《Odalisque》


 Chapter 1.1

    The man sat with his long legs crossed, leaning his body on the backrest.


    The fingertips, wrapped in white gloves, tapped on the armrest in an orderly tempo. When the director, who sharply noticed that fine wrinkles were forming between the man¡¯s beautiful eyebrows, beckoned, the frame hanging in front of the man was quickly removed by the staff. As if not to waste time, they quickly hung the next frame on the wall.


    Confirming that the blue eyes were staring straight at the painting, the director spoke in a calm voice.


    ¡°This artist is a newcomer who is in the spotlight these days, and recently, he won a prize at the Academy Art Show with excellent reviews.¡±


    It was the most satisfying work prepared by the director. It could be said that the previous works were just accessories to make this work stand out even more.


    ¡°He makes good use of light. He¡¯s far more sensuous than the previous artists.¡±


    Of course, it was against the director¡¯s belief to treat works with the artist¡¯s soul in this way.


    This was Royven, the largest art gallery in Buerno, and he was the director of the gallery. Besides the title of director, he, Aaron, was born and raised in a family with deep knowledge of art from generation to generation. He was a man who loved and respected works of art.


    However, the problem was that this customer Aaron was dealing with was too important a figure.


    ¡°He is an artist who usually borrows mythological scenes to express the theme. I think you¡¯ve recognized the figure in this work, of course.¡±


    The man tilted his head at an angle. A few strands of smooth platinum hair were scattered along the movement.


    The man, who was slowly looking through the plump and white skin in the picture, slowly moved his red lips.


    ¡°Is she the goddess of the moon?¡±


    ¡°Yes, she is. Projecting man¡¯s primal desires into unattainable divinity¡ª¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s cliche.¡±


    Those were lips that opened only after dozens of works. However, all that flowed out was a cynical review.


    Aaron, who believed he would satisfy the man¡¯s taste this time, suppressed his sigh and managed his expression. His heart ached so much as he removed even the work he was most confident about.


    This job was not just a place to please the other person. Rather, it was closer to testing Aaron¡¯s ability to evaluate works of art on his own. This was because the man¡¯s difficult and unique taste aroused competitive desire.


    The straight and bizarre taste of the man, the Marquis of Dietrion, who only seeked nude works.


    ¡°Forgive me, my Lord. I don¡¯t think I found a work that pleases your heart again today.¡±


    Marquis Dietrion was a well-known collector among art lovers. Periodically purchasing artworks, he was a big investor that Aaron could never miss, and peculiarly, he was a collector who emphasized on the subject of the work.


    When purchasing, the Marquis did not take into account whether the work was created by an artist with a promising future or an artist who was already renowned. There was only one point he saw as important.


    The subject of the work, nudity.


    Aaron beckoned with his eyes at the staff, swallowing his regret.


    Apart from not liking the work, the Marquis purchased all of the nude works he saw. So will the nude paintings he saw today.


    ¡°What about that one?¡±


    The Marquis suddenly pointed at Aaron¡¯s back with his chin as he was trying to leave his seat.


    Only then did Aaron realize that he had left out one work. Aaron, who checked behind him, awkwardly closed his lips.


    ¡°That work is¡­¡±


    What should he say about that? It was a sort of assortment.


    Aaron loves all works of art, but only if it was a work that fits the level. And that one was¡­


    ¡°The painting style is a little rough compared to the previous works, so you may be displeased to see it.¡±


    Low-quality artworks sometimes provoke the wrath of art lovers.


    In Aaron¡¯s view, that work was like that. He acquired it by chance in the process of collecting nude paintings at random, but it was a work that was significantly inferior to other works. It was probably a work that would not be bought by anyone else but the Marquis of Dietrion, but it was embarrassing to take it out.


    However, Aaron¡¯s attitude seemed to have stimulated the interest of the Marquis. The Marquis quietly stared at Aaron.


    ¡°Display it.¡±


    Said Aaron reluctantly, ordering the staff. The staff who were looking around quickly moved.


    The painting hung alone on a wide, clean wall, looked rather shabby, unlike the others that had been hung.


    It wasn¡¯t just because of the artist¡¯s poor skill. The shabbiness was due to the naked woman in that painting.


    The woman stood upright with her naked back showing. The slightly bowing head, the arms gathered in front, and the two legs that were tightly attached looked like a piece of wood standing in the wilderness.


    The unnatural and awkward posture of the woman caused subtle discomfort to the viewer. Her body looked great in shape, but that alone couldn¡¯t make her a good model.


    Seeing it again, it was the same. The woman in the painting was too stiff and awkward. There was no beauty, or artistic value to be found in her body.

 Chapter 1.2

    Tsk.


    Aaron expected the Marquis to lose interest quickly. Thinking that the moment he saw it, he would frown and turn his head as if it was not worth evaluating.


    Unexpectedly, however, the Marquis did not. He just stared at the shabby back of the woman in the picture.


    ¡°Lord Dietrion?¡±


    Aaron called him carefully.


    Instead of answering, the Marquis suddenly rose. Holding the cane he had leaned against the chair, he stepped slowly.


    Having narrowed the distance at once, he stood in front of the painting and remained silent for a long time. The Marquis¡¯ behavior was always hard to understand, but it was the first time Aaron couldn¡¯t guess it at all.


    Aaron looked anxiously at the Marquis. This was because he was worried that he might be angry because the work was so poor. He was nervous, thinking the Marquis might swing the cane in his hand right away, but fortunately, he couldn¡¯t see any anger in the Marquis¡¯ face. Conflicting to his nature, sensitive and temperamental.


    Only after quite a moment did the Marquis begin to speak.


    ¡°This artist.¡±


    ¡°Pardon, my Lord?¡±


    ¡°This artist¡¯s name.¡±


    Aaron couldn¡¯t believe what he heard a moment ago, so he forgot to answer and opened his eyes wide. The Marquis¡¯ face showed irritation when he saw the foolish response.


    He would get reprimanded harshly if he delayed. Aaron managed to pull himself together and answered.


    ¡°He-he is someone who hasn¡¯t even made a proper debut¡­ I will check it immediately and send the document to you.¡±


    Aaron wanted to bite his tongue at his fatal mistake. He was not prepared enough because he never expected the Marquis to ask the author¡¯s name.


    The Marquis nodded openly and turned around. There was no joy or bliss that could be felt when finding an enjoyable work anywhere on the expressionless face. As usual, he was only sharp and arrogant, nonetheless.


    In the end, it was the same day as always. The difference was that he asked about the unknown painter, but the Marquis acted as if he had completely forgotten it, so Aaron quickly erased it from his memory as well.


    It caught his eye because it was unique, but it seems like he doesn¡¯t like it on the second look.


    While thinking like that.


    ***


    It was a different atmosphere than usual.


    The strong smell of paint was always chaotic, but today it was clean as if it had been removed all together. It seemed to smell fresh, which rather made her feel uncomfortable and nauseous.


    The deep green eyes shook uneasily. Clutching the crumpled shawl in her hands for no reason, she hunched her shoulders a little more. She, who moistened her dry lips with her tongue, stepped cautiously. There would be no creaking sound just because she put a little force, but she always stepped as lightly as possible in this way. It wasn¡¯t just her walk.


    She was always quiet. All the way out of the house to this building, when she opened the gate and the front door, when she reached the studio on the third floor. Until she finally got into a messy room and stood in front of the bed.


    Today in particular, her movements had been very tardy. She was more cautious and vigilant than usual. But what was even weirder was that the impatient Brad was patiently sitting there. That made her doubt firmer. Today, Brad wasn¡¯t in his usual dirty work clothes, nor was he wearing an apron messy with dyes. Even the unkempt beard showed no trace.


    Everything was strange.


    The only thing she was familiar with in this space was an old bed half covered with blankets.


    ¡°Go ahead and take it off.¡±


    In the end, Brad, who couldn¡¯t stand the wait, said a word. Even that wasn¡¯t like him. The suppressed voice allowed her to see how much he was now suppressing his temper. Taking a deep breath, she pulled down the shawl with her trembling hand.


    Since she went in and out of the studio, she had purposely selected only a jacket that buttoned up to her chin and clothes that covered her skin thoroughly. It was futile stubbornness. Even though she knew that it was a work that only adds to the hassle of taking them off, she compelled herself to choose such clothes. It was as if what she did would change if she wore such attire. Brad often laughed as if he guessed her mind.


    Taking off the fabrics she wore meaninglessly one at a time, she finally took off her old underwear. She folded them one by one and put them on one side. She, rising to her feet with her arms wrapped around her chest, calmly climbed onto the bed.


    ¡°Put your hands up like you¡¯re going to loosen your hair in that position.¡±


    Sitting with her legs folded on the bed with her back to Brad, she moved according to the order coming from behind. The neatly tied hair was entangled between the slender fingers. Some hair fluttered down through the loose hair tie.


    A particularly cool air came into contact with the straight back. She didn¡¯t feel chilly simply because she was naked. Today, the gaze that touched her skin felt sharp. There was an illusion that the surface of her skin was being scratched gently with a sharp razor blade.


    ¡°Upper body slightly sideways, no, you moved too much. Yes. Keep that pose¡­¡±


    Brad, who was talking about the requirements at once, somehow ended up slurring his words. Then he asked cautiously.


    ¡°Is it really impossible to show your face?¡±

 Chapter 2.1

    Entangled between her hair, the tips of her fingers tensed vaguely. She, who bit her lower lip, replied in a low voice.


    ¡°You said you¡¯d only draw the back side.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know, but¡­ I¡¯ll draw without making you recognizable. Or how about I draw a bit of your side profile?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    There was room for excuses for her back side, but it would be a different story when her face is revealed.


    ¡°Haah, that¡¯s a shame.¡±


    Brad, who muttered to himself, quietly clicked his tongue. He didn¡¯t try to persuade her any more, however. He might have thought that she could even forbid him from drawing her back if he kept forcing her. Listening to the scribbling of the pencil, she tried hard to be aloof.


    She couldn¡¯t get used to taking off her clothes no matter how many times she did it. It was also difficult to try not to mess up the posture, but more than that, the most difficult was to control the imagination that kept flowing in a bad direction during this time. The imagination was something like this, for example.


    What if someone around her finds out about this, what if she gets fired from her job because of that, what if she needs more money than she does now, what if she, what if¡­


    At the end of the loop of worries, there was a moderately heavy pouch that Brad would give. A heavy pouch to ease her mind even for a few months.


    Today, she remembered it, too. It was the only way to withstand the unfamiliar atmosphere of the studio that made her want to pick up her clothes right away.


    ¡°Erm, Liv. Your back.¡±


    She quickly relaxed her back, which she turned in a straight posture without realizing it. She usually showed off her neat posture that she was even called a living textbook. Since the upright posture had become a habit, she straightened up her back involuntarily when she didn¡¯t pay attention. Alas, what Brad wanted was not an exemplary lady figure.


    What Brad was trying to paint was her disheveled naked body. Not the straight back or the unbending, balanced shoulder, but the hair just before it fluttered down and the fluidly twisted waistline.


    In fact, it was more appropriate to bring in the courtesans for such a gesture. Aren¡¯t they the ones who try harder than anyone else to have a beautiful woman¡¯s body? That was the reason why people generally called for courtesans to be models of nude paintings. Compared to them, her stiff shoulder line would be boring and bland.


    While thinking that way, she lowered her head a little without realizing it. Nude painting. Those short words made her dispirited. Shivering chill seemed to appear on her arms.


    She inadvertently twisted her head a little and looked down at her bare arm. Without having to turn her head a lot, she could see the soft forearm that was defenselessly exposed. Her arms were relatively smooth and white. It was a color that was made through obsessive covering of bare skin.


    It was ridiculous. Even if she tried hard to be virtuous on the surface, she could easily throw off her shell like this because she is blinded by a few pennies.


    ¡°Liv.¡±


    She looked back casually at the sudden call. The scribbling sound of the pencil had stopped. Brad chewed on his lips as if he had something to say. In other words, however, he seemed to be racking his head to say anything despite having absolutely nothing to say.


    ¡°Brad?¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah. Erm, so¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you have anything to say?¡±


    Brad nodded. However, he couldn¡¯t easily speak even though he said he had something to say. He¡¯ll surely tell me when he thinks of it. She turned her head to correct her broken posture again. When she did that, Brad called her again urgently.


    ¡°Liv!¡±


    ¡°Speak.¡±


    ¡°No, look at me for a second.¡±


    Anxiety flashed across her face. Frowned, she stared at Brad while resting her chin on her shoulder.


    ¡°¡­ You¡¯re not trying to draw my face, are you?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not. I promised you not.¡±


    Although Brad emanated a strong air of shifty, he had been keeping his word, at least. So far, he had paid her modeling fees on the same day, never played with the pay amount, nor had he disclosed anywhere the fact that his nude model was her. Knowing that well, she decided to be a model for Brad.


    No, the expression ¡°decided to be¡± was misleading. Rather, it was appropriate to say that Brad, who pitied her circumstances, hinted at her first, and she managed to relieve her difficulties by pretending to help him.


    Regardless of how the process was, today was very strange. Maybe it was because Brad was uncharacteristically sitting in such clean attire. She thoroughly glanced over Brad¡¯s complexion again.


    Is it because the distance was far? Brad looked particularly pale.


    Letting out a lot of sweat in the studio, which was not even hot, he suddenly raised his voice brightly as if he had finally remembered what he wanted to say.


    ¡°Well, I put in more today!¡±


    ¡°¡­ Are you talking about model fees?¡±


    It was true that Brad felt sorry for her situation, but such compassion did not make her pocket heavy. She had usually been paid the same amount the other models received. And she wasn¡¯t particularly unhappy about it.

 Chapter 2.2

    As though he saw her puzzled expression, Brad quickly explained.


    ¡°I heard it¡¯s Coryda¡¯s birthday soon. I thought money would be better than a gift.¡±


    As he said, money was better than a gift. That was if he really meant to celebrate Coryda¡¯s birthday.


    She couldn¡¯t let go of her reluctance, but that was all. The reason why she couldn¡¯t reject his words to pay more, even if it was only empty talk, was that, as he said, Coryda¡¯s birthday was near. Even though she wasn¡¯t well off, she wanted to buy her a small birthday present. When she recalled Coryda¡¯s innocent face, waiting for her at home, she could pretend not to know the uncomfortable feeling that had been making her uneasy all the time.


    In the end, she uttered a thank-you in a calm voice. Brad continued a meaningless conversation, rambling on about things such as Coryda¡¯s health and the weather these days. He also added a plausible excuse to talk about how she has been for a while because she seemed nervous.


    She sometimes answered briefly, but mostly, she was silent and only listened to Brad. Then, when there was a little opportunity, she asked him in a quiet tone.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t forgotten the promise to remain silent about the model, have you?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Of course!¡±


    Brad nodded frankly. After that, he said they rested for too long and urged her to get back into position because he had to draw quickly.


    She raised up her arms in silence. It had been a long time since her naked body chilled, but she still felt cold from the surrounding air. The sharp gaze on the skin also did not disappear, as expected.


    She would rather close her eyes.


    ***


    ¡°Miss Rhodes. You did a great job today.¡±


    ¡°I should be the one to thank you for giving me the opportunity to guide Miss Millian. Since Miss Millian is so intelligent, I¡¯m also looking forward to meeting her.¡±


    ¡°I think today¡¯s class ended a little early, so would you like to join me for tea?¡±


    Liv smiled and closed her eyes. She came to remember Coryda, who was especially sad about her going to work today, but she could not show it on the surface.


    ¡°Thank you for the kind offer.¡±


    Generally speaking, parents who entrusted their children to tutors wanted their children to grow tremendously in just one class. Even though she knew exactly that it was a ridiculous and unrealistic wish, Liv needed to protect their earnest wish.


    Because for a tutor, dealing with parents is just as important as teaching their children.


    Liv took down the bonnet she was trying to wear. Recalling the hardships she went through because of various disrespect and arrogance from the parents of the students she had met, the lady in front of her was rather a comfortable person.


    It was a one time blessing that she got a job here at the Barony of Vendons. Millian Vendons, the only daughter of Baron Vendons, was a cheerful and good-hearted child, and her parents, Baron Vendons and his wife, were people of dignity.


    Compared to a count family, who demanded ridiculous achievements and then failed to pay three months¡¯ worth of guidance, saying she violated the contract, they were a very cultured and reasonable couple. Even the situation that almost got her in trouble was getting stable because she got a job here.


    When she recalled the count family that was shamelessly stubborn whenever she asked for the unpaid costs, Liv was naturally in agony. It was a mistake to be complacent because she thought that the renowned count family would not dirtily cause money problems.


    They just happened to be aristocrats, but it was clear that they were wasting fortune every time with gambling and luxury¡­


    ¡°Miss Rhodes?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes.¡±


    ¡°Is there anything in particular you can¡¯t eat?¡±


    ¡°No, there isn¡¯t, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°I see. I happened to get something as a gift this morning. I hope it suits your taste.¡±


    Liv, who was going to say whatever she ate would suit her taste, closed her mouth with a smile instead.


    Baron Vendons was rich. It was seen through the simple refreshments provided when she was conducting Millian¡¯s class. The snacks, which Millian complained to be manufactured snacks, were the most expensive product sold at the most popular confectionery store in the city.


    Whatever came out, it would be more expensive than the refreshments served in class, and it would be a high-end snack that made Liv wonder if she could eat it for the rest of her life.


    ¡°Now, this way.¡±


    She walked under the guidance of the kind Baroness of Vendons, but there was a bustling presence among the workers. It didn¡¯t seem that it was because they were preparing for their lady¡¯s tea time.


    Liv glanced at the workers¡¯ flushed complexion. A middle-aged female worker who seemed to have a high position approached Baroness Vendons and whispered.


    ¡°Oh, my God, is that true?¡±


    Exclaimed the baroness, perhaps forgetting that she was with Liv. She, who seemed to continue talking about something more, belatedly recognized Liv¡¯s presence and looked embarrassed.

 Chapter 3.1

    ¡°Oh, Miss Rhodes, what should I do? I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be able to drink tea today because an honorable person suddenly came to visit.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all right, ma¡¯am. I am grateful for your offer alone.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you what we¡¯re supposed to eat as a gift instead. Take it if you don¡¯t mind.¡±


    The baroness beckoned to the maid quickly. The baroness, who confirmed that the maid who had been instructed was rushing to the kitchen, turned to Liv.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯ll go ahead. I think I need to get dressed up. The maid will be back soon if you wait a bit. Marie, see Miss Rhodes out when she leaves.¡±


    The middle-aged woman who whispered the news to the baroness nodded, saying she understood. The baroness apologized repeatedly and then hurried upstairs.


    Who in the world is visiting for her to be in such a hurry like that?


    Following Marie¡¯s guidance, Liv, sitting on the drawing room sofa, glanced at the window. There was nothing in particular visible through the drawing room window.


    Looking at how the baroness was in great haste, it probably would be a high-class aristocrat. A personage that could surprise Baroness Vendons¡­


    Liv, who had been thinking of various names in her mind, suddenly looked up. It hadn¡¯t been more than a few minutes after the maid headed to the kitchen, but she saw Marie glancing at the clock continuously as if she was restless about something. She carefully asked Liv for her understanding as if it was hard to wait.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss. I¡¯m thinking of going to the kitchen because the maid¡¯s taking too long, so could you please wait a moment?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s fine. I will stay here.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know what was going on, but she knew for sure that it was a guest who could make everyone in this mansion restless. Liv, who was staring at Marie who cluched her skirt and rushed out, put her hands neatly on her knees.


    What she¡¯s going to give as a gift must be a snack, right?


    She could bring delicious snacks to Coryda after a long time. She had always been worried about Coryda at home while eating refreshments served during her class.


    She was happy to think of her younger sister who would be happy, but then she heard a bustle outside the drawing room.


    Marie must be back. Liv picked up the bonnet that she had put down for a while and raised herself. At the same time, the drawing room door opened and someone appeared.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    The one who stopped from trying to come inside wasn¡¯t Marie. Liv opened her eyes wide at the appearance of another unexpected person.


    He was a tall, good-looking man. Having platinum hair, pale skin, and cool eyes, he found Liv and frowned slightly.


    His eyes scanned slowly through the drawing room. After doing that, his eyes reached Liv again. The lips, which were tightly closed in a straight line, showed no signs of opening first, and the slightly raised chin showed that he was used to waiting for the opponent¡¯s greeting.


    ¡°Erm¡­¡±


    She had to react, but her lips could hardly open. This was because her head turned blank when she tried to make eye contact.


    To put it bluntly, he was a man who was beautiful enough to leave her speechless.


    ¡°Miss¡ª Oh, my God! My Lord Marquis!¡±


    Marie, who appeared belatedly, bowed down in surprise. At her shout, Liv also came to her senses as if she had woken up from magic.


    Marquis?


    ¡°Marquis Dietrion?¡±


    The remark she blurted out rang louder than she thought. As a result, the lines between the man¡¯s eyebrows became a little deeper.


    Liv, who covered her mouth with an embarrassed expression, quickly bent her knees to greet him.


    ¡°I committed a gaffe for not recognizing you. Forgive me, my Lord.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Lord Dietrion. The guide made a mistake. I¡¯ll guide you back.¡±


    Marie constantly shook her head and sweated. The Marquis did not look at Marie. Instead, he glanced at Liv and asked a question, tilting his head slightly.


    ¡°And you are?¡±


    ¡°¡­ My name is Liv Rhodes, a home tutor at the Vendons barony. I¡¯m about to go back now that class is over¡ª¡±


    Liv, who was trying to explain the situation calmly, stopped talking at the marquis¡¯ hand gesture. The Marquis turned to Marie as if he was no longer interested.


    Marie, who was observing him out of surprise as she was worried if she had offended him, noticed it and quickly took the lead.


    ¡°This way please, my Lord.¡±


    The Marquis moved his steps, following Marie¡¯s guidance. It wasn¡¯t until the regular, heavy sound of steps gradually grew further away and finally couldn¡¯t be heard that Liv managed to exhale a long breath.


    Holding her chest tightly, she sat on the sofa as if she were collapsing. Oh, my God, it was the Marquis of Dietrion? It made sense that the baroness was appalled and fussy.


    Demus Dietrion was a famous figure in the city. First of all, his unrealistic appearance alone provided people with endless stories for a week and a month. Liv also often encountered the shocking beauty of the Marquis of Dietrion, even only through hearsay.


    But she thought it was exaggerated because it was a description coming from people¡¯s mouths¡­

 Chapter 3.2

    Seeing it in person, let alone exaggerated, it was rather lacking. In particular, the blue eyes, which were said to enthrall ones¡¯ soul. They were so mysterious that she thought they had magical power.


    A man of such a beautiful appearance and an unmarried marquis. How could people not pay attention to him? He couldn¡¯t help but to be a man every lady in the city yearned for.


    I can¡¯t believe I saw the man I¡¯d never thought I¡¯d run into in my whole life in a place like this!


    Liv, who had been collecting her bewildered mind, suddenly raised her head with a white face. It was because she remembered the rudeness she had committed in the face of the Marquis earlier.


    Demus Dietrion was not only famous for his good looks or his status.


    He, who suddenly settled in this city one day, was a man famous for being so arrogant and cold. He was so unsociable and sensitive that he rarely showed up at clubs or parties. Furthermore, he was a man who is rumored to be unkind without exception even if he was dealing with a lady. His unknown past was quite escalated in conjunction with this, and ultimately, there was a saying that he was banished from abroad because of his personality.


    Such a man asked Liv¡¯s name.


    Then, wasn¡¯t that obviously to hold her accountable for her rudeness?


    ¡°¡­ Don¡¯t tell me I¡¯m going to get fired?¡±


    It was dizzying just to imagine. Indeed, she was getting extra income from the model fee, but it was only a one-off, and she did it because she was in need of quick cash. If she couldn¡¯t keep her tutor job, she wouldn¡¯t last three months. The cost of living might be a problem right now, but more importantly, was the price of the medicine for Coryda.


    Liv, who sprang to her feet unconsciously out of nervousness, paced around in place.


    It kept bothering her mind that the Marquis, who was rumored to have a bad personality, knew her name. However, she couldn¡¯t even chase him back right away. That action would make her mistake irreparable.


    ¡°Miss Rhodes.¡±


    Marie, who had gone to guide the Marquis, returned. Looking as surprised as Liv, she wiped the cold sweat from her forehead and apologized in a tired voice.


    ¡°Forgive me. We put you in an awkward position because the servant made a mistake.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. By the way, erm¡­ was the Lord Dietrion angry?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think he showed any signs of anger. Don¡¯t worry too much, miss. Even if he is angry, he will be angry with us.¡±


    Marie soothed Liv, saying that it was actually the fault of the worker who misguided the drawing room. Liv tried to smile and calm her surprised heart. Marie and Liv, who experienced a hectic meeting, said farewell, worrying about each other¡¯s complexions.


    Liv, who turned around and left the mansion, realized that she had not brought the gift she was supposed to receive until a long time later. Marie must have forgotten because she was also distracted.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be helped, can it?¡±


    Liv walked with her shoulders hanging down.


    Is the snack the problem now? I just made a mistake in front of that frightening Marquis.


    ***


    Liv Rodhes was born the eldest daughter of an ordinary middle-class family.


    Both of her parents were handicraft craftsmen, and they were once famous people who piled up the letters of commission from famous nobles like mountains. They didn¡¯t teach their skills to Liv, their eldest daughter. Rather, they worked hard on her education, expecting her to rise to a higher status.


    Thanks to this, Liv was able to enter a boarding school that no other middle-class children would dream of and graduate with relatively good grades.


    Liv expected that, as her parents wished, she would at least be able to establish herself in the intellectual class or tie a fate with a decent family. She was actually popular while she was in school. The boys of the high-class had been secretly making eyes at her, and she had made some female friends of decent families. When they graduated, they promised to meet again in society.


    Returning from graduation, Liv met her little sister for the first time. She was ten years younger than her, and she was a weak child from birth.


    At that time, her parents¡¯ work decreased, and the price of medicine for her sick younger sister skyrocketed. It wasn¡¯t the worst, though. Even though the work decreased a lot, her parents were still skilled craftsmen. They were able to hold out.


    Until her parents inadvertently left the sisters behind in a wagon accident.


    ¡°Welcome, Miss Liv.¡±


    The boy, who was sweeping in front of the chapel, greeted her warmly. It was Bethel who was learning the clerical course while doing volunteer work. He seemed quite friendly to Liv, who regularly visited the chapel.


    There were quite a few chapels in the city, and this was the smallest and most secluded chapel among them, so she could have been regarded as a more precious believer. In addition, the number of visitors to every chapel has decreased these days.


    ¡°How is Coryda?¡±


    ¡°She is much better thanks to your concern. Thank you, Bethel.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to Miss Liv¡¯s faithful prayer. I¡¯m sure Coryda¡¯s health will get better soon.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I hope so.¡±


    Liv, who smiled and thanked him, opened the chapel door with all her might. The door opened with a faint hinged sound, and the empty interior scenery entered her view at once.

 Chapter 4.1

    The seat where Liv always sat was in the middle. There, she could see not only the stained glass in the front, but also the light pouring in through it passing through the statue of God and casting it down to the floor.


    It was the same today. Liv, who sat down, briefly stared at the shadow on the floor and put her hands together.


    After the death of her parents, Liv was left with hardly any inheritance and a sick sister. The inheritance quickly dissipated for the price of Coryda¡¯s medicine, and Liv had no choice but to go to the battle of life to earn their living expenses and the price of medicine to be consumed continuously.


    At the time, Liv regretted not taking over her parents¡¯ outstanding handicraft skills as the family business for the first time. This was because there was nothing Liv could do well among the things she could get paid for right away.


    Only after being rejected several times for her poor sewing skills and repeatedly kicked out for her appalling cleaning skills, Liv was able to find a proper job. The job was a short-term tutor to teach the younger brother of her colleague whom she met at the boarding school.


    Fortunately, it suited Liv very well. She finally felt rewarded for attending a costly boarding school.


    Her first job was smooth. It was a short time, which was only for a month, but that helped her to get introduced to another short-term tutor position. She was able to build her own career by teaching short-term several times.


    And finally, Liv was offered to be a home tutor for the first time. Even when she told her employer that she had to go in with Coryda, they readily nodded to accept it, and Liv and Coryda, who had often struggled to move their residence, moved in with joy.


    There, Liv realized that her first job was literally lucky.


    Click clack.


    Liv, who was closing her eyes with her forehead leaning on her clasped hands in silence, suddenly opened her eyes. The sound of shoes cutting through the silence of the chapel was ringing loudly.


    Usually, if there was someone praying, people were bound to hush the sound of footsteps, but the new visitor was walking without hesitation as if to reveal his presence.


    Liv, who had blinked in bewilderment, composed her mind and closed her eyes again. But when she heard the sound of someone sitting down behind her, her focus automatically turned that way. The attitude that was not cautious at all was causing all kinds of noise.


    She didn¡¯t know who it was, but he was really an inconsiderate person. There are a lot of empty seats, so why is he sitting right behind me and making noise without thinking?


    Once her focus was taken away, she was helplessly distracted. Liv, who had been holding out a little longer, eventually raised herself.


    The reason why she chose to visit this chapel was that there were few visitors and those people were all quiet. She put up with the long distance because she didn¡¯t want to go through a situation like this today.


    Feeling displeased, she got the urge to at least see who it was. Liv looked up somewhat disapprovingly and soon opened her eyes wide.


    ¡°¡­!¡±


    She barely managed to stop herself from screaming with her hands.


    Forgetting that she was complaining inside a while ago, Liv carefully made a distance with a white face. She was careful not to let out any breath sound as well as to make footsteps, but unfortunately, there was a fine squeaky noise from the old chair. At the same time, the neatly closed eyelids moved.


    Demus Dietrion.


    Fortunately, she didn¡¯t call out his name rudely this time. However, her body stiffened on its own when she met his blue eyes. Now, she felt sorry for laughing inwardly at Rita, her neighboor, when she told her the rumor that ¡°the Marquis of Dietrion sold his soul to the devil and got his madly beauty.¡±


    What¡¯s with the devil? This man surely has all the grace of God to himself.


    It was the Marquis of Detrion who spoke first instead of Liv, who was frozen.


    ¡°¡­ Weren¡¯t you the home tutor at the Vendons barony?¡±


    The cool voice sounded like thunder even though it was not loud.


    He recognized me. Liv immediately felt the illusion of lightning falling over her head. The heat rose all over her body as if she had been hit by a shower that didn¡¯t even fall.


    ¡°Ex-excuse me, my Lord. I didn¡¯t know that it was you¡­¡±


    Liv, who managed to lower her gaze, bowed her head and greeted him. Then, she distanced herself from him hastily.


    ¡°Well, then, I will leave first so that I don¡¯t get in your way.¡±


    Liv immediately took a step, being as careful as possible not to make eye contact. She could reach the exit at once because it was a narrow chapel. When she opened the heavy door and left, she felt a gaze following her.


    He is not trying to remember me because I¡¯ve made him displeased continuously, is he?


    ***

 Chapter 4.2

    Having run unexpectedly into the marquis twice, her heart trembled for nothing when she left the house. However, as if her encounter with him were all a dream, Liv¡¯s daily life was no different from usual. There was no notice of dismissal coming from the Vendons barony. If anything, Baroness Vendons sent a box of high-quality handmade snacks through an errand boy, saying she was sorry for not giving her the gift she was supposed to give.


    ¡°Liv, this is so delicious!¡±


    She felt rewarded when she saw Coryda clapping her hands, liking it.


