You

    ***

    ¡°Ha! You wanted me to kneel?¡±

    Diana was so agitated that she screamed out loud. Even as she walked back to the Leroy mansion, she became angry and her steps became fiercer.

    Walking loudly into the house, Diana paused suddenly.

    ¡®That¡¯s strange.¡¯

    The atmosphere in the house felt so heavy that it was difficult to breathe. As soon as Diana noticed, she became anxious, and tried to quickly return to her room.

    ¡°Diana Leroy.¡±

    The heavy voice from behind gave her a bad feeling, and made her heart sink to the bottom of her stomach.

    As she tried to suppress the urge to run away, she made eye contact with Marquis Leroy, who was standing there with a scary look on his face.

    ¡°Why are you calling me, father?¡±

    Diana smiled as if she didn¡¯t know anything, and hid her trembling hands behind her back.

    While she put on an innocent smile for all to see, what came back to her was a thunderous yell.

    ¡°What the heck did you do?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    When he got angry right away, Diana wouldn¡¯t lose, and shouted back. Marquis Leroy stared at Diana with an even fiercer look.

    ¡°I already know everything.¡±

    Diana¡¯s eyes darkened momentarily. He didn¡¯t say exactly what he was aware of, but she felt like he knew everything that she had done.

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    Her mouth dried up, and her hands began to shake violently. She clutched her hands harder to avoid being caught, but her shoulders were shrinking.

    ¡°I heard everything you said to our eldest sister.¡±

    Xavier, who was standing behind Marquis Leroy, said this to Diana with contempt. He still shuddered when he remembered the scene.

    It had just been a coincidence. Knowing that it was probably useless to plead with Leticia toe back, he still went to her to beg for mercy anyways. That¡¯s when he unexpectedly found her and Diana together, which was an unusual situation. So, he decided to secretly follow them, and heard a shocking story.

    While he listened, he couldn¡¯t believe it. He had troubleing back to his senses, even after his long walk back to the mansion.

    ¡°I heard that you wished for our abilities to disappear.¡±

    ¡°That, that¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve received divine punishment because of your sister!¡±

    ¡°Why is it my fault?! Who would¡¯ve guessed it woulde true?!¡±

    At that time, she¡¯d sincerely prayed, but now she regretted it. She¡¯d btedly realized that nothing good woulde of it for her.

    ¡°Is that your excuse?¡±

    Xavier¡¯s fury soared as she brazenly insisted that it wasn¡¯t her fault, without a single sign of reflection. He was about to approach her with a scowl on his face, when Emil stopped him.

    ¡°Stop, Xavier.¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you angry?¡±

    ¡°Xavier.¡±

    Emil quietly hinted at Xavier. Only then did he close his mouth with a resentful expression at his brother¡¯s mercy.

    Diana rolled her eyes at his sharp gaze, and hoped that this moment would pass quickly.

    That¡¯s when an angry voice broke the heavy silence.

    ¡°I can¡¯t watch you sauntering around with your unchanged ability.¡±

    Diana didn¡¯t understand what the Marquis meant, and looked at him nkly. The moment their eyes met, the verdict was handed down out of the blue.

    ¡°Don¡¯t think about leaving your room from today onwards.¡±

    ¡°Father¡­!¡±

    Marquis Leroy angrily turned away, as if he didn¡¯t want to see her anymore, but Diana followed him with a pale face.

    ¡°You want me to lock myself in my room? I don¡¯t want to! I really don¡¯t want to!¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t do it on purpose! It was because I was momentarily jealous. I¡¯ve also reflected on myself a lot¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear it.¡±

    ¡°Father!¡±

    ¡°You should consider yourself lucky that I didn¡¯t kick you out!¡±

    Diana hardened at his harsh roar that pierced the ceiling, and his eyes that said they wanted to kick her out right away if they could.

    ¡°I won¡¯t be this patient next time, Diana.¡±

    ¡°Father¡­¡±

    ¡°Keep that in mind.¡±

    Marquis Leroy passed Diana with Emil and Xavier.

    Diana wanted to vent her anger at his back. However, she could no longer push him because she worried that he¡¯d expel her if she did. So, she just quietly stared at the three of them.

    ***

    ¡°Ian, your tie is crooked.¡±

    Leticia, who¡¯d been busy since the morning, said this as she fixed Ian¡¯s outfit. Time felt like it flew past, and it was already Ian¡¯s first day working as an Imperial Official.

    ¡°You must be nervous because it¡¯s your first day, but you¡¯ll learn quickly.¡±

    ¡°I think you¡¯re more nervous.¡±

    She was so rigid that people might think it was Leticia¡¯s, and not Ian¡¯s, who was going to work for the first time. Ian smiled as he teased her, which made Leticia pout with a dissatisfied look.

    ¡°Of course I¡¯d be nervous.¡±

    ¡°Is that why you¡¯re sending me off?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s your first day, Ian.¡±

    He remembered that she¡¯d done the same thing on the first day of the exams. Ian smiled as he thanked Leticia, who was walking with him again.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have toe pick me up.¡±

    ¡°But you like it.¡±

    ¡°Do I really?¡±

    As if he didn¡¯t really know, he opened his eyes wide, and pretended not to know. Leticia lightly tapped his arm at his teasing.

    ¡°Stop joking around, and take this.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    Leticia presented him with a gold thread bracelet. Ian wondered what it was for, and tilted his head as he looked down at it.

    ¡°Elle asked me to deliver it.¡±

    Leticia smiled gently, and ced the gold thread bracelet on his wrist.

    Elle was always so blunt with Ian, but she took care of her twin brother more than anyone else. She often asked Leticia for help in these matters, perhaps because she was embarrassed to give it to him herself.

    ¡°Please tell her to make it more carefully next time.¡±

    Ian grumbled for no reason, even though it was clearly borately woven.

    ¡°Say thank you to Elle when you see her.¡±

    ¡°What¡­ If you say it instead.¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t help but chuckle when she saw Ian nodding as if he couldn¡¯t win against her.

    After their talk, they arrived in front of the gate. Leticia took a calming breath and held Ian¡¯s hand tightly.

    ¡°Have a good day, Ian.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll see youter, sister.¡±

    As they faced each other and smiled, they felt the presence of someone behind them. Looking back they found students, who¡¯d recently passed the exam alongside Ian, and some Imperial civil servants, who¡¯d arrived to wee them.

    ¡°It¡¯s Ian Achilles, right?¡±

    ¡°Is it true that you didn¡¯t learn at an academy?¡±

    ¡°Did you teach yourself how to do it?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s amazing. Can you tell me your secret?¡±

    ¡°How did you study?¡±

    As the questions constantly poured out, Leticia stepped aside. She turned her head towards the gaze that had been persistently following her, and her eyes met with some elses.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    As soon as she saw Emil standing there as if he had a lot to say, but didn¡¯t know what to do, Leticia turned her head away coldly. Ian, who btedly discovered Emil, moved next to Leticia.

    Only then did the other students notice Leticia¡¯s existence, and began to talk quickly to her.

    ¡°Miss Leticia Leroy, right?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know I¡¯d meet you here like this.¡±

    ¡°Nice to meet you, I¡¯m¡­¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re done with your business, you should go.¡±

    Emil cut them off firmly, as if he couldn¡¯t take it anymore.

    While everyone read the chilly atmosphere, Leticia smiled gently, and intervened.

    ¡°I hope you can call me properly in the future.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not Leroy, it¡¯s Aster. Leticia Aster.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    At their low sigh, Leticia smiled softly. However, her eyes seemed a bit ufortable.

    ¡°I guess it¡¯s not well-known that I¡¯ve be Count Aster¡¯s adopted daughter.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Miss Ler¡­ No, Miss Aster.

    Emil bit the inside of his mouth at her attitude that drew a clear line between her, and the whole family. He was about to say something to Leticia, who¡¯d gone to such lengths to push them away, but Ian was one step ahead of him.

    ¡°Oh, didn¡¯t you ask me to tell you my secret?¡±

    Ian, who¡¯d been watching the situation quietly, said this while he smiled more benignly than ever. At that moment, the students¡¯ eyes lit up.

    Finally, they could hear Ian¡¯s secret to passing the exam. It was a moment they looked forward to, and they all focused on him.

    ¡°If you live a good life, it¡¯lle back to you.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Everyone stared nkly at Ian, and wondered if they¡¯d heard it wrong.

    However, Ian¡¯s gaze headed elsewhere. As soon as he saw Emil clenching his fists in anger, a pleasant smile spread across his face.

    ¡°Even if you live a bad life, everythinges back to you.¡±

    Ian smiled calmly and bowed slightly to Leticia.

    ¡°Sister, I¡¯ll return soon.¡±

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll wait for you at home.¡±

    Leticia had noticed what he meant, and stroked Ian¡¯s head affectionately.

    At that moment, Ian heard a vicious sound, and nced at Emil while the corner of his mouth raised on one side.

    It was obviously the smile of the winner.

    ***

    ¡°How could you take their side?¡±

    ¡°Bartel Leroy¡± [1]

    ¡°Is it that hard to be on my side even for that moment?¡±

    Marquis Leroy, who¡¯d finally managed to meet with Seios with great difficulty, couldn¡¯t ovee his anger and raised his voice. However, Seios, who was sitting across from him, only looked at the Marquis with a frightening calmness.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡±

    ¡°You said there are harmful substances in my ore! You could¡¯ve turned a blind eye at that time,

    ¡°Are you telling me that I should¡¯ve lied to the Emperor?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s¡­¡±

    He was embarrassed by his words for a while, but Marquis Leroy began to weigh them again.

    ¡°Then you should¡¯ve just said that the pink diamonds do not have harmful substances. Why did you say that they had a detoxifying effect?¡±

    ¡°Why are you ming others?!¡±

    Seios shouted at his unountable attitude that had brought him to this, and how he refused to admit his mistake.

    Marquis Leroy finally came to his senses, took a deep breath, and bowed to Seios.

    ¡°Once¡­ Please help me this once, Godfather.¡±

    ¡°Bartel Leroy.¡±

    ¡°Emil and Xavier have lost their powers because of Diana. I¡¯llpensate everyone who¡¯s suffered because of me, so please help me bring Leticia back¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°My children¡¯s lives are at stake, I don¡¯t want them to be ruined.¡±

    The more he listened to the Marquis¡¯ words, the more Seios¡¯ face hardened at his attitude that a child without ability was a failure.

    In the meantime, he had no idea what to say to his belief that everything would be solved if only Leticia was there.

    ¡°Godfather¡­¡±

    Despite his desperate gaze, Seios turned away silently. How much was this man going to disappoint him?

    Eventually, he got up from his seat with a mixed expression. There was no point in talking anymore.

    As soon as he turned around, an angry voice reached his ears.

    ¡°You¡¯re my godfather!¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°How can you not do this favor for me?¡±

    He stared with a look full of resentment. Without wavering, Seios said.

    ¡°Are you going to throw your child away, then pick her up again when you need her?¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t teach you that.¡±

    After saying that, Seios turned around, and left the office. Marquis Leroy, who was left alone, sat on the floor, and clenched his fists in anger.

    ¡°Even if my godfather doesn¡¯t help, I can bring her back with me.¡±

    Something dangerous shed in the Marquis¡¯ eyes.

    ***

 Chapter 90 - Im Happy, Youre Unhappy

    <h4>Chapter 90 - I''m Happy, You''re Unhappy</h4>

    Chapter 90. I¡¯m Happy, You¡¯re Unhappy

    ***

    Only a small number of people knew what Leticia¡¯s ability was, but word spread that good things happened when around her, so the cookies she made began to sell quickly.

    She was happy when a lot of unexpected money arrived in a short time, but she also wondered if she deserved it. After some consideration, Leticia donated all of the money, except for a reasonable amount for her living expenses, and some money to give to the people around her. Most of the donations went to the residents of the Achilles territory, who had suffered from the drought.

    ¡®Come to think of it, it¡¯s been quiettely.¡¯

    Leticia was on her way back to the Achilles¡¯ mansion after organizing her schedule with the owner of Pegasus. Her days had been so hectic that she hadn¡¯t even noticed that her ex-family had stopped visiting.

    It wasfortable because they didn¡¯t show up to beg her to return, but she was also feeling nervous because they didn¡¯te.

    At that moment, she felt a strange chill run down her back. As she was about to turn around, a white handnded on Leticia¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°What confidence is it that lets you walk around alone?¡±

    While it sounded like a question asked out of curiosity, it came out more like a criticism. Leticia immediately knew who it was, and couldn¡¯t hide her surprise as she looked up.

    ¡°Keena?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re walking around fearlessly without knowing how dangerous the world is.¡±

    Keena shook her head, and lightly poked Leticia¡¯s cheek. At the annoying poke, Leticia pushed her hand away.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you wouldn¡¯t appear again?¡±

    ¡°You looked like you were in danger. Should I have just watched?¡±

    ¡°It looked dangerous?¡±

    When she blinked in confusion, a frustrated Keena said.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t even realize that someone was following you?¡±

    ¡°I really didn¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°Your family is trying to take you back home. What were you thinking about going around alone?¡±

    ¡°Strictly speaking, I¡¯m not alone. I have escorts with me too.¡±

    Just a few days ago, Enoch posted a few guards to Leticia just in case.

    Keena jerked her chin back without a word. In the direction she was pointing, Leticia¡¯s escorts were lying on the ground.

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°What happened?! It¡¯s because the people who tried to kidnap you knocked out your guards.¡±

    ¡°Who are those people?¡±

    Leticia asked as btedly found some different men lying down near her escorts.

    Keena shrugged her shoulders and calmly replied.

    ¡°I knocked out the men who tried to kidnap you.¡±

    ¡°You helped me?¡±

    ¡°If it wasn¡¯t me, who was going to help?¡±

    Keena clicked her tongue, and acted as if it was a matter of course.

    Perhaps because of her past behaviour, Leticia didn¡¯t feel there were any good intentions on her part and had a hard time feeling gratitude.

    ¡°If you were following me because you were worried I would go back to my family, you don¡¯t have to. I told youst time, I don¡¯t want to go back and I¡¯ve stated clearly to them that I won¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re saying that to someone who was genuinely worried about you and helped you?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Keena frowned in displeasure and red at Leticia. It was obvious that she was upset, so Leticia stayed quiet for a while, then sighed.

    ¡°I thought it was because you always saw me as a means to an end.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Not anymore¡­ It¡¯s not like that anymore.¡±

    Her loud voice suddenly lost it¡¯s strength and sagged. Leticia, who was watching Keena silently, smiled slightly.

    ¡°Thank you for protecting me, and not ignoring what was happening.¡±

    Keena turned her head, and touched the back of her neck in embarrassment.

    ¡°Who wants to hear thank you?¡±

    ¡°But I have to say it.¡±

    As expected, she suddenly thought that she couldn¡¯t be apletely bad person. Without looking at Leticia properly, a sheepish Keena said.

    ¡°Anyways, don¡¯t make me worry about you. I don¡¯t want to care, but it bothered me.¡±

    It sounded strangely warm, even though it sounded like she was ming Leticia.

    ¡°Will you help me next time?¡±

    The words might have sounded brazen, but Keena answered firmly, without any sign of displeasure.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m not going to protect you. I won¡¯t visit you either.¡±

    ¡°Then why did you help this time?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    She was obviously embarrassed by Leticia¡¯s curiosity, but Keena replied with a sigh.

    ¡°I just happened to be there. Don¡¯t put too much meaning onto it.¡±

    ¡°Keena.¡±

    ¡°You know nothing goodes from getting close to me.¡±

    As soon as she tried to turn away, Leticia¡¯s voice grabbed her attention.

    ¡°Still¡­ Thank you.¡±

    Keena, who paused at her heartfelt appreciation, turned away without answering and moved away.

    After that day, Leticia didn¡¯t see Keena for a long time.

    ***

    Rumors began to circte that the Leroy family might be on the verge of ruin because of the harmful substances in the Rose Velvet that caused the nobles to copse. On the other hand, the Achilles family had another chance at revival.

    ¡°Did you see the report from the mine manager?¡±

    Elle, who¡¯d been reading the letter seriously, rushed to Enoch and handed it over to him. The report said that the pink diamonds were flowing out, and inquiries were flooding in.

    Upon hearing the news that pink diamonds had a detoxifying effect, the nobles were eagerly trying to get their hands on some. Thanks to this, they were able to pay off the rest of their remaining debts. It felt even more meaningful because it was a long standing desire.

    During such happy days, Count Aster and his wife made a suggestion to Leticia.

    ¡°We should have a party where we officially introduce you as our daughter. What do you think, Leticia?¡±

    The Emperor had already recognized Leticia as the daughter of Count and Countess Aster, and not Marquis Leroy¡¯s. However, there were still some people that called her ¡®Miss Leroy¡¯. It seemed that the Count and Countess wanted to remind people that she was a daughter of the Aster family.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s a good idea.¡±

    Regardless of their intentions, she was nervous and excited to think about a party being held just for her.

    The party was scheduled to be hosted by Count Aster at his mansion. Enoch, who¡¯d heard the news from the Aster couple, suggested that they attend together, and Leticia excitedly waited for the day.

    As time passed, the day of the party arrived. Leticia carefully changed into the clothing in front of her. It was the dress that Count and Countess Aster had sent to her the day before, along with a letter asking her to wear it if she wanted.

    ¡°No matter how hard I think about it¡­¡±

    Leticia looked at it with an expression that wondered if it was really okay. It was a translucent and white dress that wouldn¡¯t look out of ce at a wedding[1].

    Leticia agonized over it for a while, and decided to attend the party in the dress prepared for her by the Aster¡¯s without saying anything. As she exited her room after dressing up, she made eye contact with Enoch, who was waiting outside her door. As soon as she saw Enoch, she smiled brightly for a while, but then she stopped without realizing it.

    He was dressed more neatly than usual, but it looked like Enoch was wearing formal wear that would be worn at a wedding, and her head dropped down.

    ¡®It really feels like I¡¯m going to get married.¡¯

    Enoch reached out to Leticia with his usual friendly smile, and she was unsure whether he realized it, or not. Leticia also smiled and held Enoch¡¯s hand in response.

    ¡°It looks like you¡¯re going to get married.¡±

    Enoch had the same idea, and spoke as if it wasn¡¯t a big deal. However, the way he gently turned his head seemed to show that he was embarrassed.

    ¡°Are you feeling shy?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not that.¡±

    ¡°Hmm? I think you¡¯re really feeling shy.¡±

    Now he couldn¡¯t even look her in the eyes, and Leticia burst intoughter. Even if Enoch told her to stopughing, she couldn¡¯t.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Are you ready?¡±

    ¡°I am.¡±

    As they entered the Aster mansion, Leticia was amazed. All the decorations in the banquet hall shone luxuriously and brilliantly. Among them, the most noticeable was the jewels embedded in the chandelier. The nobles who were enjoying the banquet couldn¡¯t help, but looked up at it.

    ¡°No way¡­¡±

    Leticia pointed at the chandelier.

    ¡°Are they all pink diamonds?¡±

    ¡°I guess so.¡±

    Enoch lightly shrugged his shoulders. Leticia, who had been ncing at Enoch in anguid manner, asked.

    ¡°I¡¯m curious. Did my mother send you that outfit?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    She looked up at him, hoping for an immediate answer, but there was no reply. The way he gently looked down at her, Leticia was sure that it was a gift sent by Count and Countess Aster.

    Contrary to her overall white dress, Enoch¡¯s banquet suit was a neat ck, so anyone could mistake them as a wedding couple.

    The moment Leticia was about to say something, Count Aster and his wife appeared.

    ¡°Thank you so much to everyone foring to the party.¡±

    Count Aster spoke to the nobles with a more tender look than ever.

    ¡°The reason I invited you like this is to officially introduce my daughter.¡±

    As soon as he finished speaking, the Count had Leticiae stand with him and the Countess with a soft smile.

    This was being done because the original introduction of Leticia as his adopted daughter had been interrupted by the nobles copsing at the party hosted by the Achilles family. He was taking this opportunity to introduce Leticia, and properly established her position.

    In addition, they¡¯d matched her outfits with Enoch¡¯s to remind people once again that they were engaged.

    ¡®I¡¯m¡­¡¯

    That¡¯s how much they thought about her.

    For some reason, Leticia¡¯s eyes began to redden as she felt a surge of emotion. Something came over her, she couldn¡¯t hold back, and grabbed Enoch¡¯s hand.

    It was the first time she had ever felt so happy that she was on the verge of tears.

    ***

    ¡°How long are you going to keep Diana in her room?¡±

    She didn¡¯t know how many days it¡¯s already been, but the Marquess looked disapprovingly at Marquis, and had asked him when it would be over.

    At least it would be nice if she could leave her room, or take walks outside, but Marquis Leroy wasn¡¯t even interested in allowing it. It was as if he didn¡¯t care what happened to Diana.

    ¡°I should¡¯ve kicked Diana out.¡±

    Marquis Leroy muttered quietly without answering his wife. However, the Marquess was sitting right next to him, and she heard enough.

    ¡°What did you say?¡±

    Even as she looked at him in amazement, Marquis Leroy crossed his arms as if he hadn¡¯t said anything wrong.

    ¡°Diana prayed that her younger brothers¡¯ abilities would disappear, which led to this incident. We¡¯ve received divine punishment.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say nonsense!¡±

    ¡°You should be d that she wasn¡¯t kicked out of the house! She¡¯s the most useless one, always has been!¡±

    With a look that said she wanted to refute everything he said if she could, Marquess Leroy finally revealed the question she¡¯d been holding in.

    ¡°Then what about you?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You told me your ability was to seed in business, but you¡¯ve ruined your business so badly!¡±

    Even after they were married, Marquis Leroy never properly told her what he was capable of, and only vaguely told her that it was the ability to seed in business. When their ruined family began to slowly recover one by one, and then made it big in business, she had to believe what the Marquis had told her. She had no basis to disbelief him, because all the businesses he¡¯d worked on had prospered.

    However, she doubted if it was really his ability, now that his business was crumbling instead of prospering.

    ¡°Be careful what you say, wife!¡±

    ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡±

    Emil and Xavier sighed in frustration at the atmosphere where it felt like they¡¯d? bite into each other at any moment. That was when they heard the sound of the door of the mansion creaking open behind them.

    When they looked over in surprise, there was an unexpected person standing there.

    ¡°Irene¡­¡±

    Marquis and Marquess, who were just ndering each other, stopped fighting and looked at Irene. She¡¯d walked into the mansion with her luggage and a calm look, even though everyone was focused on her.

    ¡°Oh, my daughter. How have you been?¡±

    The Marquess ran over with tears in her eyes, and hugged Irene. However, Irene pushed her away and picked up her bag again.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been staying with Uncle on the familynd.¡±

    ¡°I heard, but you didn¡¯t send a single letter!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    Despite her mother¡¯s resentful voice, Irene apologized matter-of-factly without her expression changing. While the Marquess was confused by the sudden change in her personality, Marquis Leroy anxiously stepped forward and asked Irene a question.

    ¡°What about your ability? Did you lose it?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Irene stared up at his hopeful expression, and answered.

    ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t have one anymore.¡±

    Her dry reply caused a small amount of despair in the Marquis, and made him want to sit down.

    ***

    [1] I think it¡¯s supposed to look something like this https://imgur/a/7zJrOny

 Chapter 91 - Whatâ€™s Wrong With Abandoning Your Parents And Younger Siblings

    <h4>Chapter 91 - What¡¯s Wrong With Abandoning Your Parents And Younger Siblings</h4>

    Chapter 91. What¡¯s Wrong With Abandoning Your Parents And Younger Siblings

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Irene. Father and I are looking for ways to regain our abilities.¡±

    It was just as she put her luggage in her room. Emil, who¡¯d followed her in, said this to Irene and expected her to feel relieved.

    However, Irene looked at him as if she didn¡¯t understand.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Do you need to find your ability again?¡±

    Emil could not hide his confusion at the look on her face, as if he was doing something useless.

    ¡°What are you talking about, Irene? Of course, I can¡¯t live without it.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t need it.¡±

    ¡°Are you serious?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s better without it.¡±

    Leaving behind Emil, who was looking bbergasted, Irene recalled a time from when she was staying at her maternal uncle¡¯s estate.

    It felt like something was disappearing from her. The more she tried to grasp it, the emptier she felt.

    It was so strange, when she tried to use simple magic, there was no response.

    At first, she was embarrassed and scared. The significance of her existence had always been due to her magical ability. When her magic power suddenly disappeared, she was afraid of how she would live in the future.

    However, as time passed and her mind calmed down, she thought it was for the best. She felt that she¡¯d finally been given the opportunity to live for herself.

    It was difficult at first for her to get over the pressure and anxiety to meet her father¡¯s expectations, and solely focus on herself, butter she began to feel morefortable. At the same time, she med herself, and regretted it.

    ¡®My family wasn¡¯t normal.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t know it at the time. It was so natural to keep each other in check andpete, so she thought it was normal. No, she was so busy showing her father her results that she didn¡¯t even have time to think about it.

    A father, who was always cracking the whip; and a mother, who turned a blind even though she knew everything. Then there was Diana, who would belittle and demean others; Emil, who was vain; and Xavier, who only cared for himself.

    ¡®I¡¯m the same too.¡¯

    Irene smiled bitterly, and sighed. What¡¯s the difference between her, a selfish person who didn¡¯t want to suffer any damage, and her family?

    ¡®So, it¡¯s better now.¡¯

    It was too much of an ability for her from the beginning. Since this was how it was going to be anyway, Irene was just going to use this as an opportunity to decide her own future.

    However, Emil looked at her as if she¡¯d lost her mind.

    ¡°Are you crazy? Does it make sense that you aren¡¯t going to even try, and find your ability?¡±

    ¡°Does it make sense to make a big fuss over it?¡±

    ¡°IRENE LEROY.¡±

    ¡°Is that all you¡¯re worth?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Do you lose all of your value just because your ability is gone?¡±

    Irene looked straight at Emil as she asked. Her expression was one of pure curiosity, rather than scorn.

    Not liking the way she was looking at him, Emil burst into a fierceugh.

    ¡°Then why did you return? You should go live quietly on Uncle¡¯snd.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯te here because I wanted to.¡±

    When her ability disappeared, she thought she should go home as soon as possible. The next day, after she had time to calm down, she thought there was no need to go after all.

    However, she was forced to return home after her family convinced her uncle that they were worried about her since she¡¯d been gone for so long.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be going back soon, so you can rx. Also, there¡¯s no reason to put in any effort, because your ability will nevere back.¡±

    ¡°How do you know that?¡±

    ¡°Just a feeling?¡±

    It was a strong hunch that she couldn¡¯t exin in words.

    She was a little sad that she couldn¡¯t use her ability in the future, but she was still able tough because she felt more relieved and refreshed than anything else.

    Emil just looked at Irene in frustration, and said.

    ¡°Stop talking nonsense, and get a hold of yourself. We need to find a way to get our abilities back.¡±

    ¡°Brother.¡±

    At her serious expression, Emil breathed a sigh of relief. He thought Irene had finallye back to her senses.

    ¡°If you have time to look for your ability, you have time to think of how to live in the future.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You have a smart head, how are you going to use it?¡±

    Emil didn¡¯t even chuckle as he looked her up and down as if she was pathetic. However, Irene¡¯s next words froze him in ce.

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s right. You lost your ability. Is that why your brain isn¡¯t working right?¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    Emil¡¯s hands trembled when Irene opened her eyes wide, as if she¡¯d only just realized it. An unbearable anger soared within him at her obnoxious sarcasm.

    ¡°You¡¯ll regret it if I find out how to restore our abilities.¡±

    ¡°You won¡¯t tell me? That¡¯s fine, you can do that.¡±

    Rather, she didn¡¯t have much interest in what he wanted.

    ***

    ¡°Thank you foring like this, Miss Aster.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for inviting me to the tea party, Miss Melony.¡±

    Seeing Count Melony¡¯s daughter weing him, Leticia smiled.

    At the party thrown by Count and Countess Aster, Leticia happened to have a conversation with Melony, who was surprisingly easy tomunicate with and easy-going. The next day, Melony sent an invitation, and asked if she wanted toe to a tea party she was hosting if she didn¡¯t mind.

    At first, she was worried about whether she should really go. However, she ended up epting the invitation because she thought it wouldn¡¯t be a bad thing to be acquainted with other young nobledies.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s Miss Aster, right?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you, Miss Aster.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s have a good time today.¡±

    Everyone looked surprised, as if they didn¡¯t expect her toe, but soon they weed her with big smiles.

    The tea party was so much fun that it overshadowed her nervousness. It was their first time meeting Leticia, but they were able to hold many conversations without excluding her.

    ¡°I heard you¡¯re engaged to Duke Achilles.¡±

    Everyone¡¯s attention suddenly focused on her. Leticia, who was eating freshly baked cherry pie, smiled quietly after a moment of bewilderment.

    ¡°Yes, it hasn¡¯t been long.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my. Is he good to you?¡±

    ¡°I heard he¡¯s really sweet to you.¡±

    When Leticia just smiled softly as if they were right, everyone began to ask more questions with curious expressions.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard he was only nice to the young miss. Is that true?¡±

    Leticia paused for a moment, then she nodded firmly, unable to resist the twinkles in their eyes.

    ¡°Yes, I think he¡¯s only kind to me.¡±

    When she answered with great conviction in her voice, everyone sighed with looks of envy, or regret.

    That was when a maid brought in a familiar dessert. A surprised Leticia looked at Melony, who just lightly shrugged her shoulders.

    ¡°This is¡­¡±

    Leticia muttered without realizing it, and picked up a dessert. It was almost too ¡®yful¡¯ to be a dessert.

    ¡°The lucky cookies made by Miss Aster are popr at tea parties these days.¡±

    Melony had been smiling for a while, and slowly distributed the lucky cookies to the other youngdies. She heard that the cookies were handed out at tea parties. It looked like they did this because of the kind words, and good advice written on the paper inside.

    Melony nced at Leticia, who was touching her cookie with an expression of wonder, and said.

    ¡°I barely managed to get these.¡±

    ¡°I had no idea.¡±

    Leticia knew that the cookies were selling well. What she didn¡¯t know was that they were difficult for even nobles to get a hold of.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, can I send some to you next time?¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°I want some too. Could you send some to me as well?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m thinking of having a tea party soon, so I¡¯d like to get some too.¡±

    At this unexpected suggestion, everyone who¡¯d been quietly listening to the conversation began to interrupt. As they tilted towards her, Leticia smiled gently and nodded.

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll send some to everyone here.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Miss Aster.¡±

    ¡°Thanks to you, I¡¯ll have something to brag about.¡±

    After that, the conversations that followed were filled with smiles. Leticia was in a rxed mood, and chimed in as thedies talked about other young lords anddies, but that pleasant feeling didn¡¯tst long.

    ¡°Did you hear the news?¡±

    ¡°What news?¡±

    ¡°You know¡­ about the extinct family.¡±

    Leticia, who¡¯d been drinking tea with a slight smile, paused for a moment.

    The conversation continued.

