Chapter 580: Chapter 580
The nightmares born from unknowns did not contribute to my rest in the least... and so, I refuged in the silence of my chambers like I used to before any change came to my life... collaborating to the heighten of it, not wanting to emit a sound so I could feel the void as myself... because of fear and the sense of loss again.
— Shouldn’t you die? The favour would do not solely for us but for yourself, Marianne... what worth is there in living when you are a disgrace to everyone’s sight? —
’Such terrible words I remember them all too well... and yet... today she said she wanted to love me...’ — I thought, annoyed by feeling this sadness mixed with an unexplainable happiness; only to think that what she said in a drowsy state could be true and it was the soil the fairies noticed that had moved them into the evilness my memories recall.
— ..... do not worry about justice any more, sister. I am... welcoming this wait for death now that I am certain you are safe and sound... —
’Haaa... How can I be at ease with these many doubts now...? If there truly is a third hand in this, if it is the witch that orchestrated my hell all these years..... how am I supposed to truly not worry about my siblings’ fate if it is like this?’
"... ridiculous... this is simply ridiculous a fate to meet..."
The mere consideration was a hazard to own. I hated the softness of my heart and the mind that collided finding reason to it all. Never could it be easy for myself... Regardless... another meeting with her. I needed it as soon as possible so the doubts could be shut down or clarified for good.
"... My lady... please do eat well this morning. If you do not eat well, your health..." — Paige, with a cautious approach said, serving me a dish that looked fresh and tasty. Visibly concerned for I had little appetite yesterday after my return, keeping silent and playing indifferently with my food for a while now. Thus, only for I knew it would not do me any good nor the ones I cared for to skip the meal, I decided to reply. Leaving the comfort of my silence behind at least for the ease of my friend’s heart.
"It was because of my weariness that I didn’t last night. I will eat well today, Paige, do not worry." — Although I was aware my smile was not convincing enough, the bite was a good impulse to make my words true. Realising that I was indeed hungry and finishing my meal so everyone could be at ease.
I appreciated how, even as I answered, Paige did not force further conversation... She was truly considerate and perhaps knew me well enough to see how I needed to keep myself to silence again. Probably pleased that with her words I did eat properly before going out.
Like that, this time I went to the Main palace’s entrance to wait for His Highness’ arrival. It had been arranged like that so time would not be wasted at my request. And it was briefly after my arrival, while the carriage was pulled over so we could depart promptly, unbelievably quick given the preparation it usually took, that he came to meet me. Rushing in his walk with an open vest as if he had to run to make it on time, seemingly dressing fast, dishevelled a tad...
"!? My lady, I apologise for making you wait. Has it been long since you came here?" — The Crown Prince asked, looking at Vitor to find confirmation to the shake of my head. Obviously agitated. Yet considerably clean in appearance since he had probably rushed here after finishing this morning’s training.
My eyes could not help but stare at him... for it was a new kind of sight he provided... and as he noticed my curious peek at his open vest, his hands quickly went to button it up as new orders were given for our departure.
"Is the carriage ready to depart?"
"Yes. At any time, your Highness."
"Then we better head out fast. My lady, let us board the carriage now."
At his question, the affirmation immediately came along his escort. Extending his hand now to invite me to board the carriage... while I could finally laugh inside, simply because of his ready and lovely presence.
’I at least can find delight when meeting him...’ — I thought, a bit embarrassed that it appeared so easy to achieve a hint of happiness. Giving him another glance, now with him in a properly worn vest... which I found like a waste when recalling how handsome he looked while untidy. — ’Hmph... what a pity...’
"Did the lady rest well?" — The prince initially asked once the carriage commenced its motion. — "I am hoping your morning was peaceful until now."
"... I... truthfully, I had some trouble to gain rest last night... yet even so, I am feeling well. I am still a tad... lethargic, however. Yet I am certain it is being dismissed the more awake I become."
"... I am glad that is the case. May today’s visit aid for it to be completely dismissed, my lady. It is no good if this continues to harm your peace."
"Yes, thank you. I also hope for it to be that way." — I said, truly moved by the sweetness of his voice and the tenderness in his gaze. Feeling, even while sitting separated, how his support was embracing me without judgment again. — "... Nonetheless, how about his highness? You were on time yet appeared to be in a hurry just now. As I recall you had training this morning did you not? Was it a gruelling training that you went through today? "
"Oh... There were no issues with training. As common as it could be. I solely did not want for our departure to be delayed, much less make you wait because of it."
"I see. You are very thoughtful, yet do not worry. Waiting a little would not be a big trouble for me. After all, I selfishly arranged this visit without asking for your agreement..."