    I hope this job will last for a long time. Liv, who was staring at Coryda while making such a hope inside, took out the gift that she had carefully prepared.


    ¡°Coryda, it¡¯s your birthday present.¡±


    Coryda, who knew about their tight circumstances, did not seem to have expected the gift at all. Coryda, who was staring at the wrapped gift with wide eyes, soon looked warily at Liv.


    The sight of her sister looking at her face before she was happy to receive the gift was enough to make Liv¡¯s heart heavy. Her sister grew up too early.


    Liv deliberately put the present in Coryda¡¯s hand with a brighter smile.


    ¡°We have plenty of money to live on this month, so don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°But Liv¡­¡±


    ¡°I told you it¡¯s okay. Aren¡¯t you curious about what¡¯s inside?¡±


    Coryda hesitated at the urging from Liv and then slowly opened the wrapper.


    The cautious touch became faster as the content was revealed. And finally, a small ceramic music box appeared in the place where all the wrapping was peeled off. It was a music box with a cute white horse engraved on it.


    ¡°Wow!¡±


    ¡°Wind it up.¡±


    With a blushing face, Coryda spinned the small handle on the side of the music box. The spring was twined with a squeak, and soon a monotonous but cute and bouncy melody came out. It was a lullaby that Coryda usually liked.


    Looking at Coryda¡¯s flushed face, Liv smiled quietly.


    She was glad that a few months ago, when she found this music box in the store, she had her eyes on it as Coryda¡¯s birthday present. She was worried that she wouldn¡¯t have enough money, but thanks to the additional money from Brad, she had some extra money left even after buying the music box. She was thinking of preparing a generous dinner using the ingredients she bought with the remaining money.


    Suddenly.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    ¡°Liv! Liv! Are you home?¡±


    ¡°Wait a second, Coryda.¡±


    Liv, who patted Coryda on the shoulder, hurried out to the front door. Outside the door stood a small middle-aged man. It was Pommel, the landlord.


    ¡°Oh, you are here. How many times I¡¯ve walked in vain!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, sir?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s about the rent.¡±


    He checked some paper and then handed it to Liv. Accepting the paper in confusion, she checked it and it was an invoice. Liv¡¯s forehead crumpled in an instant.


    ¡°I¡¯ve paid the rent for this month.¡±


    ¡°It has gone up since this month..¡±


    ¡°What? I never heard that!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because you¡¯re always away. I clearly have told Coryda!¡±


    Coryda would have told her if she had heard such a notice. Pommel was a person who usually made rules that didn¡¯t exist and eliminated the existing rules as he liked, saying that it was the authority of the landlord. The rent must have been decided suddenly, too.


    Liv put her hand on her waist and opened her eyes wide.


    ¡°That¡¯s unfair! This is a one-sided notice!¡±


    ¡°That is not my business, and I definitely informed it! I¡¯ll especially give you time until the end of the month, so prepare the additional fee.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Pommel!¡±


    ¡°It didn¡¯t raise much. That¡¯s still the cheapest rent price in town! You can leave if you don¡¯t like it!¡±


    Pommel, who informed recklessly, turned around. It was because he knew that Liv and Coryda couldn¡¯t do anything about it anyway.


    Liv, who was opening her mouth in bewilderment, looked at the paper again.


    She couldn¡¯t believe that the rent would rise from this month right away, not from next month.


    ¡°¡­ Liv.¡±


    Liv, who was standing vacantly in front of the open front door, suddenly came to her senses and looked back. Coryda, so thin that it was unbelievable that she was 15 years old, was standing with the music box in both her hands.


    Coryda, who was looking up at Liv with her clear eyes, held out the music box.


    ¡°Let¡¯s sell this again.¡±


    ¡°This is your birthday present.¡±


    She shook her head with a stiff look on her face on purpose, but Coryda replied without a blink.


    ¡°But the rent has gone up.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to mind it.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve spent a lot of money on my medicine this month. I also know about our family situation.¡±


    ¡°Coryda!¡±


    ¡°Liv, I¡¯m not a little kid.¡±


    No, you¡¯re young.


    Liv couldn¡¯t bring herself to say the words that reached the top of her throat. The child-like figure who was happy eating handmade cookies disappeared, and Coryda, who looked more mature and calm than her, smiled.


    ¡°Liv. If you don¡¯t pay the rent, Mr. Pommel will come every day, and when you¡¯re not here, he¡¯ll bother me. So let¡¯s just pay quickly.¡±


    Pommel¡¯s harassment was just an excuse. An excuse to push Liv¡¯s back so that she would resell the music box.


    Even though she knew it clearly, Liv agonized over the music box for a moment. It was not that she didn¡¯t have any extra money at all, but if she resold the music box, she would definitely get time to prepare for the sudden rise in rent.


    However, it was just for a moment. Liv calmly took a deep breath and then closed the front door. Then she took the music box and put it on the table next to the bed.

 Chapter 5.1

    ¡°Actually, Baroness Vendons asked me to do additional small tasks. I was thinking of telling you when the work date is decided, but I¡¯m telling you now because you seem to be worried.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, so we don¡¯t have to sell this.¡±


    Drawing a bright smile, Liv patted Coryda¡¯s head. Coryda looked at Liv with suspicious eyes, but she had no way of finding out the truth.


    Liv, who made a nonchalant expression, turned around while deliberately looking busy.


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s eat something delicious to refresh ourselves! I¡¯ll show you my skills today!¡±


    Coryda fiddled with the music box for a long time, and then carefully put it down again. Liv, who was looking sideways at her, breathed a sigh of relief only after confirming that Coryda¡¯s expression was more relaxed.


    I should calculate the cost of living for this month after Coryda falls asleep.


    ***


    The modeling work was usually carried out at Brad¡¯s request and then Liv accepted. However, Liv, who was in a hurry right away, had no choice but to visit Brad first.


    Liv, who buttoned up her hood as much as she could, busily climbed the stairs. After checking her back several times, she knocked on the door of the studio carefully, and there was a loud bang from the inside.


    ¡°Yes, come in!¡±


    She was wondering what to do if he wasn¡¯t available, but fortunately, he seemed to have been inside. Liv opened the door with pleasure.


    The inside was filled with the smell of paint as though the fresh scent of the other day was all illusion. The floor and around was a mess because it was not cleaned properly, and some empty paint cans rolled around the floor randomly.


    ¡°Liv?¡±


    Brad, who was standing in front of a canvas covered with white cloth, looked at Liv with wide eyes. He looked flustered as if he had never expected the visitor to be Liv.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Brad, I have a favor to ask¡­¡±


    Liv, who was fiddling with her hands nervously, stopped. It was because she realized that Brad¡¯s attitude was strange. He was standing restlessly in front of the canvas.


    ¡°I guess that¡¯s a painting behind you.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Uh-huh.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a finished nude painting, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Well, it is.¡±


    Sometimes, he showed the finished painting as if boasting of. It was an act of showing off his work and also revealing that he kept his promise.


    Today, however, he seemed to want to cover up the painting. So much that it was suspicious.


    ¡°¡­ I can see it, can¡¯t I?¡±


    When she asked insinuatingly, Brad tried to avoid her eyes and cleared his throat.


    ¡°What do I do, this one is already sold. It¡¯s, it¡¯s a bit hard to just show it to¡­¡±


    Looking elsewhere, he ended up responding belatedly to Liv¡¯s quick movement.


    ¡°Liv, wait¡­!¡±


    The seized white cloth was easily pulled down, and a painting that filled the canvas finally showed itself. Brad quickly blocked the wooden easel, but Liv had already seen the finished nude painting.


    ¡°Brad!¡±


    A sharp scream broke out of Liv¡¯s mouth. Brad hurriedly waved his hand, streaming with sweat.


    ¡°Wait, this is. Let me explain.¡±


    ¡°You promised that you wouldn¡¯t draw my face!¡±


    A woman sitting with her back in view but with her head turned halfway. The stark-naked woman who looked back with her face on her shoulder was definitely Liv.


    ¡°Tha-that¡¯s why I drew it a little differently. Besides, no one will know because the silhouette of the side face is only slightly revealed.¡±


    Brad, who realized that it was impossible to hide it, hurriedly pointed to the side face in the picture and explained. Poor excuses followed, such as having slightly different features and changing the color of the eyes.


    Liv, who was staring at Brad with greatly appalled eyes, cut his words firmly.


    ¡°I hate it though!¡±


    ¡°Liv, you¡¯ve already received the money.¡±


    ¡°I heard it¡¯s Coryda¡¯s birthday soon.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me it¡¯s the extra money you gave to buy the birthday present¡­!¡±


    I thought it was unusual, but it turns out he shared the pay? Liv bit her lips. It was her fault for not properly checking the source of the money because she was distracted by Coryda¡¯s birthday present.


    ¡°Tha-that¡¯s not all. They said they¡¯ll give me an extra fee if I hand over the finished work. Of course you¡¯ll have your share. You can earn double what you normally earn just by showing a little bit of your side profile!¡±


    ¡°This is a breach of contract. I¡¯ve never agreed to this kind of work.¡±


    ¡°Then we have to return all the money we received. Can you do that?¡±


    ¡°I can just¡­!¡±


    The start of her words sprang out in force, but the power didn¡¯t last until the end.


    If she accused Brad of violating the contract before returning the model fee, she would not be held responsible for the price of the painting. However, to do so, she must confess to the magistrate that the model of the painting was her. And there was a possibility that she had to talk in front of other officers.


    Is there a parent in this city who will entrust the education of their child to a woman who was a nude model?

 Chapter 5.2

    No matter how kind Baroness Vendons is, she will surely give me a letter of dismissal as soon as she knows it.


    If she could not accuse Brad, she would have to pay back all the model fees she received to stop the sale of this nude painting¡ªeven if she couldn¡¯t return the full amount right away.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get it somehow and return it, so contact them and tell them that you can¡¯t sell it right away.¡±


    ¡°But Liv¡­¡±


    Their conversation couldn¡¯t go on. It was because they heard someone walking up the stairs. Liv hurriedly covered the canvas with cloth again. Meanwhile, Brad opened the door while stealing glances carefully at her.


    Outside the door stood a man in a neat employee¡¯s uniform. Liv instinctively recognized that the man was a servant of the man who bought the painting.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to pick up the order.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t sell it, sir.¡±


    Liv quickly stepped forward before Brad could say anything.


    ¡°It¡¯s a painting in which the model doesn¡¯t agree upon.¡±


    The servant paused for a moment at her words. Then he looked back at Brad and said insensitively.


    ¡°I came to receive the painting as my master told me to. I can¡¯t get involved in anything other than that.¡±


    ¡°Then who should I talk to? I can¡¯t give you the painting right now.¡±


    Liv replied again, but the servant¡¯s eyes were fixed on Brad.


    ¡°Mr. Brad, didn¡¯t you say we could come and pick it up today? My master is waiting in the carriage now.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes¡­ I, you are right, but¡­¡±


    Rolling his eyes, Brad, who was wary of Liv and the servant, stuttered.


    ¡°I-I need some time to reach an agreement with the model, so if you give me a few days¡­¡±


    ¡°Brad!¡±


    Liv, who was surprised, tried to correct Brad¡¯s words again, but the servant nodded calmly first.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell my master that for now.¡±


    Liv stared at the servant, who turned around, with stunned eyes. Brad was trying to persuade Liv somehow while wiping the sweat pouring down with a handkerchief. However, Brad¡¯s words didn¡¯t come into Liv¡¯s ear.


    She did block the painting from getting taken away with a force, but after doing that, she felt out of her mind at the thought of returning the model fee.


    How much money do I have left?


    It won¡¯t be enough even if I collect them all. Do I have no choice but to look for something to sew?


    Then what about the additional payment of rent this month?


    ¡°Come on, Liv! Let¡¯s just¡­ Oh, my. What brings you here again, sir!¡±


    Liv, who was standing blankly in confusion and hopelessness, turned her head in an instant. The servant, who turned his back a while ago, was standing at the door again.


    ¡°My master said he would meet and listen to it in person.¡±


    Did he say he was waiting in the carriage? He went to receive the painting in person, but because the schedule was messed up, he might be angry. There was a sense of perplexment and despair in Liv¡¯s face.


    She didn¡¯t know who the master the servant was talking about, but considering that the buyers of paintings were usually the wealthy upper class, the master was probably of that class as well. If he was angry and would hold them accountable in any way, they would have no choice but to get on the ground.


    As if Brad also guessed that his customer was angry, he quickly picked up his coat with a pale, strangled face.


    ¡°Oh, yes! I will go down right¡ª¡±


    ¡°No, not you Mr. Brad.¡±


    The servant, who bluntly stopped Brad from talking, turned to Liv.


    ¡°He wanted to hear the reason for the rejection from the model. Of course, he added that due to the nature of the work, the identity of the model will be kept secret. Is it possible?¡±


    Liv¡¯s shoulders stiffened. Brad cut in with an awkward smile on behalf of Liv, who was frozen and couldn¡¯t even breathe.


    ¡°The-the model doesn¡¯t want to show up¡­¡±


    The servant sighed as he narrowed his brows. The insensitive voice revealed that he was slowly becoming annoyed by this situation.


    ¡°If that¡¯s impossible, you can return the price of the painting right away. Or you can give the picture as originally planned.¡±


    I can¡¯t let that happen.


    A flash of thought moved the hardened tongue.


    ¡°How much did the painting cost?¡±


    ¡°Wait!¡±


    Brad grabbed Liv¡¯s arm urgently. Brad, who pulled her into a corner, whispered, lowering his voice to the fullest.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any money right now. It¡¯s already gone.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I needed to use it in a hurry¡­¡±


    ¡°Did you gamble again?¡±


    Looking at Brad¡¯s hesitating response, the situation was as clear as day even if she didn¡¯t listen to it any more. Liv looked at Brad with a speechless look and glanced secretly at the servant. He calmly pulled out a note, as if he had not expected to receive the money right now.


    ¡°I can¡¯t let my master wait any longer. Visit before evening.¡±


    The servant left for real this time. And Liv had to look down at the note that the servant had left for a long time, standing at a loss.


    It was a note written with an unknown address only.

 Chapter 6.1

    Let¡¯s just give the painting. As Brad said, he won¡¯t recognize the model.


    But what if he finds out?


    If the buyer happens to have a good eye and can recognize my face just by the painting, I just need to not run into him. Is there any chance for a teacher of the Vendons barony meeting high-class people?


    But what if Baroness Vendons sees the painting?


    Oh, since he said he¡¯d keep the model¡¯s identity hidden, why don¡¯t I just go and explain the situation? Will that make up for it?


    Will the person who bought a nude painting be so thoughtful?


    Evening came while she had such thoughts. In the end, Liv spent the day without doing anything. She asked Brad to let her know immediately if there was any contact or if something happened, but there was no news.


    There¡¯s no way he will just let it go like this¡­


    The next day, she couldn¡¯t make time because she went to work at the Vendons barony for Millian¡¯s class. Three days passed, and after having a scuffle with Pommel, who kept pestering her for monthly rent, Coryda¡¯s condition got worse, so she spent another day looking for a doctor.


    So four days. The note with the address was in her pocket the whole time, and it had been wrinkled from being opened and folded so many times.


    No matter how hard she thought, she couldn¡¯t get the money right away. Liv left the house, recalling the address she had ended up memorizing after looking at it so much. However, her steps led her to the chapel instead of the address.


    No one was seen around the chapel today. Liv, who was looking blankly at the chapel, opened the door with all her might.


    Inside the chapel was as quiet as ever. She could see only one person praying in the front seat, but she couldn¡¯t afford to care about him. Liv sat quietly in the back instead in the middle, where she usually sat. She wanted her heart, which was tattered in just a few days, to be comforted even a little.


    I¡¯ll just pray for a moment and then find the address for real.


    With that determination, Liv put her hands together. Her jaw was strained because she clenched her teeth strongly.


    When our parents died suddenly in a wagon accident, it was hard as if I were going to die right away, but in the end, I managed to endure it. Even when I became a home tutor for the first time, even when I was insulted in the county, and after that, I endured and dealt with everything well.


    For that reason, I¡¯ll be able to move on well again this time. I¡¯m sure there¡¯ll be a way.


    All right, let¡¯s go and have a talk. Since he said he would hide my identity, I can just go directly to explain why I broke the deal unilaterally, apologize, and ask for his understanding of the situation. If he takes issue with the cost of the damage, I just need to say that I will pay it back in installments. Let¡¯s fix it so that I don¡¯t get fired from the job I¡¯m doing now.


    Click clack.


    The thoughts that had been organized one by one in her head were scattered at once. The sound of shoes ringing in the empty chapel was familiar to her ears. Liv¡¯s neatly interlocked eyelashes trembled. Her concentration, which was broken, never returned. Naturally, her focus shifted to the sound of footsteps.


    A familiar sound, a sound she had definitely heard somewhere.


    Liv opened her eyes as if possessed.


    The person, whom she thought was praying in the front seat, suddenly moved and stood covering the statue of God. The light from stained glass poured over him, who was standing idly. The dust in the bright ray of light flew like mysterious smoke, and the platinum hair sparkled with a mysterious light.


    Liv, who was able to capture all the scenes at a glance because she sat at the hindmost seat, opened her mouth without realizing it.


    He, who was looking up at the statue, looked back as if he had noticed her gaze. Liv bowed her head reflexively as soon as she felt like her eyes were in contact with his.


    The distance is far. It¡¯s the foremost and the backmost, so he obviously didn¡¯t recognize me. And there¡¯s no way we made eye contact.


    She tried to soothe her mind, but her heart was already picking up the pace. In order to hide the fading complexion, she closed her eyes and put her forehead on her clasped hands.


    She heard the sound of shoes. The sound of approaching at regular intervals stopped near her.


    The moment she moistened her dried lips with her tongue, she heard a cold voice over her head.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have enough manners for a teacher.¡±


    Oh, God. What the hell did I do wrong?


    Crying out at the innocent god, Liv slowly opened her eyes. When she put some strength on her trembling lips and looked up, she was met with blue eyes. The one who stood with his hands behind his back and looked down at her with arrogance was undoubtedly the Marquis of Dietrion.


    Why did he come here out of all those many chapels? I can¡¯t believe I¡¯ve already run three times into someone who¡¯s hard for others to meet.


    ¡°I think four days should have been enough.¡±


    Liv¡¯s eyes were filled with wonder. She thought he would definitely criticize her attitude to pretend not to know, but four days? However, the Marquis of Dietrion didn¡¯t seem to have any intention of explaining a little more.

 Chapter 6.2

    Looking at her with a frown, he turned around as if he didn¡¯t want to talk more. Looking at the Marquis¡¯ back, Liv suddenly recalled what happened four days ago.


    Nude painting, Brad, servant, address.


    ¡°No way¡­!¡±


    The soft hair on the back of her neck rose. When she jumped up late and ran out of the chapel, the Marquis was already on the carriage. The Marquis on a black four-wheeler carriage seemed to spot Liv chasing him out of the window, but that was all.


    Liv looked at the carriage, which just left, blowing dust.


    No way. I¡¯m sure I must be wrong.


    Liv took out the crumpled paper in her pocket. When she checked the address, her throat shriveled as if she had swallowed a whole hot charcoal. She moved her steps in a hurry.


    ***


    This is a nightmare. A very colorful, vivid, but terrible nightmare.


    Thinking so, Liv turned her anxious gaze around. Everywhere she could see was full of items that looked luxurious. Paintings were hung on the walls, and there were also sculptures at every interval.


    The exterior looked normal, but the interior was literally a small art museum. Even Liv, who had no particular knowledge of art works, found it to be unusual, so the owner must be a collector. He would not be an ordinary wealthy man if he had the ability to collect enough works to fill a space of this size.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but my master is busy with other things, so you can tell me your business.¡±


    The building owner did not come out, bringing shame to her, who sat alone in the large and fancy drawing room and waited. Instead, a middle-aged man, presumably an employee, came in and stood close to Liv.


    Liv, who took a glance at the clothes of the employee who stood stiffly, lowered her gaze. She became disheartened for no reason when she saw her skirt, which was all dirty with dust and stains.


    Liv, who took a small deep breath, calmly opened her mouth.


    ¡°First, I would like to apologize. I think he might be very upset because I came too late. I couldn¡¯t come right away because I had a situation.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, miss. I don¡¯t know the situation. I¡¯m just delivering the message.¡±


    ¡°Then first of all, please deliver it like this. I¡¯m very sorry.¡±


    Maybe because Liv sounded so desperate, the employee nodded and replied, ¡°Okay.¡± After taking a deep breath once again, Liv exhaled and slowly spoke.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to tell the owner of this building that it¡¯s difficult to sell the painting that he bought four days ago. I came because he said he wanted to hear the reason why it couldn¡¯t be sold directly from the model. There was an element in that painting that was not agreed upon, so I couldn¡¯t help but to do this disrespect.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see.¡±


    ¡°About the price of the painting¡­ It will be difficult to return the full amount right now, but I will try my best so that he does not suffer any loss at all. So¡­¡±


    The more she continued, the lower her head went. While she was struggling to continue, a cold voice suddenly intervened.


    ¡°How are you going to do that?¡±


    The employee immediately bowed his head and stepped away.


    Maybe it was because it was a scene that she had imagined many times throughout the entire trip. It was more bearable than she thought to really face the Marquis of Dietrion, who stared at her coldly.


    Of course, it didn¡¯t mean that she had the nerve to deal with him leisurely. It just meant that at least she didn¡¯t become a mouse in front of the cat like she did in the previous meeting.


    Liv, who stood up awkwardly, said urgently.


    ¡°If-if you¡¯ll give me time, I and Brad¡ª¡±


    ¡°The painter brought the painting.¡±


    The Marquis said cynically even before Liv had finished.


    ¡°The deal is over.¡±


    The color completely disappeared from Liv¡¯s face, which was already pale.


    Brad, this human really!


    ¡°That painting was a breach of contract.¡±


    ¡°The dispute between the model and the painter is not a matter for the buyer to be considerate.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t wrong. Even more if he had already received the painting. However, since the painting was in the Marquis¡¯s hand, Liv couldn¡¯t walk away like this.


    As long as the Marquis was close enough to go in and out of the Vendons barony, and the Marquis knew that Liv was the home tutor of that Vendons barony.


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you indicating that you would be considerate when you said that you would hear the reason for the refusal from the model directly?¡±


    ¡°I was. And it wasn¡¯t the model, but the artist who came on that day.¡±


    You even handed over the painting on that very day? Brad, this bad guy!


    ¡°Even if I were to consider the situation now¡­¡±


    The Marquis, who slowly walked into the drawing room, creased his forehead and continued.


    ¡°I wanted to talk to the model, and the person I decided to protect the identity is also the model, so by what right do you ask this request, Teacher?¡±

 Chapter 7.1

    There was no emotion that could be found in his indifferent eyes. Liv, who looked at him with flustered eyes, stuttered.


    ¡°So you, received the painting.¡±


    ¡°The painting can be a proof of conjecture, but it is not a proof of conviction.¡±


    The Marquis¡¯ rebuttal was smooth and nonchalant.


    ¡°Any other way to prove your connection?¡±


    ¡°Brad is the witness.¡±


    ¡°How do I know that the two of you are trying to trick me? From what I heard, the model didn¡¯t want to be identified.¡±


    Who in this city would dare to trick the Marquis of Dietrion?


    Such words would not persuade the Marquis, however. The Marquis must be pretending not to know that Liv was the model. Perhaps, he was indirectly telling her to give up the painting because he would pretend not to know.


    But how could she just let it go? In the situation where the evidence that she was a nude model got hung openly on someone else¡¯s wall.


    What if Baroness Vendons visits this place? Or what if anyone else visits and sees the painting?


    If there¡¯s a rumor that she was a nude model when she gets fired without receiving a recommendation letter?


    ¡°¡­ If you look at my back, you¡¯ll recognize that we are the same person.¡±


    A voice that was no different from whispering came out weakly through the opening lips.


    ¡°Would this be enough?¡±


    The Marquis only stared at her without giving any answer. And Liv read the unspoken permission in his silence.


    ***


    Although the curtains were thoroughly closed in each window, it took a lot of courage to take off clothes in the wide and fancy drawing room of someone else¡¯s house.


    Liv, glancing at the Marquis who sat on the sofa while propping his chin with a bored look, turned around. The trembling fingers missed the buttons, which were fastened meticulously in the front, several times.


    She was able to unlock the buttons properly only after she clenched and relaxed her fists a few times. She could feel the top hanging loose as it was unbuttoned. Since she didn¡¯t wear a lot of clothes, her bare skin was quickly exposed to the air.


    It wasn¡¯t cold in the drawing room, but because she felt cool, Liv slightly shrank her shoulders. Since the top was buttoned off, it would flow down if she just let go of her hands.


    The good thing was that she wouldn¡¯t have to take off all her clothes. The painting was about her back while sitting, so if she just took off her top and showed her back to him, he would recognize it. Taking a deep breath, Liv carefully pulled her clothes down.


    There was no one looking at her from the front, but she was standing there covering her chest with her arms because she felt conscious for no reason. Then, she heard an insensitive voice from behind.


    ¡°Posture.¡±


    Is he telling me to strike the same pose as the painting?


    Liv, who had hesitated for a while, touched the hair she tied up with her fingertips. When she pulled the hair tie slightly, the rich auburn hair became loose as if it would flutter down her back promptly.


    Liv recalled Brad¡¯s request, which remained in her memory. She couldn¡¯t pose exactly the same because she was sitting back then and she was standing this time, but she could say that she did her best.


    However, it seemed that it was still lacking in the Marquis¡¯ eyes.


    ¡°It¡¯s a different posture from the painting I received.¡±


    ¡°It can¡¯t¡­¡±


    Liv, who was going to say it can¡¯t be, suddenly stopped talking. As she thought of it, there was indeed a different part from the painting that the Marquis had received.


    Her face blushed with shame, but Liv suppressed her emotions by closing her eyes tightly and then opening them. The shame was only a brief, but if she could persuade the Marquis with this, she could endure it as much as needed.


    Liv half turned her head and looked back, resting her chin on her shoulder. She wondered if there was a mocking sign in the Marquis¡¯ face, but surprisingly, he was staring at her with an expressionless face. So emotionless that it was hard to believe that the cold eyes were looking at a woman¡¯s naked body.


    He was really judging if she was the model in the painting.


    When she realized it, the soaring shame subsided, strangely. The shaky green eyes also settled down more stably. Liv confronted the Marquis¡¯ gaze absent-mindedly.


    The gaze, which slowly rose along the spine from the slender waistline, reached the smooth shoulders, arms, and messy hair. Then, it slid down along the fingers that dug through the hair to the calm green eyes, straight nose, the closed lips and the chin covered by her shoulder. And then to her eyes again.


    When their eyes met, the Marquis¡¯ lips, which had been closed in a straight line, moved slowly.


    ¡°You can wear your clothes again.¡±


    She was relieved at those words, so when she lowered her arm, the hair tie ended up getting caught on her finger and flowed down. The wavy hair fluttered down her back. The Marquis, who glanced at the fallen hair tie, raised his body.


    ¡°Ring the bell on the table when you¡¯re done dressing. The servant will show you to my office.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t until the drawing-room door was closed and she was left alone that Liv realized she wasn¡¯t breathing properly. The air on the bare skin was no longer cool.


    ***

 Chapter 7.2

    By the time Liv left the mansion, it was already dark.


    The middle-aged man, who initially dealt with Liv in the drawing room, introduced himself as the manager, Monte. His job was not just to take care of the building, but to manage all the art works in it.


    The mansion was a private exhibition hall where the art works the Marquis collected were stored. Considering that it was described as ¡®one of the exhibition halls¡¯, there seemed to be several more buildings similar to the mansion. Monte told her that this was the largest exhibition hall among them and he let her know about the Marquis¡¯ kind offer, that the Marquis allowed the guests to look around if they wanted to. Of course, Liv refused and expressed her intention to leave immediately.


    If she could, she wanted to ride the carriage that Monte had called. Her mind was getting blank from trying to walk a long distance to her home while she was utterly exhausted from the talk with the Marquis. However, when she thought about the cost of paying for only a few minutes of comfort, the energy that had been running low was revived. When she arrived home, she was literally exhausted and couldn¡¯t lift a finger.


    Still, the worst was avoided. Liv let out a long sigh. Slowly blinking her eyelids, she recalled her conversation with the Marquis.


    ¡°You won¡¯t be able to bring the price of the painting anyway.¡±


    There was no sign of anger in his voice. It was only dry and insensitive, but on the contrary, it felt like a big rebuke to Liv. Liv, who was looking at the Marquis, who didn¡¯t even look at her, carefully opened her mouth.


    ¡°If you give me a little time, I will do my best.¡±


    ¡°Even if you get the time, how will you get the money? I don¡¯t think both you and the artist¡¯s circumstances are that generous.¡±


    Without the need to investigate, it was a situation that could be found out quickly just by examining her outfit a little.


    Liv clutched her skirt, feeling a twinge at her heart. In the eyes slowly looking down, dispirited, she saw the toe caps stained with all kinds of mud and dirt on the street. Too much that it was so embarrassing to step on the carpet in the office. There must already be a lot of dirty spots on the clean carpet.


    ¡°I¡¯ll skip the wasteful conversation. I want a painting.¡±


    ¡°Please not that painting¡­¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it okay to just redraw a painting without the model¡¯s face?¡±


    Liv looked up with a startled look. The Marquis was still reading the paper on the desk, so he didn¡¯t look at her.


    ¡°Are you¡­ Are you okay with that?¡±


    ¡°If you bring me another painting, I¡¯ll give the painting to you.¡±


    Liv, who was thinking about the way to get some time and return the money back, opened her mouth without realizing it.


    Another painting? She could expose her back as much as needed if she could get the drawing with her face exposed and get rid of it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell Brad right away! It will be possible. We will work as fast as¡­¡±


    ¡°There are conditions instead.¡±


    The Marquis continued slowly, cutting off Liv who was talking incoherently.


    ¡°I want to observe the work process.¡±


    ¡°The work process¡­?¡±


    ¡°Of course, alone.¡±


    The work process means the process of painting. He was saying he would be there when Brad paints Livs.


    ¡°Can you accept it?¡±


    The Marquis glanced up and looked at Liv.


    If I refuse here, the Marquis¡¯ mercy will surely disappear like a mirage. Liv, who was hesitating, swallowed her dry saliva.


    His terms were the kind that left her guessing about his intentions. Whether Liv¡¯s appearance in the same pose for hours, or Brad¡¯s work, which exuded a terrible smell of paint, would not satisfy his interest even for an hour. Nevertheless, Liv couldn¡¯t tell him that he would be bored or ask why he would give those conditions.


    It wasn¡¯t a place to ask her opinion.


    Liv nodded slowly.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I will provide the studio. Start it next week.¡±


    Liv, who was about to nod quietly once again, suddenly spoke up.


    ¡°Oh, but I have to talk to Brad, too.¡±


    It was true that Brad unilaterally broke the agreement, but eventually, she needed Brad¡¯s cooperation to accept the Marquis¡¯ conditions.


    The Marquis squinted at Liv¡¯s words. He, who leaned slightly on the backrest with his upper body upright, put his hand on the armrest. The tip of the hand wearing white gloves tapped the leather at a constant beat.

 Chapter 8.1

    ¡°Seems like you think he might say no.¡±


    The Marquis, muttering to himself, stared at Liv.


    ¡°But I have a slightly different view.¡±


    At that moment, what was on his lips was a very faint smile. An arrogant smile, thinking his will will definitely come true, does not doubt that the other people will lower themselves and move as he wishes right away.