    ¡°It seems a child of that family is still alive.¡±

    ¡°I thought they were all executed.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I thought as well, but there¡¯s been disturbances here and there.¡±

    ¡°I heard they¡¯re eager to catch them because of that.¡±

    They were talking about Keena Erebos. All the youngdies began to talk about how scared they were, and whether they should even go out.

    During all of this, Leticia was the only one who drank her tea quietly, as she felt detached from it all.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Thank you for inviting me, Miss Melony. I had a great time.¡±

    ¡°Thank you very much foring, Miss Aster. Pleasee again next time.¡±

    Leticia sighed as soon as she entered the carriage after saying some light goodbyes. When stories about Keena started to circte, somehow she felt like an uninvited guest, and had trouble concentrating on the tea party.

    In the end, she decided to leave for the Achilles mansion earlier than she expected, so she gave the excuse that she was feeling unwell. As she looked out the window to soothe her frustration, she suddenly paled at something she saw.

    ¡°Hold on!¡±

    Leticia yelled for the carriage to quickly stop, and then ran to the poster as soon as she alighted from the carriage. A familiar face was drawn on the wall.

    ¡®Why¡­¡¯

    Leticia couldn¡¯t believe what she was seeing, so she looked at it again. Still, Keena¡¯s description was written very specifically on the wanted poster. Leticia¡¯s lips quivered as she read out the phrase that said that she wasn¡¯t a rebel, but that she was rampaging everywhere, and to report her immediately if seen.

    ¡®I don¡¯t think she¡¯s the kind of person who would do something like that.¡¯

    But did she truly know anything about her?

    Keena appeared at will, and offered to help when she wanted. It was also true that they had a slight affinity for each other, but it wasn¡¯t that long ago that she broke into the mansion, and stole Leticia¡¯s book.

    Nevertheless, Keena was someone who kept bothering her because she felt sorry for her.

    ¡®I wonder if it¡¯s true¡­¡¯

    She didn¡¯t think Keena would do this. However, she wondered if she would for the sake of revenge.

    ¡®Even so.¡¯

    She wanted to believe that she wasn¡¯t that kind of person.

    At that time, she heard movement behind her. Leticia looked behind her, and hardened as soon as she saw who it was.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while.¡±

    It was Marquis Leroy.

    As soon as they made eye contact, Leticia had the strong urge to leave immediately. Marquis Leroy didn¡¯t seem ufortable, and even gave her a sweet and friendly smile for the first time in her life.

    His rxed attitude said that he¡¯d already expected her to be here.

    As the number of eyes on them increased, Leticia was forced to move to a different location with the Marquis.

    She sincerely hoped that this mysterious foreboding was just her imagination.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°How have you been?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia clenched her hands, and kept her mouth shut.

    She didn¡¯t want to say anything, and wanted the time to pass quickly.

    When there was no answer from Leticia, the Marquis smiled coldly, and said.

    ¡°We should try to get along. Does it make sense if you don¡¯t get along with your parents and younger siblings?¡±

    ¡°Just say what you want to say.¡±

    Marquis Leroy looked disapprovingly at Leticia, whose expression didn¡¯t change even after he¡¯d used a criticizing tone, and sighed briefly.

    ¡°I know that I¡¯ve made you sad.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°But that¡¯s because I couldn¡¯t be sincere. It was all because I wanted you to do well.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s how a parent feels. Even if I wanted to cherish you endlessly, I have no choice but to be harsh with my children.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°I thought you understood that.¡±

    What should she say?

    Leticia let out a shortugh at what he¡¯d said so casually. Sure, her head understood, but her heart didn¡¯t.

    ¡°Did you kick me out because you wanted me to do well?¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Should I understand that everything that happened was supposed to be, and hope that it would all work out?¡±

    It was all nonsense from the beginning.

    Her family abandoned her because they judged her to be filthy and useless.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with abandoning your parents and younger siblings? I¡¯m the one who was abandoned first.¡±

 Chapter 92 - When Youâ€™re Attached To A Goose That

    <h4>Chapter 92 - When You¡¯re Attached To A Goose That</h4>

    Chapter 92. When You¡¯re Attached To A Goose That¡¯s Already Gutted

    ¡°You mean you would do the same. Getting kicked out, and abandoned by your family?¡±

    Marquis Leroy couldn¡¯t hide the ridicule in his eyes while she spoke, but her voice didn¡¯t waver a bit.

    Leticia didn¡¯t avoid his gaze, and faced it head-on.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you do that?¡±

    Does it mean that they could abandon her, but she couldn¡¯t abandon them?

    Does it mean that she had to understand, and embrace those that threw her away?

    ¡®No.¡¯

    Leticia swallowed her anger and bit her lip.

    In fact, what she¡¯d abandoned was affection, expectation, and regret for her family. The process of cing them aside one by one was a suffocating process, as if blood was escaping her.

    But she didn¡¯t regret it.

    ¡°I don¡¯t like it when I¡¯m the only one who has to understand, and sacrifice.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to.¡±

    There was no reason to understand, forgive, and sacrifice anymore.

    ¡°You¡¯re not my family anymore. Why should I do that?¡±

    Even if they were family, she knew better than anyone else that unteralmitment wasn¡¯t right. Therefore, she had no intention of going back to her family.

    ¡°You¡¯ve been saved thanks to someone else.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to me.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Answer me inly.¡±

    Leticia calmly raised her head, and asked.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you ever feel ashamed of throwing me away, then wanting to take me back after I¡¯ve gone from being useless to useful?¡±

    ¡°What are you saying to your father?¡±

    Leticia smiled bitterly as the Marquis raised his voice, as if he didn¡¯t want to listen to her.

    ¡°My question was incorrect.¡±

    At the same time as she said that, she slowly rose from her seat, and looked down at Marquis Leroy.

    ¡°If you had the ability to feel shame, it wouldn¡¯t havee to this.¡±

    It was no longer worth having a conversation with him. Rather, it was a waste of time to be sitting face to face.

    ¡°I knew this would happen.¡±

    Nevertheless, she couldn¡¯tugh at the behaviour that didn¡¯t deviate from her expectations.

    Marquis Leroy spoke in amanding tone, in the midst of an awkward atmosphere where neither of them wanted to back down.

    ¡°Sit down.¡±

    He was trying to pretend to be calm, but his eyes were burning with anger. Knowing that, Leticia looked down, then turned firmly away.

    She sincerely hoped that they would never see each other again after today.

    However, the words she heard behind her dragged her back.

    ¡°Keena Erebos.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Her gaze remained unchanged, but her fingertips trembled. Leticia turned slowly, and covered her hands with her sleeves.

    As soon as their eyes met, Marquis Leroy smiled crookedly.

    ¡°Oh? I guess you know each other?¡±

    With an ominous feeling, Leticia¡¯s face became stern. Marquis Leroy had an appearance of the utmost satisfaction, and said.

    ¡°What if there are rumors that the Achilles family is in contact with that traitorous family?¡±

    It was a question that he already had the answer to. Leticia was feeling very nervous, and she had no intention of answering.

    ¡°There¡¯s no way anyone would believe such a ridiculous rumor.¡±

    ¡°Well, if someone saw you, Erebos, and the sister of Duke Achilles together. They might rethink those rumors.¡±

    Rather, it was clear that they would believe it was a reliable story.

    ¡°People are interested in provocative rumors. In particr, stories where they can speak ill of others¡¯ misfortunes, and nder is bound to attract people¡¯s attention.¡±

    It was an obvious threat to spread false rumors about the Achilles family if she didn¡¯t return.

    Leticia clenched her teeth, and sat back down.

    ¡°Can you handle it if the rumors are found to be false?¡±

    ¡°Even if the truthes out, most people won¡¯t know. People don¡¯t care about the truth.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°And I¡¯m confident I can make those rumors real.¡±

    Leticia was so angry that her mind went nk. In the meantime, Marquis Leroy spoke in a sweet voice.

    ¡°Think it over, Leticia. What¡¯s in it for you?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I think you understand what I¡¯m trying to say.¡±

    After saying that, Marquis Leroy got up first. His expression was triumphant, with a rxed attitude that he believed Leticia would eventually return.

    ¡°You¡¯ll regret it.¡±

    It was the moment the Marquis passed her with an amused look on his face. As he lowered his head, she met his evil-filled gaze head-on.

    Eyes so full of contempt that she couldn¡¯t recall the way he¡¯d looked at her kindly.

    Rather than being confused, he really thought that he¡¯d won.

    ¡°Regret? Won¡¯t that be you?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s you, and not me, who wille to regret it.¡±

    In the eyes of the Marquis, her words were only seen as ast lingering attack. He just wanted her to acknowledge her situation, ande back without wasting time.

    However, Leticia didn¡¯t back down so easily.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll make you regret it.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t hold back her anger while talking.

    Leticia didn¡¯t know he would turn out to be so cowardly and shabby. The fact that he was her biological father was so shameful.

    Even more infuriating was the fact that she could clearly see the malicious intent to harm the people around her.

    ¡®I don¡¯t want to be still.¡¯

    She was confident that she would do whatever it took to protect the people she loved.

    Even if it meant losing herself.

    ¡°I must.¡±

    ***

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what I¡¯m going to tell your father.¡±

    Marquess Leroy scolded as she fiercely lowered the letter. Lately, there was a constant stream of correspondence that Emil¡¯s performance, and Xavier¡¯s sword skills, were not the same as before.

    She knew it was because their abilities had suddenly disappeared, but she still thought it was too much.

    The people involved were embarrassed, and Emil and Xavier let out low sighs with pained expressions. Then the Marquess¡¯ gaze went to Irene, who was sitting nearby. Irene was quietly reading a book by herself without paying any attention to her family.

    ¡°Irene, since you¡¯re here, you should go back to the magic academy.¡±

    Marquess Leroy slowly approached her. However, Irene answered without taking her eyes off the book she was reading.

    ¡°I already dropped out. How can I just go back to school?¡±

    ¡°Mother will take care of that on her own, just be ready to go again.¡±

    While she tried to sound soothing, it ended up being a coercive order.

    Irene slowly raised her head from her book, looked straight at the Marquess, and said.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to.¡±

    ¡°IRENE LEROY!¡±

    Marquess Leroy¡¯s voice grew louder at the firm rejection from her previously obedient youngest daughter, who used to always listened to what she said, and did as she was told. However, Irene didn¡¯t back down at all.

    ¡°I can¡¯t even use magic, how can I go to the magic academy?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, everything will be solved when your sisteres back.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Irene shut her mouth when the Marquess said this as if it was only natural.

    She was so sick and tired of their belief that everything would go well once Leticia was back.

    ¡°Sister will note back.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Even if she returns, I¡¯ll send her back.¡±

    Irene¡¯s attitude was more forceful than ever. It was so unfamiliar to the Marquess that she felt perplexed.

    At that time, they heard the sound of the front door opening nearby, and Marquis Leroy slowly entered the mansion. The expressions on the faces of the family members, who noticed him immediately, gradually began to harden. He¡¯d been in a bad mood these past few days, so they were all ufortable.

    For some reason, Marquis Leroy entered the mansion with a refreshed look on his face today.

    ¡°Madam, everything went well.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean, honey?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve pacified Leticia, and she will be back soon to help the others.¡±

    When he said this, the Marquess sighed in relief, and said that it was a good thing for Emil and Xavier.

    Only Irene didn¡¯t smile. No, she couldn¡¯t smile.

    ¡®Crazy home.¡¯

    It was clear that Marquis Leroy had threatened Leticia to force her to return. There was no way that the others didn¡¯t know, so Irene lost all of her affection for her family that would smile as if it was a good thing.

    The family, who were relieved at this fortunate turn of events, soon returned to their respective rooms with rxed faces.

    She watched them leave with a sigh, then saw someone walking past her.

    ¡°I think I¡¯ve seen you somewhere before.¡±

    Upon hearing Irene¡¯s voice, the butler bowed deeply.

    ¡°I¡¯m a butler that works for Marquis El.¡±

    ¡°Oh, really?¡±

    Marquis Leroy and Marquis El had so many exchanges that it wasn¡¯t strange that Marquis El¡¯s butler was here.

    But why?

    Somehow it looked suspicious today.

    ¡°You¡¯re here to give that to my father, right? I¡¯ll deliver it.¡±

    In the butler¡¯s hand was a letter clearly marked with the seal of the El family. Irene reached out her hand, while trying to look as natural as possible.

    ¡°I was ordered to deliver it directly to Marquis Leroy.¡±

    ¡°Are you doubting what I, his daughter, is telling you?¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    Irene said in a pitiful voice to the servant, who was still hesitating.

    ¡°It¡¯s because my father is in a bad mood today.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°But you still want to bring it to him?¡±

    When faced with Marquis Leroy, who couldn¡¯t control his anger, he was often harmed. The butler¡¯s expression quickly hardened when he remembered how many times he had been beaten.

    ¡°Then if you please, mydy.¡±

    Finally, the butler thanked her, and returned to the El mansion. Irene confirmed that the butler had left, then quickly hid the letter in her wide sleeve.

    She immediately went back to her room, and opened the letter. The contents were briefer and simpler than she expected.

    Something about it was significant though, so she tilted her head slightly.

    ¡®We¡¯ll catch them soon, so wait.¡¯

    Who could he be trying to catch?

    ***

    The first thing she needed to do was to find Keena. However, she hadn¡¯t encountered her since the time she¡¯d coincidentally received her help.

    Still, Leticia needed to find a way somehow, so she secretly asked the owner of Pegasus¡¯ to find Keena for her. Due to the high risk, she had to give up a lot of her hard-earned money. However, it wasn¡¯t easy to find her because she was so talented at suddenly appearing and disappearing.

    ¡®What should I do?¡¯

    Leticia¡¯s hand shook, and she bit her lip. Marquis Leroy might already have Keena. She hoped it wasn¡¯t the case, but she couldn¡¯t even find a single strand of hair, and she was starting to feel worried.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Leticia!¡±

    ¡°Oh, yes. Did you call me?¡±

    Startled, Leticia lowered her hand that had been tapping on the table subconsciously. However, Enoch had already seen her nervous action.

    ¡°Is something the matter?¡±

    ¡°No, not at all.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    When he¡¯d told her that it was okay to talk about it. Leticia decided to confide honestly to him, with tears in her eyes.

    Leticia told him that if she didn¡¯t return to her family, her father had threatened to spread false rumors about the Achilles family secretly meeting up with the Erebos¡¯.

    ¡°I have to find Keena, but I don¡¯t know where she went. What if the Marquis has her?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    Enoch, who was sitting next to her, hugged Leticia¡¯s shoulders. He told her that it would be okay, but Leticia just shook her head.

    ¡°You really don¡¯t have to worry.¡±

    Before she could ask him why, Enoch said.

    ¡°Because I¡¯m with you.¡±

 Chapter 93 - Those Who Want Good Luck

    <h4>Chapter 93 - Those Who Want Good Luck</h4>

    Chapter 93. Those Who Want Good Luck

    He had predicted that someday Keena¡¯s true identity would be revealed.

    He couldn¡¯t keep her close, but it was awkward not knowing where she was, so Enoch put a person on Keena.

    He informed her in advance that she would be followed because he knew that she could beat up anyone she wanted. Contrary to his expectations that she would be offended when he told her, Keena readily epted him doing so.

    A few dayster, just when Keena showed herself for a bit, she was almost kidnapped by her tail.

    Thanks to his prediction, and being a few moves ahead, he was able to get to her before she was dragged away.

    ¡°Then where is Keena right now?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s in a separate building. I haven¡¯t prepared a safe house yet.¡±

    The attempted kidnapping was rtively recent, so it was inevitable that he wasn¡¯t prepared. Enoch exined that he nned to move her as soon as possible once he found a proper shelter.

    The Marquis¡¯ threats made it very difficult to think about the fact that Keena, who¡¯d almost been kidnapped because of her, was nearby. Her confusion was furtherpounded by the letter Mary had handed her.

    [I¡¯m sending you this letter because father¡¯s movements have been unusualtely. I have a bad feeling about how often he¡¯s been meeting with Marquis El recently. I hope my intervention isn¡¯t ufortable for you. By the way, I¡¯m enclosing the letter that Marquis El sent to father.]

    Irene¡¯s letter contained another letter with unfamiliar handwriting. The writing said ¡®I know her movements, and I¡¯ll be able to catch her soon.¡¯

    ¡°Can I meet Keena right now?¡±

    Enoch agonized for a while, and was forced to nod because he knew that Leticia wouldn¡¯t back down.

    .

    .

    .

    Perhaps it was because she¡¯d sent a message through Mary before going to the annex, but Keena looked at Leticia without a hint of surprise.

    ¡°I thought I¡¯d never see you again, but here we are, seeing each other like this.¡±

    They were sitting facing each other, and the situation felt somehow ufortable, so Leticia dropped her gaze automatically.

    ¡°I know, it¡¯s embarrassing to see my face.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Why are you doing that? Didn¡¯t youe because you had something to say?¡±

    Even with Keena¡¯s urging, Leticia remained still, and her mouth shut.

    The reality was, there were so many things that she wanted to say that her mind was full, but she couldn¡¯t figure out what to say first. The more she tried to organize what was in her head, the more chaotic it became.

    Eventually, Leticia managed to pull herself together, and slowly began to speak.

    ¡°Is it true that the Marquis framed the Erebos family?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t want to believe it, do you?¡±

    Keena smirked with her arms crossed. Her attitude said that she¡¯d already guessed what Leticia would say.

    ¡°I just want to know the truth.¡±

    Leticia tried to speak confidently, but her hands trembled faintly as they sped her sleeves. Keena smiled bitterly as she watched her, stood up from her seat, and took something out of a drawer.

    Then she ced it in front of Leticia without saying a word. Leticia looked up at Keena with a confused look. The moment their eyes met, Keena smiled crookedly, and asked.

    ¡°Do you know what false usation was made against my family?¡±

    Keena answered before she could ask what it was.

    ¡°Amassing an army.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    ¡°All of them were executed for trying to train rebel troops while avoiding the Emperor¡¯s eyes.¡±

    At that time, among the three main families, the Erebos family had the highest status and power. Which was probably why the previous Emperor felt threatened, and decided to suppress them, while the other families waited quietly for an opening to arise.

    ¡°Of course it was a lie, and this is the proof.¡±

    What Keena put down was an Imperial decree, and a letter written on regr paper. Oddly enough, the content was the same, but the handwriting was very different. Additionally, the handwriting on the paper somehow seemed familiar to her.

    ¡°I was told that one was written by your father, and the other is a copy in the Emperor¡¯s handwriting, and was given to my father.¡±

    ¡°That means¡­¡±

    It meant that someone had sent a forged edict from the Emperor. The contents of the degree asked Duke Erebos to train troops and develop military power.

    In the end, Duke Anders Erebos had trained an army under a false order. Then the Emperor¡¯s predecessor used him of treason, and destroyed the Erebos family.

    ¡®It¡¯s good that she didn¡¯t throw it away.¡¯

    Keena looked down at the forged imperial document, and lowered her eyes. It was something that her father held onto like his life depended on it until the day he died.

    Later on, he discovered that the shape of the seal was slightly different from the Emperor¡¯s. After he¡¯d confirmed that it was a forgery, he¡¯d visited each person who was famous for imitating handwriting, and threatened them one by one before finally confronting the culprit.

    Unable to endure the threats, the culprit presented the paper that Marquis Leroy had given him, and told him to use it as he wished. Just in case, he made a copy of the original, and burned the copy in front of Marquis Leroy.

    ¡°The forger was deaf, so the Marquis had to write it down for him. He was so good at imitating handwriting, Marquis Leroy wouldn¡¯t have thought to ask anyone else to do it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°What do you think? Isn¡¯t it a boring story?¡±

    Unlike Keena, who raised her shoulders jokingly, Leticia felt like her world was quietly copsing.

    ¡®How far can I be disappointed?¡¯

    A confused smile spread across her face. She wasn¡¯t surprised, but felt even more unfamiliar with herself now.

    ¡°What do you want?¡±

    ¡°I want to pay back the sins that your father hasmitted.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing else that I want.¡±

    Keena slowly approached Leticia and smiled.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll ask you this time. What do you want?¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡±

    Leticia closed her mouth instead of answering. She didn¡¯t dare to think about what kind of repercussions would ur if this truth was revealed.

    What was certain is that it would have some effect on her too.

    ¡®But still.¡¯

    Holding her trembling hands tightly, Leticia slowly raised her head.

    ¡°It¡¯s the same for me too.¡±

    As soon as their gazes collided, Keena¡¯s eyes opened wide, as if she hadn¡¯t expected that response. Without taking her eyes off of her face, Leticia continued.

    ¡°I hope you pay him back for what he did.¡±

    If possible, for everything.

    ***

    Marquis Leroy had finally started to feel like he was alive again. It was only a matter of time before Leticia, who was unnecessarily weak-minded, had no choice but to return. It was also a matter of time before he could capture that child of the Erebos¡¯ family.

    ¡®Everything will be solved soon.¡¯

    Just thinking about it made him smile.

    When Leticia arrives, the abilities of his children that had suddenly disappeared would return. In addition, the businesses that had fallen to ruin will gradually be resolved, and the copse will be buried without anyone knowing.

    All that was left was for everything to go back into its ce.

    ¡°Oh! I shouldn¡¯t be doing this.¡±

    At the sudden thought, the Marquis hastily checked his ns. He was going to prepare the projects he had in mind in advance.

    ¡®I¡¯m going to grab them before anyone else can take them away.¡¯

    It was times like these that he liked to hum. The butler knocked from outside the room, the Marquis opened the door with a suspicious look, and heard that there was a guest waiting for him.

    ¡°You acted like you wouldn¡¯t see me again. What are you doing here?¡±

    As soon as he saw his face, he spoke bluntly, but Marquis Leroy was actually relieved. On the other hand, the expression of the visitor was darker and gloomier than ever.

    ¡°Bartel Leroy.¡±

    The moment he sat down, Seios quietly said the Marquis¡¯ name with a deep frown on his face.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re thinking, but I stood by you, and watched over you more than anyone else in my own way.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°There were times when you went the wrong way, but eventually you took the right path. I learned a lesson from you because of that.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡±

    He arrived suddenly, and started the conversation with a heavy topic, which caused Marquis Leroy to frown as if he was ufortable. Without taking his eyes off of his face, Seios said.

    ¡°The Erebos family.¡±

    The Marquis felt so shocked, like arge rock fell on his head, at the unexpectedly strong words.

    However, Seios continued talking without taking a break.

    ¡°Can you say it¡¯s not rted to you?¡±

    ¡°Of course¡­¡±

    ¡°Then you can swear on it right here and now.¡±

    Marquis Leroy bit his lip as Seios waited for the oath.

    ¡®Does he know something?¡¯

    Marquis Leroy swallowed hard, looked at Seios, and tried to get a sense of what he knew. From his expression alone, it was hard to tell what he did, or didn¡¯t know.

    ¡®It won¡¯t matter soon, since Marquis El will contact him after he¡¯s caught her.¡¯

    Marquis El had never disappointed him before with a public transaction, or request. Therefore, he was full of confidence that he would not betray his expectations this time either.

    ¡°I really have nothing to do with it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re saying that, but trust me, godfather.¡±

    Marquis Leroy averted his gaze with an expression of innocence. He looked unassuming to anyone who saw him, and Seios sincerely hoped that he was telling the truth.

    ¡°Yes, you can believe me.¡±

    He deliberately forced a smile on his face while he took a sip of tea, but he couldn¡¯t manage to swallow it.

    ***

    ¡®Marquis Leroy will go crazy if he finds out.¡¯

    Marquis El sighed in annoyance as he recalled the past.

    He¡¯d almost caught her, but unfortunately she¡¯d disappeared right in front of his eyes. It was because an unexpected crowd protected the girl. If that wasn¡¯t enough, there was even a wizard who appeared, and he had no choice but to flee in panic.

    ¡®This doesn¡¯t feel good.¡¯

    But it was the perfect opportunity to get Leticia, and his son engaged again.

    ¡®It¡¯s a worry.¡¯

    Whether he should step back now, or wait and see.

    He was thinking deeply about what to do when the butler arrived, and said someone unexpected hade to visit.

    ¡°Leticia is here?¡±

    He couldn¡¯t believe what he was hearing, and subconsciously jumped up from his seat.

    She often visited when she was engaged to Levion, or when Marquis Leroy came to visit. After Leticia was emunicated, she naturally broke off contact, making it difficult for them to be as close as they were before.

    ¡®Why did shee to see me?¡¯

    If she¡¯d decided to return to her family, she would have gone to see Marquis Leroy, not him.

    He suddenly wondered, but he had to take this opportunity to restore his rtionship with Leticia first.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while, Leticia. How have you been?¡±

    Marquis El quickly escorted her to the drawing room, and smiled as soon as he made eye contact with her. However, Leticia only showedmon courtesy she¡¯d use in a public setting.

    ¡°What¡¯s the reason for your visit?¡±

    In a gentle voice, Leticia confessed the main reason that she¡¯d suddenly shown up.

    Marquis El was quietly listening to Leticia, and tried to keep his expressions in control as much as possible.

    ¡®Marquis Leroy, you crazy punk!¡¯

    He had trouble breathing when he realized he was caught up in something more unusual than he¡¯d thought. Fortunately, Leticia¡¯s proposal wasn¡¯t as difficult as he thought.

    ¡°I fully understand what you¡¯re talking about, so I¡¯ll think about it.¡±

    ¡°Then I look forward to hearing an answer from you in the future.¡±

    Leticia got up from her seat, and left the drawing room with an obscure look on her face from start to finish. On her way out, she identally ran into Levion, who went to look for Marquis El.

    ¡°Why are you here¡­¡±

    He was so surprised that he couldn¡¯t even speak properly. However, Leticia looked at him impassively, and walked past him.

    When he reached out to catch her, she avoided him as if she were ufortable, so he gave up on trying to hold onto her.

    Levion, who watched Leticia leave, btedly woke up and entered the drawing room.

    ¡°Father.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I want to be alone right now.¡±

    Marquis El motioned for him to leave as if his head hurt too much to even talk, but Levion sat across from him instead.

    ¡°Why was Leticia here?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Father.¡±

    Marquis El reluctantly confessed his situation because he knew Levion wouldn¡¯t leave until he answered him.

    ¡°It seems that Marquis Leroy is making a big move against the Achilles family to try, and bring that child back.¡±

    Somehow, he¡¯d beplicit in something, and now had to choose what was best for them. Levion listened quietly to the Marquis El, then slowly spoke up.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure Leticia won¡¯t go back to her family.¡±

    It was a fact that wouldn¡¯t change whether the Achilles family died, or not.

    ¡°Then we¡¯ll take Leticia in when she has nowhere to go, father.¡±

    Marquis El also felt the same way.

    The effect of Leticia¡¯s ability was truly enormous. Every little thing brought only good things, so he couldn¡¯t help but be greedy.

    However, he needed to be careful about being blinded by his greed.

    ¡°It¡¯s better to think about it for at least one more day.¡±

    Levion agreed with him as he slowly stood up.

    ¡®All he had to do was stay still.¡¯

    He felt like unexpected luck had rolled in. He thought he might start grinning, so Levion covered his mouth,

    ¡®Things can go back to the way they were.¡¯

    He will protect Leticia, who wouldn¡¯t go back to the family that abandoned her, or the Achilles family thatmunicated with a traitor.

    At first, she¡¯d push him away and reject him, but as they spent more time together, Levion was confident that Leticia¡¯s heart would turn to him.

    However, as soon as he left the drawing room, he felt a cool gaze upon him. When he turned around in fear, his eyes collided head-on with Leticia, who was leaning against the door.

    ¡°You look happy.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    He wanted to ask if she¡¯d heard anything.

    However, as soon as he saw her cold smile, he could tell without having to ask.

 Chapter 94 - After All, Weâ€™re Going Until The End

    <h4>Chapter 94 - After All, We¡¯re Going Until The End</h4>

    Chapter 94. After All, We¡¯re Going Until The End

    There was peace in silence. She knew that they would face a storm soon, but she felt strangely rxed.

    ¡°Did the meeting with Marquis El go well?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    Leticia had barely managed to stop Enoch from going after she came back from the meeting. He could be dangerous when it came to her, so she couldn¡¯t let them be alone together. However, he kept looking at Leticia, as if he was still worried that she¡¯d gone by herself.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine. We had a good conversation.¡±

    Leticia purposely smiled, which caused Enoch to sighed in defeat, and he calmly asked.

    ¡°What do you think Marquis El will do?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­ Actually I don¡¯t know.¡±

    She gave a veiled threat that sounded like a suggestion, but she couldn¡¯t figure out what Marquis El would decide to do. She just hoped that he¡¯d abandon his deep-seated greed.

    ¡®I¡¯m worried because he¡¯s a man with a lot of ambition.¡¯

    She pursued stability more than anyone else, but she couldn¡¯t bepletely relieved because she knew that sometimes she needed to take risks for her own ambitions, and needs.

    At that time, Mary approached Leticia with a dark look on her face. Leticia guessed where the letter hade from without having to look, and smiled helplessly.

    It was a letter from the Imperial pce.

    ¡°I guess the time hase.¡±

    She was wondering what was going on because nothing happened for a few days. Sure enough, she eventually received the letter.

    ¡®I¡¯m sure he didn¡¯t use a different method.¡¯

    In her head, she remembered the face of Marquis Leroy as he threatened her by using the Achilles family.

    Leticia¡¯s shoulder¡¯s dropped as she realized that she could be a burden to Enoch, instead of a strength. Even if she¡¯d prepared for what would happen in the future, she was worried that Enoch¡¯s family would be irreversibly damaged if it all went wrong. If that happened, Leticia wasn¡¯t confident that she could forgive herself.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    Enoch was sitting next to her, and gently grabbed the back of her hand. Leticia tried to smile casually, but she¡¯d already been caught tapping her hand on the table.

    ¡°It¡¯ll be okay.¡±

    Recognizing her anxious mind, Enoch gently cupped Leticia¡¯s cheek. The way he looked at her was still sweet, so Leticia barely managed to swallow her desire to cry.

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    She managed to raise the corners of her mouth, and touched her hand to Enoch¡¯s, which was touching her cheek.

    ¡®It¡¯ll be okay.¡¯

    As always.

    .

    .

    .

    That night, Leticia was unable to sleep, so she went outside, and sat quietly on the bench. She slowly looked down at the garden, where there were only the sounds of insects chirping in the grass.

    ¡®Soon¡­¡¯

    It felt good that everything would be over soon.

    ¡®What will happen to me¡­¡¯

    Leticia knew that she could be dragged into the case of the Erebos family¡¯s framing. It wouldn¡¯t matter that she¡¯d be the adopted daughter of Count Aster, and was officially ¡®Leticia Aster¡¯, she couldn¡¯t go unaffected.

    She knew this better than anyone else, so Leticia was very nervous about how this woulde back on her, but she didn¡¯t want to turn a blind eye either. No matter how it affected her, she definitely wanted to prevent the Achilles family from being damaged.

    ¡°Will it be okay?¡±

    She leaned back in her chair, and tilted her head. Unlike her usual self, Keena looked at Leticia with a serious expression as she walked over to her. Leticia, on the other hand, had a rxed expression on her face.

