MHYFMAMD Ch 35

Hoo

 

A draft of night air flowed through the slightly open window.

 

Every time the candle flickered and moved, the shadows cast on her face also trembled.

 

“Does this mean the first night was a mistake?”

 

“Fortunately, it’s not like that.”

 

Dietrich turned his body and lifted the pillows that were gathered in one place. His scent lingered faintly like an echo where he had just passed.

 

“If it’s an old man with a lot of suspicion, then that’s a problem.”

 

“…?”

 

“Even though I brought you here, he couldn’t let go of his suspicions and sent a representative to personally congratulate us.”

 

“Congratulate? What do you mean…?”

 

“What else could it be? Our wedding.”

 

Tenesia was taken aback by the directness of his words.

 

She didn’t think it would go this far.

 

Although the Emperor had always been interested in Dietrich’s family, he hadn’t been so obsessed with building a friendly relationship before.

 

As she remembered her time as Grace, a sudden thought made her turn her head.

 

“About the visit of the Fourth Princess you mentioned before,”

 

“They said it will go ahead without any issues. Whether we get married or not.”

 

Even though he already had a spouse, he was suggesting that they arrange a meeting. Tenesia suddenly thought that maybe, even after the wedding, he would still try to establish a connection.

 

“If you feel uncomfortable sharing a bed, just let me know.”

 

It seemed like he wasn’t just saying it. Dietrich acted as though he would leave the bed at any moment.

 

“I’ll make sure to give you space if needed.”

 

“It’s fine. It would be a little funny to do that now.”

 

They had already spent the first night together. It wouldn’t feel awkward using the same bed again. Tenesia shook her head.

 

“I just asked because it was unexpected. I thought… Margrave would be sleeping somewhere else.”

 

“If everything had gone as planned, I would have done that.”

 

Without the Emperor’s interference, it seemed like sharing a bed wasn’t going to happen.

 

Somehow, Tenesia didn’t feel hurt by Dietrich’s harsh words. It might have been because she understood that his actions were for Grace’s sake.

 

Was that why? Even in the face of Dietrich’s clear wariness and vigilance, Tenesia simply smiled gently.

 

“If you feel uncomfortable, Margrave, please let me know at any time.”

 

As soon as she spoke, his gaze followed with a look as if it was wondering what will she if he does?”

 

“I’ll do my best to help you, Margrave, get used to it.”

 

She intended to make sure he never felt awkward around her. Most of the time, though, her efforts would probably be focused on satisfying her greed in the name of efforts.

 

“Let’s just sleep now.”

 

With a breath, the room quickly darkened. Tenesia tucked her body, which had been leaning against the pillow, under the blanket.

 

A faint rustling sound came from the bed next to hers. The quiet night amplified even the smallest noises.

 

Even though her eyes were adjusted to the darkness, it still didn’t work as sharply as during the day. It felt like the uncomfortable sensation was tightening around her limbs.

 

But it was different from yesterday. Every time she heard the faint sound of breathing from behind, she was able to push away the feeling of being isolated.

 

It was even more so because it was the familiar breathing. Tenesia closed her eyes with a more relaxed heart.

 

*****************************

 

“Please dress me in light clothes today.”

 

Early lunch when Dietrich left, Tenesia spoke to the person adjusting her outfit.

 

“Oh my, do you have other plans?”

 

“I’ve been granted permission, so I plan to tend to the greenhouse.”

 

Although a slight headache was starting to form, Tenesia’s smile never left her face.

 

Since she had been given permission to do as she pleased, there was no reason to delay. She had always cared about that place during her lifetime, so she wanted to restore it as soon as possible.

 

Moreover, it didn’t look aesthetically pleasing. Her expression darkened as she recalled the gossip of Madam Blanchette.

 

Haberfeld had no reason to be the subject of gossip. There was no reason to be treated like that.

 

It was unfair that it was criticized just because the exterior of the mansion was a little messy. Tenesia, with a fresh outfit that reflected her opinion, headed toward the greenhouse.

 

Thanks to a prior heads-up, gardeners and other staff who were capable of some work were waiting in advance.