    ¡°¡­ You are right.¡±


    Brad¡¯s cooperation? It was a really stupid idea.


    They didn¡¯t need any cooperation from the beginning.


    ¡°Liv, are you okay?¡±


    A careful question intervened in the tangled thought. Liv shook off her memory right away and looked up.


    ¡°Huh? Of course I am.¡±


    Looking at Coryda¡¯s worried eyes, Liv quickly brightened up her expression. It was exhausting, but it ended well.


    Brad¡¯s hands are fast and once he concentrates, he tends to work day and night, so it shouldn¡¯t take too long. The Marquis¡¯s observation bothers me like a thorn stuck in fingertips, but if I couldn¡¯t refuse anyway, I might as well ignore it and forget it.


    ¡°Last time I told you that I was going to work more, right? I think the work will start next week.¡±


    ¡°Is it hard?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not. It¡¯s just an assistant job.¡±


    Anyway, the Marquis saw the painting, and even though he recognized that Liv was the model, he gave her a chance at her request. According to what he said, he seemed to be a person who would not say anything about Liv.


    Liv was relieved as she recalled the public rumors that he was not interested in social activities. The Marquis, whom she had a direct conversation with, was not interested in others as it was rumored, and therefore he likely would not consume Liv as a momentary gossip.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, and lock the door well when I¡¯m not around.¡±


    Still, there¡¯s no harm in knowing a lot, so I¡¯ll listen to the story of the Marquis that¡¯s going around from now on.


    ***


    ¡°So do you know what the Marquis of Dietrion said? He said, ¡°How rude. Put him to his knees!¡±¡±


    ¡°That is a very¡­ familiar line.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m saying! It¡¯s just like a novel!¡±


    Because it¡¯s a line from a novel. The male protagonist who said the line must have been created more than 50 years ago than the Marquis, and I don¡¯t know when the line was taken away by the Marquis.


    It would be Liv¡¯s job as a home tutor to correct Millian¡¯s wrong knowledge, but this time it was difficult to correct her right away. It was an anecdote with unverified truth, but there was a possibility that he had said that.


    Of course, the Marquis of Dietrion she had spoken to in person didn¡¯t seem to be the one to shout the exaggerated and pretentious lines a while ago.


    ¡°Haah, how can the Marquis be so cool? I¡¯m so jealous of the one who will be his wife later.¡±


    Millian, who wrapped her cheeks in both hands, sighed and muttered. Liv smiled awkwardly and drank the tea in front of her.


    They were on their way out to a nearby lake. Baroness Vendons would not allow young Millian to go out alone, so Millian would often ask Liv to accompany her. Liv nodded without hesitation each time.


    Today was such a prepared occasion. Millian loved this place because the lakeside was a popular promenade, so she could meet her friends by chance.


    If Coryda had been a little healthy, she would have come with us.


    Liv, who was staring at a group of young ladies chattering and playing, lowered her gaze.


    ¡°It would be great if he could come to our house one more time.¡±


    ¡°You said he visited last time for the statue, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I think the sculpture my mother bought was an undisclosed work of a very famous artist. Because of that occasion, I heard the works that are being auctioned off these days are drying up.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°I wish I had that kind of luck one more time because the Marquis wouldn¡¯t visit if it wasn¡¯t for art¡­ Teacher, you said you ran into the Marquis that day, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°I did.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t slept since that day. Is this what love sickness is?¡±


    Liv smiled silently as the answer. The appearance of Millian who was blushing so badly was only cute in Liv¡¯s eyes. And she was also bitter at the thought of Coryda.


    If Coryda was healthy, she would have developed the dreamlike romance of a girl like Millian. Instead of worrying about the rent and selling her birthday gift back.


    ¡°So, Teacher, I¡¯ve decided to learn painting!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes! The person my mother asked around has decided to come soon.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s cool. You¡¯ll show me your work later, right?¡±


    ¡°Of course! But you can¡¯t laugh at me, okay?¡±


    The girl in her fresh first love seemed ready to do anything for love. Liv, who was smiling softly at Millian¡¯s red face, looked away calmly.

 Chapter 8.2

    Liv, who was busy making a living day by day, was now getting to know the story of the marquis who made the city buzzing. Most of the stories were grossly false and absurd to her ears. Rather than a person, there were many descriptions that seemed to refer to some mythical superhuman.


    In the past, she would have found it a little interesting as if she were listening to other people¡¯s love stories. Thinking she had nothing to do with it, she would have quickly turned her attention away without thinking about it deeply. However, she couldn¡¯t do that now because she got entangled with him unintentionally.


    Liv stared quietly at the surface of the lake. Looking at the shining blue reflecting the sunlight, the fatal beautiful eyes of the man came to mind.


    All the rumors that are circulating cannot be true. Generally, stories that go through a person¡¯s mouth are enlarged, and finally, they are ruined to the point where the original form is not recognized.


    Nevertheless, one thing was definitely true.


    ¡®An arrogant and cold man.¡¯


    The beautiful face would look good in whatever he did, but the expressionless and cold face fit him perfectly as if it was really his.


    Maybe he had never had a smile in his life?


    Liv still couldn¡¯t believe she was involved with him, so sometimes it felt like a dream. Wouldn¡¯t it be amazing to see his face once in a lifetime?


    He was a man who had no relation to where she lived, who she hung out with, or even the vocabulary she used.


    One may be pleased that she was somehow associated with such a high and noble man, but Liv was just bloated as if she had eaten something she couldn¡¯t digest.


    It¡¯d be good if the work starts and ends quickly.


    The Marquis¡¯ visit was decided, so their work schedule was adjusted entirely to the Marquis¡¯s schedule. She had no clue of what the Marquis told Brad, but when Liv went to Brad, he knew the whole story. Unlike Liv, Brad seemed very excited.


    ¡°If we do well, I¡¯ll get a huge supporter too!¡±


    Brad was delusional even more. From what Liv saw, it was a completely hopeless wish, but he seriously thought the Marquis liked his painting.


    ¡°But you know what, Teacher?¡±


    Liv, who had been thinking for a while, suddenly came to her senses. Giving a habitual smile to Millian, who looked at her with shining eyes, Liv tried to empty her complex head.


    Having found nothing unusual about Liv, Millian lowered her voice to the fullest and whispered as if she were telling a huge secret story.


    ¡°I heard there¡¯s something incredible in the basement of the Marquis Dietrion¡¯s mansion.¡±


    ¡°In the basement of the mansion?¡±


    ¡°Yes. The Marquis really likes art, isn¡¯t he? But in fact, what he really collects are taxidermied objects made from living creatures!¡±


    Millian had just described the Marquis of Dietrion as the prince of the century, but this time, she was turning him into a terrible monster. Liv let out a little laugh because that change was a little funny. Millian did not care about Liv¡¯s attitude, which was not listening seriously at all this time.


    ¡°Did you know that Marquis of Dietrion was a military officer? That¡¯s why he¡¯s so used to killing. Not only animals, but also humans!¡±


    It was unconfirmed information that the Marquis was a military officer. It was only speculated by people who had seen the Marquis relatively often, and because it really suited the Marquis, the information spread like an accomplished fact at one point.


    A rumor being talked about irresponsibly in secret since no one could confirm the truth.


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±


    Rather than that, murder? Liv recalled the Marquis of Dietrion she had seen. The Marquis killing someone with a cold and apathetic face seemed plausible at first glance.


    ¡°The room where real people are taxidermied and displayed is hidden in the basement of the mansion.¡±


    Dark and gloomy basement, bleak air, and the stuffed nude people in a transparent glass tube. Liv squinted at the sight of Millian describing it realistically as if she had seen it in person.


    She didn¡¯t know Millian had this talent for a storyteller. It was a skill second to no one for her to get a job at a theater company right away.


    There was no reason for the only daughter of the Baron, Millian, to jump into looking for such a clownish job, so in the end, this was all just Liv¡¯s vain imagination.


    It might have been better if Liv herself had that talent. The theater company was just a ridiculous group of clowns in the eyes of a few high-class people, but it was a popular group for many citizens.


    As it is a business that makes a big profit only with the entrance fee of citizens even if it does not earn the honor of the upper class, I will be able to earn stable and sustainable income if I have related talents.


    Liv, who had been thinking so far, shook her head in vain.

 Chapter 9.1

    Could she get any more delusional than that?


    She was originally unskilled at getting a lot of attention or entertaining someone with her talk. Far from being a storyteller, it was obvious that she couldn¡¯t stand the attention on stage.


    Liv decided to shake off her useless thoughts and focus on her conversation with Millian.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you believe that, Millian?¡±


    ¡°Of course not! Look at his face. Why would he do such a thing? It must be all made up by those who envy him.¡±


    When it came to taxidermy, Millian, who was full of faith when she said that she heard the Marquis spit out a line from a novel, scoffed flatly. Liv followed her to make a faint smile.


    Taxidermy¡­


    Given how little was known about Demus Dietrion¡¯s past, there had been a lot of speculation about him. So much that even Liv, who didn¡¯t pay attention to other people¡¯s rumors, had heard of it.


    Taxidermy was one of them, a bizarre rumor that was formed based on the Marquis¡¯ mansion remote location from the city and the fact that only a few guests had been invited to his mansion.


    Of course, there were plenty of upper class people who were actually having hobbies they would rather not be seen with. As Liv also went to boarding school and worked as a home tutor, there were things she saw and heard over her shoulder.


    Such a hobby had nothing to do with social status or wealth. Thus, it wouldn¡¯t be strange if the Marquis had some secret taste or dirty privacy.


    Perhaps the reason he said he would observe the process of painting nude was one of his secret hobbies¡­


    ¡°Oh, my, Teacher! It¡¯s Adrienne!¡±


    Millian, who was busy gossiping about the Marquis, looked away with a sparkle on her eyes. Adrienne, a close friend of Millian¡¯s, was waving toward them from a distance. Millian jumped to her feet, excited to see Adrienne, who appeared as if she had come to play with some friends.


    Liv, who was staring at Millian running toward her friends, tidied up the seat where she sat. As a guardian, she had to watch over Millian at close range. And it would be great if she caught the eye of one of those friends and got an additional job.


    She didn¡¯t feel miserable or depressed about her situation where she had to try to look good to young children. Liv¡¯s life was too dismal for her to feel such emotions.


    Liv moved busily. The man who filled her head for a moment was quickly forgotten.


    ***


    The Marquis sent a carriage to Brad¡¯s studio.


    It was a black carriage with no particular pattern. There was nothing very unusual on the surface, but only when she got on the carriage that Liv noticed that there were no windows in the carriage.


    To be exact, it seemed like there was a window from the outside, but in fact, she couldn¡¯t see the outside from the inside. The carriage carrying Brad and Liv was locked from the outside, and ran for quite a long time toward an unknown destination.


    This breathtakingly secretive treatment made Liv nervous, but Brad didn¡¯t seem to mind a bit.


    He was busy praising the Marquis¡¯ generosity for personally sending a carriage for him throughout the journey. He expressed his admiration, mentioning one by one about how soft the chair was, how the carriage ran without rattling, and how expensive the interior decoration was. He even laughed out loud, saying that the interior was luxurious and quite a feast for the eyes, so it was fine not to see the outside.


    I¡¯m glad I rode this with Brad.


    Liv was rather relieved. The so simple-minded Brad was better than nothing.


    If she had been in a carriage like this alone, she would have been engrossed with all kinds of negative imaginations. And by the time she got off, her legs might have turned into jelly. All that while recalling the bizarre rumors of the Marquis she had shared with Millian not long ago.


    ¡°We¡¯re here, Liv!¡±


    Liv, who was sitting uncomfortably with her butt hanging over the edge of a padded carriage chair, snapped her head up at those words. Indeed, as Brad said, she could feel the carriage¡¯s movement slowing down.


    Finally, the carriage came to a complete stop, and there was the sound of a lock being unlocked from the outside. Beyond the quietly open door, a footman in a full dress uniform lowered the foothold for them.


    ¡°Welcome. Follow me, please.¡±


    The servant, who appeared to be the guide, greeted them politely. Brad¡¯s face lit up with excitement at the hospitality he had never received before. Liv, who was staring at the back of the servant walking ahead with anxious eyes, glanced up.


    The somehow vague staircase, and the antique mansion on top of it looked dreamy like an illustration in a picture book.

 Chapter 9.2

    The arched windows in the cream-colored outer walls were so transparent that it was questionable whether they had glass, and the narrow sky-blue roof above had detailed statues at every corner. It looked so beautiful against the clean sky.


    ¡°Oh, my God, am I going to work in a place like this?¡±


    Brad looked around in disbelief. He seemed to not care even if he was scolded for being tacky. But Liv was just as surprised as Brad, so  she couldn¡¯t make fun of his reaction.


    The mansion was huge. Given that there was nothing but green gardens and a vast plain around the standing mansion, it was probably one of the villas the Marquis had. She thought it wouldn¡¯t be strange for the sensitive marquis who didn¡¯t socialize with anyone to have such a remote villa.


    No, in fact, Liv didn¡¯t even know if this was a remote villa. This was because she couldn¡¯t look at the outside scenery at all throughout the trip.


    It could be a private property in the city.


    Brad and her, who were dragged to an unknown place.


    Liv suddenly remembered the lame conversation she had with Millian. All the dark groundless rumors about the Marquis, which she had taken lightly at the time.


    Seems like it would be easy to kill and hide someone in a place like this¡­


    Since all the employees residing in the mansion were all the Marquis¡¯s people, no one would know no matter what happened to Brad and Liv here.


    For example, getting taxidermied.


    The thought sent goosebumps down her spine. For some reason, the Marquis¡¯ nonchalant gaze scanning her bare back came to mind at that moment. At that time, The Marquis seemed to be judging her more as a product than as a person.


    Wouldn¡¯t he have those eyes when he saw the stuffed objects?


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Liv?¡±


    Liv came to her senses in an instant at Brad¡¯s questioning voice. Before she knew it, Brad, who was way ahead of her, was looking down at her from the stairs. When the two stopped, the servant who was walking ahead guiding them also stopped and looked at the two.


    Liv, seeing Brad¡¯s mysterious gaze and the indifferent gaze of the servant behind him, walked hurriedly. As she quickly climbed the hard stone steps and caught up with Brad, the servant turned around again.


    The door to the beautiful grand mansion slowly opened. Beyond it was a colorfully decorated interior. Upon hearing the news of their visit in advance, the workers stood on both sides to greet the guests.


    She felt like she was going into the mouth of a snake that was tempting its prey, camouflaging itself in luxurious and colorful colors. Looking at everything that glittered so much that her eyes hurt, Liv subconsciously pushed down the rushing anxiety.


    The sound of the door being closed behind her back was heavy.


    ***


    When she undressed in Brad¡¯s studio, she always shivered because of the cold air.


    She had gotten used to the lower temperatures over time, so she was pretty comfortable now, but at first she was shivering from the cold. Especially in winter, there was a time she came back from modeling with a bad cold.


    Brad¡¯s studio had severe drafts and no heating. Brad¡¯s wife didn¡¯t like her husband spending so much time in his studio, so she didn¡¯t want to spend a dime on renovating it.


    Although Brad was a painter, his wife was the one who took care of the household instead of him, whose earnings were meager. Perhaps the reason Brad was using the money from the sale of the painting in such a hurry was because he was afraid that the insignificant amount of income would be taken away by his wife.


    Anyway, Liv had nothing to do with someone else¡¯s family situation. The important thing was that his studio environment was very poor.


    That was why she compared it to this place even more.


    ¡°Oh, my God! Such a vivid color! And look at this soft brush tip!¡±


    Brad¡¯s mouth let out a series of exclamations.


    Even to Liv, who didn¡¯t know much about painting tools, all the supplies prepared here looked excellent. Brad looked at each of the painting tools given to him almost as if he were about to faint.


    His admiration did not stop even when he sat in front of the canvas. Liv stood in front of the canvas, half resigned. Even though it wasn¡¯t as much as Brad, she was also genuinely surprised by this great studio. There was no need to mention the sofa or bed she would sit on, they were all the best furniture.


    What surprised her, however, was that the air in the studio was warmer than expected.


    She didn¡¯t know well, but Brad often said that painting is a very sensitive work, which is greatly influenced by temperature and humidity. He even added a grumble to his wife who didn¡¯t understand that and wouldn¡¯t spend a penny on the studio. Liv couldn¡¯t express her dissatisfaction with the cold air in the studio because of that.


    This place was certainly warmer than Brad¡¯s studio. It was so unfamiliar that Liv rubbed her exposed forearm slowly. She got goosebumps even though it wasn¡¯t cold.


    ¡°I told the servants to prepare the studio so that it doesn¡¯t interfere with the work. Do you need anything else?¡±

 Chapter 10

    Liv and Brad, who were distracted in their own mind, turned their heads at the same time. They didn¡¯t even hear the door open, but the Marquis, whom they had no idea when he came into the studio, was looking at them.


    Folding his hands behind him, the Marquis¡¯ blue eyes flickered past Brad toward Liv. His face, which she saw again in a few days, was much more beautiful and elegant than the figure she sometimes brood over. In addition, the navy blue frock, the vest underneath, and the silk shirt he was wearing went very well with him.


    Liv, who was naked for work, wrapped her arms around her chest without realizing it. It was because she somehow became a little embarrassed about her bare body when she saw the Marquis dressed up meticulously. The shame and embarrassment she felt when she first undressed as a nude model came back to life.


    She had already shown her back to the Marquis once, so she thought she would be able to endure the work because it was okay at that time.


    Liv realized she was overconfident about the situation. Now she could see that on the day she showed her back to the Marquis, she was so desperate that she didn¡¯t even have time to feel shame.


    ¡°My Lord Marquis, I¡¯m so honored! I will definitely draw a masterpiece of my life and give it to you as a present!¡±


    The Marquis, who was staring at Liv, turned to Brad.


    ¡°If you tell the servant in charge about anything lacking, it will be taken care of right away.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s enough, my Lord! It¡¯s more than enough!¡±


    As soon as the Marquis¡¯ eyes disappeared, Liv turned her head as if she were running away. She, who was sitting on the bed, pulled a white and soft blanket and carefully covered her body. She felt relieved when her skin was covered with a thin cloth sloppily.


    But it was for a moment.


    The Marquis, who glanced at Liv, asked in a cynical voice.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to draw the covered body and claim it a nude painting, are you?¡±


    ¡°No way! Liv! Get the blanket off now!¡±


    Brad exclaimed to Liv, furiously. The voice alone sounded like Liv had made some tremendous mistake.


    He may be doing it because he wanted to impress the Marquis properly, but it was true that she felt uncomfortable with Brad¡¯s unusually coercive tone.


    However, they couldn¡¯t fight over his tone in front of the Marquis, so Liv silently pulled down the blanket. At that moment, a strangely subdued voice came from behind.


    ¡°Are you always this sharp when you¡¯re working?¡±


    ¡°Pardon? N-no¡­¡±


    ¡°I know artists are sensitive, but honestly, your tone is obnoxious.¡±


    ¡°Forgive me, my Lord! I¡¯ll be careful!¡±


    The Marquis is clearly more picky than the average artists.


    Liv was convinced of it while listening to the conversation behind her back. For a painter, they just have to draw well by all means. It was odd to have the high and mighty Marquis point out every single conversation between the painter and the model. Brad would be the only painter who had to work while paying attention to the way he talked to the model.


    Did the Marquis ask to observe so he could nitpick over the painting process?


    Maybe it really is?


    Liv belatedly thought of that possibility. The possibility that the Marquis really did have a problem with her and Brad, and had created this situation to harass them.


    The marquis might have been bitter because she argued that she could not sell the painting. Would a high-ranking person have any experience of being rejected?


    Not to mention that Demus Dietrion.


    That thought made Liv worry about the whole situation. She was at a loss whether this work, which was not smooth from the beginning, could end according to plan. If she just offered to compensate him with money¡­


    No, it was practically impossible. No matter how much the Marquis bought the painting for, Liv didn¡¯t have the ability to pay the same amount.


    There was no chance to escape the situation. She had already entered the mansion, and now that she had taken off her clothes, finishing the work as soon as possible was the only way out of this situation. Therefore, Liv wanted Brad to feel at least a minimal sense of crisis. If he felt something was wrong, he would also try to finish the work quickly.


    Unfortunately, however, Brad was now in the middle of apologizing profusely to the Marquis.


    Liv sighed and tossed the blanket completely aside. As she listened to Brad¡¯s anxious voice, trying to look good no matter how, the tension that wrapped around the back of her neck gradually faded.


    ¡°I think the model is ready.¡±


    No, it didn¡¯t seem like her tension had faded. Her shoulders flinched as soon as she heard the Marquis¡¯ voice.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start it now¡±


    Liv took a deep breath. Then she prayed earnestly inside.


    May the Marquis will soon get tired of this boring studio scene that only reeks of paint.


    The seat where the Marquis sat to observe was in a corner of the studio. There was a sofa for one and wine prepared for him.

 Chapter 11

    Despite her worry that the Marquis might try to mock her during the work, or that he might click his tongue at her shabby appearance, the Marquis observed the work very quietly. Brad, who seemed to be so cautious of the Marquis for even drawing a single line, gradually picked up the pace. Once he started working, he seemed to be able to concentrate.


    Unfortunately, Liv could not do that. This was because she felt the gaze on her skin all too clearly.


    It could have been her inferiority complex. No, it was surely something like that. Knowing that the Marquis was in the studio, she thought that she could feel his eyes on her.


    What made it even more unnerving was that she, sitting with her back to the Marquis, had no idea what he might be doing. It would have been better to forget his existence, but the scent of wine subtly coming along with the smell of paint kept reminding her of the Marquis¡¯ existence.


    In fact, Liv thought he would watch for an hour at most before leaving the studio.


    An hour, huh? She could have praised him for being very patient even if he lasted only 30 minutes. How boring must it be to see the painting that was only a sketch and a model who was only sitting without changing her posture?


    Surprisingly, however, the Marquis remained in place for more than an hour.


    But how long will that patience last?


    When Brad was focused, he could usually work for hours without being interrupted. Once Brad forgot the Marquis¡¯ existence and focused on the painting, the work would last longer than expected.


    Now he might be amazed and watch while sipping the wine, but soon he would lose interest.


    For that reason, she was more focused than ever and tried to meet the request from Brad. All while recalling the few models in the paintings she had ever seen. Then, at the moment she finally got used to this unfamiliar space little by little,


    Clang!


    A loud noise rang out. There was only the sound of sketching with a pencil and the sound of someone¡¯s breathing at best, so the sudden noise felt especially loud and sharp.


    Liv, who shrunk her shoulders in surprise, looked back at the place where the sound was made without realizing it. At a short distance from where the Marquis sat, she could see a shattered wine glass and red liquid spilled everywhere.


    ¡°Oh, my! Are you all right, my Lord!¡±


    Brad threw his pencil down. The work which seemed like it was finally picking up speed quickly came to a halt.


    ¡°Oh, it slipped out of my hand.¡±


    Said the Marquis in a rather insincere tone. Brad, who was making a fuss asking if he was hurt, rushed out of the studio, saying he would call a servant.


    Liv, who suddenly came to her senses after hearing the loud closing of the studio door, immediately wrapped the blanket around her. She had no intention of showing her body to a servant who came in to clean up the wine.


    Liv, who wrapped her whole body in a blanket, glanced toward where the Marquis was sitting. The Marquis was still sitting on the sofa. Leaning obliquely backwards with his long legs propped up on a stool, he held a thick cigar in his hand.


    Nonetheless, he looked like a neat-obsessed man who would frown upon cigar smoke.


    The moment she opened her eyes wide at the unexpected appearance, the Marquis said in a cold voice.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡±


    While he asked for understanding, his tone was practically a coercive declaration. She didn¡¯t deserve to hear him saying ¡°excuse me,¡± even if it was an empty word, so Liv averted her gaze and replied that it was okay. Soon, the strong smell of cigars began to mingle with the aroma of wine.


    Liv glanced again as if drawn to the scent. Perhaps because it was the Marquis who seemed to be upright anytime, anywhere, he looked very relaxed just by holding a cigar. He closed his eyes, seemingly unaware of Liv¡¯s gaze, and remained silent in thought.


    That reaction of treating her like she wasn¡¯t there encouraged Liv. Liv observed him for the first time without fear or nervousness. The slightly disheveled platinum hair, beautiful nose, and close lips were indeed well-made sculptures.


    And look at those long limbs. The clothes design itself was common, but when the Marquis wore it, it looked like clothes of the century.


    Liv¡¯s eyes turned to his hands, which hung relaxedly on the armrest. He was wearing white gloves.


    Huh?


    Liv suddenly looked down at the floor, puzzled.  Traces of wine were seen everywhere. Liv¡¯s head tilted slightly to the side.


    The moment the puzzled look flashed across her eyes, the Marquis, who had been closing his eyes, suddenly opened them.


    Startled, Liv quickly looked away. She shrunk her neck while pulling the blanket tighter for no reason, but the door of the studio opened and Brad returned in time.


    ¡°For-forgive me, but there¡¯s no servant nearby¡­¡±


    Brad hunched over, looking contrite. The Marquis, who had been staring at Brad with hardly any emotion, rose to his feet.


    ¡°Let¡¯s call it a day.¡±

 Chapter 12

    ¡°Pardon, sir? But I¡¯m just starting to concentrate¡­¡±


    Brad, who was muttering with wide open eyes, closed his mouth as soon as he made eye contact with the Marquis. Swallowing his saliva, he quickly drew a smile and nodded.


    ¡°Oh, yes, we should. I¡¯ll wrap it up! Ha ha.¡±


    The Marquis put his cigar, which he barely smoked, down on the ashtray, and left the studio with an aloof face.


    Brad, who had bowed his head several times towards the Marquis¡¯ leaving figure, was still at a loss for a long time even after the studio door was closed. He only relaxed after the sound of the Marquis¡¯ footsteps completely disappeared. Perhaps his legs had given out, he slumped into the chair with a sigh of relief.


    Liv, who was quietly watching the situation with the blanket wrapped around her, picked up her clothes that she had taken off. She deliberately prepared clothes that were comfortable to wear and take off, so it didn¡¯t take long for her to tidy up her attire.


    She dusted off the crumpled hem of her skirt and asked an insinuating question to Brad.


    ¡°Was there no servant?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I guess they all stayed back for fear of disturbing the work. I decided to just come back because I thought I¡¯d get lost if I kept wandering around. This mansion is very spacious.¡±


    Liv, glancing at Brad wiping the cold sweat with his sleeves, lowered her eyes.


    The number of the employees who welcomed them when they came in was well over 10. Considering the size of this mansion, it was obvious that there would have been a larger number of employees stationed here. There was probably a separate accommodation for employees because this place seemed to be a remote area.


    Does it make sense that all those people were not waiting near their master?


    ¡°Brad, don¡¯t you think that¡¯s a little weird?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean weird?¡±


    Liv¡¯s eyes turned to the floor this time. To the pool of wine and pieces of shattered glass.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think he¡¯s someone who would accidentally drop the wine glass.¡±


    ¡°The Marquis is also a human being, so he might do it when he is drunk.¡±


    Brad, who regained his energy, replied casually as he prepared to leave.


    ¡°It is humane and good!¡±


    So it was a mistake that he dropped the glass so far that the wine didn¡¯t splash on him?


    ¡­ Not to interrupt the work?


    Liv bit her lower lip.


    Am I overreacting? Am I thinking too hard? Am I being so conscious of him that I give meaning to every meaningless action of his?


    Liv remembered the Marquis¡¯ face a while ago. The face that looked apathetic and aloof in everything. There were occasional sparks of ire, but that was it.


    Basically, the Marquis showed no significant interest in Liv and Brad. He just quietly watched the work as agreed upon.


    But then why?


    She felt like she had gotten into some kind of bad, malicious attention.


    ***


    Apart from all the uneasiness and doubts that Liv felt on the first day, the work proceeded step by step.


    The Marquis still diligently observed the work and interfered under the guise of a mistake.


    ¡°Under the guise of a mistake¡± was only Liv¡¯s guess. Nevertheless, she was confident that her guess had a high probability of being right. No matter how much she thought about it, the timing of the Marquis¡¯ mistakes were strange.


    The Marquis made noises, mostly as if to interrupt when Brad began to concentrate. Thanks to this, the nude painting hadn¡¯t been sketched properly yet. Given the usual pace of work, this was noticeably slow.


    In addition, the painting work was carried out entirely under the permission of the Marquis, so even if they wanted to draw more, they had to get up obediently if the Marquis said to stop.


    Liv inwardly believed that this work would end quickly as she knew of Brad¡¯s work speed. But then she belatedly realized the work environment she had overlooked and lamented. The fact that the Marquis provided the studio, and that they could only work when the Marquis watched was a big obstacle. However fast Brad¡¯s hands didn¡¯t mean anything.


    Everything was adjusted according to the Marquis¡¯ wishes. Brad, who initially praised everything as a good thing, seemed to have sensed something off at this point.


    But even if he sensed it, what could they do? There was nothing they could do about it.


    Brad tried to interpret the situation positively.


    ¡°If the Marquis were really trying to harass us, there would have been many other easy ways. He wouldn¡¯t have provided a magnificent mansion as a studio.¡±


    Brad wasn¡¯t wrong. If the Marquis truly wanted to harass Brad and Liv, he could have thought of many other ways to do it without doing this troubling way.


    The whole process of providing a huge mansion as a studio, preparing luxurious painting tools, sending a carriage periodically, and being present to watch the work process at every work session was surely quite cumbersome even for the Marquis.


    ¡°Liv, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll be working on it faster.¡±

 Chapter 13

    Liv could only rely on Brad¡¯s words. Nothing would change even if they found out the ulterior motive behind this incomprehensible situation.


    They couldn¡¯t stop the work, so they had no choice but to draw as soon as possible and hand it over to the Marquis.


    ¡°Teacher!¡±


    Liv, who sighed inwardly, snapped out of her reverie. She came to realize where she was, and she quickly shook off her thoughts. It was Millian who called her in a loud voice.


    Millian was dressed to the nines. The sky blue dress, the colorful flower arrangement, and the expensive-looking accessories. Anyone would recognize that today¡¯s star was Millian.


    Today was Millian¡¯s birthday.


    ¡°Thank you for coming, Teacher!¡±


    The birthday party was held as an outdoor party in the backyard of the Vendons¡¯ mansion. It was an elaborate birthday party for the only precious daughter of the Vendons barony.


    There were many adults and children attending, so she could have missed Liv¡¯s presence, but Millian managed to run straight to Liv as soon as she entered the party.


    Some eyes followed behind Millian, who was running with a big smile. Liv tried to ignore those curious gazes and smiled at Millian.


    ¡°Happy birthday, Millian.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t ignore the invitation to the birthday party of the student she was teaching, but Liv was mortified.


    The reason was that while she was well-dressed, she hardly looked enough to be a party participant. On top of that, she barely managed to put together the birthday present she prepared in a hurry. It even led her to think that she should secretly put it on top of other presents because she wasn¡¯t sure to give it directly.


    ¡°My parents are over there!¡±


    If she could, she just wanted to give the present and go back. Baron and Baroness Vendons knew that she had a sick sister, so if she used Coryda as an excuse, she would be able to leave the party a little earlier.


    Liv felt a little sorry for Millian, but she assured herself that there wouldn¡¯t be a good thing if she stayed for a long time.