    ¡°What if it¡¯s not okay?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much about it, because I¡¯m not necessarily doing this for you.¡±

    She¡¯d meant it. She was trying to correct what had gone wrong.

    ¡°I¡¯ve lived my whole life with no pride.¡±

    The ipetent Leticia, the shame of her family, a disgusting person, and a thorn in their eyes.

    These were all words that she¡¯d heard about herself. She¡¯d just bowed her head without denying it.

    She didn¡¯t want to shrink away anymore, or think of herself as pathetic.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be ashamed of myself anymore.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°So, you should be proud of yourself too.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve been hiding all of your life.¡±

    She didn¡¯t dare to think for how long. Somehow, she felt emotional when she thought about how long she¡¯d been alone without revealing her existence.

    ¡°You have to be happy now too. I want you to be happy.¡±

    Keena was someone who¡¯d lost her whole family and was left all alone. She stared at Leticia with a mysterious expression, then sat next to her.

    ¡°You know, if¡­ When everything is done.¡±

    She seemed to be thinking about something she wanted to say. Only when Leticia nodded, telling her that it was okay, did Keena carefully say.

    ¡°Can you talk to me casually?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°No matter how many times I say we¡¯re the same age, you still speak formally to me. It¡¯s ufortable.¡±

    The heavy atmosphere began to slowly rx thanks to her yful smile.

    ¡°Yes, Keena.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    It wasn¡¯t a very difficult request, but Leticia still seemed unsure, so Keena burst intoughter.

    ***

    Marquis Leroy became nervous when Leticia showed no sign of returning. Eventually he sent a letter to the Emperor that the Achilles family weremunicating with Keena.

    As a result, the gold letter to enter the pce arrived. Leticia, Enoch, and Marquis Leroy waited for the Emperor to enter the audience room.

    As soon as the Marquis saw Leticia, he smiled as if he¡¯d already won. Soon after, the Emperor entered the audience room, sat down, and read out the letter the Marquis had written.

    ¡°Duke Achilles is inmunication with Keena Erebos, a member of the Erebos family that was executed for treason. I can¡¯t see my precious daughter around such a dangerous person, who is close with the Achilles family.¡±

    In the end, he meant that he wanted to take possession of Leticia. As if she was his, and he had a right to take her back.

    Leticia was listening quietly, and clenched her hands that were hidden in her sleeves. It was a situation that did not deviate one step from her expectations, and it almost made herugh out loud.

    ¡®Is he willing to push this until the end?¡¯

    Anger rose inside her that she had to do this. Enoch nodded as he looked at Leticia, as if he was reading her mind. She tried hard to hold back her anger because she knew he was saying that it would be okay.

    A confident Marquis Leroy handed over the testimonies, and evidence that the Achilles family hadmunicated with Keena to the Emperor.

    Witnesses who saw Leticia, Elle, and Keena together at the Swordsmanship tournament. The Emperor¡¯s face slowly began to harden as he saw the evidence that there had been numerous meetings since then.

    No matter how skilled the Duke¡¯s family was, it wasn¡¯t a simple matter that so much evidence was handed over, which showed that the contact was too frequent to be considered a coincidence. The Marquis added Emil Leroy and Xavier Leroy¡¯s testimonies that Keena Erebos fled to the Achilles family, and they¡¯d searched for her there. If this was true, Duke Achilles hadmitted a felony by concealing a traitor.

    At that moment, Enoch stood next to Leticia, and said.

    ¡°I have nevermunicated with a traitorous family, Your Imperial Highness.¡±

    ¡°Duke, there are more than one or two people who have already witnessed youmunicating with Keena Erebos.¡±

    ¡°No matter what the Marquis says, nothing changes.¡±

    Marquis Leroy smirked at the voice that tried to senselessly hide the truth. To him, it was nothing more than ast gasp.

    However, his face hardened at Enoch¡¯s subsequent words.

    ¡°The family was framed for treason in the first ce.¡±

    ¡°What nonsense are you saying right now?¡±

    Marquis Leroy jumped in ce, as his anger rose to the sky.

    That was when the door to the audience chamber opened, and they heard someone walking in. The strangeness caused a chill to run up the Marquis¡¯ spine, so he looked back, and saw a familiar face.

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    When the unexpected person appeared, the people in the audience chamber began to make a fuss.

    ¡°What? How did a wanted person get in here?¡±

    ¡°There was a person who Duke Achilles brought in advance as a witness earlier¡­¡±

    ¡°No way, the witness was that person¡­¡±

    Keena Erebos.

    The knights hadn¡¯t expected the woman, who was wanted across the empire, to just walk into the audience chamber, and tried to btedly arrest her.

    Keena easily evaded them, and knelt in front of the Emperor.

    ¡°I will receive the punishment for entering so recklesslyter. So please listen to my story just once.¡±

    This was herst chance for revenge.

    The Emperor looked down at her with an unknown expression.

    ¡°Are you the woman from the Erebos family?¡±

    ¡°Yes, my name is Keena Erebos. My family never tried to rebel.¡±

    ¡°Your family tried to train troops hidden from the eyes of the previous Emperor. Do you still say you¡¯re not a traitor?¡±

    ¡°All of this was part of Marquis Leroy¡¯s scheme. So, I ask your Imperial Majesty to look at the evidence, and judge for himself.¡±

    At her unexpected remake, the intrigued Emperor smoothed his chin.

    ¡°Do you know what kind of punishment you¡¯re going to get now that you¡¯re here?¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t change your mind even after listening to me, I¡¯ll silently ept any punishment.¡±

    Keena¡¯s gaze as she looked up at the Emperor naturally turned to Marquis Leroy. The moment their eyes met, the Marquis had a strange feeling that wasn¡¯t good. His heart beat grew louder, as if it was right next to his ear.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to listen to her, Your Imperial Majesty! Arrest her right away, and confine her¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not difficult, so let¡¯s check it out as she wants.¡±

    Marquis Leroy urgently tried to intervene, but the Emperor raised his hand to block the Marquis.

    After his servant received the papers from Keena, and checked that there wasn¡¯t anything dangerous, he delivered them to the Emperor. Seeing the Emperor quietly checking the correspondence, Keena opened her mouth.

    ¡°This is a letter written by Marquis Leroy, who had the previous Emperor¡¯s handwriting copied, and sent it to my family to have them train troops.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s face began to turn blue. He¡¯d seen the letter destroyed, but when he heard that it still existed, he couldn¡¯t breathe.

    ¡°Marquis Leroy, what are your thoughts?¡±

    The Emperor waved a letter imitating the handwriting of the previous Emperor, and its contents written directly by Marquis Leroy.

    ¡°It¡¯s something I know nothing about! How could I do such a terrible thing?¡±

    ¡°Even if there¡¯s a witness?¡±

    Enoch, who was still watching the situation, asked with an expressionless face.

    ¡°What¡­¡±

    He tried to refute it somehow, but Enoch acted like he already knew everything. As a witness was put forward, the Marquis¡¯ face darkened.

    ¡®There can¡¯t be a witness¡­ No way!¡¯

    Marquis Leroy btedly noticed who the witness was, and his face paled. Marquis El stood there with a nk face.

    ¡°I introduced Marquis Leroy to a person who can imitate handwriting.¡±

    ¡°What¡­ Marquis El.¡±

    ¡°At that time, I didn¡¯t think he wouldmit such a terrible act. Everything is my fault, Your Imperial Majesty.¡±

    Marquis Leroy gritted his teeth, hating the way Marquis El stood there like a sinner confessing his sins.

 Chapter 95 - Whoâ€™s The Unlucky One?

    <h4>Chapter 95 - Who¡¯s The Unlucky One?</h4>

    Chapter 95. Who¡¯s The Unlucky One?

    It was a lie.

    The power of the Erebos family was so powerful that even when Marquis Leroy secretly proposed that the two of them should join hands, Marquis El pretended not to understand. Therefore, Marquis Leroy had no choice but to find someone who could forge the edict.

    Recently, he even suggested that their children should get engaged again, which made it difficult for him to abandon his greed for Leticia. However, now he was trying to save his own life, and couldn¡¯t pretend not to know anymore.

    Undeterred by the ferocity of the situation, Marquis El looked at Leticia. The moment their eyes met, she nodded quietly.

    Marquis El clearly recalled the conversation he had with Leticia recently.

    [I know what you were plotting with Marquis Leroy.]

    Unexpectedly, Leticia started their conversation with the main topic. Her words continued without giving him a chance to pretend not to know what she meant.

    [You were told to capture Keena Erebos. I have the letter you sent to Marquis Leroy.]

    [No, I¡­]

    [By the way, Keena is already with me.]

    [¡­.]

    The moment he heard that, he thought he was already doomed. Leticia then spoke in a gentle tone, as if she had read his mind.

    [I¡¯m giving you onest chance.]

    Leticia took a sip of tea with a calm look, and began to slowly speak.

    [Do you go to the abyss with Marquis Leroy, or pull your feet from the abyss before it¡¯s toote.]

    [Are you threatening me?]

    [It could be a threat, or a suggestion.]

    [¡­.]

    [The choice is up to Marquis El. So please consider it carefully.]

    After saying that, Leticia quietly got up, and left the drawing room. Marquis El was left alone, he rubbed his hands down his face, and sighed.

    Even if she hadn¡¯t said anything, he knew right away what Leticia wanted from him.

    Leticia wasn¡¯t trying to empower Marquis Leroy, rather she was trying to weaken him. He knew that if he didn¡¯t participate, not only would Marquis Leroy fall into the fire, but he would as well.

    He was thinking about taking the risk, and standing on Marquis Leroy¡¯s side. However, not long ago Levion had persuaded him to listen to Leticia, and he decided to give in. Fortunately, the evidence that Marquis Leroy used to frame the Erebos family had shown up, and he¡¯d known he¡¯d made the right choice.

    ¡°This is a conspiracy!¡±

    It couldn¡¯t copse like this. Marquis Leroy bowed deeply in front of the Emperor.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure it¡¯s a trap that¡¯s trying to put me in a corner!¡±

    ¡°I also wish to be a witness.¡±

    When it was time to decide on this important matter, Seios, who¡¯d been standing behind the Emperor and was watching the scene closely, said this as if he¡¯de to a hard decision.

    Marquis felt like this was hisst hope, but that hope didn¡¯tst long.

    ¡°All of the remarks made by Keena Erebos, and Marquis El are true. Please allow me to be a witness.¡±

    ¡°Godfather!¡±

    Marquis Leroy shouted angrily at Seios betrayal, who he always believed would stand by his side.

    ¡°What are you talking about? I¡¯ve never asked for anyone to forge someone¡¯s handwriting!¡±

    ¡°Upon my name, I have witnessed this, Your Imperial Highness.¡±

    Seios¡¯ gaze, which had been directed at the Emperor, returned to Marquis Leroy. The Marquis sighed to himself at the look in Seios¡¯ eyes.

    His eyes said that he already knew everything. Nevertheless, Marquis Leroy felt like he was going crazy when Seios said he¡¯d be a witness.

    ¡°Marquis Bartel Leroy.¡±

    The Emperor¡¯s voice fell heavily over Marquis Leroy.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think you deserve to remain a citizen of the Helios Empire because of the problems you caused with the Rose Velvet, and subsequently ming the pink diamonds. Also, for falsely using the Duke of Erebos, causing unfair damages, and the persecution of that family.¡±

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s mouth dried up, and his hands began to tremble.

    He prayed and begged, over and over in his heart.

    ¡°I order you to be stripped of your title, and to be deported from this country. Your wife and children must all leave with you.¡±

    ¡°Your Imperial Majesty!¡±

    ¡°Be grateful I am of a kind disposition, and it ends at this.¡±

    At the order that he was to lose his title and leave the empire, his legs lost all their strength. He clenched his teeth and barely stopped himself from copsing.

    ¡®D*mn it! D*mn it! D*mn it!¡¯

    He¡¯d made an obvious, and unquestionable mistake. Because he¡¯d know Marquis El for so long, he¡¯d believe that he would stand by his side at this time.

    ¡®No, this is for the best.¡¯

    He was devastated that he¡¯d lost everything, but his eyes lit up in a strange way. He lost his title, but all of his family would be together. He would be deported abroad with Leticia. Everything will go well if Leticia was with them, so he hadn¡¯t lost all hope yet.

    The Marquis¡¯ gaze turned to Leticia, who also looked noticeably stiff, as if she thought she was being deported as well.

    However, Enoch noticed what the Marquis was thinking, and spoke to the Emperor.

    ¡°Your Imperial Majesty, I think it¡¯s unfair that Count and Countess Aster¡¯s daughter, Lady Leticia Aster, should be ordered to leave the country. Please give us your grace.¡±

    ¡°The Duke¡¯s words make sense.¡±

    Marquis Leroy¡¯s face turned ashen when his belief that he¡¯d be leaving with Leticia was overturned.

    ¡°Of course, this child here is an ¡®Aster¡¯, who is directly recognized by this Emperor, so is therefore excluded from the deportation order.¡±

    ¡°Your Imperial Majesty! That is my daughter! Definitely my daughter¡­¡±

    ¡°What are you all doing? Eject this sinner.¡±

    ¡°No, Your Imperial Highness!¡±

    Despite being dragged away, Marquis Leroy struggled roughly to escape somehow. His struggles became more violent when he passed Leticia, and he looked at her in pure desperation.

    ¡°Look over here, Leticia. I¡¯m your father, right?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Please help me out. Are you going to abandon your father like this?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Even so, shouldn¡¯t you do this for your younger siblings.¡±

    He reached out his hand wildly, but there was no contact. As he became more nervous, and began to yell, Leticia slowly approached. His heart felt as if it would stop, as he began to run out of breath.

    ¡°Yes, Leticia. Come here, and help daddy.¡±

    At this moment, Leticia seemed to have be a ray of hope.

    She stopped at a close distance, almost within touching distance, and looked at him heartlessly.

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Marquis Leroy looked at Leticia nkly. However, Leticia stepped back, and said in a voice without any emotion.

    ¡°Since when have we been family?¡±

    He never thought of her as family, but now he does?

    ¡°You¡¯re family only when you need it, and throw it away when it¡¯s useless.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s idea of family did not mean that they had to be unconditionally close to each other. She hoped that they would be able to resolve quarrels quickly, that they would take care of each other, and help each other even if they were estranged at times.

    However, the definition of family that she and her ex-father had waspletely different.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll throw it away this time.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Because it¡¯s useless.¡±

    ¡°That doesn¡¯t make sense¡­¡±

    He only knew who she was talking about because she never took her eyes off of him.

    ¡°It¡¯s just that it¡¯s no longer useful.¡±

    ¡°Oh, no. Leticia. Leticia!¡±

    Marquis Leroy freaked out, and reached out again as she avoided his touch. However, the more he tried to reach her, the farther she was.

    ***

    ¡°What happened, father?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean? Marquis Leroy was deprived of his title, and deported from the country with his family.¡±

    As soon as he arrived at the mansion, Levion was waiting for him to find out what happened. Marquis El replied helplessly with a sigh in his voice.

    ¡°Anyways, I¡¯m d that I changed my mind in the middle since we were almost ruined too.¡±

    Marquis El shook his head, and said, ¡°When I think of it, my heart goes cold.¡±

    Levion, who was quietly watching his father, recalled his conversation with Leticia a while ago.

    [There¡¯s one thing I¡¯ve realized from this incident.]

    The sunlight pouring in was warm, but the quiet atmosphere around them felt rather creepy and chilly.

    [That people don¡¯t change.]

    [Leticia.]

    Embarrassed, Levion approached Leticia and tried to exin. However, she took a step back, as if refusing him. When his eyes met her, Levion stopped where he was.

    ¡®I¡¯m sick of it.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t say it out loud, but it was definitely like he heard her say it outloud.

    As if there was nothing to be disappointed about because there was no expectation. Rather, as if she was grateful that she could break off the lingering feelings that should¡¯ve never existed.

    Just as it was a waste of time that they were facing each other like this. Levion, who became nervous when Leticia turned away, stood in front of her.

    [I took you for granted. I didn¡¯t know how precious the love you gave me was.]

    [¡­.]

    [I¡¯m sorry for ignoring you, and hurting you.]

    He could see her hands shaking while she tightly held onto her white sleeves. He couldn¡¯t let her go because he knew it would be over forever if she left like this.

    [I¡¯ll do as you say. I¡¯ll do as you say.]

    [¡­.]

    [I¡¯ll do whatever you say¡­]

    He wished she would say anything, but Leticia kept her mouth shut. She just looked down at him, who wanted to copse.

    In the meantime, he was so grateful that Leticia hadn¡¯t left yet. However, the voice that flowed from her lips caused him to crumble miserably.

    [Then don¡¯t do anything.]

    [What?]

    To Levion, who didn¡¯t understand immediately, Leticia exined in a sweet voice as if she was being kind.

    [Just like before¡­]

    [¡­.]

    [It¡¯s easy.]

    Sadly, Leticia¡¯s words were not wrong.

    In the past, Leticia was shamed, ignored, and treated as if she was pathetic because she hadn¡¯t awakened yet. In addition, he had never done a single thing for Leticia.

    Even though he knew better than anyone else what she was going through, Levion looked at Leticia with a stunned expression.

    [Just do nothing like before. It¡¯s not that hard.]

    Only then did Levion know what Leticia wanted from him.

    To do nothing. Leticia wanted nothing from him.

    In the midst of his desperate copse, Leticia¡¯s words had not ended.

    [I¡¯m telling you in advance, I won¡¯te back to you even if I have nowhere to go. I¡¯d rather starve to death on the streets.]

    At the end of her words, Leticia walked past him with her head held high. Levion, who was left alone, copsed in desperation.

    ¡®I¡¯m really¡­¡¯

    He didn¡¯t do anything for her.

    He tried to remember anything, but couldn¡¯t think of even the most trivial thing. So, he felt even more miserable, and wanted to die.

    Because there was nothing she wanted from him, as she waspletely letting go of him now.

    So, he was even more desperate and anxious to do something for her this one time.

    [Father, I think it¡¯s best if you follow Leticia¡¯s words.]

    [Why? You were so happy to bring Leticia back just a moment ago.]

    After Leticia left, Levion visited his father in the drawing room again. However, Marquis El couldn¡¯t figure out why his son had a sudden change of heart.

    [I think it¡¯s better to be careful, then to be covetous.]

    Marquis El, who¡¯d been contemting whether to be greedy or to step back this time, eventually decided to be careful as Levion advised.

    ¡°I almost saw something rough after being unnecessarily greedy.¡±

    Then added, ¡°As expected, people should live within their means.¡±

    At that, Levion smiled bitterly, and bit the inside of his mouth.

    Luck was already out of his hands. It was a natural result because he¡¯d left it unattended without knowing how precious it was.

    It seemed that this time he¡¯d finallye to acknowledge it, and epted the results.

 Chapter 96 - Weeds?

    <h4>Chapter 96 - Weeds?</h4>

    Chapter 96. Weeds?

    The Leroy family sent letters to Leticia constantly until they were deported, but she never replied.

    Keena, who was sitting on the other side of the room,ughed in disgust when she saw that another letter had arrived today.

    ¡°Here they are again.¡±

    Unlike Keena, who jokingly patted the letter, Leticia drank her tea slowly.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect them to leave quietly.¡±

    She hadn¡¯t expected it to go nicely, but she was more tired and jittery than she¡¯d expected.

    Leticia didn¡¯t really want to think about it, so she turned to Keena.

    ¡°How are you doing these days?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s me. I¡¯m doing well.¡±

    Public opinion changed in an instant when it was revealed that Marquis Leroy¡¯s scheme had caused the family to be charged with treason. Every once in a while, people would recognize her, and give her a sympathetic look. Sometimes they even gave her words of constion, so Keena would quickly leave with an awkward smile.

    ¡°I might get a little busier soon.¡±

    Now that the stigma around her was removed, she was now officially the head of the Erebos family, and Keena was stepping up to manage her territory. Most of the Leroy¡¯snds were originally owned by the Erebos family, so it was being reverted back to her.

    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to your fianc¨¦¡¯s help.¡±

    Perhaps it was because she knew him, but it was easy for her to ask for help, and she feltfortable enough to receive it.

    ¡°He seems like a good person.¡±

    ¡°Of course. I¡¯ve never seen anyone better than Enoch.¡±

    Leticia had been sitting calmly until words of praise for Enoch were spoken, and now her eyes lit up with excitement.

    ¡°I love it, I¡¯m dying.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s so nice, what can I do?¡±

    ¡°I was worried when I saw you get kicked out.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Leticia was confused, but Keena didn¡¯t notice and continued to talk.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I doubted you when we first met.¡±

    ¡°Wait a minute.¡±

    Leticia raised her hand for a moment, and stopped Keena.

    At the time she was emunicated, she heard someone following her. Later, she assumed it was all her imagination, but from what Keena was saying now.

    ¡°You were the one who followed me back then?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Finally realizing the situation, Keenaughed unnaturally, and quietly stood up.

    ¡°Oh, my. I forgot I had something to do.¡±

    She tried to run away, but before she knew it, Leticia was beside her. She grabbed Keena¡¯s arm, and forced her to sit down again.

    ¡°It was you, right? The person who sometimes followed me around.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°It was you.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Do you know how scared I was when someone was chasing me that night?¡±

    When she thought about that time, she still got goosebumps.

    Keena frowned a lot, as if what she said was unfair.

    ¡°You just wanted me to watch while you walked around without knowing how dangerous it was at night?¡±

    ¡°You were worried about me?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    Keena replied in a frustrated tone.

    She thought she¡¯d be kicked out of the family sooner orter. As she¡¯d expected, Leticia was soon emunicated. Thanks to this, she thought it would be easy to gain ess to her, but she also felt a little sorry for her and wanted to help.

    ¡°It¡¯s dangerous to walk around alone at night.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you cared about me.¡±

    ¡°Apologize since you know now.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°As long as you understand.¡±

    However, she continued to pout as if she was still offended. Leticia looked at her theatrics, and gave her a bite of cake as an apology. Keena pretended to still be mad, but looked more rxed.

    They spent some time like this and before they knew it, it was evening. As she was getting ready to go home, she bumped into Enoch and Ian, who had just entered the building.

    Enoch noticed that she was just about to leave, and made an unexpected offer.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re here, you should have dinner with us.¡±

    Keena nced at Leticia, wondering if it was really okay. Leticia was excited about the idea, and pulled on her arm to tell her that she wanted her to stay. She agonized for a while, then reluctantly followed them.

    ¡°If you want me to.¡±

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Ta-da! Dinner! I prepared it myself!¡±

    Elle said this with a smile as soon as she sat down to eat.

    Now that everyone was sitting down, Elle presented the meal she¡¯d had fun cooking for them, but no one was excited.

    ¡°Did you take the intestines out?¡±

    Keena, who¡¯d eaten the fish stewst time, asked anxiously. As soon as she made eye contact, Elle nodded confidently.

    ¡°Of course, I removed the scales too.¡±

    ¡°You must have worked hard. Thank you Elle.¡±

    ¡°As expected, Leticia¡¯s the only one who appreciates me.¡±

    Ian was the most suspicious of how proud she was. He took a bite of the stew, and stiffened immediately.

    ¡°The fish isn¡¯t fully cooked.¡±

    ¡°Oh? That can¡¯t be true. I boiled it for a really long time.¡±

    ¡°Look, it¡¯s transparent on the inside.¡±

    Ian frowned, and pointed to the undercooked part with his finger. At Ian¡¯s words, Enoch quietly cleaned up the stew for Leticia.

    On the other hand, Keena¡¯s face crumpled after the bite she took, then she forcibly swallowed it. She swore to never again eat dinner at the Achilles mansion.

    ***

    ¡°I guess I¡¯ve been wrong about you all along.¡±

    It was when the deportation edict was imposed, and he had to leave the empire. That was what Seios said to Marquis Leroy, who was standing there with a gloomy look.

    In the end, no one helped him. He had to leave for the neighboring country, leaving behind all the things he¡¯d worked so hard to build. Fortunately, the Marquess¡¯ older brother Keron provided them with a ce to live, and some funds to live on since he felt sorry for Irene.

    He was grateful, but because of their previous consumption habits, it felt like they werecking in a lot of ways. This caused their money to disappear faster than a bubble, and now he had to work to earn money for their expenses.

    ¡°D*mn it!¡±

    The Marquis threw the weed he was holding to the ground, and hurled curse words at it. He was embarrassed that he was farming again after 10 years.

    ¡®I¡¯m not the one who should be doing this.¡¯

    He was in a position where he had to do everything he could to eat, but this wasn¡¯t right, no matter how much he thought about it.

    Marquis Leroy, who¡¯d been crouching down, jumped up and went to find his wife. There was a small orchard nearby, so it wasn¡¯t difficult to find her.

    ¡°The weeds grow so much in just a day¡­¡±

    The Marquess furrowed her brow as she looked at the weeds under the fruit tree. She pulled all them yesterday, so she couldn¡¯t understand how they¡¯d grown so thick already.

    ¡°What are you doing now?¡±

    The Marquis arrived as she was pulling out the weeds that had grown back. The Marquess replied without looking up.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you tell? I¡¯m pulling out weeds.¡±

    ¡°So why are you doing that right now?¡±

    His wife jumped up with an annoyed look at the way he implied that she was doing something useless. However, the Marquis had a very anxious look.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go out, and work?¡±

    ¡°What do you want me to do outside?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re in good shape, so you could do something. Maybe run errands.¡±

    She heard him with her own two ears, but she couldn¡¯t believe it. The Marquess spoke up in amazement.

    ¡°You want me to run errands outside? Are you insane?¡±

    ¡°Then are you going to keep pulling weeds?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t make me angry, I¡¯m already annoyed by these horrible weeds!¡±

    The Marquess, who couldn¡¯t hold in her anger at her husband for ruining her life, threw the weeds she was holding at his face. The Marquis roared, and soon they moved their quarrel to the house.

    Soon, the atmosphere in the house turned ugly as the two continued to argue. Sadly, this was amon scene since they¡¯d been deported.

    ¡®They¡¯ve started again.¡¯

    Irene went back to her room with a shallow sigh. However, Diana was screaming bitterly in the room.

    ¡°Why should I have to live in a house that smells like this?¡±

    It was a house that was prepared by Keron, but it had been empty for a long time. There was a lot of dust, and the ce needed many repairs. Compared to their previous mansion, it was an extremely old and shabby house.

    There were only a few useful rooms in the house, so Emil and Xavier had to share a room, and Diana and Irene had to share another one. Maybe that is why her familyined every day. Lamenting that if they just had some help then they could¡¯ve been in a good house.

    On the other hand, Irene felt fortunate that she had a roof over her head, so she neverined.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t like it, go live somewhere else.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no one stopping you, go out and live somewhere morefortable.¡±

    With a fierce smile on her face, Diana said with an emotionless voice.

    ¡°Is that what you want to say to me?¡±

    ¡°Then what do you want me to say?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You say you don¡¯t want to do this or that, but what do you want?¡±

    Irene asked her, but Diana just red at her with a monstrous expression.

    As she was about to sigh, petals began to rain down around her. When she raised her head in surprise, petals were scattered in the air around Diana.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Diana¡¯s face turned red, and at the same time the amount of petals raining down increased. Irene didn¡¯t evenugh because it happened every time Diana lost control of her emotions.

    In the end, Irene took the magic book and left the room. Behind her, she heard a voice shouting behind her that was filled with sadness.

    Most days there wasn¡¯t anywhere in the house that was quiet. Her parents fought constantly. Emil and Xavier, who used to be close, fought constantly and criticized each other. If that wasn¡¯t enough, Dianained all day long, saying that this wasn¡¯t where she was meant to be.

    The fact that they still refused to acknowledge the reality of their situation made Irene feel sorry for her family.

    ¡®I¡¯m tired.¡¯

    Irene went to the orchard with a heavy sigh. The only other person who came here was Marquess Leroy, and she was currently in the house, so the only quiet ce was the orchard.

    ¡®Is anyone else here?¡¯

    Irene looked around to see if anyone else was around, then leaned against one of the fruit trees after confirming that she was alone.

    As she focused on her energy, a small drop of air grew at the tip of her finger, then popped.

    ¡®It¡¯s back.¡¯

    Irene¡¯s eyes fluttered in disbelief that she was able to use her magical ability again, something that hadn¡¯t happened until a few days ago.

    She¡¯d only be interested in magic after she was deported abroad. After she knew she wouldn¡¯t be able to use her ability anymore, she started to carry her magic book everywhere she went because she couldn¡¯t easily give up on it.

    Then one day, she suddenly felt a strange energy, and she was able to use her magic again. Just in case, she checked if Emil and Xavier¡¯s abilities had returned as well. After they didn¡¯t say anything, she felt like she was the only one who¡¯d regained them.

    ¡®I think I¡¯d better not tell my family.¡¯

    Rather than sincerely congratting her, the first thing that came to mind was them being blinded by greed. Just thinking about it gave her goosebumps, and she wrapped her arms around her shoulders.

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    The weeds in the orchard caught her eyes.

    After spending some time in this house, the Marquess began to manage the orchard, and never missed a day to clear away all the weeds before she went home. However, it was strange that they grew to this extent in less than a day. When she looked closely, the weeds were growing in an orderly manner.

    It grew as if it were on a path, so Irene walked along the weeds. When she reached the end of the path, she looked around curiously.

    ¡®This is my father¡¯s field¡­¡¯

    The number of weeds was even higher here than in the orchard.

    At that time, she recalled Diana¡¯s voice shouting at the Marquis as if she was being ndered.

    [Then what is father¡¯s power? How amazing is father¡¯s ability that he can say that!]

    Her gaze followed the path where the weeds grew. The lush nts continued all the way to the front of the house.

    Irene burst intoughter because she couldn¡¯t believe what she was seeing. No wonder he was ashamed of himself.

    ¡°Weeds¡­¡±

 Chapter 97 - A Mischief Of Rats Appeared

    <h4>Chapter 97 - A Mischief Of Rats Appeared</h4>

    Chapter 97. A Mischief Of Rats Appeared

    The days were breathtakingly peaceful. Thanks to his sincere training, Enoch¡¯s position in the Imperial knights had gradually expanded. Elle was designing her essories with pink diamonds in earnest, and received better reviews than expected. Ian also had a good reputation for quietly beforming his official duties.

    Oh the other hand, Leticia had a very minor problem.

    ¡®What am I supposed to do with this?¡¯

    It had only been a few days, but the invitations were piling up before her eyes. Leticia sighed to herself, she wasn¡¯t interested in the social scene, but she couldn¡¯t let this go on forever.

    Countess Aster recognized Leticia¡¯s distress, and went directly to her.

    ¡°I¡¯ve selected some good aristocrats that you can develop good friendships with.¡±

    The list the Countess handed over contained names of nobles who she considered highly virtuous, and were well received for their excellent personality.

    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s set by my standards. You should meet the people, and judge them for yourself.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for your help, mother.¡±

    With the help of Countess Aster, Leticia began to ept invitations based on the list she received. Still, there were so many, so she read the contents of the invitation carefully one by one. All of them were tea parties, birthday parties, or banquets that were being held in the evening.