    ¡°Dad, Mom. Teacher is here!¡±


    In the place where Millian¡¯s hand led her to, Baron and Baroness Vendons were busy entertaining guests. Baroness Vendons, who was welcoming someone, noticed Liv and smiled brightly.


    ¡°Miss Rhodes!¡±


    The Baroness grabbed Liv¡¯s hand and led her to her acquaintances.


    ¡°This is Miss Rhodes, who is tutoring our Millian¡¯s liberal arts class. Say hello, Miss Rhodes. This is Countess Blaise.¡±


    Countess Blaise was the mother of Adrienne, Millian¡¯s best friend. Liv quickly greeted her politely.


    ¡°Nice to meet you, my Lady. It¡¯s Liv Rhodes.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my, you¡¯re the beautiful teacher that Millian is so proud of, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Countess Blaise smiled cheerfully and accepted Liv¡¯s greeting. Liv had always thought that Adrienne, who always had a bunch of friends around her, had good social skills, and it must have been because she took after this lady.


    Liv felt a feeble affinity for the Countess, who was approaching without hesitation, regardless of their difference in status.


    ¡°I would have asked you to come right away if my Adrienne didn¡¯t have a teacher who has been teaching her for a long time!¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your kind words, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Miss Rhodes here is from Clemence Boarding School. You have no idea how knowledgeable she is.¡±


    Another lady next to the Countess exclaimed when Baroness Vendons said it proudly.


    ¡°Oh, my God, are you from Clemence? I¡¯ll definitely keep that in mind.¡±


    Liv, who only intended to give the present and to leave quickly, adjusted her plan a little. She thought it would be nice to stay a little longer and impress a few people because those who attended Millian¡¯s birthday party would likely have children of similar age.


    From then on, Liv had spoken with several ladies, relying on the kindness of Baroness Vendons. All of them seemed to be moderately cultured, at a level similar to that of the Vendons family. Liv stayed there, trying her best to keep the face of a dependable tutor.


    The interest in a young and beautiful tutor from Clemence Boarding School didn¡¯t last very long. The topic talked by the ladies quickly shifted to another one. Liv stayed a little longer and sneaked out of the group as she watched a new figure join in. Millian was busy being showered with birthday wishes, surrounded by friends her own age.


    Liv pondered for a moment. About whether it was the time for her to leave the present and go home. She thought it wouldn¡¯t be noticeable even if she went early because there were a lot of guests.


    She was pondering about it while touching the small present in her arms, but then someone came to Liv¡¯s side.


    ¡°Miss Rhodes?¡±


    There was no one else to call her but Baroness Vendons or Millian, so Liv looked up with a slightly surprised face.


    The one who called her was a man with black curly hair and blue eyes with low pigmentation. Pale freckles were seen on his moderately flushed cheeks, looking pretty good on him.


    Smiling at Liv, who opened her eyes wide, he greeted her politely.


    ¡°Hello, my name is Camille Marcel.¡±

 Chapter 14

    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m Liv Rhodes.¡±


    While greeting, Liv couldn¡¯t shake off her bewilderment. The man was quite handsome, but she couldn¡¯t understand why he talked to her.


    In the first place, this was a birthday party for Millian, and the attendees were friends of Millian, parents of Millian¡¯s friends, or acquaintances of Baron and Baroness Vendons.


    Then it meant that the man in front of her was also one of them.


    ¡°You must be surprised because I talk to you all of a sudden.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but yes. That¡¯s right,¡±


    Liv readily affirmed and Camille laughed cheerfully.


    ¡°I was happy to see you, so I immediately initiated the talk. You might not know me, but I know you a little bit.¡±


    Camille quickly continued before Liv had a strange misunderstanding.


    ¡°Millian talks about you in every painting class.¡±


    ¡°Aha¡­ Then you are¡­¡±


    Come to think of it, I think I heard that Millian had found an art teacher.


    Liv belatedly recalled the words Millian chattered about. She couldn¡¯t think of anything because she was trying to think of it in a hurry. Millian usually chatted about various topics, so she roughly passed over her story about the art teacher, which had been mentioned a few times.


    However, the memory of being quite surprised to hear the name of the school that the art teacher graduated from remained clear. She was impressed by the fact that the Vendons barony brought a man with a good academic background.


    ¡°The one who graduated from the Eglantine School of Art¡­?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m Millian¡¯s new painting teacher¡±


    He, who nodded with his eyes folded, creased his nose and grumbled.


    ¡°It seems that Millian has told you about me. I hope you¡¯ve only heard good things.¡±


    ¡°They were good stories, of course.¡±


    Liv quickly rummaged through her memory. Besides his academic background, all she could recall was praise for his good looks.


    At that time, she just overlooked it, thinking that Millian was at an age where she would be very interested in the opposite sex, but it didn¡¯t sound like a compliment that could be told to the person involved. She wondered whether she should say that Millian complimented his skills.


    ¡°Seeing that you can¡¯t speak¡­¡±


    ¡°No, it was a really good story. She said the art teacher is very handsome¡­!¡±


    Liv, who spoke in a hurry because she was surprised by Camille¡¯s sad gaze, closed her mouth at once. It was when she had already blurted out the words, however.


    Blinking in embarrassment, Liv parted her lips to apologize. But before she did it, Camille burst into laughter.


    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s a nice compliment! I have to thank Millian.¡±


    Fortunately, Camille didn¡¯t look offended at all.


    Is it okay because it¡¯s not a bad praise in any way?


    Liv was relieved inwardly and looked away awkwardly.


    ¡°Actually, Millian always brags about you, Miss Rhodes. I really wanted to meet you because of that, and I¡¯m very happy to have that chance today.¡±


    ¡°Yes, thank you for your words, Mr. Marcel.¡±


    ¡°You can just call me Camille.¡±


    ¡°No, how could I¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because I want to call you Liv.¡±


    Liv opened her eyes wide. Liv, who was taken aback, soon stared at Camille with strange eyes.


    No matter how busy she was with her livelihood, she had been courted by some male students at boarding school.


    Although the experience in her student days couldn¡¯t be of much help, she wasn¡¯t a fool that couldn¡¯t even recognize the romantical interest the other person showed her in this situation.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but it¡¯s our first time meeting today, so I think it¡¯s right to keep our manners.¡±


    Straightening his face as if it was a lie that he was puzzled by Liv¡¯s words, Camille laughed awkwardly


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m so sorry if I offended you. I¡¯ve gotten ahead of myself.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. It seems like Millian has praised me too much.¡±


    What in the world did Millian say that would make a stranger show his interest as soon as he saw her face? Liv thought she should indirectly ask Millian to be more cautious in the next class.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never heard that I have no manners, but I¡¯m ashamed that I somehow made a bad first impression.¡±


    His cheeks were tinted with a light flush as if proving that he was truly embarrassed. The look of the man with an affable impression blushed naively made it hard for anyone to stay angry.


    Wouldn¡¯t there have been a lot of occasions when he benefited from that face?


    Having that guess, Liv took a step back.


    ¡°It¡¯s all right. Courtesy is not a one-time thing. You just need to be more careful from now on.¡±


    ¡°You are really strict as Millian said.¡±


    Millian said she was strict?


    Liv was genuinely puzzled, so she turned to look at Millian in the distance.

 Chapter 15

    Millian must have never met a truly strict teacher for her to mention Liv as strict.


    Meanwhile, Camille smiled with a slightly relaxed face as though he noticed the misery revealed on Liv¡¯s face.


    ¡°Actually, I heard that you are the teacher that is closest to Millian. I wanted to ask for advice on teaching methods.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no such thing as a teaching method.¡±


    ¡°But can¡¯t you give me advice on where I should draw the line? It¡¯s my first time teaching a female student, so I¡¯m being careful about everything. And as a teacher, it¡¯s a little¡­ difficult to tell this to Baroness Vendons. If you don¡¯t feel comfortable talking to me in person, you can reply in a short letter.¡±


    Certainly, for a male teacher teaching a female student for the first time, he might have some concerns. It was also necessary to advise him in that regard for Millian¡¯s sake.


    Liv, who had been agonizing for a short time, soon nodded.


    ¡°If it¡¯s about Millian, I could give you a little advice.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Camille, who had been discouraged for a while, quickly became lively again and smiled. He seemed to be a positive and bright person.


    After giving him the address to send the letter, Liv decided it was the time to leave the party.


    While she was looking around for the presents to be piled up somewhere at the party venue, Liv suddenly fixed her eyes to the entrance of the party.


    She wondered if it was just her feelings. The entrance looked especially noisy and bustling. As she stared, drawn in by the disturbance, she saw Baron and Baroness Vendons running toward the entrance in a panic.


    ¡­ Liv had once seen a similar happening. The day when the Baroness, who offered her to have a cup of tea, turned around in surprise at the sudden visit of a guest.


    The very day she first met Demus Dietrion.


    ¡°No way¡­¡±


    Liv opened her mouth without realizing it. Camille, who somehow was already by her side, whistled low, staring at the entrance to the party hall.


    ¡°I never thought I¡¯d see him in a place like this.¡±


    A man¡¯s head popped out of the crowd. The man¡¯s face did not disappear even though she blinked many times.


    He was the Marquis of Dietrion.


    She had never looked straight at that person¡¯s face so openly like this. However, at this moment, she couldn¡¯t take her eyes off the Marquis.


    Liv couldn¡¯t hide her wide open eyes and stared at the Marquis. Not only her, but everyone in this party was looking at the Marquis with astonished eyes. Everyone was probably thinking of the same thing.


    That it was impossible for that person, the Marquis of Dietrion, to come to celebrate the birthday of the child of the Vendons barony.


    That there might be another important thing.


    Even so, wouldn¡¯t he look like a party guest if he visited like this?


    Liv turned her eyes at the sudden thought. Millian, who had been playing with friends of her age, approached her parents with a bright red face. Behind Millian were her friends around the same age standing with subtle faces.


    The Baron and Baroness Vendons introduced their only lovely daughter with flushed faces. The couple seemed to recommend something to the Marquis, but when the Marquis shook his head, they showed a slight disappointment.


    The Marquis seemed like he would go back straight after meeting the Baron couple. And Millian, who was caught between adults, was stealing glances at the Marquis with a blushing face.


    Liv suddenly became a little concerned about the situation.


    The Baron couple must be proud to show their friendship with the Marquis, but Millian¡­


    ¡°This is interesting. He¡¯s not a fan of crowded places like this.¡±


    Liv, who had been lost in thought, turned her head at those words. Liv carefully asked a question to Camille, who was watching the Marquis with an ambiguous smile.


    ¡°¡­ Are you familiar with the Marquis of Dietrion?¡±


    ¡°What? No. No way. I just know as much as others know.¡±


    That mumbling earlier sounded like they knew each other pretty well, though.


    Liv tilted her head, and Camille suddenly narrowed his eyes and asked in a rather mischievous tone.


    ¡°Are you also interested in the Marquis?¡±


    That question sounded to her as he was asking, ¡°Are you also one of numerous women who fell and chased after that face?¡± It led Liv to grimace.


    ¡°Is there anyone in Buerno who isn¡¯t interested in the Marquis of Dietrion?¡±


    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s true!¡±


    Camille burst out laughing, as though there was something funny about Liv¡¯s coy reply. It was so loud that some people looked back at them for a moment even though they were in a corner.


    And among them was the Marquis.

 Chapter 16

    No, was he?


    Liv felt momentarily that she had made eye contact with the Marquis, but she could have been mistaken


    Yes, I must have been mistaken. How would the Marquis find me among all these people, and even if he did find me, why would he look this way? I must be overreacting because I¡¯ve been involved with the marquis in such a bizarre way these days.


    Anyway, what on earth made him show up here all of a sudden?


    Millian has said that the Marquis and the Baron become acquainted with each other over art matters. If the transaction has been completed, shouldn¡¯t they have no reason to see each other again? Or is this about a new piece of art?


    Liv cautiously predicted that her name would not become a topic in the conversation between the Marquis and the Vendons couple. It wouldn¡¯t do the Marquis any good.


    ¡­ Surely not?


    Camille whimpered at the sight of Liv, who could not take her attention away from the Marquis. He then whispered in a small voice as if he were telling a secret.


    ¡°It is true that I have heard a little more about the Marquis. There are so many aristocrats who appreciate and love beautiful art, and I¡¯ve been hanging out with them quite often. In the process, even if it¡¯s not necessarily about the Marquis¡­ I get to know a lot of things.¡±


    On the surface, what Camille said sounded like an explanation of the life of an artist who was well sponsored by the aristocrats.


    However, if he were really just an ordinary artist, why would the aristocrats tell their secrets in front of him?


    It didn¡¯t take long for Liv to realize the truth behind the vague words.


    ¡°¡­ Are you an aristocrat?¡±


    ¡°Just an insignificant one.¡±


    Camille waved his hands as though he had noticed the tension on Liv¡¯s face.


    ¡°Regardless of my status, right now I¡¯m just an ordinary teacher who barely makes a living as an art teacher for the Vendons family. Why is it so hard to make a living for this one body?! It hasn¡¯t been a month since I moved in, but I¡¯m having a hard time because the crazy landlord is trying to raise the monthly rent.¡±


    He touched his forehead and shook his head as if he was really in trouble.


    It seemed that he was telling the truth that he wasn¡¯t a decent aristocrat, since there would be no reason to pay a monthly rent if he was one.


    In fact, these days, there were endless aristocrats in names only, and it was a world where people secretly bought and sold titles. No one said that aristocrats couldn¡¯t live normally.


    Liv, who was thinking that she shouldn¡¯t start a friendship with Camille regardless of the teaching method issue, was relieved by the familiarity of his situation. She was more relaxed and a light smile crossed her face.


    ¡°But Buerno is worth living in compared to other cities. In Peron, it costs two or three times the rent to get a similar kind of house.¡±


    Hearing the casual remark, Camille asked a question in a low interjection.


    ¡°Wow, have you ever lived in Peron?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Yes, shortly.¡±


    Peron was the capital of the country. As the capital, it was more colorful, bigger, and more crowded than any other city. Liv had a good life there.


    Until her parents had an accident in that city.


    ¡°I should have known you if you were an aristocrat!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s natural that you didn¡¯t. I¡¯m not.¡±


    When she thought of Peron, the only thing that flooded in was sorrow. Liv turned her head to try to divert her attention.


    Just in time, the Marquis was moving as if he was about to go back. The baron couple smiled brightly and saw him off, and Millian stood nervously by her parents¡¯ side.


    ¡°Your visit alone would be an absolutely glorious birthday present for Millian.¡±


    Just then, she heard the words said by the Baron with a loud laugh. The Marquis¡¯ gaze reached Millian for a moment. Even though she was far from them, it was so easy to imagine how cold he must have looked at Millian.


    Liv looked at Millian with worried eyes and then looked at the place where young children of her age gathered. They were busy whispering while covering their mouths. Seeing that they were constantly glancing at Millian and the Marquis, they certainly seemed to be talking about him.


    It reminded Liv of her school days in boarding school. Especially at the beginning of school.


    No, I¡¯m sure she will be fine.


    As she watched the Marquis disappear over the entrance to the party, Liv pushed aside her worries, knowing they were unnecessary. Her school days were just a personal experience. It was no more than her own assumption that Millian might have a similar experience with her.


    Even if there was a problem, would there be anything she could do? It would be much more productive to worry about her own future than to worry about useless concerns. Right now she had to worry about whether the Marquis had told the Vendons couple about her.

 Chapter 17

    Fortunately, the faces of the Baron and his wife did not seem to reflect that the Marquis of Dietrion had said anything bad. If he had mentioned Liv at all, the Baroness would have looked for her.


    ¡°I should get going, too.¡±


    Liv spoke to Camille in a tired voice. Camille kindly wished her well until next time, and it wasn¡¯t until she was long gone from the mansion that Liv relaxed.


    It was a party she attended to celebrate Millian¡¯s birthday, but all she had left on her way back was a restless heart caused by the Marquis of Dietrion.


    ***


    Shortly after Millian¡¯s birthday, a letter came from the Vendons barony.


    It was a letter saying that Millian was very sick and would not be able to proceed with the class for a while. She wrote back last week, full of concern for Millian and wishing her a speedy recovery.


    Since Liv had no idea when the class would resume, it was difficult for her to find a side job. In order to make use of her spare time somehow, Liv had been wandering around the neighborhood for days to get some sewing work.


    She didn¡¯t make a lot of money, but it was much better to be on the move than to just sit down.


    ¡°Liv¡­¡±


    Liv, who was busy getting ready to go out again today, looked back with a curious face. Coryda, looking pale, was hesitating to look at Liv.


    ¡°Mhm?¡±


    ¡°Well, Uncle Pommel came when you weren¡¯t around.¡±


    Hearing Pommel¡¯s name, Liv made a reflexive grunting sound.


    ¡°I was going to meet him today anyway. I should have solved it earlier, I was distracted.¡±


    ¡°Yes, and¡­¡±


    Coryda, fidgeting with her hands, lowered her eyes and said cautiously,


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ out of medicine.¡±


    Liv froze. Since Liv was often away from home for one reason or another, Coryda took her medicine on her own. As a result, when Liv couldn¡¯t pay attention like this, she sometimes went about her life without knowing that Coryda had run out of medicine.


    Liv stroked Coryda¡¯s head with an apologetic heart.


    ¡°Since when?¡±


    ¡°It-it hasn¡¯t been long.¡±


    It meant that she endured the pain without medicine for a few days. Liv stifled a sigh and hugged Coryda tightly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ll buy it right away.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not urgent, Liv!¡±


    ¡°Hold on a second. I¡¯ll be right back.¡±


    The ¡°urgent¡± in Coryda¡¯s standard was a condition that was bad enough to make her vomit blood. And when she brought it up, it was a sign that she was already in danger.


    Liv took out all the remaining living expenses and left the house. With the exception of the additional rent fee for Pommel, all of the money would be used for medicine.


    Liv wondered if she should ask Baroness Vendons if she could get her salary a little earlier.


    Oh, if only I hadn¡¯t bought Millian¡¯s birthday present, I could have lasted a few more days.


    Liv, who was busy walking through a narrow and dirty alley, calculated her living expenses in her head and smiled bitterly at the thought that came to her.


    It was such an embarrassing and petty idea.


    She lamented her circumstances as she couldn¡¯t even afford to celebrate the birthday of the student she was teaching, but since there was no way out of this difficulty right away, she kept looking for something to blame. While knowing that no one was actually to blame.


    If anything, it was on her own. She should have checked Coryda¡¯s medicine in advance, but she neglected it recently on the pretext of being busy.


    ¡°Hi! It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve seen you, Liv!¡±


    The pharmacy was not far from her home. When she was choosing a house, she deliberately looked for one with a pharmacy nearby so that she could go and buy medicine whenever she needed it. Although the first standard was obvious, the neighborhood she lived in now was the cheapest in Buerno.


    Liv smiled back and greeted the owner of the pharmacy, who gave her a warm welcome.


    ¡°Hello. I want to buy some medicine.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ve been wondering why you haven¡¯t come.¡±


    The owner of the pharmacy smiled humorously and took out the medicine in a familiar manner. Liv always bought the same medicine, so she didn¡¯t need a prescription.


    The owner of the pharmacy, who was skillfully packing the medicine, suddenly spoke up.


    ¡°You know what? There was a new drug announcement in Dominian.¡±


    ¡°A new drug?¡±


    It was no exaggeration to say that the Medical Research Institute of the Dominian Academy was the distributor of medicines across the continent. If the new drug was announced there, it was likely to be marketed soon.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. From what I heard, it could be great for children like Coryda. Why don¡¯t you check it out?¡±


    ¡°Will the new drug be distributed here, too?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, I don¡¯t think we¡¯re going to see the new drug reaching this remote pharmacy.¡±


    The medicine that Coryda was taking was a medicine that would keep the body at a level where it wouldn¡¯t get any worse. But if there was a medicine that could cure the disease¡­

 Chapter 18

    Her excitement was only fleeting. It was the price of the medicine that mattered. She couldn¡¯t even imagine how expensive  the new medicine would be.


    ¡°But you work for an aristocratic family, so if you do well, won¡¯t you be able to get the medicine using your connections?¡±


    Liv smiled awkwardly. The pharmacy owner seemed to understand that she was shy.


    She often changed the subject when it came to work, but the tactless pharmacy owner wouldn¡¯t let it go. Perhaps the intention was to praise Liv.


    Unfortunately, though, Liv was uncomfortable with it.


    ¡°Liv, isn¡¯t the Vendons barony the place where you work?¡±


    ¡°It is.¡±


    ¡°Right! It¡¯s all over the place! I heard that Baron Vendons is really close to the Marquis of Dietrion. Have you seen him? Are they really close enough for the Marquis to visit often?¡±


    Millian¡¯s birthday party was just a while ago, but it seemed that the rumor had already spread all over the city. Thinking that the Marquis¡¯ popularity was so great, Liv made a sad look.


    ¡°I always left right after the class. So I don¡¯t know.¡±


    As though Liv¡¯s casual acting was quite convincing, the owner of the pharmacy lamented without doubting her.


    ¡°Oh, what a shame. I thought the Marquis was some kind of ghost, but I guess he is a real living human being. You can¡¯t imagine how loud the fuss is the servants of the Vendons are making! Even so, all they¡¯ve seen was only from a distance or the back of the Marquis.¡±


    ¡°I see. Here, the price of the medicine.¡±


    Liv swiftly paid the price because she wanted to end the conversation, but the owner of the pharmacy didn¡¯t care and continued to talk.


    ¡°Liv, if you visit at the right time, you may be able to see the Marquis from afar. Try to ask the student you¡¯re teaching.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of seeing the Marquis?¡±


    ¡°Of course to lure out a good man who works under the Marquis! Wouldn¡¯t someone working under the Marquis have a quite high salary? I heard that high-ranking people like the Marquis bring dozens of attendants around, so won¡¯t there be a good one among them?¡±


    Liv thought the owner was just going to let it go today.


    Her expression turned bitter. The owner of the pharmacy had recommended this to Liv since the first time she met him. He always brought up that the son of a family is good, a man with this job is stable, etc.


    He said those because he felt sorry for Liv, who made a living while taking care of her sick sister alone. The pharmacy owner seemed to think marriage was the definite way for Liv to get out of her current situation.


    He didn¡¯t just talk about it. He had actually introduced Liv to some men. They were bridegrooms he had chosen with all his heart and soul in his own way.


    The results were not good every time. Liv, who had accepted the arrangement from him a couple of times because it was difficult to refuse, later drew the line politely but firmly, telling him to not do it anymore. This time, however, he began to express his worries with those words.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    ¡°Liv, you can¡¯t take care of Coryda alone forever. Do you know how tough the world is? You should meet a good guy before it¡¯s too late. Even if you are old, you have a pretty face, so if you choose well, there will be someone who will fall for you. I¡¯m telling you this because I think of you and Coryda like my daughters.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to. You have given me all the medicine, right? I¡¯ll be on my way. See you next time.¡±


    Liv said farewell quickly and brought out the medicine. The voice of the pharmacy owner, who shouted, ¡°Don¡¯t spill it!¡± followed behind her back. Liv touched her throbbing head and walked quickly.


    She, who was thinking of going straight home, stared at the narrow, dirty alley in front of her and changed direction impulsively.


    In her mind, she knew she had to get the medicine to Coryda quickly, but she couldn¡¯t bear it if she didn¡¯t stop somewhere and remove the stuffy stone that weighed on her mind.


    The place where she ended up after wandering around aimlessly was the chapel that she often visited.


    Liv made a despondent look at the fact that this was where her feet had led her. She had nowhere to go, nonetheless.


    Feeling somehow drained, she dropped her shoulders and swung her arms as she walked into the chapel. Someone in the front yard of the chapel seemed to have greeted her, but she was exhausted and could not afford to greet back.


    Liv, who took a seat at the corner end of the chapel, did not even see who was around, let alone the statue in front of that person. She just sat down, put the medicine bag on her lap, and looked down at it.


    Medicine.

 Chapter 19

    She had to shell out money whenever she needed to get this small amount of medicine. Eventually, she spent all the living expenses she had saved to buy this medicine. Because of the little medicine that was only a handful.


    Flicking the bag with her fingertips, Liv bit her lip hard.


    In fact, she did not believe in God.


    She didn¡¯t believe at all that praying to God would help her to overcome this difficulty.


    Because God had never listened to her prayers.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Drip. Drip.


    Round drops of tears fell on the medicine bag. No matter how hard she gritted her teeth and clenched her jaw, it wasn¡¯t easy for her to hold back the tears that had broken out.


    ¡°Liv, you can¡¯t take care of Coryda alone forever.¡±


    She actually had a hard time taking care of Coryda alone.


    So sometimes, she blamed her dead parents. She poured out words of condemnation, even though they were not to blame for their deaths.


    ¡°Do you know how tough the world is? You should meet a good guy before it¡¯s too late.¡±


    Of course, she also didn¡¯t want to struggle on making a livelihood at her age while other people had already got married.


    When she managed to graduate from boarding school, she had a future that she had dreamed of in her own way. In that future, she had a happier and more stable life, and she was loved.


    Why not? She used to be a dreamy girl, too!


    She knew that the solution proposed by the pharmacy owner wasn¡¯t bad. However, she just didn¡¯t want to sell her love and marriage at a cheap price to settle this barren life just to get a little room for breathing.


    Though other people would mock her for talking high and mighty.


    ¡­ In fact, she wanted to be cared for. It¡¯s just that the last bit of her pride wouldn¡¯t let her throw herself away like she was selling herself to someone.


    The uncontrollable tears clouded her vision. Liv closed her eyes tightly. Her eyelids, which were soaked as the water flowed down her cheeks, became a little lighter.


    Swallowing back her sobs, she slowly opened her eyes. She blinked away the teardrops in a couple of blinks, and her vision cleared to reveal the medicine bag and a handkerchief lying on top of it.


    Handkerchief?


    Liv looked up from staring blankly at the squarely folded handkerchief. Next to her stood a tall man, whom she had no idea when he had approached her. The person who was looking at the statue was someone she knew.


    ¡°¡­ The Lord of Dietrion?¡±


    The man¡¯s face looked exceptionally whiter today, perhaps because of his black frock.


    His face, viewed from below, still looked handsome, and the long eyelids drew her attention. The slow flickering reminded her of a butterfly¡¯s wings.


    He, who had been staring ahead quietly, suddenly tilted his head at an angle. A few strands of his platinum hair, which was swept back neatly and smoothly, fluttered down over his forehead.


    ¡°Even if God listens, he will not grant it.¡±


    The sarcastic murmur was so small that Liv could barely hear it. However, because the chapel was so quiet, she didn¡¯t have to listen hard to understand it.


    ¡°It is humans who have the power to achieve something, Teacher.¡±


    The low voice was terrifyingly chill, but at the same time alluring, like a siren¡¯s song.


    The blue eyes, which had been staring at the statue the whole time, glanced down at Liv.


    ¡°So pray to me.¡±


    The marquis¡¯s mouth twisted very faintly. That faint twist was clearly a smile. For a moment, everything in the world seemed to stop. The man, who usually attracted everyone¡¯s attention with his expressionless face only, was even smiling faintly, so there would be no one who did not kneel before him.


    It was the same with Liv. She stared at the man, who looked down on her arrogantly, as if possessed. This short moment of eye contact with him felt like an eon of time.


    ¡°Who knows? Maybe a miracle will happen.¡±


    Miracle.


    The word he spat out smelled sweet and lured her in.


    Will praying to the Marquis really make a miracle happen? Will this man grant my prayers that God couldn¡¯t grant?


    But why is this man saying this to me?


    Despite being dazed by the beauty of the man, a doubt rose in the corner of Liv¡¯s mind. Wasn¡¯t the Marquis of Dietrion displeased with me? He was annoyed because of the painting, so he was harassing¡­


    At that moment, as if he had noticed her doubts, the Marquis erased his smile and turned away without hesitation. When she saw the Marquis turning his back, Liv became impatient.


    As she realized that she wasn¡¯t given the time to think about the meaning of this, she suddenly felt this opportunity was like a stroke of luck that she couldn¡¯t pass up.


    ¡°I need money!¡±


    The words that came out like a thunderbolt were a raw, unadorned prayer.

 Chapter 20

    ¡°I heard that you told Brad to stop all his other work¡­ while he works on the painting for you, my Lord.¡±


    She heard it when she suggested to Brad to work on something else.


    Brad looked at Liv with a troubled look on his face and informed her that there was a clause in the contract he had signed that he would not paint another picture until the work was finished.


    It also meant that she could not earn additional income as a nude model until they finished the painting for the Marquis.


    This was quite a conundrum for Liv. If she were to work on the painting for the Marquis on top of the time she spent as a tutor for the Barony of Vendons, she would only get a few days off. There weren¡¯t a lot of places that would hire people who were only going to work a few days a week.


    The Marquis, whom Liv thought would just leave, looked back at her. He wore a cold face that Liv had seen many times.


    Liv, who had spoken out desperately, came to her senses as if she had been hit by cold water as soon as she saw the Marquis¡¯ face. Her face turned red with shame. Averting her gaze in a hurry, Liv rambled.


    ¡°Forgive me, my Lord. That was a slip of the tongue. I¡¯m not in a good situation right now¡­ I¡¯d appreciate it if you could give Brad a little more time so that he could finish the work quickly.¡±


    Liv could not bear to look at the Marquis and bowed her head further.


    She must have been crazy for a minute. She must have been so desperate that she forgot who the man in front of her was and spat out nonsense.


    A wave of shame and anxiety washed over her.


    What should I do if my brazenness upset the Marquis?


    What should I do if Brad¡¯s working time increases?


    As Liv rolled her eyes nervously, a neatly folded handkerchief came into view. Presumably of the Marquis. Leaving her wondering: if he is a man who would lend a handkerchief to a crying woman, then¡­


    A desperate hope rose from the depths of her heart.


    Maybe that man really said it out of pity and without hidden intention.


    ¡°Teacher, do you want to do extra work?¡±


    Liv looked up at the Marquis with a blank face. He was still indifferent, with a haughty look on his face.


    ¡°I will pay you well.¡±


    He was probably asking whether she wanted to work more after the painting work session. Liv only opened her eyes wide as she couldn¡¯t answer the sudden offer from the Marquis. As if he understood her surprise, the Marquis turned away nonchalantly.


    ¡°I will get that handkerchief back with your answer.¡±


    The steady footsteps rang across the chapel. Liv, gazing blankly at the back of the Marquis¡¯ back as he got further away, groped for her face.


    The tears on her cheeks were almost dry.


    ***


    The handkerchief was placed on the old desk.


    She didn¡¯t use it. She would rather soak her old sleeves as she couldn¡¯t even dream about using that fancy looking handkerchief.


    But just because it hadn¡¯t been used, it didn¡¯t seem reasonable to just give it back. Therefore, Liv wondered if she should wash it. She was in agony if the fabric would get damaged after she washed it with cheap soap.


    The supplies delivered to the aristocratic houses were not of the same quality as what people like her used, even if it was just a bar of soap. She wondered if it would be more rude to wash it and return it.


    ¡°Liv, who gave you this handkerchief?¡±


    Coryda asked the same question the whole time with a curious face. Liv could feel her strong and firm will to find out the owner of that handkerchief.


    That made Liv heave out a sigh to Coryda.


    ¡°I told you. The person only lent it to me, not gave it to me. I¡¯m going to give it back.¡±


    ¡°Then who lent it to you?¡±


    ¡°A good-hearted person.¡±


    Despite saying it, Liv found it to be a little funny. A good-hearted person. Is Demus Dietrion really a good-hearted person?