    When she put down the invitations, and looked at the new letter that arrived that day.

    ¡®A letter from the Imperial Pce?¡¯

    She was nervous because bad things always happened when she got one.

    ¡®But that doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t open it.¡¯

    Leticia sighed shallowly, and opened the letter. Fortunately, it was just a request for a light cup of tea. However, she didn¡¯t understand why the Emperor was calling her to the Imperial pce.

    ¡®It¡¯s not a big deal, right?¡¯

    Somehow, she felt a sense of foreboding.

    ***

    ¡®Why¡­¡¯

    How did this happen?

    She thought it was a private meeting with the Emperor, but the Crown Prince was also sitting at the table. At first Leticia thought she had misunderstood the appointment time, but the moment the Emperor greeted her, she realized that it wasn¡¯t a mistake.

    ¡°How have you been?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m doing well thanks to the Emperor¡¯s care.¡±

    ¡°That is good to hear since you¡¯ve had so much trouble in the past.¡±

    Leticia smiled awkwardly, and expressed her gratitude while he gave a different smile than before.

    The conversation that followed was surprisingly normal, but it somehow felt ufortable. Even though it was a simple back and forth, asking about how they spent their time, and future ns.

    ¡®What is this?¡¯

    Why is he smiling like that?

    Leticia carefully watched the two. The Emperor kept smiling as he looked alternately at her, and the Crown Prince.

    ¡®It¡¯s different.¡¯

    She drank the tea in front of her, and tried to pass it off as paranoia.

    ¡°I feel at ease after talking to the young miss.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just grateful that you said that.¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, how about having this kind of meeting more often?¡±

    When he said that, Leticia hesitated without realizing it. It was definitely said as a suggestion, but it was more like a notification.

    ¡®I¡¯m stuck.¡¯

    Leticia clenched her hands on herps. The Emperor, who already knew that she had no right to refuse, was quietly waiting for an answer.

    In the end, Leticia tried to smile casually.

    ¡°Of course, Your Imperial Majesty.¡±

    It was a really ufortable position in many ways.

    She hoped that they were empty words. Unfortunately, after that day, the Emperor called Leticia to the Imperial pce whenever he had time. Whenever she went, the Crown Prince was always there.

    Now it seemed that he wasn¡¯t even hiding his intentions.

    ¡°Oh, my. I forgot that I was busy.¡±

    The Emperor stood up from his seat with a look of regret. Leticia also stood up to follow him out, and said.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been holding up your precious time. I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°No, you can stay a bit longer, Leticia.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to leave because of me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d better go too¡­¡±

    ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to.¡±

    The Emperor desperately tried to stop her from leaving, Leticia felt flustered, and sat down again. Satisfied, the Emperor said his farewell saying he¡¯d see her again next time.

    In the end, Leticia was left alone with the Crown Prince, and she had to swallow a sigh that was threatening to escape her mouth.

    ¡®I was hoping I was wrong.¡¯

    Leticia lowered her gaze, and wrapped her hands around the teacup. There¡¯s no way that the Emperor didn¡¯t know that she¡¯s engaged to Enoch, and that¡¯s what made this so troubling.

    ¡®What should I do at a time like this?¡¯

    She had no idea what to do in this situation, because she¡¯d never had to deal with something like this before. However, she couldn¡¯t keep being dragged around like this.

    That¡¯s when the Crown Prince, who¡¯d been watching Leticia, spoke up.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ms Aster.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°As you¡¯ve noticed, His Majesty wants to create a connection between us.¡±

    Leticia, who hadn¡¯t expected him to speak so directly, winced.

    ¡°Oh, yes¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s inconvenient, but the youngdy isn¡¯t in any trouble.¡±

    Leticia sighed with relief when she heard that. It seemed to be the arbitrary action of the Emperor, without any intention from the Crown Prince.

    ¡°Just simply enjoy the refreshments.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for your consideration.¡±

    ¡°Can I ask you something then?¡±

    The Crown Prince asked this cautiously. Feeling more at ease, Leticia smiled as if to say that it was okay.

    ¡°Yes, you can.¡±

    ¡°I wonder what the youngdy wants to do in the future.¡±

    When he asked this unexpected question, Leticia blinked and quietly touched the teacup.

    ¡®Something I want to do¡­¡¯

    The chance to do what she wanted had finally arrived, but she really didn¡¯t know what that was yet.

    ¡°I¡¯m looking for it slowly, but it¡¯s taking longer than I thought.¡±

    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you look for what you¡¯re good at first.¡±

    ¡°What I¡¯m good at?¡±

    Come to think of it, Leticia only thought of what she wanted to do, and never thought of what she was good at. It was because she took it for granted that she couldn¡¯t do anything.

    ¡®What I¡¯m good at¡­¡¯

    When she thought about it, she couldn¡¯t think of anything right away, no matter how hard she thought about it. Leticia was a little shocked, and couldn¡¯t tell if that was good or not.

    The Crown Prince looked at Leticia, who was still hesitating, and said with a kind smile.

    ¡°If what you want to do and what you¡¯re good at are the same thing, what more could you ask for?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I wish I could be like the youngdy, and do what I wish.¡±

    Leticia¡¯s stiff expression brightened at his heartfelt advice.

    ¡°Thank you for your kind words, Your Highness.¡±

    She only thought about what she wanted to do, and never thought about finding what she was good at. She still had a long way to go.

    Strangely, instead of feeling downcast, she was in a pleasant mood now.

    In the past, she would have concluded that she wasn¡¯t good at anything, but now she believed that there would be at least one thing she was good at, even if it was trivial.

    ***

    The Emperor also knew that this was his own arbitrary action. While she was engaged to Enoch Achilles, they still hadn¡¯t married, so he felt that this much would be okay.

    ¡®It¡¯s best to keep her as close as possible.¡¯

    Her being in the Empire was a good thing, but it would be even better if he was able to bring her into the Imperial family.

    ¡°You look happy, Your Imperial Majesty.¡±

    The Emperor looked back after he¡¯d exited the room where he left Leticia and the Crown Prince alone. Behind him stood Seios in a new white suit with a smile on his face.

    ¡°Seios, it¡¯s been a while¡±

    ¡°Yes, have you been well?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°By the way, thatdy¡­¡±

    Seios gaze went to the audience chamber, where he saw Leticia and the crown princeing out of the room, as if they had just finished their conversation.

    ¡®What a clear and brilliant light.¡¯

    Even though she was far away, the energy she emitted was dazzlingly intense. It was as if he was facing the spring sun.

    ¡°Oh, it went well. What do you think about the two of them?¡±

    The Emperor asked this after he nced at Leticia and the Crown Prince, who were walking side by side.

    Seios thought he¡¯d heard wrong, but the moment he saw that the Emperor was serious, his face turned blue.

    ¡°Are you trying to connect those two?¡±

    ¡°Why? Can¡¯t I do that?¡±

    ¡°No, you can¡¯t.¡±

    Seios said this more decisively than ever before, and looked at Leticia.

    The energy emitted by Leticia was quite extraordinary, like the sun itself. She seemed to be infinitely benevolent and generous, but it was clear that she could also be ruthless when someone strayed from reason.

    ¡°The more you try to hold her in your hand, the more likely she will get angry, so don¡¯t try to force her to do anything.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°You should be grateful that she¡¯s on your side, Your Imperial Majesty.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    The Emperor touched his chin instead of answering. Anxious about his appearance, Seios tried to say something when the Emperor finally responded.

    ¡°If you say so, then what can I do?¡±

    The Emperor shrugged as if it couldn¡¯t be helped. Only then did Seios feel confident enough to leave first.

    However, the Emperor ignored all Seios¡¯s advice, and sent a letter to Leticia toe to the Imperial pce again. Although he knew it would be inconvenient, his own greed got the better of him.

    That night, a swarm of rats suddenly appeared and caused argemotion in the Imperial Pce.

    ***

    When the rats arrived out of nowhere, and scared the people of the pce, there were rumors that someone had loosened the swarm out of spite. In response, the Emperor ordered them to be quickly exterminated, and ordered an investigation into how this happened. However, the number of rats didn¡¯t disappear, but rather they increased.

    While he was struggling with that, it was reported that the rats showed unusual behaviour. There was news that there were no rats around Leticia when she went to the audience chamber. As soon as he heard that, the Emperor shouted about how ridiculous this was.

    ¡°Now the rats are surrounding the audience chamber, and raising their heads. It¡¯s like¡­¡±

    As soon as he heard that they were acting like they were watching over her, the Emperor recalled what Seios had saidst time they met.

    [The more you try to hold her in your hand, the more likely she will get angry, so don¡¯t try to force her to do anything. You should be grateful that she¡¯s on your side, Your Imperial Majesty.]

    For some reason, he was gradually bing inclined to think that the current disaster might be rted to this.

    On the other hand, Leticia, who hadn¡¯t seen even a rat¡¯s tail, gave a small sigh.

    ¡®How should I say this?¡¯

    No matter how well you wrapped it up, there was no good way to reject someone. She thought it would be best to just say it outright rather than have ite across as offensive

    Strangely, the Crown Prince was nowhere to be seen. Leticia, who had expected him to be there, tilted her head.

    ¡®Is heing a bitter?¡¯

    Her heart was already heavy because she was trying to figure out what to tell him, but it was something that needed to be done.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯m worried there will be a misunderstanding because I¡¯ve been alone with the Crown Prince.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°As his Imperial Majesty knows, I¡¯m engaged to Duke Achilles, so I think it¡¯s best to be more circumspect.¡±

    While speaking, Leticia nced at the Emperor¡¯s face. However, he only looked at Leticia with a hard expression and said nothing.

    The moment she looked down at the heavy silence, some unexpected words came out of the Emperor¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia blinked at the sudden apology. She answered without even knowing what he was apologizing for.

    ¡°It¡¯s not a problem, Your Imperial Majesty.¡±

    ¡°No, I tried to force the Crown Prince and you together.¡±

    ¡°Your Imperial Majesty¡­¡±

    Leticia hadn¡¯t expected that he would admit it so easily, and she lowered her gaze in embarrassment. However, the Emperor became nervous at that sight.

    ¡°I hope the youngdy will ept my apology.¡±

    Even with his desperate eyes, Leticia wondered if she would dare to receive the Emperor¡¯s apology.

    ¡°I will never make Miss Aster ufortable again, so please ept my apology.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°When the youngdy gets married, I¡¯ll even send a congrattory gift.¡±

    Leticia, who had been touching her fingertips at his words, slowly raised her head and looked straight at him.

    ¡°A gift?¡±

    If the Emperor gave a congrattory present, then it would be a very honorable wedding.

    ¡®I¡¯d like to have it¡­!¡¯

    As soon as the Emperor noticed her eyes light up, he urged her to ask for whatever she wanted.

    For a while, she wondered if she should really receive it, but Leticia nodded her head at the honor she would receive.

    ¡°Then are you epting my apology?¡±

    He seemed to want confirmation that he¡¯d received her forgiveness for some reason. She wondered why he was doing this, but Leticia was too distracted about the idea of the gift she¡¯d soon be receiving, and only smiled brightly.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll ept your apology.¡±

    With that, Leticia returned to a lighter state of mind. Interestingly, the swarm of rats that hit the Imperial pce disappeared like smoke that day.

    Meanwhile, Enoch btedly heard that the Emperor was trying to arrange a marriage between the Crown Prince and Leticia. As soon as he saw Leticia he bluntly asked.

    ¡°So when were you going to tell me?¡±

    ¡°What? Oh, that¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I solved it well. You don¡¯t have to worry.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    However, Enoch only looked down with suspicious eyes, and said little. When he turned around, and walked away, Leticia nervously chased after him.

    ¡°I¡¯m telling you! I even said I was engaged!¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Look, I¡¯m wearing your ring as well.¡±

    As Enoch¡¯s steps quickened, Leticia barely managed to stand in front of him, and showed him her hand. His expression rxed even more when he saw the engagement ring on her thin, white finger.

    ¡°Don¡¯t make me jealous, Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Are you jealous?¡±

    She knew he was jealous, but when Enoch said it, Leticia couldn¡¯t help but smile. At that moment, his eyes narrowed at her, and turned around again.

    Seeing him leaving, Leticia hurried to follow Enoch. It was only by saying over and over again that he was the only person she wanted beside her, and that he would always be the only person she loved, that Enoch was finally able to feel better.

    ***

 Chapter 98

    <h4>Chapter 98</h4>

    ***

    ¡®Because I¡¯m good at it¡­¡¯

    If she asked the people around her, like Enoch, Elle and Ian, what they were good at, they would have an answer right away, but she couldn¡¯t think of anything she was good at.

    ¡®I¡¯m sure I¡¯m good at something too.¡¯

    However, she couldn¡¯t find it alone, so she eventually decided to ask for help from someone else.

    ¡°What are you good at?¡±

    ¡°Yes, or any strengths.¡±

    She decided to ask Keena, who visited regrly even though she was always busy. Keena seemed to agonize over it for a while, then gave a more casual answer than she expected.

    ¡°You¡¯re nice?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Obviously, Leticia should thank her for saying something nice, but she didn¡¯t feel happy about it at all.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think being nice is a good thing.¡±

    Leticia drooped her shoulders with a sullen face. Keena turned her head to look at her.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡±

    Leticia sighed in the middle of speaking.

    She always thought she should live as a good person. She¡¯d lived for her family, and believed that one day she¡¯d be happy. However, all that came back was the neglect, and disregard of her family.

    The reality was that her family never forced her to sacrifice herself. She decided to allow herself to be slowly eaten away.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    Keena was somehow able to read what she was thinking, and said Leticia¡¯s name in a firm voice.

    ¡°It may seem that you were hurt and lost the most, but in reality the people who hurt you have lost more.¡±

    ¡°Keena¡­¡±

    ¡°Because they threw you away.¡±

    Keena continued to speak, more seriously than ever.

    ¡°Being nice is neither a fault, nor a weakness. It¡¯s just that some people are stupid, and don¡¯t recognize your good points.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°You did a great job, and they ignored you. You can ignore them in the same way. There¡¯s nothing hard to think about.¡±

    After saying that, Keena lightly shrugged her shoulders. It was an attitude that said she was wondering why Leticia was so concerned over an easy problem.

    ¡°So, don¡¯t think of your strengths as a disadvantage because of them.¡±

    At Keena¡¯s sincere words, Leticia felt choked up.

    ¡°Thank you, I feel much better. Thank you.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it.¡±

    Kiena said it was obvious, and drank her tea. As Leticia watched her, a thought urred to her.

    ¡°Is there anything you want to do now?¡±

    ¡°No?¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Because there¡¯s nothing I want to do.¡±

    ¡°Then aren¡¯t you nervous?¡±

    Leticia felt that she was stuck in ce for a long time. Enoch, Ian, and Elle quietly kept walking forward in search of their own paths, while she was still wandering because she couldn¡¯t find what she really wanted to do.

    At first, she consoled herself by saying that it was okay, but the longer she wandered, the harder it became to hide her frustration.

    Keena just looked at Leticia as if she didn¡¯t understand.

    ¡°There might be nothing you want to do, or maybe it will happenter.¡±

    Leticia gasped when she acted like it was all insignificant. It was surprising, and amazing that she could think that way.

    Keena was watching Leticia, and then asked.

    ¡°Then what do you want to do?¡±

    ¡°Actually, I don¡¯t know. I¡¯m just¡­¡±

    Leticia hadn¡¯t expected to be asked this question, hesitated for a while, and then slowly spoke up.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want others to live like I used to.¡±

    She knew well that the answer didn¡¯t fit the question, but it was the best answer she could give right now.

    Leticia kept speaking before Keena could ask what it meant to live like her.

    ¡°I hope they¡¯ll cherish themselves, and others.¡±

    ¡°Then deliver your heart.¡±

    ¡°How?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve already done it.¡±

    Leticia blinked her blue eyes because she couldn¡¯t figure out what she meant. Keena frowned slightly in frustration.

    ¡°Like the lucky cookies you make, and seemed to have forgotten about.¡±

    Keena stopped talking for a while, gave a small sigh, then continued to speak.

    ¡°Your ability is luck. Your existence itself is luck.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    ¡°So be confident.¡±

    Leticia burst intoughter, she¡¯d forgotten about it because she wasn¡¯t aware of her ability for such a long time.

    ¡°But I don¡¯t know how to start.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing grandiose about it. Thinking about it now is also a starting point.¡±

    Keena slowly got up from her seat, and lightly tapped Leticia¡¯s cheek with her fingertip before saying.

    ¡°You¡¯re good at everything, but sometimes you wimp out before you even start.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Nothing good happens if you don¡¯t even start.¡±

    It was a friendly voice, but it sank heavily into her heart.

    When Leticia nodded slowly, Keena smiled in satisfaction, and left first after saying she¡¯d see her again soon. Leticia was left alone, and muttered what Keena had said.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t even start¡­¡±

    Nothing happens.

    Somehow the words stuck in her heart, and lingered for a long time.

    ***

    ¡°I heard you¡¯re interested in charity parties these days.¡±

    As soon as she arrived at the tea party that Melony was throwing for the first time in a long time, the youngdy and the other young women were interested in what Leticia had been doingtely. At first she didn¡¯t like this kind of attention, but now that she was used to it, she was able to smile naturally.

    ¡°Yes, it reminds me of my childhood, so I really want to participate.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re doing a good job.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. There are rumors that the charity parties involving Miss Aster will end sessfully.¡±

    Upon hearing that rumor for the first time, Leticia opened her eyes wide for a moment, then sighed with relief.

    At the time she attended the party, there wasn¡¯t anyone there, and she was worried about how well it would turn out. However, when she asked around, it seemed that people arbitrarily decided to donateter on.

    It took a while to ask each of them how they¡¯ve been, and before she knew it, Melony brought up a different topic.

    ¡°Right, did you hear the news?¡±

    ¡°What news?¡±

    ¡°The 4th volume of ¡®The Knight and I¡¯ came out!¡±

    ¡°Oh, really?¡±

    ¡°Yes, my uncle is the editor-in-chief, so I got an advance copy.¡±

    When she said that to everyone, the youngdies gasped, and loudly asked to see it.

    On the other hand, Leticia, who¡¯d never read a romance novel before, stayed still and listened to their conversations. Melony immediately noticed, and gave Leticia an exnation.

    ¡°It¡¯s the most famous romance novel these days.¡±

    ¡°Romance novels?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a desperate love story between the male protagonist, who¡¯s a knight, and a female protagonist, who¡¯s a servant. I brought a book. Do you want to read it?¡±

    Melony held out the book she¡¯d brought with her, and handed it over. Leticia sat down, and looked through the book. What she was looking at was briefly forgotten when she saw the illustration on the page that she¡¯d just flipped past.

    ¡°Um, um, there¡¯s¡­¡±

    Leticia was so surprised that she couldn¡¯t even speak properly.

    However, the youngdies that were with her began tough as if they had already expected that reaction.

    ¡°What do you think? It¡¯s going to be popr, right?¡±

    ¡°But this is still too¡­¡±

    It¡¯s racy.

    While speaking, Leticia lowered her voice, and looked at her surroundings. The youngdies¡¯ughter grew louder.

    ¡°It¡¯s good because it¡¯s racy.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll lend one especially to you, Miss Aster.¡±

    When Leticia tried to return it, Melony forced the book back into her hands, as if she was being generous. In the meantime, the youngdies began to talk about something else.

    ¡°The author said he wanted to write a deep love story, so he started this series.¡±

    At that, Leticia unconsciously looked down at the book. Somehow, she felt like she¡¯d found a light in an unexpected ce.

    The youngdies soon became preupied with their own private conversations.

    ¡°You¡¯re a well-read person.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s not dense, or sticky?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why I like it.¡±

    Time quickly flew by as they talked about romance stories. As the day began to darken, everyone looked disappointed, and promised to talk more at the next tea party.

    ¡°M-Miss Melony.¡±

    Leticia approached Melony as the others were leaving in their carriages. Melony looked at her, and seemed to wonder what she wanted. Leticia hesitated for a while, and slowly brought up the subject.

    ¡°You said your uncle was the editor-in-chief?¡±

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°Could you introduce me?¡±

    ¡°Are you going to get all four books?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that!¡±

    Leticia raised her voice in annoyance at her friend¡¯s teasing, returned the book, and tried to leave without sulking. Melony, whose face turned red from stifledughter,forted Leticia by saying she¡¯d arranged a meeting with her uncle.

    As she returned home in the carriage, Leticia sighed with anticipation and nervousness.

    ¡®I wonder if I will do well.¡¯

    It was always difficult to start, but now she knew what to do.

    If you don¡¯t start, nothing will happen.

    ***

    ¡°I heard that you really wanted to meet me.¡±

    Cedric had already heard a lot about Leticia because she was all his niece Melony talked about wherever he saw her. Even though this was their first time meeting, he already felt close to Leticia.

    ¡°Actually, what I want to do is publish a book.¡±

    ¡°You want to write a novel?¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡±

    After Keena left, Leticia seriously pondered once again about what she wanted to do.

    She wanted to help others live so they wouldn¡¯t get hurt like she was. Her ability was to give good luck, so she thought it wouldn¡¯t be as difficult as she thought.

    But it was practically impossible to help everyone.

    She didn¡¯t want to give up though. That was when the idea of a book came to mind.

    ¡°I want to publish a book with words offort to people.¡±

    ¡°When you sayforting words, you mean¡­¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to try too hard. You¡¯re doing well enough right now.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t sacrifice yourself because of other¡¯s reputations. Your value is what you make it.¡±

    While talking, Leticia somehow felt gloomy. Everything she¡¯d said to her family was what she¡¯d wanted to hear from them.

    ¡°I want to write that down.¡±

    Leticia hoped that what she wanted to hear could be helpful to others.

    However, Cedric looked at Leticia strangely.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s toomon? It¡¯s something that anyone around you could say.¡±

    Cedric¡¯s words weren¡¯t wrong, they weremon words that could be heard anywhere.

    But¡­

    ¡°It¡¯s not every day you get someone to say something so mundane.¡±

    Leticia smiled, hoping that her sincerity would be well conveyed to Cedric.

    On that day, Cedric immediately wrote a contract. He didn¡¯t hesitate in actively supporting, and cooperating in publishing Leticia¡¯s book.

    A few yearster, the book aroused sensational interest, and was a positive influence on people.

    ***

    ¡°I have no intention of marrying your fianc¨¦e. I just kept drinking tea with her because I was curious about who she was.¡±

    It was a drowsy afternoon. The Crown Prince, who pretended that he hadn¡¯t given in to this audience, wasining loudly that he was being wrongly used.

    Enoch, who was sitting across from him, didn¡¯t seem to believe it at all. In the end, the Crown Prince reluctantly confessed his feelings.

    ¡°I¡¯ve thought about using that valuable ability to do something big for the Empire.¡±

    ¡°Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°It would be a great blessing to the Empire to have such good fortune.¡±

    Even her personality was more gentle, and friendly than he thought. ording to the rumors he¡¯d heard, she participated in charity parties, and helped with the Imperial relief work.

    However, Enoch¡¯s thoughts were different.

    ¡°If I may be so bold Your Highness, I¡¯m not sure what makes you so different from her family.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    His greed meant that he was no different from the Leroy family.

    ¡°Even if you aren¡¯t close, the Empire will be full of luck. Can¡¯t you be satisfied with that?¡±

    It was a soft tone, but his voice was more firm than ever.

    ¡°She thinks about other people more than herself.¡±

    Leticia was someone who didn¡¯t know how to love herself, but gave to others endlessly. Finally, she was eagerly looking for happiness, and he didn¡¯t want anyone disturbing that.

    ¡°I only want to support what she wants to do.¡±

    ¡°What does that mean?¡±

    ¡°It means that I will tell you not to do anything that she doesn¡¯t like.¡±

    Enoch was so adamant that it was obvious that he wouldn¡¯t step back. The Crown Prince could only nod in understanding.

    He was a man who moved forward without giving up, even in difficult and degrading circumstances. He didn¡¯t dare to chuck aside a person who could be such a great asset to the Empire.

    ¡°I know exactly what you¡¯re trying to say. I¡¯m sure it won¡¯t happen again, so you can rx.¡±

    Enoch finally looked relieved after he¡¯d received a definitive answer.

    The Crown Prince was watching his expression closely, and clicked his tongue as he drank his tea.

    Both Enoch and Leticia were people who couldn¡¯t be underestimated. He just hoped that the two of them would get along, and the Empire would prosper.

 Chapter 99

    <h4>Chapter 99</h4>

    ***

    *Just a quick note from Baset. Chapter 99 and 100 talks a lot about proposals, and proposing. I¡¯m not sure why, since I know that Leticia has an engagement ring already. The only thing I can think of is that the original proposal at the Achilles party was interrupted by people fainting, and they are talking about a proper proposal party/event. I¡¯m sorry for any confusion, mostly because I¡¯m a bit confused too¡­*

    ***

    Leticia was on her way to the Aster¡¯s mansion. It was a beautiful day, and she¡¯d been looking out the carriage window for a while when she noticed a couple having an outdoor wedding. As their gazes overflowed with affection, they looked like they were the happiest people in the whole world. Leticia couldn¡¯t keep her eyes off of their smiling faces.

    ¡®I¡¯m jealous.¡¯

    It was from then on.

    ¡°How did you feel when you got married?¡±

    She suddenly became curious about marriage.

    Even after arriving at the Aster¡¯s mansion, she couldn¡¯t forget the couple who was getting married, so she asked the Count and Countess about it. When asked such an unexpected question, the Count and his wife looked at each other with a puzzled look.

    ¡°Marriage?¡±

    ¡°Yes, does your life change a lot when you get married?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s eyes glinted, as if urging them on. At first nce, it was obvious to the couple that Leticia wanted to get married. Suddenly a gentle smile spread across the Countess¡¯ lips.

    ¡°Of course. There are many things that change.¡±

    ¡°What changes the most?¡±

    ¡°First of all, we moved in together, so that we wouldn¡¯t have to be apart.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    Leticia nodded and murmured in understanding, but she suddenly closed her mouth.

    ¡®Come to think of it¡­¡¯

    She was already living with Enoch. At that time, it was purely with the intention of helping her because she was forced out by her family.

    The more she thought about it, the more she realized that she¡¯d been living like a couple with Enoch before they even got married. They lived in the same house, and they¡¯d even slept in the same bed.

    ¡®Although, all I did was hold his hand while I slept. Still¡­¡¯

    Somehow, she started to feel shy, and Leticia pressed her fingertips together. They were close enough now, but the desire to get closer had suddenly soared inside her.

    Leticia suddenly felt someone¡¯s gaze, she looked up, and found Count and Countess smiling at her. They looked at her with the kindest of smiles.

    They were so full of love for their daughter that Leticia couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    ¡®It¡¯s fascinating.¡¯

    She was abandoned by her family, but she knew they would never do that. She never thought there would be people who would cherish her like she was their real family.

    But there was.

    ¡®I thought the world had thrown me away, and now I have the whole world by my side.¡¯

    Now there were people beside her that were more like her family than her biological family. They were people who cared for her and loved her, to the point where she thought she couldn¡¯t be any happier than this.

    But she¡¯d forgotten about the greed that was buried deep in her heart.

    ¡®I want to get married too.¡¯

    Leticia unconsciously touched her engagement ring. At this moment, she missed Enoch more than she usually did.

    So, she asked.

    ¡°When are you the happiest?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m happiest when I fall asleep holding my wife tightly.¡±

    Count Aster faithfully answered Leticia¡¯s question. The Countess, who was listening from beside him, looked at the Count like he was being silly.

    ¡°What are you saying in front of our child?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with saying that¡¯s when I¡¯m the happiest?¡±

    The more the Countess criticized him, the more proudly the Count puffed out his chest. Leticia burst intoughter at the sight of the two arguing happily.

    Even though there was a time when the Countess was very ill, they were still a loving couple.

    ¡®I want to live like that too.¡¯

    As a couple that cherishes and loves each other endlessly.

    As she stared as her ideal couple, the Countess felt her gaze, and asked.

    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡±

    ¡°No, I just¡­¡±

    Leticia, who was wondering if she could say it, carefully replied.

    ¡°I thought that a child born to Mother and Father would be loved, and would grow up well.¡±

    ¡°Leticia¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll definitely be good parents to your child.¡±

    Just thinking about a child who would grow up healthy, who resembled only the good qualities of the Aster couple, was enough to fill her heart. Suddenly, she felt very grateful to the Count and Countess.

    ¡°Thank you for always loving me, even when I¡¯mcking.¡±

    ¡°How can you say that Leticia?¡±

    ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve received so much.¡±

    They¡¯d given her the love, affection, and the trust that she never received from her family. They watched over her silently, without letting her go until the very end. Then they helped her to understand how to take care of herself.

    However, Count Aster and his wife shook their heads, and held Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°You always think you get a lot, but you never do.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Thanks to your presence, I was able to endure the hard times with ease.¡±

    If she was talking about a difficult time, it was clear that she was talking about the time when the Countess was so sick that she couldn¡¯t even leave her room. Leticia felt a sense of mncholy, she smiled sadly, and held the Count and Countess¡¯ hands.

    ¡°It¡¯s a relief that I gave you strength.¡±

    Their heavy hearts became lighter little by little.

    ¡®I hope you two have children.¡¯

    Deep down in her heart she wished for the Count and Countess to be blessed.

    ***

    She was on her way back to the Achilles mansion after having a good time with the Aster couple. She arrived at just the right time, and ran into Mary at the door as she returned as well.

    ¡°Did you have a good trip, mydy?¡±

    ¡°I did, Mary. Did the visit with your brother go well?¡±

    ¡°It did, thanks to mydy¡¯s consideration.¡±

    Leticia felt bad for Mary, who couldn¡¯t meet her younger brother Ronan often. So, she pushed her to go visit him today. Even though she pretended to be reluctant, Mary¡¯s expression brightened up as she¡¯d been missing him a lot recently.

    ¡°How is Ronan doing?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s doing well. He¡¯s been working very hardtely because he¡¯s be healthy.¡±

    Mary, who was happy to see her brother after such a long time, smiled brightly and spoke about the conversation they¡¯d had today.

    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t know. They had to make a potion that blooms, but they made a potion that grows leaves.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my.¡±

    ¡°They say that potions made by mistake can be sold after being tested by the professor to make sure they aren¡¯t dangerous, but who would buy such useless potions?¡±

    ¡°Um¡­¡±

    She wanted to say that there would be at least one person, but she couldn¡¯t think of anyone would buy such a potion no matter how hard she thought about it.

    ¡°There will be someone who needs it someday.¡±

    ¡°I really hope so.¡±

    Leticia and Mary both entered the mansion while thinking it would be difficult for such a person to appear. As soon as they entered, Leticia was hugged by a waiting Elle.

    ¡°Sister, sister¡­¡±

    ¡°Elle, you¡¯re here.¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­ I thought I was going to die from exhaustion.¡±

    Leticia wondered if the recent surge of pink diamonds was too much to manage, and that was why Elle looked gaunt and tearful. It was really sad when Elle looked at her so sadly.