    ¡°So who¡¯s the good-hearted gentleman who gave my sister a handkerchief?¡±


    She hadn¡¯t said anything about the handkerchief¡¯s owner being a gentleman, but Coryda already had a sly grin on her face that said she knew everything. Liv gave Coryda a stern look.


    ¡°Coryda.¡±


    It was fortunate that there was no emblem or letters related to the Marquis¡¯ family on the handkerchief.


    If it was a handkerchief with a name embroidered on it, he wouldn¡¯t have lent it like this in the first place. He could get involved in a vulgar scandal if he did that.


    However, she was worried that the quality of the handkerchief was too good. While Coryda just focused on the fact that someone lent her a handkerchief because she didn¡¯t know it well, it was easy for people with good eyes to infer that the owner of the handkerchief is an aristocrat.


    Liv was determined to give it back as soon as possible.

 Chapter 21

    ¡°Liv. You have to tell me when you meet someone, okay?¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t happen, Coryda.¡±


    ¡°You are pretty, smart, and cool, so there must be a lot of people around you who have a crush on you!¡±


    Facing Coryda¡¯s shining eyes, Liv held her forehead and shook her head.


    ¡°The medicine must be working because you¡¯re so energetic. What a relief.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t refuse everyone just because you think of me, okay?¡±


    Coryda¡¯s worried tone made Liv pause.


    Coryda¡¯s worries were reasonable. This was because she had met several times with men who showed a slight interest in Liv but showed reluctance when they found out that she had a sick sister with her.


    She had never told Coryda about this, but her quick-witted sister quickly noticed the situation and felt sad. It was the reason why she was able to firmly tell the owner of the pharmacy not to set up a meeting for her anymore.


    It had been a while since Liv had been introduced to a man, but Coryda always had that incident in her mind. She also seemed to be worried about Liv not being introduced to anyone anymore. Liv had tried hard to explain to Coryda that she was past the marriageable age, but to no avail.


    ¡°Because I¡¯m fine¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not because of you. I¡¯m not interested in it. So let¡¯s stop talking about this useless thing.¡±


    The handkerchief seemed to have stimulated Coryda¡¯s imagination. Liv knew that she should be happy that Coryda, who was always at home, could be so perky, but she didn¡¯t like the topic of conversation. Liv picked up the handkerchief with an aloof look on her face.


    Coryda seemed to get the wrong idea because she was showing fear in one handkerchief.


    Liv decided to wash it first. The Marquis surely knew of her situation, so he wouldn¡¯t be surprised or offended by the use of cheap soap.


    And the Marquis¡¯ proposal for the ¡®extra work¡¯


    ¡°And, Coryda. The side job I told you about the other day. I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll be home a little later because I¡¯ve got more work to do.¡±


    ¡°Really? You must be good at work!¡±


    ¡°Yes, I guess.¡±


    Liv had no choice in the first place. Even though she didn¡¯t hear the details of the work, it was a proposal with a fixed answer.


    Liv turned toward the laundry room, clutching the handkerchief tightly.


    ***


    The painting work was not long today either.


    The artist tidied up the painting tools with a resigned face as if he was already used to the noise of another person interrupting him when he could concentrate on the work. Today, at least, he was able to move his hands busily and started coloring in earnest.


    Demus glanced at the canvas, then shifted his gaze to the woman, who stood a little farther away, wearing her clothes in silence. The white skin disappeared along the skillful and fast hands. Demus lightly moistened his lips with his tongue and opened his mouth.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to talk with the model for a moment, so leave with the carriage first.¡±


    ¡°Pardon? With, with Liv?¡±


    The artist looked at Demus with a puzzled look on his face, and then nodded his head in surprise. He replied, ¡°Understood, my Lord,¡± several times, and quickly gathered his things and left the studio.


    Liv, who was looking at the artist¡¯s back like a child watching her parents leave, swallowed her dry saliva. The nervous face looked pale.


    Instead of saying something to her, Demus strode out of the studio. It was because the strong smell of paint made his head throbbing and nauseous. The studio was ventilated and cleaned frequently, but it was useless. The smell of paint in the studio grew thicker, and Demus had less time to hold out.


    It was really troublesome.


    Demus suddenly became tired and lazy of all this trouble. However, his irritation died down slightly as he heard footsteps coming from behind. That body, though, well.


    He quite liked it.


    Even though Demus didn¡¯t bother to say anything, Liv quietly followed him. Demus liked the woman¡¯s quick wit. In addition, the fact that she did not make a loud noise every time she moved, and her faint presence, barely noticeable, was not that bad.


    Liv, unlike most people, did not try hard to get Demus¡¯ attention. Rather, she seemed to try to stay out of Demus¡¯s sight somehow.


    Unfortunately, regardless of her efforts, she was quite a standout person.


    ¡°Prepare the tea.¡±


    Entering the drawing room, he ordered the servant and casually sat on the sofa. Liv, who had followed him into the drawing room, hesitated for a moment and then sat up straight across from Demus.


    The auburn hair, which had been disheveled until a while ago, was neatly tied up, and the clothes that were thoroughly buttoned up to the neck were too neat. It was simply the appearance of a great teacher.


    Demus found Liv¡¯s stark change in just a few minutes to be interesting. When he first found her, he never expected that she would be so interesting.

 Chapter 22

    ¡°This is the handkerchief you lent me before¡±


    The finely folded handkerchief smelled different than when he handed it to her. The unfamiliar smell of soap from the returned handkerchief was particularly strong.


    Demus, who only glanced at the handkerchief, leaned against the backrest.


    ¡°And for your suggestion of extra work, I would like to hear the content first.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t tell you unless you make sure that you will do it.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°I simply don¡¯t want to open my mouth to someone unrelated.¡±


    The fact that she had to sign the contract to hear the content meant that it was not an honorable work. Liv, who understood the meaning at once, made a firm face and turned silent.


    Seeing that, Demus sat with his long legs crossed and enjoyed her face leisurely. He actually hated to waste time, but he decided to give Liv enough time to think.


    No, looking back, the way he had been treating Liv lately had been an anomaly. Is she really worth it?


    Demus took out his cigar and thought for a moment. Worth, huh¡­ In fact, he hadn¡¯t found anything like that yet. For the time being, she wasn¡¯t worth more than a curiosity.


    At first, it was just a painting. And it was a very poor painting to boot.


    It was not the artist¡¯s rough brushstrokes or tacky colors that caught Demus¡¯ eyes. It was the woman who stood awkwardly on the painting.


    Shame was evident in the awkward pose, and the body, which had a good frame, was as thin as a sickly horse. The naked back revealed the despair she had.


    So, the reason Demus bought Brad¡¯s painting for the first time wasn¡¯t because he was a good painter. It was because the painting was full of the model¡¯s presence, not the painter¡¯s motive.


    It was a very new experience for him. Demus, who had seen and collected countless works of nudes, had never seen such a horrible painting. The painter could barely manage to transfer the model in front of him onto the canvas instead of painting his work. Or maybe the model¡¯s strong atmosphere seized the artist¡¯s unconsciousness and manipulated him to paint it like that.


    The artist would never make a proper debut. He was a man of no ability. The model herself wasn¡¯t a great one, obviously.


    The model was so bad that it was a hassle to even call her a model. The result of the collaboration of the two amateur beings was the painting in front of him.


    It was interesting to see the poor painting, which looked as if it had been rolled in the mud.


    Maybe I just got lucky and found it.


    With that in mind, Demus bought a second nude painting of Brad. Like the first nude painting, it was the back, and the posture was still stiff.


    It would be more natural to just paint a piece of wood. Wouldn¡¯t any of the maids who work in the hallway of the mansion do better as a nude model than that?


    Even though he thought so, Demus could not take his eyes off the painting. The third was no different.


    Then he became curious. How come it¡¯s just the back?


    What kind of expression would the woman with that back have?


    Therefore, he said allusively. Telling the painter to draw the model¡¯s face with all his might. However, he never expected that she would be so surprised that her side face was drawn a little bit.


    She seemed to believe that all the danger would disappear once she managed to retrieve the painting with her face revealed.


    Demus, however, thought she wasn¡¯t just naive but stupid if she really believed that she could wrap everything up her way.


    ¡°I will do it.¡±


    Demus¡¯ consciousness snapped to the surface. Puffing on his cigar out of habit, he nonchalantly shifted his gaze to the person in front of him.


    ¡°I will do the extra work.¡±


    She was as determined as a soldier on the battlefield. She looked very pale as if she had expected him to order the worst. Demus laughed coldly at Liv¡¯s stiff shoulders.


    She probably thought that she should sacrifice something valuable for her. Yet what was valuable to her was just like a stone on the street for Demus.


    ¡°It won¡¯t be a difficult job for you, so you don¡¯t have to be so scared.¡±


    Liv raised her quivering gaze. Just as she was about to open her mouth to say something, a servant showed up with a mobile trolley.


    The trained servant set up the tea with little sound. The teacup prepared on the table was for one person only.


    Liv¡¯s face turned red as she noticed that she didn¡¯t have her share. Perhaps she was feeling humiliated. Demus spoke indifferently, not caring.


    ¡°The servant will be waiting for you once you leave this room. Follow him, listen to the explanation, and sign the contract.¡±


    Liv, who was biting her lips and clutching her skirt, got up calmly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be on my way.¡±


    ¡°I look forward to working with you, Teacher.¡±

 Chapter 23

    He could feel Liv¡¯s gaze through the smoke of his cigar.  She answered, ¡°Yes,¡± in a very small voice, and turned quickly.


    Meanwhile, the servant, who finished preparing the refreshments, found the handkerchief on the table.


    ¡°I¡¯ll send this to the laundry room.¡±


    Demus, who had been staring at the closed drawing room door, blowing smoke nonchalantly, turned his head.


    He didn¡¯t even think about washing it in the first place. He ordered insensitively without giving a glance.


    ¡°Throw it away.¡±


    The servant bowed his head and left the room with the handkerchief. The smell of the cheap soap remained where the handkerchief had been and gradually faded away.


    Only cigar smoke filled the quiet drawing room. Demus, who was sitting leisurely on the sofa smoking a cigar, reached for the teacup and paused.


    He frowned slightly as he saw his long fingers in white gloves. As though he didn¡¯t like it, he rubbed his index finger and thumb together, falling into thought, and raised himself.


    Demus, who stood up leaving the tea untouched, strode out of the drawing room.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the teacher?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s signing the contract.¡±


    ¡°Bring her when she¡¯s done.¡±


    He felt nauseated. Unfortunately, there was nothing in this mansion, which had been hastily prepared in a faraway place, to soothe Demus¡¯ sick stomach at the moment. Thus, it couldn¡¯t be helped.


    ¡°Tell her to start the job today.¡±


    He was eager to check the effectiveness of the poor model.


    ***


    The Marquis did not lie.


    Everything in the contract offered by the man named the Marquis¡¯ aide was as the Marquis had said. As he had guaranteed, the hourly wage was set very high, and it was not a difficult task she needed to be scared of.


    ¡°So, Mr. Adolf, right? I will really get paid this much¡­ just to do this?¡±


    The extra work the Marquis asked Liv to do was very easy. It was just to spend more time with him naked.


    They would not do anything else, just stay in the same room. It was written that he would not inflict injury, nor would he cause her life to be in danger.


    ¡°Of course, Teacher.¡±


    Liv¡¯s cheeks flushed. She was ashamed of the title ¡°teacher¡± that came out of the straight face. Was it because she wasn¡¯t there to teach anyone, or was it because she felt like she was criticized for secretly doing this thing while working as a home tutor?


    Perhaps the latter.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it is appropriate to call me with the teacher title.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry if it offended you. That¡¯s what the Marquis calls you.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Do you know me well?¡±


    ¡°Are you asking me? I¡¯m sorry, I only know as much as I¡¯ve been instructed to, Teach¡­ I mean, Miss Rhodes.¡±


    It was a very vague remark. Liv tried to guess in her own way, but she couldn¡¯t find a suitable speculation.


    In the first place, it didn¡¯t occur to her that the Marquis would be interested enough in her to give Adolf an order to investigate her or give any individual order. He would think of her as just someone to do an uncanny¡­ extra work.


    Liv¡¯s eyes turned to the contract. No matter how many times she read it, the content did not change.


    ¡°Please sign below to finalize the agreement. The salary will be paid in cash on the same day, but if you have any other way you want¡­¡±


    ¡°I prefer cash, too. But it doesn¡¯t say the contract period.¡±


    ¡°Oh, that.¡±


    Adolf paused for a moment, and then went on calmly.


    ¡°It is until the Marquis says he doesn¡¯t need it anymore.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Do I have no choice at all?¡±


    ¡°Do you need a choice?¡±


    In other words, it was also a question of whether there was anything for her to choose. Seeing that Liv, whose complexion had returned to normal for a while, was turning pale again, Adolf quickly continued his explanation.


    ¡°It is not my place to judge recklessly, but I think this contract is good enough for you now, Miss Rhodes. Unless there is a problem, the Marquis will continue the contract, and you will easily earn a stable side income. If what bothers you is the Marquis¡¯ change of mind, you don¡¯t have to worry about that either. Even if you work for only one day, we will give you enough compensation money for your hard work.¡±


    There will be no job anywhere to give compensation money for just working a day. Liv¡¯s heart, which had been shaken for a while, became firm again at the thought of money.


    She was never in a situation where she could be picky. Liv pulled herself together as she thought of Coryda.

 Chapter 24

    Meanwhile, the servant, who finished preparing the refreshments, found the handkerchief on the table.


    ¡°I¡¯ll send this to the laundry room.¡±


    Demus, who had been staring at the closed drawing room door, blowing smoke nonchalantly, turned his head.


    He didn¡¯t even think about washing it in the first place. He ordered insensitively without giving a glance.


    ¡°Throw it away.¡±


    The servant bowed his head and left the room with the handkerchief. The smell of the cheap soap remained where the handkerchief had been and gradually faded away.


    Only cigar smoke filled the quiet drawing room. Demus, who was sitting leisurely on the sofa smoking a cigar, reached for the teacup and paused.


    He frowned slightly as he saw his long fingers in white gloves. As though he didn¡¯t like it, he rubbed his index finger and thumb together, falling into thought, and raised himself.


    Demus, who stood up leaving the tea untouched, strode out of the drawing room.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the teacher?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s signing the contract.¡±


    ¡°Bring her when she¡¯s done.¡±


    He felt nauseated. Unfortunately, there was nothing in this mansion, which had been hastily prepared in a faraway place, to soothe Demus¡¯ sick stomach at the moment. Thus, it couldn¡¯t be helped.


    ¡°Tell her to start the job today.¡±


    He was eager to check the effectiveness of the poor model.


    ***


    The Marquis did not lie.


    Everything in the contract offered by the man named the Marquis¡¯ aide was as the Marquis had said. As he had guaranteed, the hourly wage was set very high, and it was not a difficult task she needed to be scared of.


    ¡°So, Mr. Adolf, right? I will really get paid this much¡­ just to do this?¡±


    The extra work the Marquis asked Liv to do was very easy. It was just to spend more time with him naked.


    They would not do anything else, just stay in the same room. It was written that he would not inflict injury, nor would he cause her life to be in danger.


    ¡°Of course, Teacher.¡±


    Liv¡¯s cheeks flushed. She was ashamed of the title ¡°teacher¡± that came out of the straight face. Was it because she wasn¡¯t there to teach anyone, or was it because she felt like she was criticized for secretly doing this thing while working as a home tutor?


    Perhaps the latter.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it is appropriate to call me with the teacher title.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry if it offended you. That¡¯s what the Marquis calls you.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Do you know me well?¡±


    ¡°Are you asking me? I¡¯m sorry, I only know as much as I¡¯ve been instructed to, Teach¡­ I mean, Miss Rhodes.¡±


    It was a very vague remark. Liv tried to guess in her own way, but she couldn¡¯t find a suitable speculation.


    In the first place, it didn¡¯t occur to her that the Marquis would be interested enough in her to give Adolf an order to investigate her or give any individual order. He would think of her as just someone to do an uncanny¡­ extra work.


    Liv¡¯s eyes turned to the contract. No matter how many times she read it, the content did not change.


    ¡°Please sign below to finalize the agreement. The salary will be paid in cash on the same day, but if you have any other way you want¡­¡±


    ¡°I prefer cash, too. But it doesn¡¯t say the contract period.¡±


    ¡°Oh, that.¡±


    Adolf paused for a moment, and then went on calmly.


    ¡°It is until the Marquis says he doesn¡¯t need it anymore.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Do I have no choice at all?¡±


    ¡°Do you need a choice?¡±


    In other words, it was also a question of whether there was anything for her to choose. Seeing that Liv, whose complexion had returned to normal for a while, was turning pale again, Adolf quickly continued his explanation.


    ¡°It is not my place to judge recklessly, but I think this contract is good enough for you now, Miss Rhodes. Unless there is a problem, the Marquis will continue the contract, and you will easily earn a stable side income. If what bothers you is the Marquis¡¯ change of mind, you don¡¯t have to worry about that either. Even if you work for only one day, we will give you enough compensation money for your hard work.¡±


    There will be no job anywhere to give compensation money for just working a day. Liv¡¯s heart, which had been shaken for a while, became firm again at the thought of money.


    She was never in a situation where she could be picky. Liv pulled herself together as she thought of Coryda.

 Chapter 25

    While she was calmly undressing, the Marquis¡¯ eyes did not fall off her. Holding a hand-filled wine glass in one hand, he stared intently at Liv¡¯s naked body. When he saw Liv, who had been standing awkwardly, sitting on the bed carefully, he finally looked away with a sigh.


    Liv, who glanced at the Marquis, who was drinking wine with a calmer expression, could not hold back the silence and parted her lips first.


    ¡°Do I just need to stay like this, my Lord?¡±


    She didn¡¯t let out a particularly loud voice, but the room was so quiet that the question rang louder than she expected. The Marquis, who sat leisurely savoring the wine, glanced at Liv. Recognizing the question in the gaze, Liv moistened her dry lips with her tongue and continued her question carefully.


    ¡°Do I just need to take off my clothes like this and do nothing¡­¡±


    ¡°Did you sign the contract without reading it? Or did my aide force you to sign it without proper explanation?¡±


    It was a sarcastic question because he said it even though he knew it couldn¡¯t be. He was originally a man who had no affection or warmth, but she never expected he would act without moderation.


    Liv averted her gaze slightly to hide her little embarrassment.


    ¡°¡­ Mr. Adolf informed me that I just need to spend time naked in a room with you, my Lord.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve heard it right. So?¡±


    ¡°I was wondering¡­ if there might be something else you wanted.¡±


    ¡°Me to you?¡±


    The Marquis seemed to have no intention of treating Liv with the same minimal decorum. It was clear that he didn¡¯t feel the need to do so from the moment the contract was signed. Otherwise, how could he laugh at her so blatantly?


    ¡°I thought you were a little different, but I guess you weren¡¯t.¡±


    Liv¡¯s face flushed lightly. It was because she realized that he rated her the same as the women who chased after him.


    Liv was assured that she was different from those women. She had no intention of doing anything to win the Marquis¡¯ love, money, or position. Not only did she not covet them, but she wasn¡¯t a fool who didn¡¯t know that excessive greed would bring her harm.


    In the first place, she wouldn¡¯t be here if she didn¡¯t need money.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that. It¡¯s because this situation is not common.¡±


    Answering in a firm voice, Liv suppressed her raging emotion. She wanted to leave immediately when she faced the Marquis¡¯ disdainful gaze. However, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to do so because the bloody numbers on the contract she signed a while ago were haunting her.


    ¡°As you have said, I have an ¡°uncommon taste,¡± and that¡¯s why I paid you to sit there.¡±


    The Marquis replied coldly, swirling the wine glass he held in his hand, and scoffed.


    ¡°So will you sit there and be a nice plant?¡±


    ¡°A plant¡­¡±


    How could he make someone sit there and say that?


    Before Liv could respond, the Marquis added in an apathetic tone.


    ¡°To call you a statue or something, honestly, you are not worth it yet.¡±


    Liv opened her mouth without realizing it.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember putting in something noisy. Is there any plant that can speak?¡±


    The Marquis told her to shut up in a very refined way. Liv gritted her teeth, taking a deep breath, and turned her head.


    Perhaps the Marquis didn¡¯t need a body to appreciate, but something to insult comfortably. She had noticed that he wouldn¡¯t treat her from the moment she wasn¡¯t treated for a cup of tea, but even so, how could¡­


    Liv, who was breathing hard, sat with her back completely to the Marquis. He didn¡¯t ask her to make a particular pose, so she was just going to sit around. The Marquis sipped his wine again and lost himself in his own thoughts, seeming to have no intention of complaining. The smell of the cigars mingled with the smell of the wine behind her from time to time.


    As he didn¡¯t talk to her, Liv fell into her own thoughts. She looked down indifferently at her naked body. The plump chest and flat belly fat were not quite bad for her to see.


    She wouldn¡¯t even have been able to make money in this way if she had a scar, so she was grateful for her natural body.


    Yes, how funny I, a teacher, must have looked to the Marquis when I went into the studio and took off my clothes? After all, I brought it on myself for him to treat me this way.


    The depressing emotion made her heart throb, and Liv closed her eyes tightly.


    She imagined this was a studio, and there was Brad behind her. And she thought about the rather large amount of salary she would receive once this moment was over.


    In this way, she had the energy to hold out for a little while longer.

 Chapter 26

    ¡°You can stop here.¡±


    ¡°Yes. Then, go home safely.¡±


    Listening to the coachman¡¯s kind greetings, Liv carefully got out of the carriage.


    Having just returned from a magnificent and huge mansion, she felt for a moment as if she had awoken from a spell.


    Liv stared at the black carriage as it disappeared into the darkness, and then stepped forward while pulling on her outer clothes. Walking through the narrow and dirty road, she wondered whether what had just happened was really real.


    The white room, the air that smelled like a mix of wine and cigars, the sharp and persistent gaze¡­


    The whole thing played in her head like a midsummer night¡¯s dream. The stronger the horrible smell of the sewer hit the tip of the nose, the more dreamy the memory was perceived. It was literally an unreal feeling.


    Liv clutched her clothes even tighter. Then she felt the texture of the thick envelope she kept deep in her arms.


    Ah, it wasn¡¯t a dream.


    For a few hours of sitting around naked, she was paid an unimaginable amount of money.


    It wasn¡¯t like anyone would find out about it, but Liv walked nervously, fearing that the envelope of money would be snatched from her. Fortunately, she arrived home in no time.


    ¡°Liv!¡±


    As soon as she opened the door, Coryda welcomed Liv with a beaming face. Coryda stood at the door, apparently nervous about Liv getting home much later than usual.


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m late, aren¡¯t I? Did you have dinner?¡±


    ¡°I did¡­ How about you?¡±


    Liv only realized that she hadn¡¯t had dinner when she heard Coryda¡¯s question. While she was with the Marquis, her mind was so occupied with nervousness that she couldn¡¯t afford to think about a meal. With the late realization of hunger, her body reacted immediately.


    Growl.


    The thunderous roar answered instead of Liv. Coryda grumbled, wondering how Baroness Vendons could make her work without giving her time to eat, no matter how much work there was.


    ¡°I only delayed my meal to deal with the work quickly.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know Baroness Vendons was such an ungenerous person.¡±


    ¡°Coryda. You can¡¯t say that. You don¡¯t know how grateful I am to her.¡±


    ¡°Are you going to be this late from now on?¡±


    A faint anxiety flashed through Coryda¡¯s grumpy face. Liv always came home before sunset, so she might have been scared to stay at home alone until late like today.


    Liv stroked Coryda¡¯s head with an apologetic face.


    ¡°I think yes for the time being.¡±


    She felt sorry for Coryda, but when she felt the heavy weight of the envelope of money, she couldn¡¯t even lie that she would come early.


    For just one day, she could stop worrying about a month¡¯s rent and Coryda¡¯s medication. If she continued to do the extra work for one month, she would be able to save enough money for living expenses and have plenty of money left over.


    Even if she did the extra work only until Brad¡¯s work ended, she could save enough money for a few months.


    ¡°I will make sure you don¡¯t run out of medicine. I will also pay the monthly rent in advance so that Uncle Pommel won¡¯t bother you anymore. So please be patient. Okay?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Yes.¡±


    After hugging Coryda, who looked grumpy, Liv opened the pantry and thought about a late dinner. For the first time in a long while, she felt a faint glimmer of hope.


    ***


    I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m sitting in a coffee house without any pressure like this.


    Liv looked down at the cup in front of her and felt astonished with her change. In the past, she would have passed the coffee house without even looking at it. She couldn¡¯t believe that only a few times of doing the extra work had made her feel so relaxed.


    It was definitely a pleasure, but it was just a pity that she wasn¡¯t excited at all.


    ¡°You look down.¡±


    ¡°Sorry?¡±


    ¡°Did I ask for too much today?¡±


    After listening to Camille, Liv realized she had lost her focus. She quickly shook her head and apologized for her rudeness.


    Camille shook his hand casually, but worry was still in his eyes. That was how bad Liv looked to him.


    ¡°No, you didn¡¯t. I was thinking about something else. It¡¯s not a big deal.¡±


    It really wasn¡¯t a big deal. It was just that the extra work she had recently started was causing her more fatigue than she expected.


    All she did was take off her clothes and sit down for a few hours, like when she modeled nude for Brad, but it was a strange thing why she felt so mentally tired.


    The Marquis¡¯ presence alone sharpened her senses, and whenever they had a chance to talk, he trampled her self-esteem casually.


    ¡°You say you¡¯re a model, but all you can do is sit still?¡±


    ¡°Do you want me to dance?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were teaching dance to the only child of the Vendons family.¡±


    ¡°¡­ You don¡¯t have to bring it up.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a teacher even if you¡¯re naked, but it seems like you don¡¯t take pride in your job.¡±

 Chapter 27

    Remembering the conversation they shared recently was enough to give her a headache. She didn¡¯t expect the name of ¡°Vendons Barony¡± to come out of his lips. He didn¡¯t have the slightest respect for Liv, a home tutor, and it was clear that he wanted to laugh at her.


    If it wasn¡¯t for the weight of the envelope that Adolf gave her, she might have run away.


    The money was too much for her to give it up for reasons such as mental fatigue.


    Liv tried hard to pull herself together and face Camille.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid my request for advice is troubling you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s really okay. You said it¡¯s about Millian, so I should know.¡±


    It was because of Millian that she was sitting face to face with Camille in this tired state. He sent her a very serious and long letter saying he had something to consult about Millian.


    He was such an eloquent writer that Liv, who had no intention of meeting him, changed her mind at once.


    ¡°I¡¯ve only heard that Millian is sick and will not be able to attend the class for a while. Did something happen to Millian?¡±


    Liv came to remember that it had been a while since the class was on break, but she hadn¡¯t heard from the Vendons about starting it again. Camille frowned and nodded cautiously at Liv¡¯s question.


    ¡°Well, maybe. I¡¯ve been asked to teach one day and take the next day off, but¡­ Now that I think about it, I realize that Millian I saw in class was not her usual self.¡±


    To begin with, Millian was a very healthy child and she would run around when everyone else had a cold.


    Liv was quite envious whenever she saw it from time to time. She had thought to herself dozens of times that it would be great if Coryda could have at least half of that physical strength.


    Thus, it was true that she was surprised to hear that Millian was sick. But she thought she would get well soon¡­


    ¡°What do you mean by not her usual self?¡±


    ¡°Yes. As you already know, Millian is a happy and cheerful girl. But in the last class, she looked very depressed. Rather than being sick, she looked like she had a lot of worries. But when I asked her, she didn¡¯t say anything.¡±


    When she heard that, she immediately thought of Millian¡¯s birthday party. The appearance of the Marquis of Dietrion, which no one could have expected. Millian who was embarrassed, and the young girls of her age who looked at her strangely.


    Liv was well aware of how broad the range of emotions young girls at that age could have. And how they express those emotions without moderation. In the aristocratic society, the low position with abundant wealth could be interpreted differently from person to person.


    However, she erased the thought right away. It was not a matter that could be hastily conjectured.


    ¡°When I heard that she was sick, I thought I was fired because there was a problem with my class. But then I heard that all the classes were suspended. You are the closest teacher to Millian, so I called you because I thought you might know something. This may sound materialistic, but I¡¯m also concerned if the break will be long because it will interfere with my life.¡±


    Liv let out a low lamentation at Camille¡¯s earnest words. As she felt sorry for doubting that he might have had other intentions in the meeting under the pretext of Millian, she took the conversation more seriously.


    Liv, in fact, didn¡¯t feel that she was the closest teacher to Millian. Although she felt a certain affinity with Millian, who was close to Coryda¡¯s age, she was not a home tutor who moved into the Vendons¡¯ residence, and the method of visiting and teaching only on a set date was the same as that of other teachers.


    She did, however, admit to some degree that Millian was comfortable with her. Being the closest in age to her, Liv¡¯s casual demeanor outside of class was one of the reasons Millian found her so approachable.


    It was the kind of relationship where if Millian had a problem, she would come to Liv.


    ¡°Well, I haven¡¯t¡­ heard anything in particular. Actually, I haven¡¯t seen Millian since the birthday party.¡±


    ¡°Is that true?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think there wasn¡¯t a problem with your class, Mr. Marcel. If there had been, Baroness Vendons would have told you right away.¡±


    Camille looked dubious, but nodded readily.


    ¡°I seem to have thought rashly. It calms me down to hear your words, Miss Rhodes.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t tell you anything particularly helpful.¡±


    ¡°Not really¡­¡±


    ¡°Liv?¡±


    A loud voice intervened between the moderately staid and formal conversation.


    Liv, who raised her head to the familiar voice, opened her eyes wide.

 Chapter 28

    ¡°Brad?¡±


    ¡°Liv, what a surprise to see you here.¡±


    Brad, dressed in clean casual clothes and a hunting cap instead of a paint covered work suit, smiled brightly at Liv.


    He took Liv¡¯s hand and shook it, then looked up in surprise when he found Camille sitting across from Liv.


    ¡°This man is¡­¡±


    The fading words seemed to be mixed with impure speculation. Brad, with his eyes wide open, looked back at Liv with an insidious smile.


    Liv quickly opened her mouth because she was afraid that he would say nonsense.


    ¡°He is Millian¡¯s art teacher. We¡¯re talking for a moment because we have something to discuss about the guidance method.¡±


    There was no need to explain the reason for the meeting in detail, but Liv tried hard to explain it. But for all her trouble, Brad was not looking at this encounter innocently at all.


    ¡°Aha, I see. Please take good care of Liv. Hahaha!¡±


    Brad seemed to want to help by posing as a relative of Liv. Liv covered her face in embarrassment.


    Camille, looking at Brad who suddenly stepped in, with a bitter expression, nodded reluctantly.


    ¡°Oh, yes.¡±


    ¡°So you are an art teacher. I¡¯m a painter, so I can relate to you!¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    Camille¡¯s blunt answer was enough to tell how displeased he was with this situation now.


    Liv poked Brad¡¯s arm with her fingertip and pointed behind him.


    ¡°Brad. It looks like you have company.¡±


    A middle-aged man standing a little away and glancing at them must have been Brad¡¯s company. Liv casually looked over at the middle-aged man.


    The middle-aged man, wearing a top hat and a decent frock coat, had a generous and benevolent air about him. He looked too elegant to be hanging out with Brad, so Liv even doubted for a moment that she was wrong. She couldn¡¯t imagine that Brad, who usually liked to gamble and drink, had such an acquaintance.


    Just as Liv¡¯s look was about to turn into a look of suspicion, Brad cheerfully said goodbye to her.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s right. Well, I¡¯ll be on my way!¡±


    Liv wondered if she was just imagining that he seemed more excited than usual.


    Liv stared at the back of Brad¡¯s head as he walked to the back of the shop while talking to the middle-aged man who smiled politely.


    Brad was happy to have a meeting with a middle-aged gentleman in a coffee house like this, not in a bar. The more she looked at it, the stranger it became.


    ¡°You have an unexpected connection.¡±


    Liv, who had been brooding over the weirdness she felt a while ago, came to her senses at once. Camille followed her to look in the direction where Brad had disappeared, still frowning.


    It wasn¡¯t just a look at a rude person who barged into the conversation without asking for permission. Liv, tilting her head, asked in a cautious tone.


    ¡°Do you happen to know Brad?¡±


    ¡°I know he¡¯s a painter who gets rejected from art shows every year.¡±


    Camille majored in art. He even came from a very famous art school.


    However, being a graduate of the Eglantine School of Art did not mean that he knew all the painters across the country.


    ¡°But there are a lot of artists like him.¡±


    ¡°¡­ If an artist who gets rejected every year walks around proudly, saying that he has recently met a huge supporter, I can¡¯t help but know.¡±


    Liv became speechless and closed her mouth in response to Camille¡¯s bitter answer.


    It was obvious who Brad was referring to as a ¡°huge supporter.¡± Their work was strictly a secret, and even though he said it ambiguously, Liv was worried if it was okay to tell it around like that.


    She thought they had shared the same opinion for the Marquis, who constantly interfered at every working time. But it seemed that he still hadn¡¯t given up with the sponsorship.


    ¡°That person didn¡¯t look well-behaved. Of course, it would not be right for me to interfere in your personal life, but¡­ I¡¯m a person of this field, so wouldn¡¯t I have heard more? I would recommend that you keep as much distance from him as possible.¡±


    Camille lowered his voice and advised with a worried look. Staring at Liv, who was lost in thought instead of answering, he continued cautiously.


    ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m curious how you got close to such a man. You don¡¯t seem to have any contact with him at all.¡±


    As he said, Liv and Brad apparently had no contact at all. There was no way they could have met, except by chance, since they lived in different places and did different things. Liv recalled a more distant past.


    She met Brad not long after she came to Buerno.


    It was a day when she was tired after a long trip with Coryda, who was sick. While staying at an inn for a short time, Liv looked for a place to stay and found a not bad looking room for a very low price.

 Chapter 29

    Liv was mesmerized and almost contracted the room, even though it had already been rented out to people a few times. When she thought about it afterwards, she concluded that she was probably so tired that she didn¡¯t want to think deeply anymore.


    As it turned out, the person who introduced her to the room was an impostor. While the real landlord was away for a while on a long trip, he tried to rent the room by pretending to be the landlord.


    It was Brad who stopped the fraudulent contract. Brad didn¡¯t intervene because he had a righteous personality. It was because he was also a victim who almost got scammed.


    At that time, he was looking for a studio, and he said he almost lost a lot of money to that impostor. Just before Liv was about to sign the contract, Brad showed up at the office and started ranting about the scam. Thanks to him, Liv didn¡¯t sign the contract.


    It had been such a long time since they had known each other. When asked about their first meeting, Brad didn¡¯t claim his credit and evaluated that Liv was just lucky. Nevertheless, Liv was grateful enough to Brad.


    Since then, he gave her some work from time to time, and she couldn¡¯t help but feel even more grateful to him.


    ¡°I owe him a favor. I got a lot of help when I settled in Buerno. I don¡¯t know what he¡¯s known for as an artist, but to me, he¡¯s an acquaintance I¡¯m grateful for.¡±


    Camille raised his eyebrows in surprise at the calm answer from Liv. Then he said as if he was sorry.


    ¡°I was too harsh.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. What¡¯s good for me isn¡¯t necessarily good for others.¡±


    Liv answered casually and raised her cup. She didn¡¯t think they had a long conversation, but there was only a sip of coffee left. Meanwhile, Camille had emptied his cup earlier.


    ¡°Hmm, I¡¯m very impressed with that statement.¡±


    After exclaiming lowly, Camille leaned his head to the side and asked.


    ¡°What kind of person am I to you?¡±


    ¡°We haven¡¯t seen each other long enough to define anything. It¡¯s only our second time meeting.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡±


    Camille burst into a small laugh.


    ¡°I should also try to be a good person to you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡ª¡±


    Camille got up first, blatantly preventing Liv from trying to say something.


    ¡°Oh, shall we get up now?¡±


    He looked as if he knew what she was going to say without even listening to it. He picked up his hat with a refreshing smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m the one who asked for today¡¯s meeting, so I¡¯ll pay for the coffee.¡±


    ¡°What? But.¡±


    ¡°If it bothers you, please buy it for me next time.¡±


    Liv felt once again that Camille was a very experienced man as she watched him, who went to pay quickly with a cool smile.


    Perhaps if she had been a little younger and better off, she might have felt a flutter of excitement for the young man. Maybe she could have daydreamed about their future and developed her feelings.


    Unfortunately, however, Liv Rhodes, who could have such a dream, was gone. Standing there, she was a pathetic little woman who felt lucky to save money for a cup of coffee.


    Liv lowered her gaze bitterly and tied the bonnet string under her chin.


    Her situation would have improved a little, but it would not have changed fundamentally.


    Maybe until the day she died.


    ***


    After the meeting with Camille, a letter arrived to Liv when she was thinking about visiting the Vendons Barony first. With the news that Millian was finally awake, it was about the resumption of Millian¡¯s class, which had been delayed.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve seen you, Miss Rhodes. Please take good care of our Millian today.¡±


    After greeting Baroness Vendons, who welcomed her warmly as usual, Liv left with a maid.


    Liv, who visited the House of Vendons for the first time in a long time, easily noticed the change in the mansion. There were many more works of art than before.


    Although she knew that the Vendons would periodically bring in beautiful furniture because they liked to decorate the mansion in the vintage style, it was an unusual change that the number of artworks increased so noticeably.


    Many works were displayed as if to show off to someone, but considering that this was a mansion and not an exhibition hall, it seemed a bit excessive.


    Especially, considering that Baron Vendons had only recently shown his interest in art.


    Of course, they didn¡¯t need Liv to tell them how to spend a lot of their money.


    After staring at a large frame on the wall with an ambiguous face, Liv quietly moved on. Millian was waiting for her in the study room as always.

 Chapter 30

    ¡°Millian, it¡¯s really been a long time.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Teacher.¡±


    At first glance, Millian¡¯s smile was no different than usual. Seeing that her cheeks had become a bit slimmer, she seemed to have lost weight, but Millian did not seem to want to talk about the time when she was sick.


    But when she opened the textbook, she quickly whined with a gloomy face.


    ¡°My head hurts because it¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve studied. Can¡¯t I take a break today?¡±


    Instead of being really sick, she looked like she wanted to play because she didn¡¯t want to study.


    Liv, who was about to shake her head as strictly as usual, soon changed her mind. Although she didn¡¯t hear anything from Millian, she was certain that something had happened to her during the break.


    She didn¡¯t know what had happened, but Millian must have been in a lot of trouble, so it would be good to relax for a day.


    ¡°All right. If Lady Vendons allows us, let¡¯s go out today for a change.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I heard they¡¯re floating a boat decorated with flowers on the lake these days. Aren¡¯t you curious?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m curious!¡±


    ¡°I will go and ask, so wait a minute.¡±


    She thought it might get turned down because it was an impulsive outing, but surprisingly, Baroness Vendons told her to go willingly and prepared a carriage. She, too, seemed to have been aware of her daughter¡¯s gloomy condition.


    ¡°If anything, it¡¯s something I¡¯m grateful for. I was worried because she didn¡¯t eat properly and didn¡¯t go outside.¡±


    Baroness Vendons added that the child, who had never been sick in her life, was suffering badly from a cold and seemed to have lost a lot of energy. It was implied that they could go out for a change, but not to overdo it. Liv nodded coolly and accepted her request.


    A maid joined them on their schedule, having hastily packed refreshments in the kitchen. The preparations were not too bad for an impulsive outing.


    ¡°Wow, look at the sky!¡±


    Liv breathed a sigh of inner relief at the sight of Millian pointing out the carriage window excitedly. The liveliness at Millian¡¯s complexion told her that it was a good decision.


    The scenery of the lake, which they used to sit by, was beautiful as ever. The open landscape moved her like no other landscape painting could. There was no frame to limit the view, so as far as the eye could reach was simply a painting and a work of art. It was even enough to make people forget a moment of worry.


    ¡°Teacher, it¡¯s a flower boat!¡±


    Millian, who was waiting for the refreshments prepared by the maid, exclaimed and pointed to the lake. Sure enough, in the distance, a small boat filled with colorful fresh flowers floated gently by.


    Liv had heard about it in the store, but it was also her first time seeing it in person.


    ¡°Wow, it¡¯s so pretty. Can¡¯t we ride it?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think we can.¡±


    First, the boat was too small, and it was full of flowers. Millian made a sullen face and drooped her shoulders as she heard Liv¡¯s answer. But then she made a resolution with a coy face.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to ask my dad to buy me a boat! A boat that¡¯s much prettier than that!¡±


    ¡°A boat?¡±


    ¡°Yes! I¡¯ll invite you first if I buy a boat! You have to ride it with me, okay?¡±


    She would be the first one to go on the boat if she bought one? Liv smiled awkwardly, thinking that it might not be useless for Camille to come to her to ask for help with the teaching method.


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be more fun to ride it with your friends?¡±


    She asked insinuatingly, recalling many of Millian¡¯s friends, but the response was not good.


    Millian, pouting her lips, poking the scone in front of her with a fork and confessed in a raspy voice.


    ¡°Actually, I had a fight with them.¡±


    ¡°You had a fight?¡±


    She had guessed it, but a problem really happened it seemed.


    Liv opened her eyes wide and stared at Millian. Millian, who had been making a mess of her scones, sighed and spoke up.


    ¡°It was toward the end of the birthday party. Well, Jaylene said that I¡¯m getting the Marquis¡¯ attention with money and laughed at me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my¡­¡±


    Jaylene was the daughter of the prominent Delli Merchant Guild who made their fortune in the maritime trade. Everyone didn¡¯t talk about it, but they knew that they had bought the genealogy of a certain poor viscount.


    In any case, the Master of Delli Merchant Guild bought an aristocratic genealogy, made his daughter an aristocratic young lady, and sent her into aristocratic society. As far as Liv knew, he also had a business partnership with the Vendons family.


    ¡°So I answered that it is true that my family is rich, but the Marquis is not a person who will be interested in anyone for money. I said it in a calm, cultured way, as I learned from you, Teacher. But then Jaylene cried. The others said I was being inconsiderate of Jaylene¡¯s situation and being insensitive.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 31

    ¡°So I spoke again. Why is it a bad thing to say I have a lot of money when I do have a lot of money? What does that have to do with Jaylene¡¯s mansion being auctioned off and my family being rich?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see.¡±


    Were people right about the ship of the Delli Merchant Guild sinking recently?


    Liv nodded, inwardly surprised. If their mansion was being auctioned off at all, this family must be in dire financial straits, and the only daughter of this family seemed to be angry with envy and jealousy for no reason.


    ¡°Besides, if Jaylene has a crush on the Marquis, shouldn¡¯t she be grateful to me? She could meet the Marquis because of me.¡±


    In addition, the friend, Jaylene, had a crush on the Marquis of Dietrion. There was no girl of Millian¡¯s age who did not admire him, but somehow, the innocent love of a young lady must have burned into jealousy.


    Whether it was a good thing or not, Millian did not express any discomfort while mentioning Jaylene¡¯s unrequited love. Millian¡¯s interest in the Marquis did not seem to be deep or grave.


    Rather, she expressed greater discomfort with the fact that she was arguing with her friend and being criticized.


    ¡°Teacher, do you also think that I was wrong?¡±


    Looking at Millian pouting her lips, Liv let out a light sigh.


    Of course, according to Millian¡¯s words, it was Jaylene who made the mistake first. Furthermore, wasn¡¯t it a birthday party for Millian? From any point of view, Jaylene was rash, and it was difficult to say that the judgment of the friends around her was rational.


    Nevertheless, Liv could imagine well how the child, Jaylene, must have been feeling. About why she burst into tears.


    ¡°Do you want to make up with Jaylene?¡±


    ¡°She was a bit bad that day, but¡­ in fact, she¡¯s not a bad person. So, honestly, it¡¯s a little uncomfortable to be like this. But everyone seems to be on Jaylene¡¯s side.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t just because they were closer to Jaylene or because Millian¡¯s behavior was bad. Liv thought that if she were to point out the root cause of this uncomfortable situation, it might end up being the Marquis. The people¡¯s desire for the Marquis, to be precise.


    All he did was visit the same mansion twice, but that alone could stir up so many people.


    In the old days, Liv might have joined that rowdy crowd. However, in her situation now, where she faced him every week and sometimes received unrefined insults, it was difficult for her to accept him as a fantasy figure.


    Everyone lamented that they wanted to receive the cold gaze from the Marquis, but only few people would be able to face it in person and endure it.


    The mere thought of it made her body tremble. Liv quickly shook off her thoughts and said calmly.


    ¡°It¡¯s true that Jaylene was too harsh in the beginning. So I think Jaylene is the one in the wrong. I¡¯m sure in time, Jaylene will realize how embarrassing she has been. However, Millian, please be more considerate of other people¡¯s feelings when you speak from now on. If you are considerate of others, they will be considerate of you.¡±


    Even as she spoke, Liv realized that she was being a bit absurd. It was a plausible argument, but it was not realistic at all. At least not based on Liv¡¯s personal experience.


    Even if she showed consideration for the other person, she would only receive a cold disregard and a sneering look back.


    However, it wasn¡¯t the time to explain this cold reality yet. In addition, Millian would probably get the consideration that Liv would never get.


    People also rank who they should be considerate of.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Of course. And if you have done so, but the other people don¡¯t, then you have the right to get angry and point out their mistakes.¡±


    Millian opened her eyes wide at Liv¡¯s words. Millian, who had been lost in thought for a moment, refuted in a questioning voice.


    ¡°The Marquis never considers anyone¡¯s feelings. Even so, everyone follows him and likes him.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±


    Speechless, Liv quickly racked her brain. Fortunately, Millian didn¡¯t seem to notice Liv¡¯s awkwardness and continued casually.


    ¡°But I know what you¡¯re talking about. We can¡¯t keep fighting anyway. I¡¯m a lady who knows the cooperation between families!¡±


    Pretending to be a mature person, Millian raised her chin and gracefully lifted the teacup. It was an action Millian often did when she wanted to pretend to be a grown-up adult.


    ¡°I feel a little better talking to you, Teacher.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief. Talk well to your friends, too.¡±


    It was a good thing that she felt better. Liv smiled lightly and picked up her own cup of tea. When she raised the cup, a touch of warmth came over her face. She was tilting her cup carefully, but Millian changed the subject in a cheerful voice.


    ¡°Yes. Oh, you¡¯ve seen it, too, haven¡¯t you? My dad made a big decision and won a very expensive painting this time.¡±


    ¡°I think I saw it in the hallway.¡±


    When Liv nodded and answered, Millian leaned toward Liv and lowered her voice.


    ¡°I secretly heard that it was the work of the Marquis¡¯ favorite artist. He might come for a visit again!¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 32

    She had guessed it from the unusually increased artworks, but it seemed to be true that the Vendons were intending to make the Marquis come for a visit again. They would have thought that even if the Marquis did not come, they would not lose any money since the artworks would also serve as an investment.


    The Vendons would be rich with money, so that shouldn¡¯t be too much of a burden.


    ¡°But the Marquis doesn¡¯t usually walk outside.¡±


    ¡°But he came to my house twice. I¡¯m sure he will come again! My parents said they will invite him to dinner next time he visits. That¡¯s why we¡¯re fixing the dining room interior these days!¡±


    Liv wanted to say it was too hasty, but she closed her lips.


    He was a mysterious man, so he might really show himself again in the House of Vendons one day. If this were to happen, the friendship between the Baron of Vendons and the Marquis of Dietrion would become an established fact and it would spread to the people of Buerno.


    Millian, half-dreaming, clasped her hands together and made a dazed look.


    ¡°Oh, I hope he will come soon!¡±


    ¡°Do you want to see him again so badly?¡±


    ¡°Of course! Teacher, it¡¯s because you couldn¡¯t see the Marquis up close. I mean, really, how could someone like him be human?¡±


    Yeah, that face is really¡­ astonishing to be human.


    Liv smiled softly and nodded. While she thought it was amazing that his presence had been mentioned so much in her daily life during these few weeks.


    ***


    As usual, Liv did the extra work today. Brad no longer found it strange that Liv moved separately, as if he had been informed about it.


    Arriving at the deepest room at the uppermost level of the mansion, Liv, undressed, paused when she tried to sit as usual.


    Actually, Liv always sat with her back to the Marquis during the few extra shifts.


    He wanted an ornamental plant, not a conversation partner. Thus, there was no reason for her to face him. Sometimes the Marquis would click his tongue at her stiff back, but she pretended to not notice it and kept her back shown because he didn¡¯t coerce her to make another posture.


    But was it because her conversation with Millian stuck in her mind?


    Liv suddenly wondered what kind of face would the Marquis have while sitting in this quiet room. So, literally, it was curiosity.


    Everyone outside talked about how cold and indifferent the Marquis of Dietrion was, as well as how sensitive and temperamental he was. Perhaps they had never seen the Marquis of Dietrion smiling. And also the way he sat leisurely while smoking a cigar, or the way he drank wine dully.


    The Marquis¡¯ expression when he was enjoying this special hobby was probably different from what the others knew. The thought of it aroused intense curiosity.


    How does he look at me? As he said on the first day, would he see me as a houseplant by the window, and appreciate me casually?


    After agonizing for a while, Liv carefully repositioned herself. It was a long sofa next to the bed. From where the Marquis was sitting, it would probably look like she was sitting sideways. While for Liv, it was a place where she could see the Marquis¡¯ movements by rolling her eyes slightly without turning her head.


    Liv, who had impulsively chosen the sofa, touched the cushion on the sofa with a subtle nervousness. Then she glanced sideways at the Marquis.


    At that moment, she made direct eye contact with the Marquis.


    Of course, she had thought that he was looking at her, but when their eyes met like that, she felt like a mouse standing in front of a cat.


    It felt too late to avert her gaze, so she was staring at him, and she saw the Marquis slowly raising his wine glass. His demeanor was very relaxed as he sipped his wine without breaking eye contact.


    She wondered if it was because of the wine. The closed lips looked particularly red. Moreover, he was a fair-skinned man, so when the color came to his face, he looked very crafty.


    ¡°Would you like a drink?¡±


    Liv, who had been staring at the Marquis in a daze, was surprised and involuntarily lowered her eyes. She heard the Marquis snort briefly. It sounded like he was laughing at her, so Liv looked up again.


    ¡°¡­ Give me please.¡±


    It was half a kind of smugness. She wondered if her manner would annoy the Marquis, but fortunately he did not mind and pulled out another extra glass.


    The red wine swirled in a clear, round glass. The Marquis, who had filled the glass moderately, lifted it himself and offered it to Liv. He didn¡¯t seem to have the intention to give it to her personally, but to tell her to come and get it.


    Swallowing hard, she carefully pushed herself up and walked over to him.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 33

    It was the first time she had ever stood so close to the Marquis while being naked since she started the extra work. After getting a good distance away, Liv cautiously reached out.


    The Marquis nonchalantly turned his attention to his own wine after handing her the glass.


    ¡°It¡¯s high in sugar, so it¡¯s not a bad drink.¡±


    Liv, who had returned to the sofa while listening to the apathetic murmur of the Marquis, felt strange. The Marquis was quite friendly today, in contrast to the usual. Something good seemed to have happened, although she didn¡¯t know what.


    After staring down at the thin, transparent wine glass that seemed like it would break with a little force, Liv carefully brought it to her lips. A small amount of wine, not enough to be called a sip, soaked her tongue.


    Unlike the sweet scent that lingered at the tip of her nose, it tasted quite bitter and sour on her tongue. Liv wrinkled her brows inadvertently.


    ¡°You can¡¯t drink, huh?¡±


    Liv thought he was looking away, but the Marquis seemed to have observed all the changes in her expression. Instead of answering, Liv took another sip from her glass. More wine flowed down her throat than before.


    A hot and bitter taste washed over her, burning her insides.


    ¡°It¡¯s not sweet at all.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a child.¡±


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m just not used to it.¡±


    The Marquis narrowed his eyes at Liv¡¯s sour reply.


    ¡°You¡¯re twenty-five, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    The topic that came up out of nowhere was her age. Liv nodded resolutely, her hand trembling as she gripped the glass, trying to hold back her strength.


    Typically, aristocrats were betrothed before they came of age and married as soon as they did. By their standards, Liv¡¯s age was too late to marry, but sometimes, normal people didn¡¯t marry until their early twenties.


    So twenty-five was still fine. She missed the time for a marriage, but she had already given up on it, so there was nothing to be ashamed of.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m twenty-five.¡±


    Liv, answering clearly, deliberately raised her chin more confidently. The Marquis stared at her, and murmured to himself casually.


    ¡°So a child.¡±


    Liv gave him a puzzled look when he casually concluded that she was a child. The Marquis, however, had again lost interest in her.


    She couldn¡¯t believe that he treated her like a child just because she couldn¡¯t drink wine.


    Liv, who was stiff with a subtly distorted face, tried to relax her expression. Then she sipped the wine nonchalantly.


    It tasted the same no matter how many times she drank it, but she thought she had to empty at least half of it to feel satisfied. Besides, the alcohol slowly helped her relax a bit, so it was a pretty good way to get through this time.


    It really did, when she thought about it. Liv, who had only ever had a glass or two of beer when her friends lured her in her school days, was getting drunk fast.


    She finally understood why Brad went to the bar so often. Her body felt so sleepy and she felt excited. It didn¡¯t taste good, but it was effective.


    ¡°You¡¯d better keep your mind to wear your clothes on your own.¡±


    Surprised by the sudden voice, Liv reflexively turned her head to the place where the voice came from. Her wide-open eyes looked at the Marquis.


    ¡°There is¡­¡±


    The wine overflowed slightly from the glass that was leaning towards her mouth.


    The red liquid flowed down Liv¡¯s chin, gathered at the tip of her chin, and trickled down. The drops of wine that fell onto the white mound of her chest tickled her skin, leaving long trails.


    The Marquis stopped talking and stared at Liv.


    More precisely, at where the wine drops fell.


    Liv hunched her shoulders as she realized that the place he was staring at was her chest. The nervousness, which had been relieved for a while by the influence of alcohol, engulfed her more strongly than before.


    ¡°¡­ No room for a drunkard.¡±


    Speaking in a lower, more subdued voice, the Marquis ran his tongue over his lips.


    The Marquis must simply try to lick the remains of the wine on his lips, but because his gaze is on my chest, it feels as if his tongue is licking my¡­


    Liv, who had been thinking defenselessly, blushed in surprise.


    Oh, my God, Liv Rhodes! What kind of delusions are you having in front of the Marquis?


    ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m not going to be a drunkard.¡±


    Liv, who replied with a beet red face, hurriedly put the glass down on the side table. She then began to rub the wine stain vigorously with her hands. Her hands and skin were sticky because of the wine, but the stains were mostly faded. At the same time, the Marquis¡¯ eyes left her.


    He looked unbothered, as if the intense stare a moment ago was all an illusion.


    Not much conversation ensued after that. Only the scent of wine wafting around the room made her head spin, and Liv braced herself for the rest of the time to keep her mind clear. As she did so, she kept repeating in her mind.


    That the heat that kept making her cheeks flushed was probably because she wasn¡¯t used to wine.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 34

    The bullets flying in all directions, the screams of agony, the red blood, the scattering limbs and parts of bodies.


    Death, death, and death again.


    Amidst the shards of rubble, someone called out to God. No, everyone cried out to God.


    But the man knew. Before long, all the noise would be gone and the world would be hushed.


    That all that would remain on the scorched earth would be blood, charred remains, and a man standing alone.


    God does not save humans. It was only humans that could save humans.


    ¡­


    ¡°Master.¡±


    The servant¡¯s call was so small that it was hard to believe it was meant to wake someone up.


    But Demus opened his eyes in response to the small voice. He couldn¡¯t even fall asleep in the first place, so it was natural. He likely slept for only an hour or two.


    ¡°I have prepared the water for your wash.¡±


    Said the servant, bending politely, and stepping back. Demus then was left alone in the spacious bedroom.


    The faintly brightening dawn sky could be seen beyond the curtains which the servant had quietly tidied up. Demus, who had checked the outside, slowly raised himself. His upper body, which had been covered, came into view as the blanket slid down.


    Under the loosely worn nightgown was bare flesh, with old scars resting on some of the exposed flesh.


    Demus, who held his throbbing head, swept his hair up irritably with his left hand. Soft platinum strands brushed between his fingers and tickled his scars.


    It wasn¡¯t just the scars between his fingers. All the hideous marks left all over his body itched every moment. Sometimes he felt pains that shouldn¡¯t be there, and sometimes he thought he smelled blood. A look of irritation crossed Demus¡¯ face.


    He strode roughly to the bathroom.


    The bath prepared by the servant was moderately warm. He took off his nightgown and tossed it aside, then stepped into the tub. There was no one to assist Demus in taking a bath because he hated showing his bare skin to anyone. In the silence, the water warmed his body as it scrambled out of the tub.


    His cold body temperature at least seemed to rise a little. Draping his arms roughly over the tub¡¯s rim, Demus threw his head back and let out a long sigh.


    In the rippling water lay a man¡¯s muscular body.


    If it weren¡¯t for the scars all over his body, no one would have denied that this body was a perfect specimen of sculpture. Even if he brought all the statues he had collected so far, there would be no better body than his.


    If it weren¡¯t for the scars.


    If it wasn¡¯t for that battle.


    No, then he had to blame too many things. His ability, status, origin, blood¡­


    In order to erase his dizzy thoughts, Demus came up with another topic. Feeling he was getting relaxed thanks to the warm water, he felt like drinking wine.


    Such a feeling naturally reminded him of someone. A naked woman sipping wine with a flushed face.


    Originally, Demus liked clean naked bodies. When his scars felt itchy, he would control his mind and body by looking at the completely clean and flawless human body. The feeling of insects crawling all over his body calmed down when he saw nude works.


    When he saw bodies that were intact, not injured and not mutilated.


    That was limited to works of art, however, and he had never appreciated a living human body in this way before.


    In the first place, such work was impossible. This was because there were a lot of people, regardless of their age and gender, who tried to take off their clothes and jump on him. If he were to ask anyone to spend time in one room naked, the other person would start to act flirty to Demus as if they had been waiting for it.


    In that respect, Liv Rhodes¡¯s attitude was quite pleasing. At first, he was only interested in her body, but her attitude was also interesting. It was the same yesterday.


    The way she rolled her eyes as if to read his mind as soon as she chose the sofa instead of the bed she always sat on was just like a half-tamed wild cat. A sneaky cat that acted like it was on high alert but was actually closing the distance little by little.


    The reason he willingly gave her wine, unlike the usual, was that he was proud of her attitude, opening her heart a bit to him, so he wanted to compliment her.


    ¡°¡­ Twenty-five.¡±


    Demus remembered the expression Liv Rhodes had made when he mentioned her age. She was embarrassed.


    The reason was not hard to guess. As far as he knew, she was unmarried, and it was common for ordinary women to have a family by the time they were twenty-five. And if they had married earlier, they could have had two children.


    The treatment of a woman who was already past her marriage age was more severe than expected. The vast majority would have been convinced that there would be some fault in Liv Rhodes, and that a fatal flaw existed.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 35

    However, such a problem was not particularly important to Demus. Could there be a more ridiculous and deceptive system than that of engagement and marriage?


    In the first place, systems were just a gimmick to fancy up the world. Even without such a thing, men and women are intertwined enough. Even through a very trivial momentum.


    For example, a drop of wine.


    Demus tilted his head at an angle. As he moved his body slightly, water droplets slid along the exposed collar bone above the water.


    ¡°Red wine, huh¡­¡±


    Again, Demus liked a clean, intact body with no blemishes. However, the stain he saw yesterday.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t bad.¡±


    Yeah, it wasn¡¯t bad. The red stain that fell on the white round chest.


    The skin, which smelled of sweet wine instead of blood, looked more appetizing than he had expected.


    ¡­ Appetizing?


    Laughing at his own sentiment, Demus suddenly turned his gaze downward. Just as he thought his mouth was watering, he realized that his genitals in his crotch were getting a hard-on. Seeing the thick cock half erect beneath the distorted surface of the water, Demus let out a low sneer.


    Demus, who was staring down at his genitals as if looking down at someone else¡¯s own, slowly put his hand into the water. The thickness became harder and bigger when it came in touch with his hand


    I must have been crazy.


    Thinking so, Demus leaned back and relaxed his body a little more. The water overflowed onto the floor as the long naked body slipped further into the tub. Closing his eyes, lines formed even deeper between Demus¡¯ brows. He opened his mouth slightly.


    The low groan that echoed through the bathroom resembled the sound of a satiated beast.


    ***


    The time, which she dismissed as mere extra work, suddenly changed because of a glass of wine.


    Liv sighed, wiping her wet hands on her apron. Something was definitely wrong when the first thing that came to mind was the Marquis of Dietrion¡¯s gaze as she washed the dishes and saw the water droplets on her chest.


    ¡°You must be mad, Liv Rhodes.¡±


    Thoughts of the Marquis gradually crept into her daily life, and by the time she came to her senses, her head was already filled with him.


    It took just a few weeks. He was a man who had nothing to do with Liv just a couple of months ago, but now she thought of him from time to time.


    That man was like a poison that spread terribly fast. That poison was even sweet, deadly, and addictive.


    ¡°Liv, is today your day off?¡±


    Liv, who was looking down at her wet hands, looked back in surprise as if she were burned. Coryda looked puzzled at her exaggerated response.


    ¡°Liv?¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah. It is.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°No. Nothing¡¯s wrong.¡±


    After roughly draining the bowl, Liv quickly removed her apron.


    Today was a day off for the first time in a long time. As she hadn¡¯t been able to pay much attention to the house or Coryda because she had been busy outside lately, she was going to spend a packed day ahead.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going out today?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯ve been so busy these last few days that I haven¡¯t been paying much attention to you, have I? I¡¯ll catch up on the chores and cook for you soon.¡±


    She had been to the market early in the morning, so the pantry was full. This was due to the fact that the generous pockets made both her hands heavier than usual.


    Coryda awkwardly raised her mouth at the sight of Liv speaking proudly.


    ¡°Oh, mhm.¡±


    Normally, she would have clapped her hands and rejoiced at the fact that they could be together all day, but her response now was somewhat off. Liv tried to look at Coryda with questioning eyes, but Coryda turned around quickly first.


    Liv squinted at Coryda¡¯s back.


    Is there something she¡¯s upset about?


    As she thought about the few days she was busy without knowing that Coryda ran out of medicine, she could understand the reason Coryda was being awkward.


    Well, it¡¯s no wonder she¡¯s upset.


    Liv had always lived with Coryda being her first priority. But these days¡­ Liv herself thought that she was distracted by something else.


    And that other place is, well.