    ¡°You must have worked hard.¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­ It¡¯s all thanks to someone¡­¡±

    ¡°Hmm? Is the owner of Pegasus giving you a hard time?¡±

    Feeling worried, Leticia stroked Elle¡¯s head while she held her in her arms. However, Elle replied helplessly.

    ¡°The truth is that it¡¯s one person¡¯s fault. I¡¯ve never seen such a thing in my life.¡±

    ¡°Who was it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s hard to say right now.¡±

    Elle, who pouted her lips like she was in a dilemma, hugged Leticia harder and said.

    ¡°Anyways, I¡¯ll tell youter, so please give them a good scolding.¡±

    She was curious about who Elle was talking about, but Leticia didn¡¯t ask more. Seeing her speak, she thought it was someone she knew for some reason.

    It wasn¡¯t until a few dayster that she would find out the true identity of the person.

    ***

    ¡°Did the meeting with my uncle go well?¡±

    ¡°Yes, thanks to you, we were able to have a good talk.¡±

    Leticia, who was attending an evening party, smiled as soon as she ran into Melony.

    After saying a brief thank you, the surrounding area suddenly became noisy. As she looked around, she saw Enoch had just entered the banquet hall. Leticia, who was about to approach him and greet him, stopped walking without realizing it. That was because of the nobles who were approaching Enoch.

    Perhaps because of Enoch¡¯s unique cold atmosphere, they were unable to approach, and maintained a certain distance. However, the gazes on Enoch increased.

    As soon as she saw thedies peeking at him, Leticia¡¯s heart sank.

    ¡®It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t understand¡­¡¯

    Even though she was confident in her fianc¨¦, she still felt annoyed for some reason.

    Now that Levion decided to suddenly study abroad, Enoch was now considered the most coveted bachelor by the young nobledies.

    It was only natural now that everything was going well for him, like he was sailing in fair winds. Along with being one of the most talented people in the Imperial knights, and having the title of Duke, he also attracted people¡¯s attention with his well-groomed appearance. At first, thedies were ufortable with his sharp impression, but now more and more youngdies began to admire him. They said that he gave the feeling of being strong, and reliable.

    ¡°Miss Aster.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Miss Aster?¡±

    ¡°Oh, yes. Did you call me?¡±

    Leticia dropped her gaze from Enoch, quickly managed her expression, and looked at her friend. Melony had a worried look on her face, before she could ask why, Melony asked her question first.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Your face doesn¡¯t look good.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    Leticia sighed, smiled awkwardly, and shook her head.

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, you can tell me.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°You might feel better if you tell someone.¡±

    Melony told her that she can speakfortably, but it didn¡¯t go as well as she wanted, and Leticia¡¯s lips began to quiver.

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    ¡°Is it because of Duke Achilles?¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    Leticia hadn¡¯t expected her to realize right away, and asked back.

    ¡°How did you know?¡±

    ¡°How did I know¡­ You kept looking at him.¡±

    ¡°No, that¡¯s¡­¡±

    Leticia wondered if she should be honest, but eventually she reluctantly confessed what was on her mind.

    In short, she talked to Enoch about marriage, but he hadn¡¯t proposed yet. That¡¯s why she was starting to worry that she was the only one who wanted to get married.

    Melony quietly listened to Leticia, and made an unexpected suggestion.

    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you propose first?¡±

    ¡°M-me?¡±

    Thinking that she heard her wrong, Leticia¡¯s eyes opened wide, and she pointed a finger at herself. Melony nodded as if it werepletely normal.

    ¡°The courageous person catches the beauty.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    She imagined herself proposing first, and that made her face hot. Eventually, she couldn¡¯t bear it, and bowed her head. Melony sighed briefly, and grabbed Leticia¡¯s hands.

    ¡°Miss Aster.¡±

    Leticia slowly looked up at the voice calling to her so seriously. As soon as she made eye contact, Melony said with a very determined look.

    ¡°You won¡¯t feel secure until after you get married.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leticia immediately understood what she was saying, and became pale. However, Melony spoke more firmly hoping to make Leticia more proactive.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing you can get from just waiting.¡±

    With Melony¡¯s unwavering voice, Leticia felt shocked, as if she¡¯d been hit by a heavy rock. She stared nkly at Melony for a moment before she took a slow breath that helped clear her head.

    ¡®That¡¯s right.¡¯

    If there was something she wanted, she needed to win it first.

    ¡®I¡¯ll propose to him first¡­¡¯

    Just thinking about it caused her face to heat up. Leticia, who¡¯d been hesitating for a while, bit her lip, and clenched her fists.

    ¡°You can do it, Leticia.¡±

    She was able to confess her feelings, why couldn¡¯t she propose too?

    ¡®If he won¡¯t do it, then I¡¯ll propose.¡¯

 Chapter 100

    <h4>Chapter 100</h4>

    ***

    He¡¯d faced many hardships and difficulties so far, but this was by far the biggest crisis he¡¯d ever faced. To the point where he thought it would be better to take the Imperial knight examination again.

    ¡°How did you propose?¡±

    After contemting what to do, he eventually asked one of the married knights. Since they¡¯d never exchanged private stories with each other before, the knight looked surprised for a moment, then readily replied without any sign of displeasure.

    He said that he proposed marriage by offering her favorite flower.

    ¡®Flowers¡­¡¯

    The most ssic and simple proposal.

    However, Enoch wanted to prepare a more memorable proposal. The desire was so great that the proposal was unexpectedly dyed.

    Ian, who¡¯d been quietly watching over Enoch, one day asked him something as if to urge him on.

    ¡°When are you going to propose to Leticia?¡±

    Ian was ufortable and incredibly frustrated with his brother, who normally handled everything so quickly and reliably. That¡¯s because he¡¯d heard a lot of interesting thingstely.

    [That¡¯s Miss Aster, isn¡¯t she so nice and kind?]

    It was when he went to the same party as Leticia. He looked at her from afar as she talked to the youngdies. That was when the young lords confided their admiration of her. Ian, who was listening to them talk next to him, smiled inwardly at their enviousments.

    That didn¡¯tst long though.

    [It¡¯s hard to say this, but¡­]

    The young lord, who was secretly looking at Ian, carefully brought it up.

    [I¡¯m very interested in Miss Aster.]

    Ian already knew that there were many noblemen aiming for Leticia. However, he never expected to hear it so openly, so his lip trembled while he managed his facial expression.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to do it soon. It¡¯s because I¡¯m being careful.¡±

    Enoch said he¡¯d been thinking for a while about how to propose perfectly. Elle, who was standing next to Ian, didn¡¯t want to hear any of his excuses.

    ¡°If you lose her to some loser while you hesitate, then you¡¯ll die by my hands!¡±

    Elle had also been hearing simr words to Ian, so she jumped up from her seat to yell at him some more, but all Enoch could think about was how to propose, and when to do it.

    He still hadn¡¯t found a way to propose, but he¡¯d already decided what kind of ring to prepare.

    A pink diamond.

    He felt it was best to make a ring with a gem that meant ¡®eternal youth and beauty¡¯ and ¡®making your wishe true¡¯.

    Elle suggested a number of ring designs to Enoch, but he responded harshly. He¡¯d already had to reject Elle five times, and he was at the limit of his patience now.

    ¡°I¡¯ll hold it in for now, but if you go somewhere else for the ring, you¡¯ll never hear the end of it. Got it?¡±

    Enoch let out a long sigh as he watched Elle leave after she warned him that she¡¯d never forgive him if Leticia refused his proposal.

    ¡®Tomorrow.¡¯

    Tomorrow was the day it would finally be settled.

    ***

    ¡®How the heck am I going to propose?¡¯

    The first thing that came to Leticia¡¯s mind was the ssic proposal where you handed over flowers and the ring. She thought of herself handing a bouquet of flowers to Enoch, and offering him a ring, but she couldn¡¯t picture it properly.

    ¡®It¡¯s too mundane.¡¯

    Leticia wanted to show her seriousness in a situation where she didn¡¯t know if he would ept, or not. She had nothing tangible to show for her efforts so far, and was at a loss for what to do.

    ¡®How could she even think of proposing when it was so difficult.¡¯

    Leticia was at a loss, and looked like she was going to cry. She didn¡¯t want to give up so easily either.

    ¡®Come to think of it, I have to think about what to say while proposing.¡¯

    She really wanted to live as a happy couple with Enoch after they married. She thought about how to deliver the words in her heart.

    ¡®Happiness¡­¡¯

    She went through her memory to see what reminded her of happiness. At that moment, Leticia remembered the time when she bought the promise ring a long time ago. She¡¯d been told that a three-leaf clover meant ¡®happiness¡¯.

    ¡®Then should I buy a bunch of three-leaf clovers?¡¯

    It would be too simple to just hand over a three-leaf clover, so she thought it would be nice to have some other flowers.

    Leticia didn¡¯t hesitate anymore, and immediately went into action. Fortunately, there was a flower shop nearby, so she went to it at once.

    ¡°Do you have any clovers? Ones with three leaves.¡±

    While she asked, Leticia thought about what flowers would go well with the clovers. However, an unexpected answer came back.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, someone already bought all of my clovers, so I don¡¯t have any right now.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    She didn¡¯t doubt that there would be some since most people bought flowers. When the owner of the flower shop shook his head apologetically, Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her disappointment.

    ¡°Yes, I understand.¡±

    She was forced to find another flower shop. However, the next flower shop, and the one after it, gave the same answer.

    ¡®Why is it so hard to find clovers?¡¯

    When she¡¯d remembered that the three-leaf clover meant ¡®happiness¡¯, she thought this was it. However, when she couldn¡¯t find it at any flower shop she visited, she returned to the Achilles mansion with a disappointed look on her face.

    ¡®It would be faster to find some in a field.¡¯

    She was really thinking about looking for some there, but she ran into Enoch, who was waiting for her at the door. Happy to see him, Leticia forgot her ns and ran to him.

    ¡°You came home early today.¡±

    ¡°Yes, something important came up.¡±

    The important thing seemed to be about her. Enoch looked at Leticia, and smiled softly.

    ¡°By the way, what¡¯s that?¡±

    Leticia nodded her head towards his other hand, where she saw he was holding a ck cloth.

    As she looked at it curiously, Enoch smiled and held it out to Leticia.

    ¡°I have somewhere I want to take you. Could you put this on for a second?¡±

    What Enoch handed over was a blindfold made of ck cloth. Leticia had no idea what it was for, she opened her eyes wide and looked up at him.

    ¡°Now¡­?¡±

    ¡°Yes, now.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    In response to his firm answer, Leticia hesitated and smoothed the cloth in her hands.

    ¡®I¡¯m a little scared¡­¡¯

    It was Enoch, so she forced herself to put the blindfold on for him. The cloth was so thin that she thought she¡¯d be able to see through it, but surprisingly she couldn¡¯t.

    ¡°You¡¯re not taking me to a weird ce, are you?¡±

    Feeling anxious, Leticia waved her hands in the air. When she was starting to be more anxious because she couldn¡¯t see anything, she felt his big hands gently grasp her hands.

    ¡°I won¡¯t take you anywhere dangerous.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a little scary because I can¡¯t see ahead.¡±

    ¡°Okay, walk slowly.¡±

    Thanks to his softly whispered instructions, Leticia carefully took one step at a time. She walked so slowly that she could have crawled faster, which should¡¯ve been frustrating, but Enoch didn¡¯t rush her even once.

    At that moment, a smallugh was heard above her.

    ¡°Pfft.¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    When Leticia raised her head wondering what was wrong, Enoch said in an amused voice.

    ¡°It¡¯s cute when you hold my hands so tightly.¡±

    Only then did Leticia realize that she was holding Enoch¡¯s hands harder than usual, but that was because she couldn¡¯t see anything. It sounded like he was teasing her, so she scratched her fingernails down his wide palms.

    ¡°Can I take off this blindfold already?¡±

    ¡°Not yet.¡±

    She tried to pull her hands away, but Enoch quickly grabbed them, and Leticia had no choice but to continue to slowly walk forward.

    ¡°How much longer do I have to go on like this?¡±

    While her difort was invisible to the eyes, her voice began to sound frustrated.

    Enoch immediately noticed, and suggested with a smile.

    ¡°Do you want a hug?¡±

    ¡°Yes. Oh, no!¡±

    Leticia almost nodded, but refused almost immediately. When she imagined Enoch hugging her while she wore a blindfold, her cheeks turned slightly red. It was hard because she couldn¡¯t see in front of her, but it was better if she waited.

    As if reading his mind, she imagined Enoch¡¯s lightughter in her ears.

    ¡°There¡¯s not much farther to go, so please be patient for a little longer.¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s scary, then I won¡¯t forgive you.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I understand.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t even want to be surprised.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I can¡¯t guarantee that.¡±

    Even though she wore a blindfold, she could imagine Enoch making a troubled expression in front of her.

    After they walked a little longer, Leticia wiggled her fingers because she wanted to take the blindfold off. Only then could she finally get the answer she wanted.

    ¡°You can take it off now.¡±

    Before Enoch could finish talking, Leticia took off her blindfold as if she was waiting for it.

    ¡®This is¡­?¡¯

    The sudden sunshine blinded her, so she couldn¡¯t see properly. She covered her eyes slightly from the bright light, and looked around. Once she became used to the sunshine, the scene in front of her slowly unfolded in front of her eyes.

    At first nce, she thought it was an ordinary clover field, but once she looked closely, she realized they were all four-leaf clovers.

    ¡°What is all of this?¡±

    Leticia blinked her eyes in disbelief at the numerous piles of four-leaf clovers. She felt breathless, and like her heart was going to stop.

    ¡°Because you¡¯re my luck.¡±

    His dark ck hair fluttered in the gentle breeze, slightly below were eyes the color of the sea shore, and a voice that flowed softly to her ears. Leticia felt like she was standing in the sweetest of dreams.

    She couldn¡¯t help but look at him, but when she did Enoch was too embarrassed, and couldn¡¯t make eye contact even though he usually would.

    This felt like the first time that she realized what a romantic person he was.

    ¡°Enoch¡­¡±

    Tears covered her eyes, and her vision gradually blurred. However, she couldn¡¯t miss the warmth that surrounded her hands, so she grabbed hold of it harder.

    ¡°I will do my best to be your happiness.¡±

    She could clearly feel that he¡¯d been thinking about how to convey his sincerity for a long time, and she could feel Enoch¡¯s hands shaking while he talked.

    ¡°Even now¡­¡±

    She was so happy right now.

    ¡°I¡¯m very happy because of you.¡±

    The tears kept building up.

    Eventually, she couldn¡¯t hold them back anymore, and her tears began to fall. Enoch wiped them off with his fingertips, then opened a velvet box. Inside the case was the item Leticia had desired for so long.

    ¡°Will you ept it?¡±

    As soon as she saw it, Leticia slowly reached out instead of answering. As soon as the snow melted, she¡¯d put this shiny ring on her slim white finger, and it would look like a freshly bloomed flower on her hand.

    Leticia looked down at the ring as if she was mesmerized.

    ¡®Ah¡­¡¯

    A ring that contained his feelings, proving that it wasn¡¯t a one-sided love. It felt like she had Enoch¡¯s heart.

    How much she wanted to have this. She was so moved that she felt like crying again.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for so long.¡±

    Along with the endless joy, a sad feeling flowed out. In the midst of all of this, Leticia put the same ring in Enoch¡¯s hands as she had in her own.

    Enoch was embarrassed at her unexpected words, smiled for a moment, then hugged Leticia.

    ¡°I won¡¯t make you wait next time. ¡°

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Never.¡±

    The rings shared between them shone brightly in the warm sunlight.

    It was the happiest and most perfect spring in the world.

 Chapter 101

    <h4>Chapter 101</h4>

    ***

    ¡°You¡¯re finally getting married.¡±

    Keena said indifferently as she drank her tea. Rather than congratting her, it felt more like she was questioning why she was doing it now.

    Unlike her indifferent tone, her eyes were warm, so Leticia unconsciously smiled.

    ¡°I know. Oh, here¡¯s your wedding invitation.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    Upon receiving the wedding invitation from Leticia, Keena looked at it closely, then opened the envelope. As she expected, the invitation design was clean and simple. When others saw it, they would only think of it as a wedding invitation, but Keena thought that it was rather like a certain couple.

    ¡°Is there anything I can do to help?¡±

    ¡°Everything is ready, so I just need you toe.¡±

    As soon as they heard the news that she was getting married, Countess Aster, Elle and Ian began to actively help. However, since Enoch had already finished the preparations, all Leticia had to do was choose a dress and a honeymoon destination.

    ¡°But it¡¯s kind of weird to just congratte you.¡±

    Keena sounded as gloomy as she looked. It was a pity that she¡¯d missed the opportunity to help because she was too busy to show her facetely.

    Keena tapped her fingertips on the teacup for a while, then smiled brightly and said.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll give you a wedding present instead. Something very nice.¡±

    ¡°Oh? No, it¡¯s okay. I¡¯m just happy you¡¯ll being.¡±

    Surprised by her words, Leticia shook her hands. Having Keena show up to celebrate in person was a much better present.

    However, Keena smiled pleasantly, and told her not to refuse.

    ¡°Hey, we¡¯re friends. We should still give each other wedding presents.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll prepare an amazing gift for you.¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m really fine¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll like it too.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    The moment when their eyes met, Keena smiled smoothly, as if she really wanted her to see it. She couldn¡¯t stop herself from smiling just thinking about it.

    ¡®I¡¯m a bit nervous¡­¡¯

    Leticia was feeling a bit worried, but she made light of it because it was probably just her imagination.

    ***

    ¡°Oh my. Why is my sister so pretty?¡±

    Elle muttered while looking at Leticia with an expression full of emotion.

    A silver dress that showed off her slender neck, red flowers adorned her pink hair that brushed past her shoulder. She looked elegant, and pure like a blooming flower in a snowy white field.

    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to Elle¡¯s care.¡±

    Leticia was embarrassed and covered her face with a bouquet of lisianthus flowers[1]. Elle, who was finally satisfied with her appearance, left the waiting room to wait for the ceremony to begin.

    A whileter, Keena entered the room. Leticia, who¡¯d sensed her presence, turned around with a bright smile on her face.

    ¡°You¡¯re here.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I thought I waste, so I came in a hurry.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re notte.¡±

    ¡°This is the wedding present I mentionedst time.¡±

    Leticia, who didn¡¯t really expect to receive anything, smiled brightly and epted the gift.

    ¡°Can I open it now?¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

    When she tried to open it right away out of curiosity, Keena raised her voice and blocked her hand. When Leticia looked up with a puzzled expression, Keena said with a serious face.

    ¡°Open it when you¡¯re alone before you go to bed, okay?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I got it.¡±

    She wondered what kind of gift it was to make such a fuss over. However, Leticia nodded gently. Only then did Keena, who¡¯s expression finally rxed, left the bridal waiting room after telling her to have a safe trip.

    Leticia immediately walked to the ceremony venue after Keena left. As she stepped outside, a smile naturally spread across her face.

    It was clear and sunny weather, as if an angel in the sky was blessing them. Under the rain of dancing flowers, she found Enoch smiling brightly at her. Leticia¡¯s heart was already in her throat as she smiled as if she had left this world.

    They stood side by side and said their marriage vows, but she still couldn¡¯t believe it. Leticia¡¯s hands unconsciously tightened as they faced each other. As if reading her mind, Enoch patted the back of her hand as if to say that it was okay.

    ¡°Should a happy bride be crying?¡±

    Enoch smiled affectionately as he wiped away the tears that had formed with his finger.

    ¡°Because it¡¯s nice.¡±

    To the point where she wondered if it was okay to be this happy.

    ¡°I love you Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Enoch¡­¡±

    At his sudden confession, Leticia covered her face with the bouquet and smiled shyly. She felt embarrassed, but she was also so happy that she couldn¡¯t be disappointed even if she melted away from it.

    ¡°I love you too, Enoch.¡±

    It was just words, but Enoch smiled as if she¡¯d given him the world. At that smile, Leticia finally realized that this was true happiness.

    .

    .

    .

    Immediately after the wedding, Leticia and Enoch left for their honeymoon destinations. It was close to the capital, so they could arrive quickly.

    When Leticia exited the carriage first, she took in the sights in front of her eyes.

    Theke was shining brilliantly in the sunlight, and the forest was so wide and lush at just a nce that she could hardly take it all in.

    ¡°How did you find out about this ce?¡±

    ¡°I visited often when I was young.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful.¡±

    Just a short walk away, cute flowers bloomed on the side of the road for anyone to enjoy.

    But before she knew it, she was worried.

    ¡®The first night will be okay, right?¡¯

    As she began to get nervous, Leticia subconsciously grabbed and let go of her dress repeatedly.

    Enoch, who¡¯d been quietly watching the scene, asked her.

    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re blushing.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that.¡±

    She tried to speak casually, and held onto his hand tightly. Enoch walked into the vi with her, and jokingly said.

    ¡°Shall we bathe together?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She thought she heard him wrong, so Leticia blinked up at him. Enoch burst intoughter since she looked like a rabbit with her eyes wide open like that.

    ¡°I¡¯m kidding.¡±

    ¡°¡­.!¡±

    Leticia was surprised because she thought he was being serious. Her face turned red, and she rushed into the bathroom.

    ¡°Why would you make a joke like that?¡±

    Leticia, who felt like crying from the unfairness of it, looked down at the gift box given to her by Keena. Perhaps because it had been too long since she¡¯d received a gift from someone, she started to get excited. It was even a wedding gift.

    As soon as she started to open the box with a pounding heart, she heard Keena¡¯s voice.

    [Open it when you¡¯re alone before you go to bed, okay?]

    ¡®What kind of present is it that you want me to open while I¡¯m alone?¡¯

    Leticia immediately opened it, and checked out the gift inside.

    ¡®Is it clothes?¡¯

    It looked too thin to be clothing. The moment she unfolded her expression became strange.

    ¡°Keena, you crazy¡­!¡±

    She was so surprised that Leticia threw the gift with a red face. Keena had eximed about how she should look forward to it. Now Leticia wanted to hit herself for secretly being excited about the great gift she would receive.

    [I¡¯ll prepare an amazing gift for you. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll like it too.]

    ¡®How could you tell me that I¡¯m going to like it?¡¯

    Leticia, who¡¯d thrown the contents like she¡¯d touched the dirtiest thing in the world, slowly lifted it back up again with her fingertips. She couldn¡¯t tell whether it was a piece of cloth or clothing.

    ¡®It¡¯s crazy, unless you¡¯re crazy¡­¡¯

    How could she give her a slip that shows so much skin.

    Leticia clenched her teeth and let the slip drop audibly.

    ¡®Just turn away, and be sure to kill herter¡­¡¯

    ¡°Is something wrong?¡±

    When she heard a knock on the door behind her, Leticia was surprised and crumpled the slip back into the gift box.

    ¡°No, there¡¯s not! It¡¯s nothing!¡±

    Leticia now knew the reason why Keena said that she should open it while she was alone. It was dizzying to think about what reaction Enoch would have had if he¡¯d seen it.

    ¡°How do you even put this on¡­?¡±

    Leticia sighed, then clenched her teeth.

    It really was the worst wedding gift.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡®When I go back, I¡¯ll give it back to you so that you can wear it.¡¯

    Leticia hid the gift in an unnoticed corner while Enoch went to wash. She peeped at the bathroom door, like a thief who was trying to hide that they were stealing.

    ¡®There was a reason to check it alone.¡¯

    Leticia, who¡¯d been contemting for a while, let out a sigh.

    ¡®I¡¯m so nervous¡­¡¯

    It was the first time since she went on the tour of the Achilles territory that the two of them spent the night alone together.

    Leticia bit her lip without realizing it, and took a sip of the alcohol in front of her to help her rx. Normally she wouldn¡¯t have had any, but she felt very nervous.

    Fortunately, she felt much more relieved after she had a drink. Nevertheless, she had one more drink because she couldn¡¯t stop trembling. So, as I had one, two, three more cups, she even had room for more, even though she hadn¡¯t had any for some time.

    ¡®This is why people drink alcohol.¡¯

    When she reached for her fourth cup, her memory cut out like it had been cut by scissors.

    ***

    ¡®I have a headache¡­¡¯

    Leticia woke up with a shallow moan. She felt like her head was spinning.

    As soon as she was about to get out of bed, she saw Enoch holding out a cup of water to her.

    ¡°Are you awake?¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­¡±

    Leticia smiled awkwardly, and drank the water Enoch gave her. She was busy trying to recall what uredst night.

    ¡®What happened?¡¯

    She snuck an anxious nce at Enoch. Fortunately, he only looked at her with concern.

    As soon as she was relieved.

    ¡°I don¡¯t like you being scared.¡±

    She didn¡¯t understand why he suddenly said this. Leticia looked up at him in confusion, but Enoch just stroked her hair affectionately instead of answering.

    ¡°So, I¡¯ll be waiting for you when you¡¯re ready.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Before she could ask what he meant, Enoch left the room in a hurry to get her breakfast.

    Leticia, who was left alone, screamed silently and grabbed her head.

    ¡®What did I say to you yesterday? What did I say, and why are you waiting?¡¯

    No matter how hard she tried to think about it, she couldn¡¯t remember anything.

    By the evening, she could only remember what happened when she went to the bathroom to wash up.

    [It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t like it, but I am a little scared.]

    That¡¯s what I said on the first night.

    ¡®It¡¯s not that I¡¯m scared, I¡¯m just nervous!¡¯

    She couldn¡¯t help, but be nervous. However, there was also expectations and excitement that they would be closer.

    But.. I ruined it all.

    Leticia, who was half sitting up in bed, covered her face and sobbed. She felt so bad that her wedding night, which she¡¯d waited so long for, had turned out so empty. Meanwhile, Leticia felt so bad for Enoch that she couldn¡¯t stop sighing.

    ¡®No, you can still have a special time.¡¯

    Leticia jumped up from her seat, and clenched her fists.

    As soon as she opened the door slightly, she saw Enoch organizing alcohol on the table. He turned to her with a questioning look on his face when he heard the door open.

    ¡°Did you already wash up?¡±

    ¡°No, that¡¯s not it¡­¡±

    Leticia, who hesitated on how to say it, slightly showed her face through the door and said.

    ¡°A, together¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°Should we wash up together?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    While speaking, Leticia bowed her head because she was embarrassed. She was worried that she was mumbling too much, but Leticia hoped that he heard it.

    Fortunately, he did hear her, and quietly smiled. However, he shook his head gently and refused.

    ¡°You must be tired, you need to bathe and get some rest.¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­¡±

    Her courage came apart, Leticia slumped her shoulders and went into the bathroom.

    She felt somewhat depressed.

    ***

    ¡®It¡¯s a crisis.¡¯

    This was a different difficulty from when she was emunicated. Leticia sighed and rested her forehead on the wall. She thought there was nothing harder than confessing, then there was the proposal. Then she thought that there was nothing harder than the proposal, but now there was this ordeal.

    ¡®I just need to say I¡¯m not scared.¡¯

    Preparations had beenpleted a long time ago. Now she just needed to be honest with him, but she didn¡¯t know that it would be so hard to say.

    ¡®I shouldn¡¯t have been drinking that day.¡¯

    She¡¯d made a mistake by getting drunk when she was nervous, then telling him that she was scared.

    ¡®There¡¯s not much time left before we go back.¡¯

    She could clearly see that if things continued like this, it would stay the same when they returned.

    Feeling anxious, Leticia leaned against the wall with tears in her eyes. She couldn¡¯t spend this special time meaninglessly.

    ¡°What should I do¡­¡±

    Leticia mumbled with a sigh, then she paused when she saw the gift box shoved into the corner.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    It was the wedding gift that Keena gave her.

 Chapter 102

    <h4>Chapter 102</h4>

    ***

    ¡®There must be another way.¡¯

    Leticia breathed heavily, and tucked the gift farther into the corner. She couldn¡¯t afford to wear that now. She was eager to find another way.

    Alone in the room, Leticia seriously pondered how to ovee this crisis.

    No matter how much she thought about it, there was only one way.

    ¡°I¡¯m really not scared.¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°I misspoke when I said I was scared.¡±

    At dinner that night, Leticia confessed her feelings without concealing anything. She¡¯d never had a disagreement with Enoch, but she was still nervous while talking to him, and nced over at him.

    Leticia was embarrassed that she had trouble figuring out how to speak to him, but Enoch nodded and said he understood perfectly. Leticia was inwardly relieved to see this.

    But that night, Enoch hugged her as usual. It was so light that it felt empty.

    They didn¡¯t even hold hands, they just slept.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Only then did Leticia realize that Enoch thought she meant something else.

    Eventually, she had no choice but to find another way.

    Since then, she would slightly touch his chest before going to bed, and even showed clumsy temptation, such as rubbing her hands down his back. It was funny to say that it was temptations, but Leticia tried in her own way.

    However, Enoch only looked at Leticia as if she was cute, and didn¡¯t react in any way. Rather, he treated it as if he was watching a child¡¯s sloppy prank.

    As none of her methods returned a desired result, the direction of her anger poured on the innocent Enoch.

    ¡®You¡¯re only two years older than me!¡¯

    It was unfair and upsetting when he treated her like a child.

    ¡®Do you think you married a child? You¡¯re acting like you married a child!¡¯

    When she looked at Enoch, the words traveled all the way up her throat, but Leticia tried hard to hold it in. She couldn¡¯t spend her precious time getting emotional.

    In the end, Leticia decided to be more active in her approach.

    ¡°Are we just sleeping today as well¡­?¡±

    That night, she whispered while hugging Enoch harder from behind. She purposefully used a voice that sounded as pathetic andnguid as she could manage.

    Enoch turned gently and brushed Letisha¡¯s hair back.

    ¡°Are you sleepy?¡±

    ¡°Yes, let me sleep.¡±

    She burrowed deeper into Enoch¡¯s arms, and rubbed her lips on his neck. At that moment, Enoch seemed surprised, and gently rubbed Leticia¡¯s back.

    ¡®No way¡­¡¯

    She hoped it wouldn¡¯t be, but her uneasy hunches were always right. When she slightly raised her head at the sound of Enoch¡¯s regr breathing, she found that he¡¯d fallen asleep while hugging her. He had such a gentle look on his face that it was hard to imagine his usual cold and sharp impression.

    ¡°Are you sleeping?¡±

    She tapped Enoch¡¯s cheek with her finger, wondering if he really was. She even stabbed his side, but there was no response.

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    As Leticia watched Enoch sleeping soundly, she could only think of one thing.

    Tonight was ruined as well.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°You¡¯re usually so quick-witted!¡±

    The next morning, while Enoch was out for a walk, Leticia angrily mmed Enoch¡¯s pillow on the bed. She resented that he didn¡¯t know how she felt this time.

    In fact, she knew Enoch hadn¡¯t done anything wrong. However, she was going crazy from being unable to reach him with her heart.

    Now she had to go beyond shame.

    ¡®Should I give up like this?¡¯

    Leticia fiercely licked her lips, and put the gift box she¡¯d been rejecting loudly on the table.

    ¡°Okay, good.¡±

    Let¡¯s see who wins.

    ***

    Everything he did with Leticia was a first for him. First crush, first love, first date, and first kiss. There was nothing that wasn¡¯t his first time.

    So he was worried inside, and wondered if he was pushing his feelings on her.

    Fortunately, Leticia always returned a bright smile to him, perhaps of the same mind. Enoch was very relieved inside and revealed his heart without hiding anything.

    However, he realized after a while that he had been mistaken.

    It would be a lie if he didn¡¯t have expectations for the first night. But as always, Leticia¡¯s feelings were more important than his expectations.

    As he approached, Enoch carefully asked Leticia, whose head was bowed shyly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you like it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t like it, I¡¯m just a little scared.¡±

    When he saw her blue eyes trembling, he thought he was wrong.

    He¡¯d poured out his feelings unterally.

    Enoch liked her so much that he couldn¡¯t control his emotions. Because he¡¯d loved Leticia so much, he¡¯d made her nervous. He abhorred himself for not controlling his greed, even though he said he¡¯d protect her no matter what.

    After that, Enoch was careful.

    He didn¡¯t want Leticia to have no choice, but to ept his feelings. However, the situation never flowed the way he wished.

    ¡°Are we just sleeping today as well¡­?¡±

    As soon as he closed his eyes while forcibly asking for sleep that wouldn¡¯te, his heart dropped like a thud at the voice he heard behind him. Soon after, he couldn¡¯t breathe when her thin arms hugged his waist.

    Enoch barely swallowed a sigh, and turned around. His eyes met Leticia, who naively looked up at him as if she knew nothing.

    ¡®I¡¯m going crazy.¡¯

    He was resentful to see Leticia approaching him without knowing how he felt, but he couldn¡¯t push her away because she was still lovely.

    ¡°Are you sleepy?¡±

    ¡°Yes, let me sleep.¡±

    Let me sleep.

    Enoch¡¯s body hardened as he felt the sweet whisper of her voice, and the movement of her small lips on his neck.

    ¡®If you knew what I was thinking, you¡¯d want to go to sleep right away.¡¯

    Enoch struggled to suppress his greed, and patted Leticia¡¯s back because he couldn¡¯t express the feelings in his heart.

    Until then, he hadn¡¯t noticed what Leticia was thinking.

    It was around the time when they had only two days left before they returned.

    ¡°This¡­¡±

    What Leticia handed over was none other than a blindfold. Suddenly, he looked up as if he was wondering what it was, but Leticia just beckoned for him to put it on.

    ¡°You¡¯ll be using it for a while.¡±

    It reminded Enoch of the day he proposed marriage. He remembered that moment, and he smiled without realizing it, then asked.

    ¡°Is this a gift?¡±

    At that time, he¡¯d used a simr blindfold to lead Leticia to the four-leaf clover field.

    He asked if it was for a simr reason, but Leticia just stared at him instead of answering.

    ¡°Oh, a gift¡­ It might be a gift.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Somehow, her words were strange. Enoch didn¡¯t ask outloud, but asked with his eyes instead.

    Leticia just gave him a knowing smile instead of answering.

    ¡°If you wear it, I¡¯ll give you a present.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see what the gift is.¡±

    Enoch sat on the bed, and quickly put the blindfold on.

    He couldn¡¯t help but ask if it was a gift. He thought that he would take any gift that Leticia was willing to give him.

    Perhaps his heart had reached her, aughter-filled voice was heard in his ears.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if you¡¯ll like it, but I don¡¯t think you¡¯ll hate it.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    What kind of gift was it?

    He was curious, but decided to endure it, and wait until Leticia told him to take the blindfold off. However, he couldn¡¯t stand the sound of footsteps and rustling around him, so he asked.

    ¡°Can I take it off now?¡±

    ¡°Not yet.¡±

    Even though he was sitting still on the bed waiting, he really wanted to take the blindfold off. So Enoch held his hands tightly, and tried to wait patiently. However, there was still nothing he could hear other than the sound of Leticia¡¯s footsteps.

    ¡®What amazing things did she prepare?¡¯

    His expectations soared before he knew it, and he unconsciously burst into a smile.

    At that moment, he sensed her in front of him. Before he could ask if he could take the blindfold off, he felt a small touch at his cor. As soon as he raised his head, he felt her undoing the button on his shirt. Surprised, Enoch grabbed Leticia¡¯s wrist.

    ¡°What are you doing now?¡±

    ¡°Stay still.¡±

    ¡°Leticia, wait a minute.¡±

    As soon as he sensed that something was strange, Enoch immediately took the blindfold off.

    What he saw in front of him was Leticia wearing a slip that revealed a lot of her pale skin.

    ¡°Wait, wait, wait, wait¡­!¡±

    He thought he¡¯d seen it wrong, and covered his eyes with the back of his hands, which kept blinking. However, he could see Leticia slowly approaching him through his fingers.

    ¡°You don¡¯t believe me when I say I¡¯m not scared.¡±

    Leticia approached him, and ced her hands on his shoulder so that she could confine him. As she lowered herself onto hisp, Enoch couldn¡¯t hide his confused expression as she closed the distance so that he could barely breathe.

    ¡°I believe you, so please get out of my way¡­¡±

    He managed to pull himself together and tried to soothe Leticia. However, her white hands slowly caressed his shoulders, and pushed him onto the bed. There was no time for Enoch to feel embarrassed, as he felt a small weight settle on him.

    When he raised his head in surprise, Leticia had climbed onto his thighs, and looked at him explicitly. White and slender limbs, and petal-colored hair that flowed around her shoulders. Her blue eyes shone as if she wouldn¡¯t back down until she had her way.

    ¡°Don¡¯t provoke me.¡±

    ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°Please, Leticia¡­¡±

    He begged earnestly with a strained voice.

    Enoch¡¯s mouth went dry, and hid his face with both hands because he didn¡¯t think he could fill his greed with just the sight of Leticia. She¡¯d jumped him so fast that his heart ached even as she looked down at him quietly.

    ¡°I told you, I¡¯m not that innocent.¡±

    Enoch¡¯s shoulders trembled at the soft kisses that covered the back of the hands covering his face. Leticia burst intoughter at his appearance, and kissed his hands harder this time.

    ¡°I want to know you, and how you want to have me.¡±

    ¡°Leticia, please¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you too. How much I want to have you.¡±

    Enoch, who¡¯d been clenching his teeth, quickly inhaled and raised his upper body. Leticia was still sitting on his thighs, so his gaze locked with hers right away.

    ¡°If you¡¯re going to regret it, quit now.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t regret it.¡±

    Now that she wasn¡¯t scared, Enoch grabbed her cheeks and kissed the ends of her ears lightly.

    ¡°Okay, good. I¡¯ll tell you.¡±

    Enoch took off his white shirt all at once, as if I had lost. However, a fierce smile spread across his mouth. Now he wouldn¡¯t stop, or back down.

    ¡°What I thought while I was looking at you.¡±

    He¡¯d been trying so hard to be kind.

    ¡°How much I love you.¡±

    If she wanted to know how much he loved her, he would have let her know.

    Whether it was with his heart, or his body.

    ***

    Leticia couldn¡¯t get out of the bed until they went home. If she tried to get out of bed for a moment, Enoch hugged her waist and pulled her back into bed while saying that he hadn¡¯t told her yet how much he loved her.

    Since then, she hadn¡¯t slept well and Enoch had haunted her in bed.

    The only way to escape was to wait for the day they would return. Even on that day, Enoch suggested that they spend another night there. They barely returned after Leticia almost begged.

    ¡°Did you enjoy your honeymoon?¡±

    ¡°You¡­!¡±

    Leticia, who returned from a satisfactory honeymoon,ined to Keena who¡¯de to visit as soon as she¡¯d returned.

    ¡°Do you know how surprised I was because of you?¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Why? It¡¯s because of that weird gift!¡±

    ¡°Oh, did you like it?¡±

    It was just a moment before Leticia was about to raise her voice when Keena shrugged her shoulders lightly as if she¡¯d just understood.

    ¡°What? So, you didn¡¯t like it?¡±

    Even though she wasining, Keena still asked why Leticia looked as if she was at her wits end. Leticia thought she¡¯d bought it to tease her, then noticed that it was prepared with more sincerity then she¡¯d thought, so she rxed a bit.

    ¡°Don¡¯t give me such a gift again.¡±

    ¡°I thought you¡¯d like it.¡±

    ¡°That can¡¯t be true.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because you don¡¯t know. Those things are popr these days.¡±

    Keena boasted that she¡¯d barely managed to get the gift too. However, Leticia, who was listening quietly, asked with a displeased look.

    ¡°Where did you buy something like that?¡±

    ¡°A new store has opened nearby¡­¡±

    Keena suddenly stopped talking, and looked closely at Leticia. Her gaze seemed as if it were trying to find out what the intention was behind her words.

    ¡°Why are you staring at me like that?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    Leticia faltered back in a nervous mood, but Keena¡¯s lips went up more and more.

    ¡°You liked it, didn¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°What? It¡¯s not like that!¡±

    ¡°Is it not?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Keena folded her arms, and looked down with a winners smile, daring Leticia to deny it.

    Leticia avoided her gaze, and eventually asked.

    ¡°So, where did you get it?¡±

    Keenaughed out loud at the sight of Leticia acting as if she hadn¡¯t lost, then told her where she bought it.

 Chapter 103

    <h4>Chapter 103</h4>

    ***

    ¡°I heard people change a lot when they get married, but I didn¡¯t think it would be to this extent.¡±

    Elle muttered as she walked around the square with a displeased look. If things had gone as originally nned, she¡¯d be walking with Leticia next to her, not alone.

    ¡®This is all my brother¡¯s fault.¡¯

    Enoch said pathetically that he hadn¡¯t had a day off in a long time, and in a moment of weakness Leticia had given in, and asked if she could go with her next time.

    When Elle pointed her finger at him, Enoch made an effort to look pitiful before telling Leticia that it would be okay for her to go.

    He was her brother, but he was abominable.

    ¡®Someday, I¡¯ll get revenge.¡¯

    Enoch thought she¡¯d just let it go? No way.

    Elle released a long sigh. Since this happened, she was going to prepare a birthday present for Leticia in advance.

    ¡®What present would be good?¡¯

    She already looked around twice, but there wasn¡¯t anything that caught her eye. She wanted to give Leticia a gift that she would like, but Leticia preferred sincere letters or homemade gifts over expensive items.

    ¡®That¡¯s why I want to make a cake.¡¯

    If she made it, it was clear that Enoch or Ian would stop Leticia from eating it. Just imagining that scene in her head made Elle feel annoyed.

    ¡®Anyways, they¡¯re still my brothers.¡¯

    She didn¡¯t like either of them. It seemed that she¡¯d have to rub their noses with the birthday present she¡¯d prepare for Leticia.

    At that time, the gentle sound of music reached her ears. As Elle followed the sound slowly, she saw a store that was selling music boxes.

    ¡®Music boxes¡­¡¯

    Elle stood in front of the store, and smoothed her lips. Come to think of it, she didn¡¯t think it would be a bad idea as a birthday gift.

    ¡°Wee, mydy.¡±

    As soon as Elle entered, the owner greeted her with a bright smile. Even before she could say anything, he showed her the most popr music box these days.

    ¡®I like this one quite a bit.¡¯

    It was a music box that had a carving of a child ying a flute in the forest. She thought Leticia would like the calming music that came out of it.

    ¡°So, how much is it?¡±

    ¡°Two silver coins.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    It wasn¡¯t a bad price, but it wasn¡¯t a good price either. Eventually, Elle left the store after saying she woulde back a littleter.

    She looked around some other ce that she thought might have better gifts, but she didn¡¯t find anything she liked.

    ¡®As expected, only the music box is good.¡¯

    Elle returned to the store again, and nned to buy the music box she¡¯d seen before. However, she could see a man, who¡¯d arrived after she¡¯d left, standing in front of it.

    ¡®Oh, I should¡¯ve bought it earlier.¡¯

    For a moment, Elle nced up and down at the man.

    As soon as she¡¯d seen him, she thought he stood out. He was quite tall and well built, perhaps that¡¯s why she was eyeing him.

    ¡°How much is it?¡±

    She couldn¡¯t see his face properly because he was wearing a hood, but his voice was quite pleasant to listen to.

    ¡°Three silver coins.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Elle, who was looking at another music box, looked at the owner and wondered if she¡¯d heard it wrong. The owner hadn¡¯t noticed Elle enter, he¡¯d lied with a straight face and stated a higher price.

    ¡°Excuse me. The price is two silver coins, don¡¯t be fooled.¡±

    ¡°No, that¡¯s¡­!¡±

    ¡°You have to do business honestly.¡±

    Elle said this firmly, cutting off the owner¡¯s words when he tried to exin himself. The owner, who was looking at Elle and the man alternately, bowed his head.

    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m sorry. In fact, the price is two silver coins.¡±

    When he honestly admitted his mistake, the man paused while trying to pay. Elle could clearly feel that he was quite confused by the way he faltered, even though she couldn¡¯t see his expression.

    Elle thought the man was embarrassed because he was almost deceived.

    ¡°I¡¯lle back next time.¡±

    While talking, the man seemed to be in a difficult situation. As soon as Elle was about to ask if something was wrong.

    ¡°I forgot my money.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Elle didn¡¯t think it would be for such an absurd reason, and she looked up at the man in shock. The man just smiled casually at Elle, and told her.

    ¡°Thank you for your help, mydy.¡±

    A voice that resonated gently, with no highs or lows, as the corners of his mouth raised smoothly.

    The man smiled at Elle once again, and left the store. When she came to, the man had already disappeared.

    ¡°Oh, his name.¡±

    She should¡¯ve asked for his name. That¡¯s too bad.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Your Highness, why did you suddenly disappear?¡±

    ¡°Shh¡­ You have to call me young master while we¡¯re outside.¡±

    As soon as he excited the music box store, an escort knight quickly approached him. The man put his index finger to his mouth, and cautioned him.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I thought it would be nice to give one to my sister, then she might stop pestering me.¡±

    ¡°To her highness the princess?¡±

    ¡°I told you to call me young master, so you should call her youngdy.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. So, did you buy it?¡±

    ¡°No, I couldn¡¯t buy it.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    It¡¯s not that he didn¡¯t buy it, but that he couldn¡¯t buy it, that caused the knight to look like he didn¡¯t understand.

    In response, the man burst intoughter and shrugged lightly. He wondered why his escort was so dumbfounded.

    ¡°I forgot that you had the money.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Leaving behind the embarrassed escort knight, the man walked away with a big grin.

    ¡®Come to think of it, I should¡¯ve asked for her name.¡¯

    He had the impression that he¡¯d seen her somewhere, but strangely, he couldn¡¯t remember from where.

    ¡®If it¡¯s meant to be.¡¯

    We¡¯ll meet again one day.

    He only hoped it would be someone he would see again.

    ***

    ¡°You seem to think that just because you¡¯ve been poprtely, you¡¯ve be something.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re corrupt.¡±

    Ian never thought that bing an Imperial official would be the end of his misfortune, and the beginning of his happiness, but he didn¡¯t think he¡¯d be kept in check this way.

    Ian just did his best in his current position. As a result, his bosses appreciated and trusted him.

    To be so openly dismissive, as if they couldn¡¯t stand to see it, was so insignificant that Ian couldn¡¯t help butugh.

    ¡°I¡¯d rather be a corrupt than be ipetent at my job like you guys.¡±

    ¡°Now see here!¡±

    One of the civil servants couldn¡¯t stand it anymore, and raised his hand in the air. Ian saw the blowing, and tried to back away. Unlike his head, which thought rather quickly, Ian¡¯s body was slow to react.

    As soon as he realized this, he knew he¡¯d end up being hit.

    ¡°Wow, it¡¯s amazing that four people are bothering one person together.¡±

    The sound of light pping turned everyone¡¯s attention towards the approaching person. It was none other than Keena who was now walking up with a big grin.

    ¡°Get lost if you don¡¯t have anything better to do.¡±

    Ian¡¯s peer, who still wanted to hit him, just red at her grimly. The other civil servants next to him were astonished, and they looked frightened.

    ¡°Are you crazy?¡±

    ¡°What did I do?¡±

    ¡°Are you saying that because you really don¡¯t know?¡±

    When she looked at the civil servant as if she really didn¡¯t know, he said in a frustrated tone.

    ¡°You¡¯ve only recently had the false usation against you rescinded, and regained your position as a duke you know.¡±

    It was only then that she could understand why the man was making such a fuss. She was officially the head of the Erebos family, so she was a great source of gossip. Even so, her family had already been destroyed once. Even if being the head was a badge of honor, the stigma would never go away.

    ¡°Oh, are you done? Don¡¯t interrupt my work for no reason, and just go on your way¡­ Ugh!¡±

    As soon as the man gestured for her to leave, he was pushed against the wall at high speed. He was so startled that he didn¡¯t even have time to lift his head, and he couldn¡¯t even catch his breath from the force violently tightening around his neck.

    ¡°Hey.¡±

    Even though it was only a single word, it was so intimidating that he naturally cringed. Incredibly, the man began to feel chilled as if he were standing before the mouth of a ravenous beast.

    ¡°If you open your mouth again, I¡¯ll break your neck.¡±

    ¡°Put me down¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not listening to me, are you?¡±

    Keena, who stopped talking for a while, had a fierce smile on her face.

    ¡°My specialty is breaking necks with my bare hands.

    Keena¡¯s red eyes brightened, the hand around the man¡¯s neck began to tighten, and his face started to turn blue.

    ¡°You, lie¡­¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s test whether it¡¯s a lie or not.¡±

    Without rxing her hand, she whispered that softly to him, causing goosebumps to raise all over his body. When he felt the threat to his life, a servile voice escaped his mouth.

    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°Not me.¡±

    Keena pointed towards Ian with cool eyes. Only then did the man notice that the subject of his apology was wrong, and he immediately apologized to Ian.

    When Keena finally let him go after much crying and begging, the colleagues who¡¯d bothered Ian quickly ran away.

    ¡°No matter where you go, there are always people like that.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    Keena, who watched until the men hadpletely disappeared, clicked her tongue and asked Ian. However, Ian was making aplicated expression and calmly replied.

    ¡°Thank you for your help.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t look grateful.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m serious about saying thank you.¡±

    Ian couldn¡¯t hide how ashamed he felt that he couldn¡¯t do anything.

    He tried to calm down, and return home, but he felt concerned when Keena followed behind him.

    ¡°Why are you following me?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not following you.¡±

    Ian stared disapprovingly at Keena, who was following him with her hands behind her head.

    ¡°Then what are you doing?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m definitely going because I was invited to dinner.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Ian already had a headache at the thought of going to the mansion with a person who¡¯d witnessed this inconvenience. Before that, there was something to be solved first.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t tell my family about today.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Because I¡¯m sure it¡¯ll worry them.¡±

    Everyone was finally happy, he didn¡¯t want that perfect happiness to be broken because of him.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that unfair to you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­¡±

    ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to answer.¡±

    Ian was embarrassed by the unexpected words that came out, and he shook his head quickly. She never wanted to hear the answer because she knew what the answer would be.

    However, Keena¡¯s next words were unexpected.

    ¡°I¡¯m not smart, and I¡¯m only good at using my body. Do you think I¡¯m pathetic?¡±

    Keena, who was standing next to him, asked this question out of the blue. As soon as their eyes met, Ian instantly replied.

    ¡°No.¡±

    He never thought like that. All he could do was read books because he wasn¡¯t very good at using his body.

    Rather, he envied people who were talented at swordsmanship. He always wished he¡¯d had the power to protect himself and the people dear to him.

    Keena destroyed that idea all at once.

    ¡°See? It¡¯s the same as me.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re good at what I can¡¯t do, so it looks great to me.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    He didn¡¯t realize that she would feel simrly to him, so Ian stopped walking and looked at Keena without realizing it. He felt a firm sincerity in her red eyes, and that she didn¡¯t say those words just to soothe him.

    ***

    From that day forward, Ian looked at Keena in a different light.

    That day was the starting point for Ian to find his own way to protect himself and the people he cared about. The method was easier and simpler than he thought.

    ¡°The results of the promotion came out today.¡±

    ¡°But the name on it¡­¡±

    To stand over the heads of those people.

    The peers that had bothered Ian were fed up with blue faces. Ian, who stood leisurely next to them, checked the list as the corners of his mouth rose crookedly. His name was written on the promotion list, it seemed the results of his hard work had paid off.

    ¡°Ah, life at the Imperial Pce sounds fun. Right?¡±

    Ian smiled brightly, and tapped his colleagues on the shoulders. He was going to give back as much as he received.

    That evening, when Ian returned to the mansion, he snooped at the door after hearing that Keena had been invited over. He murmured in his mind that he was definitely not waiting for her, but his eyes kept looking outside.

    At that moment, he heard a cute voice next to him,

    ¡°Are you waiting for me?¡±

    When she appeared in an unexpected ce, Ian was surprised and stiffened. He quickly returned to his original expression.

    ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°I think you¡¯ve been waiting for me.¡±

    ¡°What would change if I said I was waiting for you?¡±

    ¡°It changes.¡±

    Before Ian could ask what, Keena said.

    ¡°How I feel.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I think it would feel good if you said you¡¯d been waiting.¡±

    With those unexpected words, he faintly heard his heart thumping in his mind. Ian, who couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the gaze that faced him, quickly turned away with a puzzled expression that was very unlike his usual self. He felt embarrassed because his body seemed to be burning up.

    Keena, who was walking alongside him, said teasingly, as if she might understand his feelings or not.

    ¡°Oh? Your face turned red.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not.¡±

    ¡°Even your ears are red.¡±

    She poked Ian¡¯s arm as he continued to walk forward, but her smallugh stayed with him.

 Chapter 104

    <h4>Chapter 104</h4>

    ***

    Leticia was spending a peaceful afternoon, basking in the warm sunshine as usual when she heard the rumbling of a carriage outside. As the sound got closer, she realized that its destination was here.

    When she went outside, Leticia saw the carriage had the crest of the Imperial family. The emperor¡¯s messenger stepped out of the carriage, and approached with arge package.

    ¡°It¡¯s a gift prepared for you by His Imperial Majesty.¡±

    As Leticia was wondering about the sudden present, she btedly recalled a memory of the past.

    [I¡¯ll send you a congrattory gift when you get married.]

    ¡®I guess it¡¯s that present.¡¯

    In reality, she¡¯dpletely forgotten. She carefully opened the gift while thinking about whether she deserved to receive it.

    ¡°This¡­¡±

    It was a diamond statue of a pair of birds that symbolizes harmony between a couple. There was also a letter inside the box that read, ¡®I wish you peace and happiness in the future.¡¯

    ¡°Can you wait a moment?¡±

    Leticia asked for understanding from the messenger, and quickly returned to the mansion to write a reply. She wrote that she was honored to receive such a valuable gift, and said that she¡¯d visit in person to express her gratitude.

    After the messenger received her reply letter and left in the carriage, Leticia checked the gift once again.

    ¡®Come to think of it, it¡¯s my birthday soon.¡¯

    Maybe it was because she¡¯d been so happytely, time seemed to fly by.

    ¡®How did I spend myst birthday?¡¯

    Leticia searched her most recent memories, then smiled bitterly. She realized that she¡¯d never even heard the words ¡®Happy Birthday¡¯ during the time with her family, let alone received a gift.

    ¡®At that time, I thought everything was a luxury.¡¯

    Now, she had expectations that she would at least receive congrattory messages.

    Perhaps if they didn¡¯t know when her birthday was, they¡¯d have no choice but to congratte her in person. She felt a little shy and embarrassed about telling them that it was her birthday, but she was greedy to hear ¡®happy birthday¡¯ from the people precious to her.

    She was about to tell them it was birthday like she wanted, but strangely everyone was busy and left their seats after they told her they would talk about itter. However, in the evening, everyone went back to their rooms with a tired look. So, she was unable to tell them that it was her birthday soon.

    In the end, Leticia tried to hide her disappointment as sheid down on the table a day before her birthday.

    ¡°Why are you so down?¡±

    ¡°Is it that obvious?¡±

    ¡°Very much.¡±

    She¡¯d tried to hide it, but it seemed it was revealed.

    Leticia raised her head slightly off the table, lowered her gaze, and told Keena.

    ¡°It¡¯s my birthday tomorrow.¡±

    In a weak voice she told Keena that it was her birthday the next day. Keena easily heard her, and said with a purposefully bright smile.

    ¡°Then I should prepare a birthday present for you.¡±

    ¡°No, you just have to congratte me.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t care how much it costs, I¡¯m going to get you a present since it¡¯s your birthday.¡±

    Leticia tried to stop her, but Keena just shook her head, so Leticia just smiled wryly.

    ¡°I¡¯m grateful for anything that you give me.¡±

    ¡°You can look forward to it, Leticia.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    For a moment, she didn¡¯t understand what she was saying, so Leticia tilted her head to the side. As soon as their eyes met, the corners of Keena¡¯s mouth slowly lifted up, and Leticia¡¯s face immediately began to redden.

    ¡°You¡¯re going to give me a weird gift again!¡±

    ¡°Strange gift? Oh, that one.¡±

    Keena, who had a confused look for a moment, btedly remembered and shrugged. It seemed that Leticia was referring to what she¡¯d given as a wedding gift.

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t even thinking about that kind of gift.¡±

    ¡°Lies!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m serious. Why? Do you want me to give you another one?¡±

    ¡°Are you crazy?¡±

    Leticia freaked out,and grabbed Keena¡¯s arm, who looked like she was going to buy it right away. However, Keena made a sly face, and cheekily said.

    ¡°You liked it.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s¡­!¡±

    She couldn¡¯t refute it, so Leticia covered her face with both hands. She didn¡¯t know why her job was to always be embarrassed.

    ¡°Anyways, other than that, something more normal¡­ No, I¡¯m not saying it was abnormal, but anyways.¡±

    Leticia, who was very embarrassed, couldn¡¯t figure out what to say while she was speaking.

    Fortunately, Keena understood what Leticia was trying to say, and leaned back in her chair with a bored expression.

    ¡°How boring.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean boring?¡±

    ¡°I want to prepare a perfect present for you, just like your wedding gift.¡±

    ¡°Give me a normal gift!¡±

    Leticia was already worried about what kind of gift Keena would surprise her with this time. She could tell her not to, but Keena would pretend not to hear her.

    The moment she tried to say something to her.

    ¡°What gift? Is this because of the gift I gave you before?¡±

    A small shadow fell over Leticia¡¯s head. When she raised her head, Elle was standing next to her, her eyes twinkling with curiosity.

    ¡°Elle¡­¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her embarrassment, even though she was just talking about gifts.

    Keena was alternating looking at Leticia, who was at a loss for words, and Elle, who was curious. Keena then smiled mischievously.

    ¡°We¡¯re talking about the wedding gift I gave before.¡±

    ¡°Really? What gift did you give her?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡­!¡±

    As soon as Keena was about to say something, Leticia covered her mouth with a pale face. When Elle looked at her strangely, Leticia shook her head urgently.

    ¡°Oh, it was nothing.¡±

    ¡°Why? I¡¯m curious.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s really nothing. I just received some clothes. Just clothes.¡±

    ¡°Clothes?¡±

    Elle tilted her head in confusion. She was wondering why she was acting so strangely when it was just clothing.

    Keena escaped from Leticia while she was troubled about how to answer. She rolled her eyes and said.

    ¡°It was a nightgown, and you can see through it¡­¡±

    ¡°Haha, what are you talking about?¡±

    Leticia smiled awkwardly, and tapped Keena on the back. However, Keena pretended not to notice and told Elle.

    ¡°She really liked my present.¡±

    ¡°What gift did you give her?¡±

    ¡°Secret. I think she¡¯ll like my birthday present best.¡±

    ¡°Birthday present?¡±

    Elle opened her eyes wide, and looked at Leticia, who was giving Keena a look that said she wanted to speak to her in private.

    ¡°Yes, tomorrow is my birthday.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t know. If you¡¯d told me in advance, I would¡¯ve prepared something.¡±

    Elle drooped her shoulders in disappointment. Keena squinted at her exaggerated acting.

    ¡®What? You already knew.¡¯

    Leticia, on the other hand, didn¡¯t notice anything and just held Elle¡¯s hand tightly.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m just happy to be able to spend time with you.¡±

    She said these words from the bottom of her heart, as a soft and gentle smile spread across her face. Faced with Leticia¡¯s smile, Elle grabbed her hand, then nced at Keena.

    ¡°But we still don¡¯t know who¡¯s present you¡¯ll like the most yet.¡±

    At the tant provocation, Keena burst intoughter. It was just cute that she¡¯d already prepared a gift, and pretended that she didn¡¯t realize it was her birthday.

    ***

    Later that night, just after midnight.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    With a gentle touch to her shoulder, Leticia curled up even more, and pulled her nket up to her chin. That was when a smallugh reached her ears.

    ¡°You¡¯ll bete. Hurry up, and wake up.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    In the end, Leticia was forced to wake up, and tried to rub the sleep out of her eyes. Enoch looked at her as if she was the cutest thing, but continued to urge her.

    ¡°First of all, change your clothes and thene out.¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­ okay.¡±

    Leticia answered with a slurred pronunciation, and changed into outside clothing. Enoch was waiting for her outside, took hold of her hand, and led her to the dining room.

    When they entered the dining room, it was dark since it was the middle of the night. The moment she asked if they should light some candles.

    ¡°Happy birthday, sister!¡±

    ¡°Happy birthday.¡±

    ¡°Happy birthday, Leticia.¡±

    As the surroundings brightened, congrattions poured out. There were several gift boxes and various luxurious foods on the table. Leticia, who couldn¡¯t hide the surprise and happiness on her face, covered her mouth with both hands.

    She was more overwhelmed because she didn¡¯t expect a surprise party. Looking at the gift boxes with a happy face for a while, Leticia stopped in front of the cake

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    While it was definitely a cake, the icing on top made it look like it was done by a child.

    ¡°Did Elle make this?¡±

    She murmured without realizing it, but Enoch¡¯s shoulders trembled next to her. Keena approached Leticia, who was staring at the cake without noticing her.

    ¡°Here¡¯s my present.¡±

    ¡°Oh, thank you¡­¡±

    Leticia, who was trying to say thank you, stopped talking and looked down at Keena¡¯s gift. She was somehow nervous about receiving it.

    ¡°If it¡¯s something weird, I won¡¯t forgive you.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not weird.¡±

    Keena looked resentful, and told her to open it quickly. Leticia, who was looking suspiciously at her, reluctantly received the gift.

    When she opened the gift box with a slightly nervous expression, there was an unexpected gift inside.

    ¡°It¡¯s a candle.¡±

    She sighed with relief that the object inside was more ordinary than she¡¯d expected. Keena watched as Leticia picked up the candle and sniffed it, then she asked.

    ¡°What do you think?¡±

    ¡°I like it. I think it smells good too.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a relief. Actually¡­¡±

    Keena whispered to Leticia the real use in her ear, so that no one else could hear it. Leticia, who was concentrating on what she was saying, blushed and stared at Keena.