    Liv, who inadvertently recalled the Marquis again, quickly shook her head and moved. She opened a small window for ventilation and grabbed the cleaning tools, and she heard Coryda speak softly behind her back.


    ¡°I cleaned the house from time to time.¡±


    ¡°Good job.¡±


    Liv, who answered with a smile, approached Coryda¡¯s bed. Even if it wasn¡¯t necessarily a matter of physical strength, Coryda¡¯s hands were not skillful, so she probably wouldn¡¯t have gotten every corner clean. If their old house wasn¡¯t cleaned properly, it would get infested with insects and mice at any moment, so she had to take care of it whenever she had time.


    With her arms folded, Liv pulled the bedsheets up in earnest.


    ¡°Wait, Liv, I¡¯ve already cleaned there¡­!¡±


    It took almost no time at all for Liv to bend over and check under the bed, and for Coryda to yell out in alarm.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 36

    ¡°¡­ What is this?¡±


    There was a basket under the bed that was supposed to be full of dust. There was nothing in this little house that she did not know, so Liv did not hesitate to pull out the basket.


    When she lifted up the thin cloth covering it, she could see clothes, needles, and threads inside. Liv, who had tried her hand at sewing a few times when she was in a pinch, quickly realized what it was. The only question was why it was under the bed.


    Liv, looking down at the basket with perplexed eyes, picked up the cloth on the top. Seeing the clumsy traces of sewing, Liv looked back at Coryda in disbelief.


    ¡°Did you do this?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡±


    ¡°Is this a new hobby?¡±


    She must be taking this as a new hobby as she is bored staying at home alone all day.


    Liv tried to understand it like that, but her eyes saw Coryda was hesitating. Coryda averted her gaze and looked down at her feet, her cheeks flushed.


    Liv couldn¡¯t help but notice as she saw her reaction.


    ¡°Who taught you this?¡±


    Liv had never handed Coryda a needle before. Not only a needle, but also a kitchen knife. She taught her to not touch dangerous tools unless they are absolutely necessary. This was because, in the past, when Corrida was injured, she suffered greatly because the bleeding did not stop easily.


    Coryda herself knew that when she got hurt, she would bleed more and longer than others. Thus why she was being careful on her own.


    No, it was Liv who thought that Coryda had been careful. Until she found the basket.


    ¡°It¡¯s, it¡¯s nothing hard, so I just did it.¡±


    ¡°Coryda. Who brought this to you?¡±


    There was no way that Coryda, who didn¡¯t go outside, could have suddenly gotten this sewing kit.


    Liv wondered if it was Pommel who said something useless to Coryda by mentioning the rent. Liv, gritting her teeth, put down the basket and jumped up.


    ¡°It¡¯s Mr. Pommel, isn¡¯t it? Did he tell you to do something like this to add up for the rent?¡±


    Coryda hurriedly said to Liv as she saw she was ready to visit him and argue.


    ¡°No! It¡¯s just Rita¡­!¡±


    ¡°Rita?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ learned it from Rita. Sewing is something I can easily do at home¡­¡±


    Rita, the next-door neighbor, was quite doting on Liv and Coryda. She was about Liv¡¯s age and was so skilled with her hands that she could feed her family with her embroidery. While working at home, she sometimes took care of Coryda, so Liv was grateful to her.


    But if Liv knew she was teaching this, she would have warned her first.


    Seeing Liv¡¯s expression, Coryda continued with a tearful look.


    ¡°I-I asked her to teach me! I¡¯m old enough to work!¡±


    Coryda was 15 years old, and of course, it was the age to jump into the life front depending on family circumstances. However, that was only for a healthy fifteen-year-old girl.


    ¡°You? Don¡¯t talk nonsense, Coryda. Who told you to work? I told you clearly. I¡¯m working extra hours, so I¡¯m paid enough now.¡±


    ¡°But you couldn¡¯t eat dinner and work until late, so¡­¡±


    At that moment, Liv recalled the specific circumstance of ¡°extra work¡± where she couldn¡¯t even eat dinner. The secret work of being naked, sitting still as an appetizer for drinks to a man.


    Coryda seemed to think that Liv was enduring her hungry stomach while suffering from books and documents until late. She wouldn¡¯t even think of Liv making money by taking her clothes off in front of a man. That must be why she was trying to earn a little money to help their family.


    Liv¡¯s face flushed red with shame and embarrassment. The chagrin due to the extra work she couldn¡¯t be proud of was inadvertently directed at Coryda.


    ¡°If you collapse from working, who will take care of you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a fool! I am capable enough of taking¡ª!¡±


    ¡°You are home alone, but if you touch something like this and get hurt, how are you going to handle it when your bleeding can hardly stop?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just trying to give a little help.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re helping by not getting hurt or sick!¡±


    At the end of Liv¡¯s rant, silence settled over the house.


    Liv, who was breathing hard while looking at Coryda¡¯s white face, clenched her teeth. The sense of shame that immediately kicked in made her back stiff.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was being too harsh.¡±


    Liv, touching her forehead, apologized in a weak voice. Coryda, who was staring at Liv blankly, finally came to her senses and shook her head quickly.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s natural for you to be worried.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 37

    ¡°I¡­¡±


    Liv, who opened her lips, couldn¡¯t bear to see Coryda¡¯s face and lowered her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m just so worried about you. If something bad happens to you when I¡¯m not here¡­¡±


    ¡°Liv, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Coryda, who was at a loss, apologized. The action made Liv feel even more ashamed, so she couldn¡¯t raise her face.


    ¡°I¡¯m making a lot of money these days. So don¡¯t do this, okay? Even if you don¡¯t work, my salary is enough for us to live on.¡±


    Liv, speaking in a calm voice with her eyes fixed on the floor, looked up slightly. Coryda still looked sullen and dejected.


    ¡°If only I were healthy.¡±


    ¡°You will be healthy soon. You¡¯ve endured it so far. In fact, the last time I went to buy medicine, I heard that a new medicine has been developed.¡±


    The pharmacy owner¡¯s words were helpful in times like this. Liv couldn¡¯t be sure if the new medicine would cure Coryda completely, but she vaguely described their bright future so that Coryda could be hopeful.


    Coryda did not seem to believe everything she said, but she looked much more stable than before. Liv gave Coryda a gentle smile, relieved inside.


    Perhaps the new medicine could indeed restore Coryda¡¯s health. If only she had a better life. If only she could get a more qualified doctor to take care of Coryda. If only she didn¡¯t have to worry about making ends meet every day, everything would be better.


    Liv wondered if the Vendons family would immediately find a way out using their wealth if Millian was in the same situation as Coryda.


    ¡°You work for an aristocratic family, so if you do well, won¡¯t you be able to get the medicine using your connection?¡±


    The innocent words of the pharmacy owner echoed in her head.


    Using her connection to get the new medicine? Such luck could not have happened to her. For all these years, God hadn¡¯t granted even the most trivial of her prayers.


    But¡­


    ¡°Who knows? Maybe a miracle will happen.¡±


    The Marquis said that it is humans who have the power to achieve something. And he really listened to her prayers.


    Overjoyed to be out of her immediate predicament, Liv hadn¡¯t dared to imagine expecting anything else, but she thought absentmindedly.


    If it¡¯s him, won¡¯t he be able to do a miracle once again?


    If it¡¯s him¡­


    Liv, who had been so far along in her thinking, shook her head violently. It was a crazy idea.


    Pray to him? Ask him to get her the new medicine? Ask him to treat Coryda? Such a request was on a different level than asking him to let her make a few bucks. And there was no reason for him to do it.


    Liv moved eagerly to shake off her vain thoughts. Chores were a good way to remind her of the reality of her situation.


    ***


    The largest street in Buerno was the boulevard that ran through the center of the city.


    There was a plaza in the center of the boulevard. Atop of the clock tower that stood tall in the center of the plaza was a bell that rang every hour on the hour, and it was a favorite spot for tourists because of the clear chimes that spread throughout the city of Bueno.


    On either side of the clock tower were two fountains that looked just like twins. It was also a sight to behold, so passersby would occasionally stop and catch their breath.


    A newsboy was right in front of one of those fountains.


    Liv, who was clutching her coat as she carefully looked around, breathed a sigh of relief when he found the newsboy.


    The main boulevard was a street she didn¡¯t usually take. This was because it was out of her reach, and she had no opportunity to visit the large and luxurious stores located on this boulevard.


    It was a busy street with nothing but carriages, horses, and rarely seen cars. There were so many well-dressed people walking along the sidewalk that she became breathless just looking at them. Liv was determined to leave this place as soon as her business was done.


    ¡°Newspaper! Newspaper!¡±


    Liv, who finally managed to stand in front of the boy after passing through the crowd, took out a coin. Soon, a rough-textured newspaper was in her hand.


    In fact, there were many more streets where she could get a newspaper, not necessarily on the main boulevard. Liv could even meet a few newsboys on the streets she usually took. But she came all the way here because the newspaper on the main boulevard was published by the largest newspaper in the country, which had such a vast reach that sometimes they even covered the news of the foreign country.


    Dodging passersby, she walked to the corner of the street and opened the newspaper. Liv¡¯s gaze stopped as she glanced over the paper while turning over articles she was not interested in.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 38

    Dominian.


    It was the name she was looking for. The Dominian Academy was only open to the children of upper-class aristocrats, making it a regular source of gossip for the newspapers. Needless to say, its name was mentioned in today¡¯s newspapers.


    Unfortunately, there was only one story about the Dominian Academy and no news about the Medical Research Institute.


    Was it really impossible to find out the news of the new medicine through newspapers?


    Liv¡¯s gaze turned gloomy. After getting angry with Coryda, she was determined to find out more about the new medicine. She deliberately checked the newspaper of the largest newspaper company, thinking that if the new medicine was successfully developed, it would be all over the newspaper for days.


    Liv, who was about to put the newspaper away, flipped through the paper, feeling that she should at least skim through the other content as she had already paid for it. As it was a newspaper published by a large newspaper company, all kinds of news were divided into categories.


    Moreover, it also reported news from foreign countries, not just domestic news. It was news that the high noble families of the neighboring country had broken up their marriage, or that a certain cardinal would be visiting this country soon.


    Not only those stories had nothing to do with Liv, they were so far away from her that she didn¡¯t even feel like consuming them as gossip. Liv, who was reading the letters indifferently, folded the paper with a sigh.


    Her next stop was the Hyslop Pharmacy, located on the main boulevard. It was the largest pharmacy in Buerno, and was also famous for providing medical supplies directly to the aristocracy.


    The owner of the pharmacy she frequented sometimes expressed his envy of the large amount of medicine the Hyslop dealt with and its large number of customers. He also hinted to Liv, who asked for information about the new medicine, that she would probably get more news from Hyslop.


    As a store on the central boulevard, the exterior of the Hyslop was simply dazzling. Its appearance was enough to make her believe that it was a boutique or jewelry store rather than a pharmacy.


    Liv, who stopped at a distance without realizing it, took a deep breath. Then, she walked toward the pharmacy with a determined expression.


    But before she could grab the door handle, someone blocked her.


    ¡°Which house are you from?¡±


    ¡°Sorry?¡±


    Liv, her eyes wide open, stared at the man in front of her. Before Liv could give any answer, he checked the paper he was holding and asked again.


    ¡°Are you perhaps from the Poigne viscounty?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Oh.¡±


    How big of a place is this that they even have a doorkeeper?


    Seeing the momentary confusion that flashed across Liv¡¯s face, the doorkeeper¡¯s kind smile stiffened slightly.


    ¡°Do you have a reservation?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t make a reservation.¡±


    ¡°In that case, excuse me, but I need to check your identity first. Can you tell me which house you work for?¡±


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m not an employee of any houses.¡±


    The smile was now completely gone from the doorkeeper¡¯s face.


    ¡°Can you tell me the purpose of your visit?¡±


    The doorkeeper took a step back, wearing a businesslike expression as if he was used to this.  Sure enough, he still stood in Liv¡¯s way.


    Liv, who was almost intimidated for a moment, bit her lips and raised her head.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t everyone have the same purpose for visiting a pharmacy?¡±


    ¡°Dear customer.¡±


    The doorkeeper¡¯s gaze became a little strange. The moment Liv caught the emotion in his gaze, the doorkeeper spoke first.


    ¡°Hyslop stores a large number of medicinal products that are delicate to handle, so we don¡¯t allow people to look inside the store. I ask for your understanding.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not here to look¡ª¡±


    ¡°If the product you want to buy is a rare medicine, you have to make a reservation and wait. If that is not the case, I think it would be wise for you, dear customer, to find another place that is convenient to visit.¡±


    Liv¡¯s face turned red as she never expected she would get the door slammed in her face. Barely able to suppress the outrage from getting insulted, Liv asked, trying to keep her voice calm.


    ¡°Does this mean I can¡¯t even have a consultation?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already explained the procedure to you.¡±


    ¡°How can I make a reservation?¡±


    The doorkeeper frowned slightly at Liv¡¯s question. He looked down at his paper and sighed, as if he was sorry for something.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I don¡¯t think you¡¯ll be able to make a reservation for a while. It¡¯s already full.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t even make a reservation. Liv now felt angry. The doorkeeper seemed to have no intention of letting her into the store from the beginning. He must have thought of her as a trivial customer who just came to see, with no purchasing power at all.


    She wondered how she should call out this rudeness.


    Liv, who was staring at the store door for a moment, nodded, gritting her teeth.


    ¡°All right. I understand.¡±


    When she willingly stepped back, the doorkeeper looked away with an aloof expression. It irritated her so much that she wanted to protest the store in some way.


    But her resentment was brief.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 39

    This is because, as the doorkeeper judged, Liv would never become an important guest of Hyslop. In the first place, she visited Hyslop in the hope of finding out about the new medicine, not to buy expensive medicines. Even if she could cross the threshold of Hyslop by protesting the unfair insult, it would only be all about Liv standing on her own pride.


    While what she wanted to get was more specific and realistic information about the new medicine since she had told Coryda about it.


    The way back home without getting anything was long and difficult. Not wanting to go home empty-handed, Liv stopped by a confectionery. It was the confectionery that sold the same snacks Baroness Vendons presented the other day.


    It wasn¡¯t as expensive as the snacks that she had been given as a gift at that time, but she could afford to buy some decent snacks. Liv calculated the rest of the money in her head and walked on.


    I guess it¡¯s better to pay the rent for next month to Pommel in advance before I go home. I don¡¯t want Pommel and Coryda meet over money issues.


    ¡°Liv!¡±


    Liv, who was deep in thought, looked up at the call. Seeing a woman running toward her in the distance, Liv let out a low exclamation.


    ¡°Rita.¡±


    Yeah, come to think of it, I also had something to talk about with Rita.


    ¡°Why is it so hard to see your face these days?¡±


    Rita did not seem to have heard from Coryda at all. She, who had been marching with a basket at her side, opened her eyes wide when she saw the bag of snacks in Liv¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Oh, isn¡¯t that an expensive snack?¡±


    ¡°Erm, Rita.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my God. That is the newspaper sold on the main boulevard, right? Have you been to the main boulevard?¡±


    Rita raised her voice, not listening to Liv.


    ¡°What is it for you to go to the main boulevard? Don¡¯t tell me! Did you decide to change your regular pharmacy?¡±


    Rita recalled Hyslop at once. This was probably due to the fact that she had seen Liv freaking out over Coryda so often.


    Liv immediately shook her head at the sight of Rita looking at her with wide open eyes.


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible. I just went to buy a newspaper because I wanted to find out about something. More than that, Rita.¡±


    Liv tried to speak calmly again. Rita, however, was in a constant state of excitement and was busy blurting out what she had to say.


    ¡°Oh, my God, so the rumor that your situation has improved these days was true!¡±


    Liv, who was about to get annoyed, paused at that.


    ¡°Wait, Rita. What are you talking about? What do you mean by rumor?¡±


    ¡°Hmm? I heard that someone saw you leaving work in an expensive carriage the other day.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by I¡¯m leaving work in an expensive¡­¡±


    Liv was about to ask what Rita meant by that, but suddenly closed her mouth. At that moment, a black carriage came to her mind.


    Since the place where she got off the carriage was a deserted alley with a few gas lights, and it was the middle of the night, there was no one around. Besides, it would have been hard to see because it was a black carriage.


    The thought that someone had seen her sent shivers down her spine, but Liv soon regained her composure. There was no sign on the carriage, so there was no way to connect her to the Marquis of Dietrion. And the Marquis wasn¡¯t the only one who used a black carriage.


    ¡°It¡¯s a short-term job. More than that, Rita. Did you teach Coryda to sew?¡±


    Liv decided to change the subject instead of explaining about the carriage. Rita, knowing how overprotective Liv was of Coryda, made a whining sound and frowned at once.


    ¡°Oh, Liv. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re going to get mad about it? Coryda is already fifteen.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s sick. She¡¯s a patient.¡±


    ¡°But Coryda has grown too much to stay in that small house and do nothing all day. A little sewing would be a nice distraction for Coryda. You¡¯ve always had a hard time alone paying for the bills. Do you know how worried Coryda is about you getting home late these days?¡±


    ¡°I have no intention of making Coryda work. If she¡¯s bored, I can just buy her a book to read. That would be much better for her.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t afford it when she was just trying to make ends meet, but if she continued to make enough money like she was now, she would be able to give Coryda books without risking their family budget. As long as Coryda¡¯s physical strength held out, she could have a simple class at home.


    Rita¡¯s jaw dropped at Liv¡¯s words.


    ¡°You could even afford to buy a book?¡±


    Liv¡¯s mouth closed again. The unwanted topics ended up coming back to the surface. Regardless of the bitter look on Liv¡¯s face, Rita whispered, grabbing her shoulder anxiously.


    ¡°Oh, my, Liv. You¡¯re not doing anything dangerous, are you?¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 40

    ¡°¡­ It¡¯s just a simple assistance job. Office work.¡±


    In the end, the lie came out of her mouth. Liv averted her gaze, pretending to sweep her hair up, because she couldn¡¯t bear to face Rita.


    ¡°Well, you must be capable of doing such a job because you have a good academic record.¡±


    Fortunately, Rita accepted Liv¡¯s lie without question.


    I guess my educational background is also useful when I lie.


    Laughing bitterly, Liv asked Rita again in a firm voice.


    ¡°Anyway Rita. I know your intentions, but I don¡¯t want you to do anything like giving Coryda sewing job. I¡¯d rather increase my work than that.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. All right.¡±


    Liv was about to give a lengthy explanation of how a single needle could be dangerous to Coryda, but Rita quickly gave up as if she had realized Liv¡¯s intention. Then she narrowed her eyes and asked in a subtle way.


    ¡°But Liv, are you sure you really didn¡¯t go to Hyslop?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I thought someone in our neighborhood had finally seen Hyslop.¡±


    Rita sighed regretfully, and soon shrugged her shoulders.


    ¡°Well, nothing good will happen to us even if we go. We won¡¯t even be able to get in with this outfit.¡±


    Liv looked back on her outfit after listening to Rita¡¯s words. An old coat, tattered hat strap, and muddy shoes.


    Oh, so the problem was my outfit.


    Liv burst out laughing. She had roughly guessed it from the gaze of the doorkeeper, but her appearance was more disastrous than she thought. It was no wonder that the doorkeeper, who only dealt with the messengers of aristocratic families, had no choice but to ignore her because she went to such an imposing store and claimed to be a guest with such an appearance.


    The only time she wore the cleanest, most modest clothes she owned was when she went to Millian¡¯s class. Perhaps if she had dressed like she did for work, she would have been less humiliated, but was there any point in that?


    She had a feeling that even if she dressed up moderately and entered the store, she wouldn¡¯t get anything.


    ¡°Anyway, I have to go and return this basket, so I¡¯m leaving now.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Rita, looking up at the sky, said goodbye as if she was busy and turned around. Liv, who had been staring at Rita, who was busy walking away, also continued her paused steps. Liv, who was about to go to Pommel right away, suddenly looked down at the snack bag in her hand.


    She recalled that there was a rumor saying her situation was getting better.


    She didn¡¯t think Pommel wouldn¡¯t know the source of this bag of snacks. Liv turned home for now. She decided to leave the bag behind first.


    But, for better or worse, just before she got home, she ran into Pommel carrying a bag at his side.


    ¡°Look who¡¯s here!¡±


    Liv closed her lips with a grim face at the sight of Pommel exaggerating his happiness to see her.


    He glared so fiercely when she couldn¡¯t pay the rent, but he changed his attitude so quickly just because she had paid it. She stayed because she had no other place to move, but she really couldn¡¯t feel close to that landlord.


    ¡°Liv!¡±


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Pommel.¡±


    Pommel approached with a big smile as she reluctantly greeted him.


    ¡°Why does it feel like I haven¡¯t seen you in such a long time?¡±


    ¡°Because I paid my rent.¡±


    ¡°Ouch, why are you being so cold? Can¡¯t we see each other even if it¡¯s not for the rent? We have to get along with our neighbors.¡±


    Liv became wary of Pommel, who acted suspiciously friendly. It was not just once or twice that there was a change in his attitude before and after the payment, but it was suspicious that he changed so much like a different person.


    Pommel must have noticed the emotion in Liv¡¯s eyes, but he tapped Liv¡¯s arm, pretending to be close, not caring at all.


    ¡°Tell me whenever you have a hard time.¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯ll be less difficult if you don¡¯t care, Mr. Pommel.¡±


    Pommel burst into laughter at Liv¡¯s bitter reply. Then he came close and raised his hand slightly.


    ¡°Ay, Liv. At least I¡¯ve touched this in this neighborhood.¡±


    Liv frowned at Pommel, who rubbed his thumb and index finger and whispered in a subtle voice.


    ¡°When people suddenly have a lot of money, they don¡¯t know how to manage it and they just spend it recklessly. I know how to invest in this way.¡±


    ¡°¡­ What on earth are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Liv, I heard you¡¯ve been living well lately.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Pommel. I don¡¯t know what you heard or where you heard it, but it¡¯s not true. If my life had improved, I would have moved right away.¡±


    Liv shook her head firmly. Pommel narrowed his eyes and threw out a sly remark. Liv, however, just shook her head and walked past him, unperturbed. She could feel Pommel¡¯s intense gaze following behind her back.


    What kind of rumors are going around the neighborhood that even Pommel has that attitude? Anxiety crept up in Liv¡¯s mind.


    The way home, which she had gotten used to as she always walked through it, somehow, felt especially unfamiliar.


    ***


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 41

    There were two extra works after Liv went to the main boulevard. And on those two occasions, Liv felt someone¡¯s gaze when she got out of the black carriage.


    Perhaps it was her increased nervousness that caused her to feel unnecessary scrutiny for no reason. It would be better if it was just her overreacting.


    But once the anxiety bloomed, it kept growing.


    If it were known that she was being paid for the extra work daily, someone would target her for a crime. No, it would be good if she was the target. Wasn¡¯t the sick Coryda waiting for her and guarding the house alone until late in the evening?


    Liv immediately checked the security of the house. She increased the door lock, and locked the windows tighter. She reminded Coryda to be careful of strangers.


    However, she couldn¡¯t be at ease at all.


    She was just happy to make a lot of money, but she didn¡¯t think she would find such an unexpected problem.


    Shade was all over Liv¡¯s face in a few days. Even Baroness Vendons was worried and advised Liv, saying, ¡°If you are sick, don¡¯t feel pressured and rest.¡± Liv tried to smile and replied that she was fine, but it didn¡¯t sound convincing to the Baroness.


    Should I just move?


    She did have such a thought. However, when she thought about the place to move, there was no suitable place.


    The only reason she could afford the lifestyle she had now was because she lived in one of the cheapest neighborhoods in Buerno. Moving to a safe neighborhood required more living expenses. It was too dangerous to increase fixed living expenses only by relying on extra work that could end at any time.


    What if the extra work ends as soon as I move?


    The more she thought about it, the more frustrated she became with no answers. Liv sighed unconsciously.


    Wouldn¡¯t there be someone else watching her today, on the way back? If they noticed that there was a big envelope in her arms¡­


    ¡°Teacher.¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°What are you thinking?¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    Liv, who had been sitting in a daze, leaving her body to the flow of time, belatedly came to her senses. Blinking in confusion, Liv realized that this was the Marquis¡¯ room and that she was working extra hours.


    Today, the Marquis did not drink wine. Instead, a lit cigar was burning between his fingers.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t stopped sighing since you walked into this room. Are you tired of your job?¡±


    His tone sounded as if he would let her quit her job immediately if she wished. Liv¡¯s heart sank for a moment.


    ¡°No, my Lord.¡±


    The Marquis¡¯ treatment of her had softened considerably lately. More precisely, it had been since the day she drank the wine. But it surely wouldn¡¯t last long, and the Marquis was a sensitive man who could change his attitude as much as he wanted.


    So instead of leaning on the tantalizingly close proximity to share her concerns, Liv opted to brace herself more.


    ¡°I apologize for bothering you.¡±


    It seemed that her choice wasn¡¯t wrong. For the Marquis, who nodded his head indifferently, did not seem curious enough to pry into her story.


    He just seemed to be dissatisfied that Liv was not really concentrating on the work. Although it didn¡¯t seem that sitting still required more concentration.


    ¡°If you¡¯ve come to your senses, why don¡¯t you open the box over there?¡±


    The Marquis snapped his fingers and pointed. There was a box on the small side table next to the bed. The box itself, with its bright colors and large ribbon, was obviously very expensive.


    It was something she would not normally be able to see, but she hadn¡¯t noticed it for a long time, so it was clear that she really was out of her mind. Liv tried to ignore the rush of tiredness and stood up.


    She had to untie the ribbon to open the box. Liv paused as she saw it appeared to be wrapped as a gift to someone.


    Awkwardly touching the soft, expensive turquoise satin, she pulled the end of the ribbon. The ribbon flowed down without a hitch.


    ¡°This is¡­¡±


    As Liv stood there, staring down into the open box, the impassive voice of the Marquis came from behind her.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you try it on?¡±


    The thing inside the box was a necklace.


    There was only a teardrop-shaped ruby dangling from a string so thin that it would be hard to notice if it wasn¡¯t sparkly. The ruby was cut into an exquisite shape, and its color was so vivid and clear, making her afraid to touch it.


    Liv looked back at the Marquis absently. The Marquis, smoking the cigar flatly, frowned at Liv, who was hesitant.


    His response was like a push on Liv¡¯s back. Liv carefully picked the necklace up.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 42

    She fumbled with the clasp of the thin necklace as she had to wear it without a mirror, but the Marquis only watched quietly and did not help her.


    It took her an eternity to clasp the necklace, and the ruby rested heavily on her collarbone. Only after she had put it on did she realize that the string was a bit longer than the typical necklace. She felt a slight chill as the cold of the jewel touched her bare skin.


    ¡°I thought it would look good on you.¡±


    The Marquis murmured in a low voice as he stared at the ruby hanging on the white flesh.


    ¡°The wine did, after all.¡±


    Liv, who was looking down at the necklace awkwardly, shuddered slightly. The Marquis must have seen Liv stiffen visibly, but he didn¡¯t care at all. If anything, he seemed a little pleased.


    Maybe I have to sit down so that he can get a good look at this necklace?


    Liv, who was standing awkwardly, sat on the bed. She was facing the Marquis head on. The Marquis¡¯ eyes narrowed slightly.


    The Marquis relaxed slowly and sucked the cigar as if it was all a lie that he was displeased at Liv, who was lost in her thoughts. The smoke scattered around him. It was just another ordinary day, except for the smell of cigars, which was stronger than usual, so Liv¡¯s attention quickly turned to the jewelry.


    She had never worn such an accessory in her life. Back in her school days, she never wore jewelry, and even after graduation, she never attended an event that required it. Even if she had some, she probably would have sold them all to keep the family afloat.


    She had a bad eye for jewelry. However, she had learned that jewels are clear and crisp in color, and that the bigger the size, the more expensive it is.


    Perhaps the little piece of ruby on her neck would be more expensive than her. Her neck turned stiff as she thought so.


    Liv stared down at her chest.


    ¡°Take it.¡±


    The Marquis suddenly opened his mouth. It took a little time for Liv to understand what he said.


    ¡°¡­ Pardon?¡±


    ¡°Sometimes a tip makes the job worthwhile.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, my Lord.¡±


    The words of rejection immediately came out. The Marquis tilted his head sharply at her refusal without much thought.


    ¡°I can¡¯t give something that has been worn to anyone, so you can sell it if you don¡¯t like it.¡±


    Take it and sell it?


    Liv let out a wry smile without knowing it.


    Whether it was a jewelry store or a pawnshop, if she took it there, the owner would call the police immediately. This jewel and Liv were too far from a match for her to explain that she had received it as a gift; even if that was the truth. She was lucky if she wouldn¡¯t be accused of being a thief.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine, my Lord.¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you the one who said you were short of money?¡±


    The Marquis looked like he couldn¡¯t understand Liv¡¯s refusal. Given that the basis for them to reach this situation was about money, it was fair for him to have such a question.


    Of course, Liv didn¡¯t want to refuse the given tip. If it was money, she might have taken it. But it was a different case with jewelry.


    ¡°It¡¯s enough now. If my life suddenly changes too much¡­ it will look strange.¡±


    The jewelry was beautiful, but that was it. It was a valuable item with no practical use, so she felt uncomfortable wearing it as if it belonged to someone else. It would be much better to get additional cash even if it wasn¡¯t much.


    The Marquis spoke to himself, looking quietly at Liv, who seemed to have no regret.


    ¡°So it already looks like that.¡±


    The corners of Liv¡¯s closed mouth twitched slightly.


    She wondered how the Marquis got to the point so quickly.


    ¡°Did you get robbed?¡±


    This was a topic Liv didn¡¯t want to discuss. The Marquis clicked his tongue at the sight of Liv, who was silent because she didn¡¯t want to mention it. He only did that, but it was enough to put pressure on Liv.


    Liv, taking a glance at the Marquis¡¯ face, reluctantly parted her lips.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t get robbed. It¡¯s just¡­ There was a little misunderstanding because the carriage you provided is luxurious.¡±


    Wouldn¡¯t it be better to ask him to change the carriage with something common while we are on this?


    Liv, who lowered her gaze, turned the accident into a positive direction. The Marquis didn¡¯t have to pay for an expensive carriage either; a moderately inexpensive carriage would have saved him from unnecessary spending. Though it didn¡¯t seem like the one who gave her such a necklace just because it looked good on her would consider the cost of the carriage.


    Perhaps, if his capricious mercy were to be granted today, the troubles which had plagued Liv throughout might be reduced.


    At that thought, a glimmer of hope appeared in Liv¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    The Marquis gave a low exclamation at Liv¡¯s words. He was silent for a while, pressing down on his temple as if to recall something, and he soon opened his mouth.


    ¡°Was your residence a slum?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t a slum.


    Of course¡­ It was not a decent enough neighborhood either.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 43

    ¡°It¡¯s an ordinary residential area.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t sound so ordinary if it¡¯s a neighborhood where you have to be on the lookout for riding a carriage.¡±


    Liv chose not to refute. It was obvious that the slums and the neighborhood where Liv lived in would not look any different in the eyes of the Marquis. Even if she claimed that it was different, it would only look like she was standing on her pride.


    Rubbing his chin with his hand, the Marquis looked up from his musings.


    ¡°Do you want me to escort you?¡±


    ¡°¡­ What?¡±


    Liv asked back without realizing it. The Marquis subtly twisted his lips when he saw she opened her eyes wide as if she had heard something unbelievable.


    ¡°Why? Do I look like I don¡¯t know the word escort?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that.¡±


    He actually looked so. Escort. She never thought the Marquis had such an elegant and polite word in his head.