    ¡°I¡¯m not keeping it! You use it!¡±

    Leticia forced the candle into Keena¡¯s hands after it was exined that it was used to set the mood at night. Unconcerned, Keena put the candle back in the gift box.

    ¡°I bought it for you, but you want me to keep it? Also, I already have one.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Leticia blinked at her words. She never thought that Keena would have a lover.

    ¡°Are you serious?¡±

    ¡°Not yet, that¡¯s why I¡¯m preparing in advance. Everything needs to be nned.¡±

    With a broad grin, Leticia was about to ask who the other person was.

    ¡°What¡¯s the gift?¡±

    When Enoch couldn¡¯t stand his curiosity anymore, and pointed towards the gift box, Leticia yelled.

    ¡°It¡¯s just a candle! A normal candle!¡±

    ¡°What do you mean normal? Didn¡¯t you hear what I said? At night¡­¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s open other gifts.¡±

    Leticia stopped Keena from saying useless things anymore, and checked Elle¡¯s gift this time. Inside the white, round gift box was a sculpture of a boy ying the flute.

    ¡°Elle¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a music box. It¡¯s pretty, right? If you turn the key around, musices out.¡±

    As Elle exined, calm music yed after the key was turned. Elle¡¯s eyes glinted with expectations as she stared at Leticia. She looked at her as if she was asking what birthday present she liked the most.

    ¡°Thank you Elle. It¡¯s really the best gift.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it.¡±

    As she hugged Leticia with a smile on her face, Elle once again said happy birthday with a happier look. Soon after, she was presented with a beautiful bouquet of flowers that Ian had prepared for her.

    But she couldn¡¯t see one thing.

    ¡°What about Enoch¡¯s gift? I want to receive one from him the most¡­¡±

    When Leticia looked down, and spoke as if she was disappointed, Enoch sighed briefly and rubbed the back of his neck. Somehow, it felt like he was feeling awkward because there was no gift.

    However, as soon as they heard Leticia, everyone began to hold back theirughter.

    ¡°You saw it earlier, Leticia.¡±

    ¡°I did?¡±

    ¡°Your present doesn¡¯t look like a present.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    Leticia looked at the gift boxes again with a confused expression. She checked if there was a gift she didn¡¯t see, but she couldn¡¯t find it no matter how hard she looked.

    At that time, Elle hugged Leticia¡¯s shoulder, and said with some frustration.

    ¡°No matter what, I wouldn¡¯t make it look like that, sister.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    When Leticia tilted her head slightly, Elle pointed to one particr ce instead of answering. Where she pointed was the ugly cake.

    ¡®No way¡­¡¯

    Leticia¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, and stared at Enoch. When he felt Leticia¡¯s gaze on him, he found it difficult to face her, so Enoch turned away and hid his face with the back of his hand.

    ¡°Did you really make it yourself?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    When Leticia urged him to answer by shaking his arm, Enoch answered in a muffled voice.

    ¡°¡­Yes.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s so ugly.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I know it well.¡±

    Even though he¡¯d worked hard to make it, the shape was terrible, so he¡¯d thought a lot about whether to give it to her or not. Still, he prepared it because he knew that she liked handmade gifts, but he now regretted it.

    Then he heard a smallugh.

    ¡°But I still like it the most.¡±

    Leticia held Enoch¡¯s hand with both of hers and smiled like she was the happiest person in the world. It warmed her heart that a person that didn¡¯t know how to bake made her a cake.

    ¡°Thank you so much.¡±

    She hadn¡¯t even eaten the cake yet, but she was already in a sweet mood because this was the first time she¡¯d had a good birthday with the people precious to her.

    Her birthday, which was always taken for granted, had finally be a special day for Leticia and a memory she¡¯d carry with her for a long time.

 Chapter 105

    <h4>Chapter 105</h4>

    ***

    ¡°Leticia, are you here?¡±

    ¡°Yes, what should I do today?¡±

    Small enough that she barely reached an adult¡¯s waist, and blue eyes painted on a particrly white face.

    The child¡¯s eyes twinkled with a solemn look.

    Jessie, the owner of the bakery, was looking at her as if she was just the cutest thing as she said affectionately.

    ¡°Can you bring blueberry jam to Daniel? He said he wanted to eat some.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re talking about the bookstore guy, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. If the bookstore isn¡¯t open, you can leave it in front of the door.¡±

    When Leticia was handed the jam by her chestnut colored hands, the little girl¡¯s arms were already full. Jessie looked anxious that she might drop it, but Leticia hugged it to herself as if it was the most precious thing she¡¯d ever held.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m off!¡±

    She curled her small body up in a bow, then dashed off on her short legs. It seemed she wanted to bring it quickly.

    ¡°You¡¯ll hurt yourself if you run that fast, Leticia!¡±

    Jessie shouted worriedly at her back, but Leticia was already too far away.

    ¡°Sigh¡­ I feel bad for such a young girl.¡±

    Even though most people were still asleep, it seemed that her situation still wasn¡¯t very good if she was showing up so early in the morning.

    ¡°She¡¯s eight years old now, right? No, I think she said she was seven years old.¡±

    Jessie went back into the bakery with a sigh. Leticia wouldn¡¯t leave her mind, even while she kneaded the dough.

    A few months ago, a family moved into a vacant house that was old, and considered uninhabitable. She didn¡¯t really know what kind of people they were because they never showed their faces properly, but when she saw them moving into the shabbiest house in the vige, she assumed that they were very poor.

    Then one day, a strange child, who she¡¯d never seen in the vige, showed up at the bakery.

    Jessie approached and talked to her first since the child seemed to be hesitating.

    [What¡¯s wrong, kid?]

    When she bent down half-way to meet her eyes, the child slowly opened her mouth, and wiggled her hands.

    [That¡¯s not it, I¡­]

    [Hmm?]

    [Can I work here?]

    [What?]

    When she¡¯d asked her questions because she thought she¡¯d misheard her, the child assumed she was being rejected and said with a determined expression.

    [I can do whatever you ask me to do! I like anything, so¡­]

    As the little girl was talking, she began to tear up, and her clear blue eyes were getting harder and harder to resist.

    [Please let me work.]

    Jessie gave a short sigh at her pitiful request with a face that looked like she was ready to cry.

    Her hair color reminded the baker of a brightly blooming flower on a spring day, but seeing as her hair was messy, it was clear that she couldn¡¯t afford to care for herself or didn¡¯t receive any care from her parents.

    ¡®Is there a reason?¡¯

    It was a pity that a child, who should be protected by adults, was trying to find work.

    Jessie was the first to suggest she run errands, mostly because she didn¡¯t have enough work for the child to do. When the unexpected opportunity came, the child cried, and said that she would work hard.

    Since that day, Leticia had visited many ces, including this bakery; the flower shop across the street; the bookstore nearby; and many other ces; to help out.

    She walked around and performed errands. The money was only enough to purchase a small cookie, but Leticia always said thank you.

    ¡®The young girl is always grateful, even for such a small sum of money.¡¯

    It was onlyter that she heard why the child asked for work.

    Her father lived far away so that he could earn money somehow, and her mother was too sick to get out of bed. If it wasn¡¯t enough, she also had younger siblings too. It seemed that the child had decided on her own to work in order to help her family, even if it was just a little bit.

    ¡®I¡¯m proud of you, but I also feel bad for you.¡¯

    Jessie clicked her tongue, then began kneading her dough again.

    When Leticia returned, she was thinking she should at least give her the bread she baked today.

    ***

    ¡®I need to be careful not to drop it.¡¯

    After a quick trip to the bakery, Leticia was walking carefully to her destination. She didn¡¯t want to lose the precious blueberry jam just because she tripped over a stone.

    ¡®Blueberry¡­ it looks delicious¡­¡¯

    Even though it was sealed with a stopper, it smelled so sweet that her mouth was watering. Leticia had stopped without realizing it, and was staring down at the jam nkly.

    She wasn¡¯t sure when she¡¯dst eaten bread with jam. Wait, had she ever eaten it?

    ¡°No, no, no! Get a hold of yourself, Leticia!¡±

    It wasn¡¯t the time to be doing this. Today, she had to somehow make more money by running her errands faster. Leticia, who¡¯d btedly remembered what she had to do, shook her head quickly and went back to her task.

    As soon as Leticia arrived at the bookstore, she knocked on the door. There wasn¡¯t an immediate response, and she was about to leave the jam at the door.

    ¡°You¡¯re here Leticia. What¡¯s the matter?¡±

    Daniel, the owner of the bookstore, greeted her and opened the door. As soon as she met his eyes, Leticia blinked and held out the jam to him.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to give you the blueberry jam.¡±

    ¡°It must have been quite heavy, but you brought it well. Thank you, Leticia.¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s what I had to do.¡±

    Suddenly, something caught Leticia¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±

    Daniel followed the direction of her small finger with a curious expression. At the end, books were piled up neatly.

    ¡°The letters are blurred and very old, so I put them aside to throw them away.¡±

    ¡°Then, can I have one?¡±

    ¡°You want one?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I think there¡¯s a fairytale book.¡±

    While she spoke, her gaze was already directed at a particr book. However, when Daniel didn¡¯t answer, Leticia looked up at him nervously.

    ¡°Can I take it with me?¡±

    ¡°Of course, but you won¡¯t be able to see the letters that well.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay! Thank you for giving it to me!¡±

    Leticia smiled brightly as if she¡¯d never been worried, and only picked out the fairytale.

    ¡°Leticia.¡±

    A low voice called out to her from behind, and Leticia turned her head. As soon as their gazes met, Daniel said.

    ¡°The books are going to be thrown away, it¡¯s okay if you take another book.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You can have it as thanks for running the errand.¡±

    Daniel presented her a much cleaner and newer book than Leticia was holding in her hands. However, Leticia was hesitant to ept it.

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    She wanted to take it right away, but she didn¡¯t choose this old book because she liked it.

    Leticia ended up firmly refusing because she wasn¡¯t confident that she could return the favor she¡¯d received.

    ¡°This is really enough for me.¡±

    ¡°Leticia¡­¡±

    ¡°Next time, if there¡¯s a book you want to read, please let me know.¡±

    Leticia was already smiling while she hugged the old fairytale book.

    Daniel realized that she wouldn¡¯t ept any of his charity, so he helplessly handed her another book.

    ¡°If that¡¯s what you want. Oh, and could you bring this book to Lily the florist?¡±

    ¡°Of course!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll give you the price of the errand in advance, so you just have to deliver it to her.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, mister!¡±

    Leticia bowed to him, and immediately went to Lily¡¯s flower shop. Daniel sighed as he watched her small back quickly move away.

    It was normal for a child to y as much as they wanted, but she was already so mature for her age.

    ¡°She¡¯s a good and kind child¡­¡±

    He felt sorry for her, but all he could do for her right now was ask her to run simple and easy errands.

    He sincerely hoped that it would at least help the child.

    ***

    ¡°It¡¯s leftover bread, so take it.¡±

    She went to Lily¡¯s flower shop, delivered the book, then finished the errands to other ces. Leticia had been wandering around the whole day, and finally returned to the bakery with a very weak face. As soon as Jessie saw her enter, she held out a bag with bread in it, as if she¡¯d been waiting.

    ¡°This¡­¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no one to eat it, so if you don¡¯t take it I¡¯ll have to throw it away.¡±

    In reality, it was freshly baked bread that she¡¯d made today. It was just a lie in hopes that Leticia would take it with little difort.

    Fortunately, Leticia didn¡¯t notice, and took the bag that Jessie held out to her. She seemed to be thinking about whether she should really receive it.

    However, Leticia carefully asked a question, as if she was having difficulty refusing.

    ¡°Can I really take it?¡±

    ¡°Yes, but you have to run errands tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°Of course!¡±

    Leticia nodded, smiled brightly, and looked at the bread inside the bag.

    ¡®There¡¯s also a cookie that Diana likes.¡¯

    She always felt sorry for Diana, who was taking care of their younger siblings because Leticia was running errands. Thinking that this cookie would soothe her a little, Leticia thanked Jessie several times, and went home.

    ¡®I¡¯m hungry.¡¯

    She wanted to eat the bread while she was walking. However, she endured it, and quickened her steps because she knew her younger siblings were waiting for her.

    She walked uphill along the path, and finally saw a small house at the top of the hill. Leticia was breathing hard when she finally arrived, she gasped and finally opened the door.

    As soon as she entered the house, Diana came running towards her.

    ¡°Sister, you¡¯ve returned?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, was it hard taking care of our younger siblings?¡±

    ¡°It was so hard!¡±

    Even before she could ask why it was hard, Diana was pouring it all out.

    ¡°Emil kept whining that he missed you!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s because you don¡¯t y with me.¡±

    Emil, who came to stand next to Leticia, refuted her as if he was being wrongly used. When they started to fight with each other, Leticia stepped between her two younger siblings.

    ¡°I told you both to get along well.¡±

    ¡°But Emil¡­¡±

    ¡°Diana¡­¡±

    When the two younger siblings spoke at the same time, Leticia put her index finger to her lips. At the gesture to be quiet, Diana and Emil bowed their heads with tears in their eyes.

    ¡°When I¡¯m not around, you have to take good care of your younger siblings. How can you fight like this?¡±

    ¡°I know, but whenever I¡¯m taking care of Xavier and Irene, Emil asks me to y.¡±

    ¡°Really, Emil?¡±

    When Leticia opened her eyes wide in surprise, Emil avoided her gaze.

    ¡°It¡¯s because you won¡¯t y with me¡­¡±

    His usation was half-mumbled, but she understood his desire to y with her, so Leticia stroked Emil¡¯s head.

    ¡°Let¡¯s hang out together next time. Can you wait until then?¡±

    Emil, who already felt soothed from her gentle voice, nodded. No matter what anyone said, he knew that Leticia was having the hardest time among all of them.

    ¡°Yes, I got it. I¡¯ll listen to you.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Emil.¡±

    When Leticia smiled at his response, he smiled as well. Then he saw the bag in her hand, and Emil asked.

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±

    ¡°Oh, yes! I brought bread.¡±

    ¡°Hey, do you have a cookie?¡±

    ¡°Yes, this is for you.¡±

    When Diana approached and asked, she handed over the cookie. Emil, who saw this, raised his voice.

    ¡°Sister, what about mine!¡±

    ¡°You like bread.¡±

    ¡°Why do you only give cookies to Diana?¡±

    ¡°Diana protects the house while I¡¯m gone.¡±

    ¡°Still¡­¡±

    Emil mumbled his words as if he was frustrated that she wasn¡¯t paying attention to him. Leticia noticed that he was sulking, and calmly said.

    ¡°Emil, if you listen to Diana and help take care of your younger siblings, then I¡¯ll bring your favorite bread.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Emil, who was sticking out his bottom lip in disappointment, cheered up immediately and took hold of Leticia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Then can you read me a fairytale instead of giving me bread?¡±

    ¡°Of course. I brought home a fairytale book, so I can read it to you anytime.¡±

    Emil, who expected that answer, smiled and clung to Leticia¡¯s arm.

    ¡°Can you read it today?¡±

    ¡°If you want.¡±

    When Emil heard that she would read it right away, he hugged her arm tighter, and praised Leticia as the best.

    That night, Leticia opened the old fairytale book and read to her younger siblings. The tiredness that had been building up throughout the day was long since relieved by theughter of her siblings.

    ***

    ¡°It¡¯s a beautiful day!¡±

    She sat down in the field, stretched her arms and legs, and let out a deep sigh.

    Having finished her morning errands, Leticia took out a loaf of bread she¡¯d brought with her to satisfy her hunger as well as to take a short break. As soon as she was about to eat it, she felt a presence nearby.

    Looking back, she found a boy her age with a nk look on his face.

    ¡®His hair is very dark.¡¯

    But his face was white, which was strange.

    The child slowly turned his head towards Leticia, as if he felt her eyes staring at him for a long time.

    Leticia, who made eye contact while she had bread in her mouth, was unable to hide her embarrassment. She couldn¡¯t help but offer out a different piece of bread when she noticed him staring at her.

    ¡°Do you want some?¡±

 Chapter 106

    <h4>Chapter 106</h4>

    ***

    While sitting against a tree and eating bread, Leticia nced at the child. The boy looked down at the bread she¡¯d given him, and took a bite. After he chewed a few times without expression, a surprised look came into his tidal colored eyes.

    ¡°Delicious!¡±

    ¡°Right? It¡¯s my favorite bread.¡±

    When she heard it was delicious, Leticia smiled and ate bread along with him. Because she was hungry, she ate all of her bread before she knew it, so she asked the child.

    ¡°Why are you here?¡±

    ¡°Because my younger siblings were bothering me.¡±

    Leticia immediately understood that he¡¯d run away from his younger siblings, and opened her eyes wide in surprise.

    ¡°You have younger siblings? I have some too.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it hard listening to them?¡±

    When he asked with a tone that begged for sympathy, Leticia burst intoughter.

    ¡°It¡¯s hard, but they¡¯re still cute. I guess all siblings are like that.¡±

    It would be a lie if she said that it wasn¡¯t hard. There were many times when she wanted to bezy, and not hang out with them. However, when they looked at her with eyes that said they loved her, she couldn¡¯t resist their cuteness. Her younger siblings were an existence that she couldn¡¯t hate.

    After having such a friendly conversation, she became a little closer to the boy.

    The child reminded her more of herself then she thought. First of all, he has siblings simr in age to her own, and they both had mothers that were sick.

    Maybe that¡¯s why it was morefortable and enjoyable to be with this child than the children from the vige.

    From that day on, they didn¡¯t say anything, but they met at the field around the same time as if they¡¯d promised each other.

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±

    As usual, Leticia met with the child that day. As soon as she saw him, she smiled and saw the pic basket next to him.

    ¡°In return for the bread you gave mest time.¡±

    What he took out while talking was toast covered with blueberry jam. Leticia smiled brightly, and immediately took a bite.

    ¡°It¡¯s so delicious! How did you know I like blueberry jam?¡±

    ¡°You told mest time that you wanted to eat it, but couldn¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°Oh, did I do that?¡±

    Leticia looked down at her half-eaten toast with a vague expression at the obvious reply. She didn¡¯t know that he¡¯d remember what she¡¯d said.

    Somehow, she was feeling emotional and kept smiling.

    ¡°There¡¯s more, so eat slowly.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Leticia nodded her head, and ate the remaining toast. The child was quietly watching her eat, then he handed over another piece of bread coated in fruit jam.

    The more she ate, the more she felt something strange rising from deep inside, and now her eyes were starting to tear up.

    ¡°There¡¯s something on your mouth. Wait¡­ Why are you crying?¡±

    The child, who¡¯d been smiling about Leticia having jam all over her mouth, looked surprised and asked what was wrong.

    She could feel his gaze, but Leticia didn¡¯t take the bread out of her mouth.

    ¡°I¡¯m not crying.¡±

    ¡°Liar. You¡¯re crying.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m crying because it¡¯s delicious.¡±

    As Leticia tried to swallow the tears, the boy wiped away her tears with the back of his hand, and jokingly said to her.

    ¡°You¡¯re such a baby.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not a baby.¡±

    ¡°Crybaby.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not a crybaby.¡±

    Even as she stared at him as if she hated it, the child wiped the jam off of Leticia¡¯s mouth carefully. With a friendly touch, Leticia paused without realizing it.

    It was always her job to take care of others. She never said when she was sick or if she was injured. However, whenever her younger siblings were sick or hurt, she¡¯dfort them and stay by their sides.

    Now that the position was reversed, her heart felt like it was filled with clouds.

    Leticia received the milk handed over by the child, and said without realizing it.

    ¡°I¡¯m jealous of your siblings.¡±

    ¡°My siblings? Why?¡±

    ¡°Because they have a sweet brother like you.¡±

    She couldn¡¯tin very much about how hard it was, how exhausting it was, or how she wanted to rely on them. Since she was the oldest child, she needed to take good care of and protect her younger siblings, so that her sick mother wouldn¡¯t feel bad and her father, who was making money far away, wouldn¡¯t worry. It had been a long time since she¡¯d been so caught up in thispulsion, killed her true feelings and hid them away.

    ¡®I wish I had an older brother like him.¡¯

    She was confident that she would do well then.

    However, the child reacted poorly to Leticia¡¯s words.

    ¡°Well, my siblings don¡¯t like me.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. They always say they don¡¯t like me.¡±

    All they would say was that they hated their brother, or their brother hated them. When he first heard those words, he was confused, but now he was used to it so he didn¡¯t pay much attention to it.

    It wasn¡¯t even particrly hurt by it, but Leticia looked like she felt sorry for him and soon clenched her fists resolutely.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll like you!¡±

    ¡°You?¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    She nodded strongly, speaking from the bottom of her heart, and this time she even squeezed his hand. The child couldn¡¯t help butugh at what she said through her swollen eyes.

    ¡°I don¡¯t need a crybaby as a younger sister.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not a crybaby!¡±

    Since then, Leticia had rapidly grown close to the child. The two becamerades, and a safe haven for each other.

    When they met, they¡¯d talk about each other¡¯s younger siblings, and sometimes they¡¯d talk about their cuteness.

    The childined to Leticia about what was wrong with his younger siblings. However, as Leticia listened to him, she thought to herself.

    ¡®You¡¯re a good big brother.¡¯

    He always refused them because he said he was toozy and didn¡¯t want to listen, but she could tell that he really cared about his younger siblings.

    Then one day, their unexpected separation arrived.

    ¡°I have to go to the capital because we have to find another clinic.¡±

    When she asked why he looked depressed today, the child exined that he had to leave the countryside. He added that even with the countryside nursing, his mother¡¯s physical condition wasn¡¯t good, so it couldn¡¯t be helped.

    When the only person who recognized her heart and shared her feelings left, Leticia had trouble hiding her feelings for a while. When the emptiness in her heart left by the boy was too much to bear, she would sit alone in the field and pass the time.

    Soon after, her father returned and her mother, who¡¯d beenying in bed all the time, began to recover her energy and her gloomy heart slowly disappeared.

    Thus, Leticia forgot about the child¡¯s existence.

    ***

    ¡®That was a strange dream¡­¡¯

    Leticia woke up with a nk look, and slowly blinked.

    It was too vivid and memorable to be a dream, it felt like it had happened in the past.

    ¡°Are you awake now?¡±

    Enoch sat by the bedside and gently stroked Leticia¡¯s cheek. The moment she saw him while she was still half-asleep.

    ¡®Huh?¡¯

    He seemed to ovep with the child she saw in her dream.

    The impression was too simr for it to be called an illusion, so she suddenly came to her senses.

    ¡°Hey, Enoch.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Do we know each other from somewhere else?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­?¡±

    She waited for an answer, but Enoch just quietly looked down at Leticia. Soon after, a small smile spread across his face.

    ¡°Are youing on to me, ma¡¯am?¡±

    ¡°What? No, that¡¯s not it¡­¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯m already married, so you can¡¯t flirt with me.¡±

    Leticia gasped, speechless at the sight of his troubled face.

    As soon as she made eye contact with Enoch, who wore a yful smile, she lightly hit him on the forearm.

    ¡°What are you talking about? You¡¯re married to me!¡±

    When she saw people ying around like this, she sometimes felt deceived by Enoch.

    When she narrowed her eyes and red at him, Enoch soothingly said to Leticia.

    ¡°I got a letter from Count Aster today.¡±

    ¡°What did it say?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s something important they want to talk about.¡±

    ¡°What? What does that mean?¡±

    For a moment, she was worried that something bad had happened, but Enoch replied while brushing Leticia¡¯s hair.

    ¡°They wanted to meet you to discuss it, so I said you¡¯d go visit them right away.¡±

    Seeing a smile spread across Enoch¡¯s face, she thought it couldn¡¯t be bad news.

    Relieved inside, Leticia carefully asked.

    ¡°Did you hear something?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know either. Should I just say that it¡¯s something that I¡¯ve guessed?¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    Leticia urged him to tell her quickly, and pestered him for an answer. However, Enoch lightly shrugged and turned away. Leticia followed with a resentful look on her face.

    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you telling me?¡±

    ¡°I thought it would be best to hear it directly from them.¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t you secretly tell me?¡±

    She deliberately grabbed his sleeve and looked up, but Enoch refused to answer until the end. He just told her to wait until she hears it from the Count and Countess.

    Inevitably, Leticia went to wash up and left with Enoch for the Aster mansion.

    She couldn¡¯t wait to hear what the news was.

    ***

    Upon arriving at the Aster mansion, the Count and Countess weed Leticia and Enoch with a smile. She knew the news was good when she saw that their faces were already happy before they had even greeted Leticia.

    They were guided to the drawing room, drank some tea for a while. They talked about thetest gossip, happy to be able to spend time like this together.

    While she wondered what the news was, Leticia¡¯s eyes opened wide at what the two said.

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    As soon as she heard it, she breathed in and covered her mouth with both hands. She was so moved by the unexpected good news.

    ¡°We found out not too long ago.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my. Congrattions!¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t hide her joy because she knew how much Count Aster and his wife had wished for a child. Enoch, who was sitting next to her, also said his congrattions.

    ¡°Come to think of it, Leticia, you¡¯ll be an older sister again.¡±

    ¡°I know. Is there anything you want to eat?¡±

    Countess Aster gave a smallugh and shook her head, saying that Leticia seemed to always worry about others as soon as she spoke.

    ¡°Your father is doing everything for me. He¡¯s even taking care of me.¡±

    ¡°Of course I¡¯m taking care of you.¡±

    In response to the scolding voice, Count Aster moved his shoulders more confidently, asking what he did wrong.

    Leticia and Enoch, who were watching the scene,ughed aloud at the same time.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Let.. Leti¡­?¡±

    On the carriage ride back to the Achilles residence, Letisha dropped her gaze as she touched her hand together.

    Leticia had always thought of herself as a person who knew herself well, and that she wasn¡¯t very greedy.

    While spending time with Enoch, she developed a desire to be with him. Originally, she only wished to be next to him, but as time passed her desire grew to wanting him to be the sole person beside him.

    Once she allowed herself to be greedy, it grew endlessly, and sometimes she couldn¡¯t handle it either.

    Even in the midst of all this, another greed was created today.

    ¡®A child born between me and Enoch.¡¯

    Perhaps when that child was born, she would have the desire to make them happier than anyone else.

    A very fascinating yet sweet greed. Now she wanted to have that desire.

    Leticia smiled gently, and held Enoch¡¯s hand. It felt lovely being able to hold hands like this, so Enoch lightly kissed her forehead.

    Leticia smiled gently, and enjoyed holding Enoch¡¯s hand. As soon as she raised her head, Enoch¡¯s gaze intertwined with hers and he smiled down at her.

    His eyes looked at her as if she was lovely no matter what. She should have gotten used to it by now, but she still felt overwhelmed.

    ¡®The child born between us would be as kind as he is now.¡¯

    Leticia slowly leaned on Enoch¡¯s shoulder and hoped inwardly.

    May the greatest blessing in the worlde to her too.

 Chapter 107

    <h4>Chapter 107</h4>

    ***

    ¡°Irene, you did a great job today.¡±

    It was just as she was about to leave the room, Emma, who was waiting at the door, smiled gently and said this to Irene.

    ¡°I did what I had to do.¡±

    She replied as if it wasn¡¯t a big deal, and left the mansion, saying she would be back next time.

    ¡®It¡¯s already been about a month.¡¯

    She suddenly remembered the day she first met Emma.

    While she was wandering around the vige aimlessly, she ran into Emma, who made an unexpected proposition. She suggested teaching a noble child their letters. She felt like she¡¯d heard from someone that Irene had attended a magic academy.

    At first, Irene hesitated because she¡¯d never taught anyone before, but when she was told that she would receive a teaching fee, Irene epted immediately.

    Fortunately, it suited her aptitude, and teaching the child was more fun and interesting than she had expected. Moreover, unlike the offer to provide a small amount of money for the ss, they actually gave her quite a bit.

    ¡®I need to hide half.¡¯

    She couldn¡¯t lie that she didn¡¯t have any money because her family already knew that she was teaching a noble child, and that she received payment for it. Instead, she didn¡¯t give them all of it, and she would secretly hide a portion of it.

    ¡®I wonder how much more I need to save.¡¯

    Irene, who was doing calctions in her head, sighed as soon as she thought of her family at home.

    In the beginning, they remained energetic and fought fiercely whenever they made eye contact, but now it had be terribly quiet. However, just because it was quieter doesn¡¯t mean that the atmosphere of the house was any better.

    Each person walked around the house with a gloomy look or muttered to themselves. It seemed that they¡¯d entered the stage of depression after leaving the stage of anger.

    Emil got a lot of books from somewhere, and started to study again just to have something to do. However, Diana stillined because she didn¡¯t know how to do anything. Xavier often stared nkly, finding it difficult to get out of his despair.

    She knew immediately that hope had disappeared for them. Irene, who was convinced that her family had no will to stand up anymore, had since found her own way to live.

    The first decision that she made was self-reliance and independence. Of course, all she needed was money.

    When she was thinking about how to make money, an unexpected opportunity appeared, and Irene was able to earn money from teaching. She thought she¡¯d collected enough, so she was going to avoid her family¡¯s eyes and check.

    However, as soon as she arrived at home and entered her room, her heart cooled down with a bad feeling.

    ¡°What¡¯s all of this?¡±

    Irene looked at Diana with shaking eyes. As soon as she saw Diana, who looked happy after such a long time, her anxiety grew.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you tell from looking?¡±

    Standing in front of the mirror, Diana hummed while she pressed a dress against her body. Irene, who was watching the scene, asked with a suspicious look.

    ¡°So, where did you get the money to buy it?¡±

    It was a luxurious dress at a nce. There were even three or four more dresses on the bed, not just the one. Diana, who was looking at the other dresses, answered casually.

    ¡°You had it.¡±

    ¡°What? Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡±

    With a pale face, Irene took out the book she¡¯d stashed in her drawer. The moment she took out the envelope she kept her money in and touched it, her hands began to tremble. It was thick until yesterday, but now it was as light as a piece of paper.

    ¡°Think of it as hush money.¡±

    While speaking, Diana¡¯s gaze still turned to the dresses. Irene couldn¡¯t contain her anger at what she¡¯d taken for granted.

    ¡°Did you use it all?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t use it all, there¡¯s some left.¡±

    Irene looked at the envelope of money andughed bitterly. With what was left, she might be able to have a meal outside.

    ¡°Sister, have you lost your mind?¡±

    ¡°What did you just say to me?¡±

    Diana, who was smiling while looking at the other dress, suddenly frowned.

    ¡°I hid the fact that you were hiding money, if our father found out he¡¯d have a fit!¡±

    ¡°What do you mean hide it! You¡¯re a thief!¡±

    ¡°What? Are you done talking?¡±

    ¡°You stole your sister¡¯s money, what are you so proud of?¡±

    Not to be outdone, Irene shouted as well. She couldn¡¯t believe that it wasn¡¯t enough that Diana was always messing with her stuff, but that she had stolen her money as well. Then she acted as if it was hush money.

    ¡°Is it because the only thing you can do is steal?¡±

    ¡°Oh, my God!¡±

    Unable to bear the sarcastic words, Diana threw the dress onto the bed, and jumped on Irene. Not to be outdone, Irene roughly grabbed Diana¡¯s hair.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the one who¡¯s crazy!¡±

    ¡°You? You? What did you just call me?¡±

    ¡°What do you expect when you¡¯re a thief!¡±

    Indeed, there was no sign of remorse. She couldn¡¯t understand how someone could be so ignorant and mean.

    ¡°What¡¯s all this racket!¡±

    Just as they were hurling all kinds of abuse at each other, the door opened and Marquis Leroy walked in. He stared incredulously at his two daughters who were fighting and tearing at each other¡¯s hair.

    ¡°Stop fighting!¡±

    Irene and Diana were forced to let go of each other¡¯s hair due to his thunderous roar. Irene fixed her messy hair, and swallowed her desire to cry.

    At that moment, she noticed a familiar shape behind the Marquis. Irene, who¡¯d noticed immediately, murmured with a stunned expression.

    ¡°Uncle¡­¡±

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    They were at the dinner table that night. The atmosphere was more depressing than usual, probably because of the quarrel between the two sisters.

    As the only sound was the ttering of dishes, Marquis Leroy sighed and asked.

    ¡°Why did you fight?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Diana, Irene.¡±

    When he called their names firmly, Irene, who¡¯d been sitting still without touching her food, answered first.

    ¡°Sister stole my money, and then we fought.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t steal it, I just borrowed it.¡±

    Diana, who was wary of the Marquis¡¯ anger, refuted it as if she was wrongly used. Irene burst intoughter at her excuse.

    ¡°You borrowed it? Say it correctly. You never asked me to lend it to you!¡±

    ¡°IRENE!¡±

    As her voice rose at the dinner table, Marquis Leroy gestured for Irene to stop.

    ¡°Apologize to each other and make up.¡±

    When the Marquis said that, Irene clearly heard something disconnecting in her head.

    ¡®Apologize.¡¯

    Irene didn¡¯t want to make up with Diana, and she definitely didn¡¯t want to apologize.

    ¡°No. I didn¡¯t do anything wrong.¡±

    ¡°Irene!¡±

    ¡°Why should I apologize, especially to the person who stole money from me.¡±

    The more she thought about it, the angrier she became.

    It angered her because Diana was the one who stole her money and attacked her first, but he didn¡¯t scold her and tried to make Irene apologize. His attitude of wanting them to make up as soon as possible, as if he was tired, caused Irene to feel even more hurt.

    ¡°I¡¯ll get up first.¡±

    Although she hadn¡¯t seen her uncle in a long time, Irene still jumped up and left because she thought she would throw a fork at Diana if she stayed any longer. She could hear Marquis Leroy¡¯s angry voice behind her.

    However, it only made her flee the dining room faster.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°You¡¯re older than me¡­¡±

    Irene went to the orchard where there was no one, then crouched down and shed the tears that she¡¯d held in. Once they began to pour out, it burst out of control.

    ¡°How could she do that¡­ The money I collected¡­¡±

    Knowing what was going on at home, she hated Diana even more for spending her money to satisfy her own greed.

    Her heart calmed down to some extent after she cried until she was breathless. She was still angry, but she did her best tofort herself.

    ¡®It¡¯s okay. I can just save up again.¡¯

    One thing she¡¯d realized when she was deported abroad was the fact that money came and went. So, even though she didn¡¯t have any money now, she could just make it again.

    It would be hard to save money again, but she couldn¡¯t give up like this.

    Irene sniffled and unfolded the magic book in herp. No matter how upset she was or what unfair things happened, she didn¡¯t want to skip out on her magic studies.

    Perhaps it was because of the fact that her ability had disappeared before, but she felt safer if she checked once a day to see if she could still use her magic.

    Irene lightly made small droplets in the air with her hand. Fortunately, her magical ability was still intact today.

    At that moment, a shadow fell over her from behind. As soon as she looked up, Irene jumped up in surprise.

    ¡°Uncle¡­ When did you get here?¡±

    Irene unconsciously stuttered because she was nervous.

    However, Keron just quietly looked down at Irene without saying a word.

    ***

    ¡°I¡¯m embarrassed that she made such a fuss during the meal.¡±

    After Irene disappeared, Marquis Leroy said this while watching Keron¡¯s expression. However, his brother-inw continued to eat with a nk expression, making the Marquis unsure of what he was thinking.

    Everyone began to eat ufortably because of the heavy atmosphere.

    When the meal was over, Marquess Leroy called Keron over to speak privately, then clung to him desperately.

    ¡°Brother, please take me with you. Please save me. Please?¡±

    ¡°Are you still saying that?¡±

    He said it as if he was tired of hearing it, but the Marquess still grabbed Keron¡¯s arm and sobbed.

    ¡°Tell His Imperial Majesty that I¡¯ve reflected on my actions, so please ask for leniency, brother.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you feel sorry for me living like this?¡±

    Whenever Keron would visit, the Marquess would say this.

    She tried to appeal to him with tears, but Keron just coldly watched her.

    ¡°I¡¯ve told you many times to teach the kids properly.¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    ¡°Do you still remember what you said when I said I¡¯d talk to the Marquis about it?¡±

    The Marquess automatically closed her mouth when he said this coldly. It wasn¡¯t that she couldn¡¯t answer because she didn¡¯t remember, but she couldn¡¯t say anything because it came to mind right away.

    ¡°You told me not to worry because you¡¯d manage on your own.¡±

    ¡°Brother¡­¡±

    ¡°But look at you right now. What happened?¡±

    Their debts had increased and then they were deported abroad, their old life was beyond a dream now. The Marquess looked at him as if she was being falsely used, but Keron¡¯s words weren¡¯t over yet.

    ¡°What did I say when you expelled Leticia?¡±

    ¡°Hey! How can you say that?¡±

    Even if the Marquess refuted it, Keron continued without paying it any mind.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t deserve to have Leticia.¡±

    ¡°Brother¡­¡±

    ¡°The same goes for the other kids. What excuse do you have for not properly educating your children?¡±

    Keron, who¡¯d been looking at her coldly, turned away with an attitude that said he didn¡¯t want to hear anymore. He heard sad crying behind him, but he had no intention offorting her.

    All of this was caused by his sister and her husband.

    Keron exited the house with a heavy sigh. He went to the orchard to find a quiet ce where he could calm himself. He wanted to be alone, but someone was already there.

    As soon as he saw the small back, he recognized Irene at once. As he slowly approached Irene to ask if she was okay, he saw droplets scatter in the air.

    At that moment, as if she felt his presence, Irene looked at him and stood up quickly with a pale face.

    ¡°Uncle¡­ When did you get here?¡±

    ¡°Irene.¡±

    He quietly called to her, but she seemed panicked.

    ¡°Please keep it a secret from my family!¡±

    ¡°Irene.¡±

    ¡°If they find out, they¡¯ll¡­¡±

    ¡°Irene!¡±

    Keron quickly approached the terrified Irene, and gently grabbed her shoulders.

    ¡°I have no intention of telling them. So, calm down.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, uncle¡­¡±

    It was only then that Irene finally rxed and breathed a sigh of relief.

    ¡°I¡¯m here today because I have a proposition for you.¡±

    ¡°A proposition?¡±

    Irene looked up at Keron with a surprised look at his unexpected words.

    In fact, Keron knew that Irene¡¯s magical ability had returned. When he came to visit a few times, it was with the permission of the Emperor. He¡¯d done so because he was worried about Irene, since she was the most timid out of his nieces and nephews. He¡¯d found Irene doing magic alone in the orchard during one of those visits. When he saw this, he wondered if his nephews¡¯ abilities had returned as well. However, except for Irene, no one else¡¯s abilities had returned.

    ¡°Will you go back to the Empire with me?¡±

    As soon as Keron learned that Irene¡¯s magical ability had returned, he asked the Emperor to cancel her exile. Magical ability talents could greatly contribute to the Empire, and it would be rather dangerous to leave them in other countries.

    It wouldn¡¯t have worked if he¡¯d just said he wanted to take care of his niece, but if she had magic, that changed everything.

    After much consideration, the Emperor eventually listened to Keron¡¯s request, but he added the condition that Seios would have to recognize her magical ability. It wouldn¡¯t be easy, but Keron believed in Irene.

    ¡°Of course, I won¡¯t force you. You can stay here if you want.¡±

    Just in case it sounded coercive, Keron made sure to say that he was okay with any answer she gave.

    Irene quietly listened to her uncle, and clenched her hands in order to suppress her aching heart. Not long ago she told herself she wouldn¡¯t cry anymore, but now it felt like she was about to burst into tears.

    She barely managed to swallow her tears, and slowly replied.

    ¡°I want to go. Please take me, uncle.¡±

    .

    .

    .

    After returning to the house, Irene began to pack her things as soon as she entered the room. Diana frowned at the sight and asked.

    ¡°Hey, where are you going?¡±

    ¡°Home.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Her home was here, so she didn¡¯t understand what home she was going to. However, Irene continued to pack her things without saying anything.

    A few pieces of clothing, and a couple of old books were all the possessions she had.

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    As soon as she picked up her suitcase with her stuff, Irene smiled gently and looked at Diana.

    ¡°I know you don¡¯t feel sorry about the money you stole, I hope you saved some of it.¡±

    ¡°What? Hey!¡±

    She heard a harsh voice call out behind her, but Irene kept walking forward.

    With a lighter, more joyful, step than ever before.

 Chapter 108

    <h4>Chapter 108</h4>

    ***

    ¡°The Countess is pregnant?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    With a happy smile, Leticia reported the good news about the Aster couple to Keena, who¡¯d shown up for a visit after a long time.

    ¡°They¡¯ve never said anything, but they¡¯ve always wanted to be parents.¡±

    When children happened to pass by, the Countess couldn¡¯t take her eyes off them, but she deliberately pretended not to notice them.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll be good parents.¡±

    Leticia said happily as she sipped her tea. Keena was watching Leticia, and numbly rested her chin on her hand.

    ¡®It¡¯s a good thing I¡¯m not the only one who forgets what she¡¯s capable of.¡¯

    It seemed that Leticia had influenced things, but didn¡¯t seem to have noticed.

    ¡®Is it for the best?¡¯

    Maybe because she didn¡¯t recognize it, people around her just thought that good things happened from just being around Leticia, instead of her being capable of influencing things.

    Then someone snuggled Leticia from behind.

    ¡°Hey!¡±

    ¡°Oh, my!¡±

    Elle smiled brightly at Leticia, who turned around in surprise, then she frowned as soon as she saw Keena.

    ¡°You¡¯re back?¡±

    Even though Elle didn¡¯t like her, Keena didn¡¯t feel ufortable, and just shrugged her shoulders slowly.

    ¡°I know you¡¯re saying things you don¡¯t mean.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m serious.¡±

    ¡°You and Ian look alike. Is it because you¡¯re twins?¡±

    ¡°Why are you bringing up Ian here?¡±

    Elle stared as if she didn¡¯t understand, but Keena¡¯s gaze turned towards Leticia.

    As soon as their eyes met, Keena asked.

    ¡°I know it¡¯s a rude question, but can I ask?¡±

    She seemed to be cautious about asking, and seemed to be a little nervous, but she was more curious.

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you want kids?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Leticia¡¯s mouth shut automatically at Keena¡¯s unexpected words. Elle was listening next to them, and began to focus on the conversation curiously.

    When both their eyes were focused on her, Leticia felt embarrassed, but tried to speak calmly.

    ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to¡­¡±

    ¡°I want you to have a daughter, who looks like you. No, a son would be nice too.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Oh! But I hope they don¡¯t look like my brother.¡±

    Elle crossed her arms, and frowned as if she was unhappy.

    She¡¯d been in a constant state of frustrationtely because Enoch had been constantly stealing Leticia away from her, annoying her on purpose, and just acting like a jerk.

    Keena, who was not aware of the situation, looked at Elle strangely.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with looking like Duke Achilles?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s ugly.¡±

    ¡°Really? He looked like you.¡±

    ¡°What did you say?¡±

    Before Leticia knew it, Keena and Elle began to bicker. Elle yelled unterally, but Keena took it in stride.

    Seeing the two of them looking so friendly, Leticia couldn¡¯t help butugh. At that moment, Keena¡¯s gaze returned to Leticia.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    As soon as she saw Keena smiling suspiciously at her, Leticia somehow felt uneasy. She thought she was imagining it, but Keena softly muttered.

    ¡°You¡¯re going to have a baby¡­¡±

    As soon as she heard that, Leticia blushed.

    ¡°You just said something weird, didn¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°Are you sure about that?¡±

    ¡°You just said something weird!¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re not going to?¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m not!¡±

    Leticia raised her voice as Keena was deliberately being provocative with her words.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just give you another gift!¡±

    ¡°What present? You call that a present?¡±

    Elle, who was quietly listening to their conversation, alternated between Leticia and Keena.

    ¡°Oh, is that what you¡¯re going to say?¡±

    Keenaughed and slowly leaned towards Elle, while she looked at Leticia. Leticia felt like screaming because Keena was already whispering in Elle¡¯s ears before she could stop her.

    Elle, who didn¡¯t know how to feel, blushed but looked at Leticia unexpectedly. Leticia couldn¡¯t stand the gaze and shouted.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t use the candle!¡±

    She couldn¡¯t return the candle, so she hid it somewhere no one could see, but Enoch still found it. Enoch was surprised when he tried to light it, thinking that it was a normal candle.

    Just thinking about that time, she already felt lightheaded.

    However, Elle bowed her head a little bit.

    ¡°Candle? What does that mean?¡±

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t talking about the candle¡­?¡±

    ¡°Were you talking about the wedding gift?¡±

    At that, Leticia slumped down on the tea table with a desperate look. In front of her, Keena couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore, and burst intoughed.

    In the meantime, Elle asked with a curious expression.

    ¡°But did you wear it?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I was wondering the same thing. Did you really wear it?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    With gazes that demanded an answer, Leticia just stared at the two silently.

    Only then did Keena and Elle catch each other¡¯s eyes. When Elle made eye contact with Keena, she said.

    ¡°Is there a ce that sells clothes like that?¡±

    ¡°I bought it for her from a store. Why? Did you want to buy one?¡±

    ¡°What? No, that¡­¡±

    Elle, who avoided her gaze, mumbled and replied.

    ¡°I thought my friend might be interested in it¡­¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have friends.¡±

    ¡°I have one!¡±

    Before she knew it, Keena and Elle were bickering again. Leticia, who was embarrassed at first, was used to it by now, and justughed.

    She just wondered when they¡¯d gotten so close.

    ***

    They were sitting at the dining room table that day. It had been a long time since she and Enoch had shared a meal together, and Leticia took a bite of her stew with a bright look.

    Somehow, the taste of the stew was strange today.

    ¡®Why does it seem so fishy?¡¯

    It was so disgusting that she felt nauseous and only ended up eating a bit of the sd.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you like the food?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Surprised by Enoch¡¯s words, she opened her eyes wide in surprise. Leticia filled her mouth with sd because she didn¡¯t want him to worry.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s good.¡±

    Enoch only began to eatfortably again when she smiled as if it was really delicious.

    After she saw that, Leticia quietly brought up something she wanted to ask.

    ¡°I wanted to prepare a baby shower gift in advance, but I¡¯m not sure what to get.¡±

    ¡°Do you have something in mind?¡±

    ¡°I was thinking about a gift that was meant to help the baby grow up healthy!¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    In fact, the gift that Leticia suggested was the mostmon. However, Enoch had another idea.

    ¡°What about a present for Countess Aster?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°When you give birth, it can be really hard, so what about an item that¡¯s meant to help Countess Aster¡¯s health.¡±

    ¡°Ah! You¡¯re right! I like that idea.¡±

    She nned to visit the doctor¡¯s office tomorrow, and she would ask for advice on what foods and medications would be good for her mother.

    As she was thanking Enoch, Leticia suddenly realized.

    ¡®Come to think of it¡­¡¯

    She¡¯d never talked to Enoch about children, whether he wanted a son or daughter, or even how many children he wanted.

    ¡®Am I the only one who wants one?¡¯

    She wanted to have a child, and thought that it was time to have one.

    Leticia nced at Enoch, who gave her a quizzical look as he said one of the dishes was good and suggested she try it as well.

    ¡°Is there something you want to say?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You keep looking at me.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    Leticia sighed, then quickly shook her head.

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    Enoch looked at her with concern, but Leticia said nothing until the end.

    ***

    No matter what, there was only one person she could ask about this.

    ¡°I thought something bad had happened.¡±

    Upon hearing Leticia¡¯s worries, Keena leaned back in her chair with a bored look and a click of her tongue.

    ¡°You tend to overthink such trivial things.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s important to me.¡±

    Leticia frowned at her dismissive attitude. Seeing her like that, Keena spoke like it wasn¡¯t a big deal.

    ¡°If you¡¯re that worried about it, then wear that gift I gave you again.¡±

    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°Or use that candle. You said you haven¡¯t used it yet.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    As she kept teasing her, Leticia just quietly red at her, but Keena didn¡¯t care. It had been a long time since her eyes had sparkled yfully.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t like it, I can get you something else¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re dead!¡±

    Leticia couldn¡¯t take it anymore, jumped up, and rushed at Keena. Before she could reach her, Keena got up and avoided her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you know my ability? You can¡¯t beat me in terms of physical strength.¡±

    ¡°Shut up! If I catch you, you¡¯re dead!¡±

    After being teased mercilessly by Keena, Leticia turned away from her. But then she saw that Enoch had returned early, and she paled.

    Unfortunately, Leticia wasn¡¯t the only person who spotted Enoch.

    ¡°Wait¡­!¡±

    ¡°Wee home. You¡¯re just in time, Leticia said¡­¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

    Keena went to Enoch right away, and tried to confess everything, but Leticia covered her mouth. Enoch looked at the two, and asked curiously.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s nothing.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s true. Haha¡­¡±

    Leticia smiled awkwardly and poked Keena¡¯s side, hinting that she should hurry up and leave. Keena immediately recognized what she meant, bid farewell to Enoch and Leticia as if she couldn¡¯t win and left.

    ¡°Shall we go in now? It¡¯s almost dinner time, so let¡¯s go.¡±

    Enoch wanted to say something, but Leticia was urging him inside with a tug on his arm. There were many questions he wanted to ask Leticia, who was acting strange today, but Enoch had no choice but to let Leticia take him to the dining room.

    .

    .

    .

    That day¡¯s meal was also held alone with Enoch. It felt awkward today, so Leticia kept looking at Enoch¡¯s face.

    Enoch had noticed her nces, but he spoke up first.

    ¡°Is it that hard to tell me what¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Leticia touched her fingertips together at his disappointed tone.

    ¡°Well, I mean¡­¡±

    As expected, no matter how much she thought about it, it was best for her to be honest.

    ¡°How about Enoch?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m talking about children.¡±

    Enoch seemed to hesitate for a moment, as if her words were unexpected. However, the bewildered look soon disappeared.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t want children, then I¡¯m fine¡­¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

    Leticia raised her voice in exasperation.

    ¡®What¡¯s this guy saying now!¡¯

    It was so absurd that she quickly began to resolve Enoch¡¯s misunderstanding.

    ¡°If I didn¡¯t want to, we wouldn¡¯t have spent the night together. And¡­¡±

    Leticia stopped speaking for a while, then nodded with a slightly depressed expression.

    ¡°I asked because I thought Enoch didn¡¯t want any.¡±

    ¡°Not at all.¡±

    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you say anything?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡±

    Enoch thought for a while about what to say, then he slowly confessed what was on his mind.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to burden you.¡±

    Leticia understood what Enoch meant because they¡¯d been thinking the same thing.

    They worried that the other one didn¡¯t want to have children.

    ¡®I feel like a fool.¡¯

    Leticia was relieved that she¡¯d resolved the misunderstanding with Enoch, and that it wasn¡¯t as burdensome as she¡¯d thought. Only then did Enoch¡¯s face be more rxed.

    But it didn¡¯tst long.

    ¡°Ugh¡­!¡±

    As soon as Leticia took a bite of her well-done steak, she couldn¡¯t stand the taste and spit it out.

 Chapter 109 [END]

    <h4>Chapter 109 [END]</h4>

    ***

    Leticia didn¡¯t know why everything tasted so fishy these days. At first, she thought there was something wrong with the food, but seeing that Enoch was fine, that didn¡¯t seem to be the problem.

    Leticia wiped her mouth with a napkin, and decided to only eat the sd.

    Enoch, who was quietly watching her, and slowly got up from his seat. When Enoch suddenly stood up, Leticia looked up at him with a surprised expression.

    ¡°Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to a clinic.¡±

    ¡°What? But I¡¯m fine.¡±

    She quickly shook her hands, but Enoch remained firm.

    ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten properly for a few days.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m really fine¡­¡±

    However, Enoch had already left the dining room.

    The next time she saw him was when he¡¯d returned with a doctor. Enoch stood next to the doctor and asked for an urate diagnosis of Leticia¡¯s illness. The doctor sat in front of Leticia and began to ask her a variety of questions.

    ¡°I feel like my digestion isn¡¯t working properly. Sometimes my lower abdomen hurts.¡±

    Leticia was forced to answer how she¡¯d been feeling the past couple of days. The doctor quietly listened to her, then smiled at her.

    ¡°You¡¯re going to have to take good care of yourself.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    She didn¡¯t understand what she was saying, so Leticia blinked in confusion. However, the doctor¡¯s gaze went to Enoch.

    ¡°In particr, His Excellency should take care to be by your side a lot.¡±

    ¡°By any chance¡­¡±

    Enoch couldn¡¯t finish what he was saying, and looked to the doctor, who nodded that he was correct.

    ¡°The Duchess is pregnant.¡±

    ***

    ¡°Enoch, I¡¯m really fine.¡±

    Since that day, Enoch kept trying to prevent Leticia from walking. He acted like something bad would happen if her feet touched the floor.

    Each time he did so, Leticia used him of being too fussy, but she¡¯d be smiling while she said it.

    ¡°You can¡¯t move too much.¡±

    ¡°But the doctor said it was okay to take light walks.¡±

    When Leticia would get out of bed, Enoch would follow behind her anxiously. He was treating her like she was made of ss, but it didn¡¯t feel bad.

    Whenever she went outside, he would busy himself by looking around, and under her feet, for anything dangerous. He looked kind of cute as he took such good care of her.

    Another thing that changed after she became pregnant was the food.

    Enoch personally selected healthy food for her. It was good food that was meant to restore energy, but in the end all she could eat was sd and fruits because everything else made her feel nauseous.

    Fortunately, as time passed, she was able to eat more food.

    ¡°Do you like it?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s so good!¡±

    At Enoch¡¯s question, Leticia replied with a bright smile. She kept smiling because she was happy she could enjoy the food she loved after such a long time.

    ¡°But why aren¡¯t you eating any, Enoch?¡±

    Come to think of it, she hadn¡¯t seen him eat properly since a few days ago. Obviously, he¡¯d eat a little bit of his food when they¡¯d eat together, butter he¡¯d only drink water.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You haven¡¯t been eating.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡±

    Enoch sighed briefly, then answered casually.

    ¡°I just don¡¯t have an appetite today. It¡¯s not anything you should worry about.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine, so you should eat a lot.¡±

    It was only when he beckoned her to eat quickly that Leticia finally stopped hesitating, and took a bite of her steak. It tasted disgustingst time she¡¯d eaten it, but now she wanted to eat it all for some reason.

    At that moment, Enoch covered his mouth with a napkin.

    ¡°Ugh¡­!¡±

    ¡°Enoch, are you okay?¡±

    Seeing his noticeably pale face, Leticia was surprised, and tried to approach him. However, Enoch put his hand up to mean that he was fine.

    ¡°I¡¯m okay.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean you¡¯re okay? Your face is pale.¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m really fine¡­¡±

    Even before he finished talking, Enoch hurriedly left the dining room while he covered his mouth with a napkin.

    Later, when Leticia went to the clinic for a diagnosis, an unexpected answer was given.

    ¡°Can my husband, not me, have morning sickness?¡±

    ¡°Sometimes that happens, but it¡¯srgely psychological.¡±

    Leticia was puzzled, but she also felt sorry for Enoch because he seemed to have morning sickness instead of her. After he struggled for a few days with feeling ill, it seemed to disappear and he felt better.

    Everything was easy from there. Maybe it was because Enoch was there to take care of her, but nothing was very difficult.

    However, giving birth to a child was really indescribably painful. After she endured the pain, and hugged the children she¡¯d given birth to, that feeling couldn¡¯t be described in words.

    She just wanted them to grow up happy and healthy.

    ***

    As Leticia hoped, the twins grew up well without much trouble.

    ¡°Ahin looks like you, and Liche looks like Duke Achilles.¡±

    At Keena¡¯s words, Leticia looked alternated at Ahin and Liche.

    She could remember as clearly as if it were yesterday when she¡¯d hoped for a child, then when she found out she was pregnant, and finally when she saw her children with her own eyes.

    It had already been six years, time had flown by so fast.

    ¡°Right?¡±

    Leticia smiled andughed. Keena was right, Ahin looked just like her when she was young.

    The same pink hair as her, and an exceptionally round and white face.

    One difference was that her eyes were a dark gray, not blue. She thought he¡¯d inherited them from Enoch.

    ¡°I mean, Ahin and Liche.¡±

    Keena looked around, then asked in a lowered voice.

    ¡°Do you think they have abilities yet?¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s an ability, then¡­¡±

    ¡°They might since they¡¯re your children.¡±

    At her unexpected remark, Leticia shut her mouth for a while and gave a low sigh.

    ¡°Well¡­ I¡¯d have to look into it more, but I don¡¯t think they have one yet.¡±

    Now that they¡¯d turned six years old, she thought it was too early for her to judge yet. Leticia hesitated to answer, and turned towards her children again.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Liche and Ahin?¡±

    When she couldn¡¯t find Ahin no matter how hard she looked, Leticia asked Liche, who was touching the flowers.

    ¡°Huh? She was next to me earlier.¡±

    However, there was no one nearby when Liche looked around.

    .

    .

    .

    Ahin was standing alone in the street of the square where many people were passing by, and as soon as she saw someone, she approached closer. She managed to catch up to them with her small steps, and soon grabbed their sleeve.

    Looking back at the tug on their sleeve, the woman looked back curiously when she saw Ahin.

    ¡°Are you lost, kid?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Where¡¯s your mom?¡±

    Ahin, who was staring at the woman, answered slowly in a friendly tone.

    ¡°She¡¯s nearby.¡±

    ¡°Nearby. Where?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    Ahin stopped talking, unsure if she knew that. The woman, who immediately noticed, gave a small sigh.

    ¡°Your mom must be worried.¡±

    The woman was thinking about how to find the child¡¯s mother, and stared at Ahin¡¯s face in confusion.

    It was definitely her first time seeing the child, but somehow she felt familiar.

    ¡°It can¡¯t be¡­¡±

    Like a bud just before it blooms, the child had pink hair and misty colored eyes. She looked so much like her sister as a child, she had to wonder how she didn¡¯t notice sooner.

    ¡®You¡¯re one of her kids.¡¯

    She¡¯d heard about it when it first happened, that her sister had given birth to twins.

    She really wanted to say congrattions on that day, but she didn¡¯t want to go and make things ufortable.

    ¡®You look exactly like my sister.¡¯

    From the way her eyes closed when she smiled, to her thin and fine lips.

    She smiled bitterly for a while, when suddenly Ahin pointed her finger behind her.

    ¡°Do you know my mother?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°Why are you holding hands with my mom?¡±

    She thought that Leticia was behind her, so she looked back, but there was no one.

    However, Ahin¡¯s eyes showed Irene holding hands affectionately with Leticia behind her.

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure what you¡¯re saying. Your name is Ahin, right?¡±

    When Ahin nodded, Irene lightly pointed her finger. At that moment, a butterfly flew into the air and fluttered in the rays of sunlight.

    ¡°Ahin, if you follow the butterfly well, you will be able to meet your mom. I¡¯ll protect you from others, so follow the butterfly well and go back.¡±

    If she could, she wanted to take the child home, but she wasn¡¯t confident she could face Leticia.

    ¡®It¡¯s better this way.¡¯

    This was the best Irene could do.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    Ahin looked at the fluttering butterfly, and bid farewell to Irene brightly. It looked as if her sister was smiling at her, and she couldn¡¯t look away.

    .

    .

    .

    ¡°Oh, it suddenly disappeared!¡±

    While she followed where the golden butterfly flew, it suddenly scattered into the air. She looked around in surprise, then Leticia found Ahin and quickly approached her.

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Ahin pointed at Leticia, who was telling her that she shouldn¡¯t disappear without saying anything next time.

    ¡°I can see it from mom too.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Holding hands with father, and smiling.¡±

    ¡°¡­.?¡±

    ¡°You were smiling so happily too.¡±

    Ahin stretched out her arms to express how happy her mother looked.

    ¡°Did you like it when you saw your mom and dad smiling happily?¡±

    ¡°Yes! I loved it!¡±

    It was so cute to see her nodding her small head, that Leticia lightly poked Ahin¡¯s cheek with her finger.

    ¡°Let¡¯s hurry up and go. It¡¯s almost time for your dad to get home.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Ahin grabbed Leticia¡¯s hand, and said excitedly.

    ¡°I met ady who looked exactly like mom¡±

    ¡°Ady?¡±

    ¡°Yes, she made a butterfly in the air. It was a very pretty butterfly.¡±

    She seemed very excited, and her eyes sparkled.

    She couldn¡¯t understand what she was saying, so Leticia just walked side by side, and stroked Ahin¡¯s head with her other hand.

    ***

    Later that evening, the two twins began to doze off at the dinner table, having yed too hard outside. As soon as the meal was over, Enoch carried the twins to their beds so that they could sleepfortably.

    The look in his eyes as he gazed at the two children, who¡¯d just fallen asleep, was infinitely gentle and radiant.

    When he returned to his bedroom after tucking the children in, Leticia wasying in bed and tapped the spot next to her while telling him to hurry up.

    ¡°Did you tuck them in?¡±

    ¡°Yes, they fell asleep before they were even in their beds.¡±

    Enoch smiled happily andid down next to her. Then, Leticia was quickly embraced in his arms.

    ¡°It¡¯s amazing.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°How can I be so happy?¡±

    A smallugh fell over her head at those words. Leticia looked up with a furrowed brow and asked.

    ¡°Why are youughing?¡±

    ¡°Because I was thinking the same thing.¡±

    As soon as their eyes met, Enoch lightly kissed Leticia¡¯s forehead and smiled happily.

    ¡°Thank you for letting me know this happiness.¡±

    At the same time, Enoch gently embraced Leticia. Especially today, his arms felt warm, so Leticia snuggled deeper and quietly muttered.

    ¡°I wanted to say that first.¡±

    ¡°I love you.¡±

    ¡°I wanted to say that too.¡±

    Enoch always said what she wanted to say the most, and wanted to hear the most first. Every time she heard it, her heart felt so overwhelmed that she couldn¡¯t handle it.

    It was perfect luck and happiness for the two of them.

    ~End ????~

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