    Well, it would be a little strange for him to be ignorant of manners. Wasn¡¯t he the great Marquis Demus Dietrion? He didn¡¯t need to show his manners, but it didn¡¯t mean he was ignorant of it.


    But why are we talking about escorts here?


    Oh, he asked if I was robbed. Did he bring that up because he thought my way home was dangerous?


    But why does that lead to escorts?


    Liv¡¯s complexion changed from moment to moment, following her complex thoughts. Liv froze, unaware that the Marquis was watching her with intrigue, and it wasn¡¯t until a moment later that she realized he was looking at her.


    The Marquis was waiting for an answer.


    Liv said cautiously, trying to suppress her confusion.


    ¡°I¡¯m grateful for your offer, but it won¡¯t fundamentally solve my problem, so no.¡±


    ¡°Are you asking for a fundamental solution?¡±


    There was a hint of laughter in the Marquis¡¯s voice as he asked back. Liv became more perplexed and shook her hands.


    ¡°I¡¯m not asking for something, but¡ª¡±


    ¡°Do it.¡±


    Interrupting Liv, the Marquis said in a lucid voice.


    ¡°Ask for it, Teacher.¡±


    It was a cold, dry order, as if the brief laughter had been an illusion.


    Yes, order.


    It was indeed a strange order. An order to ask for a favor from him.


    ¡°Why would I ask for a favor from you, my Lord?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no reason not to either, no?¡±


    Liv still looked at the Marquis with a confused expression.


    ¡°If I had to find a reason¡­¡±


    The Marquis, who had been staring intently at Liv as he dragged his words, dropped his cigar into the ashtray. The half-burned cigar was dying down.


    ¡°I¡¯m curious. How far will the person who is still upright even if she¡¯s stark-naked cling if she crosses her own line.¡±


    His answer was more insulting than expected, so it was difficult for her to understand it at once.


    Liv, who had been mulling over the Marquis¡¯ words several times with a blank face, blushed belatedly. Her face contorted, the emotion she couldn¡¯t hide smeared like paint.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t like me¡ª!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why you think I don¡¯t like you.¡±


    Despite Liv¡¯s attempt to raise her voice, the Marquis¡¯ blue eyes shone as he clicked his tongue nonchalantly.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it more convincing to understand that I¡¯m interested in you?¡±


    Liv opened her mouth, forgetting that she was getting angry. The Marquis¡¯ way of thinking was beyond her daring to follow.


    Liv, who was gaping, gritted her teeth and swallowed a sigh.


    The Marquis could have been right. Wasn¡¯t he a man with a hobby of watching someone sitting naked for hours? Adding another habit of casually insulting the person he watched would be nothing. There were even people scattered all over the world who would be very thankful with his insults.


    That man was Demus Dietrion. The man whose gaze everyone in Buerno wanted to catch a glimpse of. A man who could have such arrogant and heartless speech as a right.


    ¡°I will take it as you¡¯re interested in me, but I¡¯m not sure if it¡¯s good for me.¡±


    Liv conveyed in a euphemistic tone that she was not happy with his interest. Fortunately, the Marquis wasn¡¯t a fool, so he seemed to understand what she said quickly.


    ¡°Life is something one cannot know for sure.¡±


    The Marquis, who replied indifferently, averted his gaze from Liv.


    ¡°You are more difficult than I expected.¡±


    There was a hint of irritation on the Marquis¡¯s face as he muttered that.


    ¡°I thought you were only stiff, but you are also slow.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s call it a day.¡±


    It was earlier than usual, but the Marquis raised himself without hesitating. Liv, bewildered, also rose from her seat, but the Marquis left the room first without looking back at her.


    Liv, who was left alone, belatedly realized that she had offended the Marquis too much. A wave of worry and regret washed over her.


    But there was nothing she could do.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 44

    Brad¡¯s work had picked up the pace.


    This was after the Marquis stopped attending. As he could use the studio as much as he needed without the Marquis¡¯ interference, Brad worked hard as if to make up for the stagnation.


    It was clearly the thing she hoped for, but Liv was not happy at all. Since the Marquis¡¯ visits had ceased, Liv¡¯s additional work had also ceased without a clear indication.


    Adolf had informed her that the Marquis was away for the time being so there was no need for extra work. Along with the explanation that the contract was not terminated, as it was only a brief break.


    It was fortunate that the contract was not terminated. However, it didn¡¯t feel good to have to wait for the extra work, which she had no clue of when it would start again. In the meantime, Brad¡¯s speed of work increased, and it made her become more restless.


    Will this extra work continue even after Brad finishes the painting?


    Can I forget the heaviness of the pocket of money I have tasted for a moment?


    Those thoughts weighed heavily on Liv¡¯s mind. In addition¡­


    After the sudden suspension of the extra work, Liv came to realize that she was interested in the Marquis more than she had thought.


    In fact, it was probably inevitable to anyone. It was beyond control for Liv. The time she spent with him was longer than she thought, and the psychological distance between them was reduced because she saw him often. Of course, the outer appearance of the Marquis could not be ignored.


    Above all, no one would ever guess that such a seemingly stoic man had such a hobby. The fact that she was the only one who knew that great man¡¯s secret gave her a special feeling.


    It wasn¡¯t just a delusion on her part. Looking back, it really seemed that he treated her a little differently.


    ¡°Even if he does¡­¡±


    Liv swallowed a sigh and shook her head. She wasn¡¯t sure what whim had caused him to take an interest in her, but their last conversation had twisted his judgment, so everything had gone wrong.


    Liv, who was able to return home even before dark as there was no extra work, walked groggy. The only comfort she found in the situation was that the mysterious eyes that had been making her anxious for some time had disappeared. Since she was no longer going home late at night in an expensive carriage, she was sure the strange rumor that had been circulating in the neighborhood would also disappear.


    She familiarly made her way to the chapel. It had been a long time since she visited the chapel because she had been busy with the extra work.


    There was a familiar man carrying a broom in front of the chapel as she approached it.


    ¡°Hello, Miss Liv!¡±


    ¡°Hello, Bethel.¡±


    Bethel, whom she met after a long time, still looked the same. Looking at him, everything she had gone through in the last few weeks felt like a dream. She wondered if this was reality and everything that had happened with the Marquis was an illusion.


    Bethel, who greeted Liv warmly, said with a big smile.


    ¡°There are a lot of people looking for God today.¡±


    Liv¡¯s eyes turned to the old entrance of the chapel as he heard him. As soon as she heard that there were a lot of people, she recalled the unexpected figure she had often encountered here.


    Is the Marquis inside by any chance?


    Her palms became wet as she thought about it. Her back went stiff with an incomprehensible nervousness.


    Liv, swallowing a dry spit, pushed the door carefully. As Bethel said, there were many people sitting in the chair even though it was not worship time. Liv¡¯s eyes quickly scanned the back of their heads.


    The platinum hair was nowhere to be seen.


    Liv, who had stopped in her tracks with a disappointed look on her face, suddenly realized what she was doing and gasped. Disappointed?


    Wake up, Liv.


    Liv, who gave herself a fierce rebuke, looked around for an empty seat. She saw some people standing up as if they were about to leave their seats. Liv¡¯s steps naturally headed that way.


    And as she approached the vacancy, Liv stopped reflexively. The other person coming out from the opposite side was the same.


    ¡°Oh? Miss Rhodes?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Marcel?¡±


    ¡°Wow, I didn¡¯t expect to see you here. It is¡­ Aha.¡±


    It was Camille who greeted her warmly. He smiled broadly and stopped talking, and suddenly hardened his expression as though he remembered something.


    ¡°He certainly is impressive enough to get you to come here.¡±


    Camille seemed a little sad, and maybe even disappointed.


    She didn¡¯t know the circumstances, but she could see that he had come to a conclusion at will. Liv answered calmly, frowning.


    ¡°¡­ I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all right. There¡¯s no one in Bueno who isn¡¯t interested in that man. ¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 45

    Camille tried to smile, waving his hand. His puzzling attitude made Liv¡¯s face sterner as she lowered her voice.


    ¡°I am sorry, Mr. Marcel. I¡¯ve been to this chapel for a long time.¡±


    ¡°¡­ You mean you didn¡¯t come to see him?¡±


    ¡°Who are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°The Marquis of Dietrion.¡±


    Liv opened her eyes wide. Seeing her reaction, Camille made an odd expression.


    ¡°I guess you had no idea at all.¡±


    Wearing the hat he was carrying, Camille glanced around the chapel. Several people sitting close to them were seen glancing as if responding to their conversation. Liv also felt the eyes gathering on them, and she looked embarrassed.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t the right place for a conversation. Shall we go outside?¡±


    Liv nodded cautiously after thinking for a while.


    ¡­


    Sitting on an outdoor bench near the chapel, without any warm tea, the conversation with Camille went on longer than she¡¯d expected.


    She eventually left the chapel without even praying. The prayer, however, was not something she regretted. It was the premonition that the chapel would no longer be secluded that she regretted.


    ¡°If I had known you were here, I would have come earlier.¡±


    ¡°You can just come from now on.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my. I don¡¯t think there¡¯ll be any seat left for me to sit.¡±


    Camille clicked his tongue and shook his head, exaggerating. Just in time, there were people who just came to the chapel. Camille, who glanced at them, murmured to himself.


    ¡°Because I think the rumor will spread further.¡±


    Hearing his murmur, Liv made an awkward smile and turned her gaze slightly.


    So all the people who were in the chapel were people who had heard some kind of rumor.


    A rumor that the Marquis of Dietrion went to this chapel.


    Camille was also one of the people who visited this chapel after hearing the rumor. He smiled awkwardly, saying, ¡°I came here because I was wondering if there was any special energy in the chapel where the great Marquis Dietrion attends.¡±


    Meanwhile, Liv, who said she was ¡°interested in the Marquis¡± at Millian¡¯s birthday party, showed up in the chapel, so he thought she was also led by rumors and came to see the Marquis¡¯ face.


    Liv glanced up at the small, old chapel building. Camille uttered to her, as if to give her consolation.


    ¡°Well, everyone will soon find out that it¡¯s a false rumor.¡±


    ¡°Do you think it¡¯s a false rumor?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Camille shrugged and followed Liv¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°There is no reason for the Marquis to go to such an old chapel. He might as well have a worship room inside his mansion.¡±


    ¡°¡­ You¡¯re right.¡±


    She realized yet again that it was strange as she heard Camille. Why did he come here?


    ¡°Oh, have you ever seen the Marquis here, Miss Rhodes?¡±


    ¡°No way. Why would the Marquis come here?¡±


    Liv smiled and shook her head. Looking back, it seemed that she had never been caught by anyone whenever she ran into the Marquis. It was a relationship that she thought to be better to remain unknown.


    ¡°I know, right?¡±


    Liv, glancing at Camille who smiled lightly, saw the darkening sky and turned around.


    ¡°I have to go now. It¡¯s too late.¡±


    ¡°Where do you live? I¡¯ll take you just to the neighborhood.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not far away, so it¡¯s okay. It¡¯s late, so go ahead.¡±


    Camille offered again, but when he saw Liv¡¯s refusal, he didn¡¯t ask further. He seemed better the more she saw him. Thinking that she really had no idea how such a man became interested in her, Liv walked ahead.


    The day quickly grew dark.


    The sense of remoteness was even more palpable as she left the bustling chapel and turned into a secluded alley. Liv made her steps unnecessarily loud. Not a single passerby was seen on the way home today.


    The dark and desolate atmosphere made the alley even more dreary.


    Liv curled up in an attempt to erase the chill she felt for no reason. Striding with her arms crossed, she suddenly noticed a subtle noise mixed with the sound of her own footsteps.


    Clomp.


    It was such a strange and heavy footsteps in such a dead area.


    A chill ran up the spine to the nape of her neck. Liv, stopping with a panicked face, immediately looked behind, but no one was seen anywhere in the dark alley.


    I must be wrong.


    Liv, who tried so hard to console herself, moved again. But once the anxiety kicked in, it didn¡¯t go away easily. Liv, who was walking a little faster than before, listened to the sound behind her back, holding her breath.


    Clomp. Clomp.


    It didn¡¯t seem she was wrong. The sound, which overlapped with her footsteps, was heavier and more cautious than hers.


    She regretted that she shouldn¡¯t have refused Camille¡¯s kindness if she had known this would happen.


    Fear washed over her, along with a rush of regret. She questioned herself what to do if the owner of the footsteps was the owner of the gaze she had felt for days. If the gaze she thought had disappeared had been actually watching her the whole time and was going to rob her today.


    All she had with her was the few bucks she was going to give as an offering. She wondered if she could escape if she threw it.


    Her head was turning white and her steps were getting faster and faster. Accordingly, the sound that followed her also accelerated.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 46

    He didn¡¯t even try to hide his presence anymore. Liv bit her lip until it bled. Staying alert, she clasped her skirt, clenched her teeth, and began to run.


    Tap! Tap Tap!


    She couldn¡¯t think of anything else when she heard the sound of running after her. Normally, there would still be one or two people walking by, but it was really a wonder why there was no one around.


    She looked around for help, but there was no place that stood out. The houses were firmly closed, and the windows were draped with curtains. It was as if they didn¡¯t want to get involved in what was going on outside.


    Would anyone come out at all if she cried out?


    Everyone in the neighborhood was busy looking out for themselves. They were people whose livelihoods would be directly impacted if they were injured if they were wrongly caught up in someone else¡¯s conflict.


    Even if Liv were in their position, she didn¡¯t think she would even try to come out if she heard a scream outside. Even if she went out, she couldn¡¯t be of any help, and if she got involved, she could even put Coryda in danger.


    Wouldn¡¯t I rather lock the door more¡­


    Just when she got to that point, she twisted her ankle. She stepped in thick mud and lost her balance.


    ¡°Ugh!¡±


    Thud!


    Her body lurched forward. She reflexively touched the ground and managed to keep her face from being smashed, but her knee took a big hit. The smell of dirt and filth hit her in the face.


    There was no time to feel pain. Liv hurriedly tried to raise herself, but her legs didn¡¯t move as she wanted. Meanwhile, the presence that was chasing her was already behind her back.


    In horror, Liv looked up from her fall. She could see a large shadow staring down at her in the dark. There was an unpleasant smell coming from him.


    ¡°He, help¡­¡±


    She trembled and tried to scream, but her voice didn¡¯t come out as if her throat was blocked.


    The man slowly raised his hand. Liv, who saw that he had a club-like thing in his hand, closed her eyes tightly.


    Bang!


    The piercing sound of gunfire echoed through the deserted alley. At the same time, some hot liquid dropped on Liv¡¯s face. The metallic smell hit her nose.


    Liv slowly opened her eyes while trembling her lips.


    ¡°Blech¡­¡±


    Along with the stirring sound, the body of the giant who vomited blood crumbled sideways.


    ¡°Hah, hahh¡­¡±


    Liv belatedly rubbed her cheek as she stared at the man who had collapsed in front of her, breathing heavily. The unpleasant liquid smeared on the back of her hand. She knew for sure that it was blood even though she was in the dark.


    The blood trickled out, forming a puddle on the ground. However, she could see the man¡¯s body wriggling and spasming, as if he wasn¡¯t dead. Liv, who was sitting, trembled and dragged herself back. It was hard to move, as she kept flailing her arms and legs.


    While Liv was struggling to get away from the man somehow, suddenly, someone¡¯s voice rang above her head.


    ¡°Are you all right?¡±


    ¡°Eek!¡±


    Liv cowered her neck in surprise and looked up at once. The other person sighed as if he felt sorry for Liv when he saw her pale face.


    ¡°¡­ Mr. Adolf?¡±


    ¡°You must be very surprised.¡±


    Adolf took a handkerchief from his arms and handed it to her. Liv, who had managed to accept it in her frenzy, looked at him with a confused expression. Adolf said in a friendly tone, not paying any attention to the fallen, bleeding man.


    ¡°Wipe the blood with that for now.¡±


    ¡°Why, why are you here, Mr. Adolf¡­?¡±


    Adolf glanced around the alley.


    There was such a loud gunshot, but no one came out to look. Even the house with the lights on turned off all the lights and went completely silent as if there were no people inside.


    But someone would surely take a look as the time passed. Or maybe they were already doing that behind the thick curtains.


    ¡°Shall we move first?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Sorry?¡±


    Adolf smiled, pressing his hat down a little deeper.


    ¡°The Marquis awaits you.¡±


    ***


    Demus had several buildings. Some were made publicly visible, while others were owned under borrowed names.


    This little house was the latter. He bought it under a borrowed name, but he never had any particular thought about its use.


    Maybe I¡¯ll decide on the use of this house today.


    With that thought, he looked around the cramped interior of the house. The meaningless gaze was boring as he didn¡¯t do it with the intention to look around.


    ¡°I have brought in Miss Rhodes.¡±


    Demus, who was staring at the fireplace indifferently, glanced at the door. Beyond the open door stood a pale-faced woman. Although she had washed clean and changed her clothes, her aghast complexion reminded him of the scenery a while ago.


    A woman, covered in blood that wasn¡¯t hers, turning into a mess and shivering.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 47

    ¡°You¡¯re late.¡±


    Demus said in a flat tone as he checked the table clock on the mantelpiece. Hearing that, Liv slowly opened her pale lips.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been treated.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been treated?¡±


    Demus¡¯ eyes turned to Adolf, who stood behind Liv.


    ¡°It¡¯s a light bruise.¡±


    He thought he wasn¡¯t too late.


    ¡°So there¡¯s a scratch¡­¡±


    Even though Demus showed his displeasure without any hesitation, Liv didn¡¯t care much. Or, more accurately, it didn¡¯t seem like she could be bothered to care about Demus¡¯ mood.


    Well, she surely couldn¡¯t notice his mood in this kind of situation. She almost got attacked by a stranger, and she saw him get shot right in front of her. Above all, it was from such a close distance that she got his blood splattered on her.


    Demus gestured to the sofa across from him with his chin.


    ¡°Let¡¯s sit down for now.¡±


    ¡°You can sit over here, Miss Rhodes.¡±


    Adolf supported Liv¡¯s arm and led her to the sofa. Demus, who was staring at Liv walking carefully, squinted his eyes.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say it was a light bruise?¡±


    ¡°She sprained her ankle when she fell. It¡¯ll get better with enough rest.¡±


    Demus¡¯ gaze went down. The thin ankle peeked out from under the hem and disappeared.


    ¡°Have a talk then.¡±


    Adolf, who carefully supported Liv, bowed politely and stepped back. Liv, who had been following Adolf¡¯s lead half-dazed, glanced back at him. There was a hint of worry and pleading in the faltering gaze. That must mean she had relied mentally on Adolf in a short period of time.


    Demus only stared quietly at Liv. Liv, who looked pitifully at Adolf, sighed as she saw the door being closed.


    ¡°Are you all right, Teacher?¡±


    ¡°Oh, yes.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t look good.¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯ve been through something unfortunate.¡±


    Liv¡¯s hands trembled as she said so. She clutched her skirt tightly, as if trying to hold back the tremor. It was completely different from her usual dauntless attitude.


    ¡°Indeed, it was an unexpected incident.¡±


    ¡°¡­ I owe you a favor. How do I repay this favor?¡±


    Rather than sincere, Liv¡¯s thanks was more like speaking out the words she had prepared in advance. Even as she rambled on, her anxiety was evident throughout her body.


    From her shrinking shoulders, eyes looking at her feet, and the pale lips.


    ¡°If I had known you would get hurt, I would have moved a little faster.¡±


    Liv, who was rambling conventional words of thanks, paused. She, who had been only looking at the floor all the time since entering this room, slowly raised her head. The wide opened green eyes stared straight at him.


    ¡°Was it you who shot the gun?¡±


    The Marquis tilted his head as he saw she was surprised as if she had never imagined that.


    ¡°Who did you think it was?¡±


    ¡°¡­ I, thought it was obviously Mr. Adolf.¡±


    Liv, who was stuttering, gradually regained her composure. A faint suspicion blended into the gaze that was simply of a surprise. It seemed that she didn¡¯t think Demus would have come forward and done anything.


    Of course, no one would think that Demus would have stepped forward in person in this situation.


    Demus glanced around the room. He ignored Liv, who was staring at him as if she wanted a definite answer.


    ¡°It was a pretty bad neighborhood. I don¡¯t think what happened today will end in a one-off. Am I jumping to conclusions?¡±


    Anxiety crossed over Liv¡¯s face at that.


    ¡°Today is a rare occasion. That alley wasn¡¯t always like this¡­¡±


    ¡°The problem is the fact that you became the target.¡±


    Liv closed her mouth as he replied indifferently.


    ¡°Can you walk through that alley comfortably?¡±


    Of course, it wouldn¡¯t be possible. She would surely feel reluctant to walk through that alley even if it only got a little dark. The fear of that time would be revived every time she passed through that alley even though the blood was no longer there. The threatening shadow, the desolate surroundings where there was no place to ask for help, and the cool and dark air.


    Just look at her now. When asked if she would be able to walk through that alley, Liv¡¯s expression froze at once.


    Demus turned to her and pretended to speak in a generous tone.


    ¡°Live in this house. I¡¯ll only accept as much as you¡¯ve been paying for your rent.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Do you mean this house?¡±


    Liv finally looked around the room. It seemed to dawn on her that this wasn¡¯t the secluded mansion she had always visited. Rather, it was more like a normal family home, albeit one that hadn¡¯t been lived in for a long time and was a bit dreary.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s going to be bad for you.¡±


    Liv, looking around the house with shaking eyes, furrowed her brows. The bewildered tone reflected the confusion she was feeling now.


    ¡°That¡¯s way too much help for me. Why¡­ Why are you being so kind?¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 48

    Kind.


    Demus laughed without realizing it. Could there be any word that would clash with him better than that?


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Adolf tell you that the contract wasn¡¯t terminated?¡±


    ¡°Are you saying you¡¯re going to use this as the new workplace?¡±


    ¡°No way.¡±


    This small house was very far from Demus¡¯ taste.


    ¡°I hope our contract will be carried out smoothly.¡±


    Demus, sitting with his long legs crossed, put his clasped hands on his thighs.


    ¡°The biggest reason I signed the contract with you was that I liked your naked body. I don¡¯t want any scratches on it. Moreover, I don¡¯t want to see you distracted from your work because you¡¯re fussing over something pointless.¡±


    Liv blushed at the directness of Demus¡¯ words. She was taken aback, defenseless, as if the bare minimum of vigilance she had always shown had been left behind somewhere.


    She looked too overwhelmed to understand what Demus had been saying. And Demus kind of liked the way she looked.


    He was quite satisfied to see the desperately built pride collapsing little by little.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I solved it.¡±


    ¡°Solved¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, this house. Of course, the robbery was not intended, but I¡¯m sure that must be your luck.¡±


    Liv looked confused. If it were her usual self, she would have declined everything by saying that she was really okay or no, thanks.


    However, she was unstable, unable to recover from the shock. She looked so weak as if she would collapse just from a light touch. She also looked dangerously fragile as if a slight pull would drag her away.


    ¡°Quite an incredible timing it was, as I happened to be in that neighborhood today.¡±


    ¡°¡­ What brought you to my neighborhood today? If it¡¯s about this house, you could have told me about it on the extra work.¡±


    Liv managed to ask calmly. She was pretending that she had regained her senses.


    Demus, glancing at Liv¡¯s strongly clenched hands, replied in a languid tone.


    ¡°Well, I guess you must have called me anxiously.¡±


    Liv¡¯s eyes shook wildly. She opened her lips and lowered her gaze without saying anything.


    Demus, staring at her who looked tired and was absorbed in her own thoughts, consciously leaned his back. The cheap sofa was not at all comfortable, but he deliberately stretched out and leaned back. Then he asked in a casual tone.


    ¡°Are you still looking for God in the chapel?¡±


    Sometimes it took patience to kill the enemy.


    Until reaching the shooting range. Until it became convincing that the bullet would completely take away the enemy¡¯s breath.


    This was not only applicable on the battlefields. He needed to be patient to catch something. The target didn¡¯t have to be his enemy.


    Be it prey or anything else.


    The calm blue eyes recalled what had happened a while ago. The woman who was shaking and increasing her pace, and the scoundrel who chased after her.


    ¡°Shall I go and help her?¡±


    Adolf was about to intervene, but Demus stopped him. Standing in the darkness, Demus quietly held his breath. It had been a while since he held a gun barrel, but his blood was boiling like a man who had been firing guns until yesterday.


    Yeah, this is what it felt like. He even thought of that.


    The gun was aimed steady at the target. The darkness was no obstacle for him.


    ¡°Ugh!¡±


    He didn¡¯t pull the trigger even when the woman fell to the ground. Demus waited a little longer. Until he had what he wanted, the perfect range.


    Until Liv Rhodes came within his shooting range. All while measuring the timing of when she would fall completely into his hands.


    And finally, at the moment when the scoundrel raised his hand and the horror flashed across the woman¡¯s face.


    Bang!


    The woman, who looked like was about to burst into tears, raised her head at the moment the gunshot rang. With eyes wide open as if she couldn¡¯t believe the miracle that was happening in front of her.


    That woman was now raising her head again before his eyes.


    Demus noticed that she was asking for an answer. She was wondering who saved her. If the one who caused the amazing miracle was a God, whom she wasn¡¯t sure of his existence, or¡­


    This time, Demus gave her his affirmation.


    ¡°I was the one who fired the gun.¡±


    Demus smiled faintly as he watched the woman¡¯s face crumble helplessly.


    It was a pleasant victory he felt after a long time.


    ***


    The new house she moved to was in a quiet, normal residential neighborhood, quite a distance from where she lived before.


    The previous house was attached to the neighbors¡¯ house like a chicken coop, so there were a lot of things that bothered her, but in the house she moved into, Liv could have the whole house as hers. Of course, everything was good compared to the previous house.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 49

    She was so busy coming here last night that she didn¡¯t even think about looking around the house. Moreover, because she had relaxed and slept well, it was already midday when she opened her eyes. It was only in the afternoon that Liv and Coryda came to their senses and started looking around the house.


    ¡°Liv, are we really going to live here now?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Coryda was busy looking inside the house as if she was amazed to have such a large house when they had always stayed in a small single room. Liv, smiling at Coryda, turned around quietly.


    This house had everything in it, so all she had to do was move in. That might be why it was hard for Liv to fathom that she would be living here from now on. She couldn¡¯t believe the Marquis told her to live in this house. She couldn¡¯t believe the rent remained the same even though the house was better.


    It even came with a small yard. The distance to the city center was getting closer, and the way to the Barony of Vendons was much safer. It was a good distance away from the neighbors, so she felt like she¡¯d be less scrutinized when coming and going. There was even a police station nearby.


    Of course, it was too far from the chapel she used to go to, but she didn¡¯t regret moving away from it, since it was unknown if she would visit that place again.


    Rather, she was glad that it was far away. For she could not go there on the pretext of being far away.


    ¡°Am I really using this room alone?¡±


    ¡°Do you like it?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    Coryda answered with a big smile. Coryda, who carefully placed the music box she had been carrying so preciously for fear of breaking it on the window sill, looked to be in a very good mood.


    If I¡¯d known she¡¯d like it that much, I¡¯d have moved to a house where I could give her her own room.


    Liv, who thought so casually, immediately laughed wryly. In the first place, if it weren¡¯t for the Marquis, she wouldn¡¯t have had the luxury of choosing her own room, so her thought earlier was just a pipe dream.


    ¡°I was the one who fired the gun.¡±


    The cold voice echoed in her head. Liv didn¡¯t know how to push away the man who nonchalantly said that he saved her. She had been on high alert because she didn¡¯t want to get the attention she couldn¡¯t deal with, but everything collapsed last night.


    Liv admitted. That the Marquis had easily crossed the line she had drawn.


    He was a man who could provide her with everything she needed right away, and if Liv could capture his attention, he seemed willing to show her even more mercy.


    Everyone in the world said that he was temperamental, sensitive, and unsociable, but Liv was closer to the Marquis than they were.


    Indeed, he has a weird hobby, but he may be a better person than I thought.


    It was just that he only kept a few people around him, and he might be a really nice person.  At least it was for Liv.


    For Liv, he was a man greater than God.


    ¡°By the way, Liv, who was the uncle from yesterday?¡±


    ¡°The uncle?¡±


    ¡°Yes, the uncle who brought me here.¡±


    It was Adolf who brought Coryda here. He returned to this house with Coryda just as the conversation between Liv and the Marquis was about to end. It was really absurd to Liv as she had obviously asked Coryda to be careful of strangers. Somehow, it sounded as if he told Coryda that Liv fell and hurt her leg.


    But even if that was what happened, it was unbelievable that he could lure Coryda out so easily.


    Before he left, Adolf smiled to Liv, who stood blankly as she was taken aback. Coryda remembered Adolf distinctly for what she had talked about with him.


    ¡°I got to know him while looking for this house.¡±


    ¡°So he¡¯s the landlord?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not, he¡¯s just the broker.¡±


    The Marquis left before he could run into Coryda. After his sudden retreat, Liv sat for a long time, absent-mindedly in this new house she had suddenly acquired.


    If it weren¡¯t for the pain in her legs, she would have dismissed everything she had been through for hours as an illusion.


    ¡°I think that uncle is much nicer than Uncle Pommel.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    It was a good thing that at least Adolf didn¡¯t seem to be treating Liv badly.


    Well, Adolf treated Liv gentlemanly even at the first meeting. And the Marquis¡­ Even though he spoke a little rough, he was always kind. When he lent her his handkerchief, when he saved her from the robber.


    Come to think of it, what happened to the robber who was shot yesterday?


    She didn¡¯t think the Marquis wouldn¡¯t clean it up, but what if the robber survived and retaliated?


    Liv, who saw with her own eyes when the robber fell down vomiting blood, knew what a ridiculous idea it was. However, she couldn¡¯t be at ease once she thought of the possibility.


    ¡°Coryda. I¡¯ll go out for a while, so stay home.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 50

    ¡°Is your ankle okay? Wouldn¡¯t it be better to rest at home today?¡±


    ¡°I told you yesterday that It wasn¡¯t a serious injury. I¡¯ll be right back.¡±


    Having heard Liv¡¯s answer, Coryda looked down at Liv¡¯s feet with concern. Nevertheless, she soon nodded and told Liv to go carefully.


    Her ankle, which was throbbing at the slightest movement yesterday felt slightly better after a good night¡¯s sleep. Her limping steps could be noticed through a closer look, but such was not a hindrance for her to go out. Liv walked through the unfamiliar front door and across the yard.


    She already had the lay of the land around her house in her head. Fortunately, Adolf was kind enough to give her a map of the neighborhood. The map showed all of the nearby stores and small amenities. Unlike commercially available maps, this one seemed to have been created with extra information added.


    Thanks to this, Liv found the newsboy without wandering.


    Newsboys were usually quick with the news. It was likely because they sold newspapers and picked up any kind of news in advance. In addition, because they created their own networks, they often acted as a hotbed of rumors.


    ¡°Newspaper!¡±


    ¡°No thanks for the newspaper, but I¡¯d like to ask you something.¡±


    Liv gave the boy a coin. The boy smiled brightly and nodded toward Liv.


    ¡°By any chance, were there any murders last night?¡±


    ¡°The unofficial one?¡±


    Is there such a thing as unofficial murder?


    Liv, who found out about the fact she had never imagined, answered awkwardly with a hardened expression.


    ¡°Well¡­ Both officially and unofficially.¡±


    ¡°Uh-oh, there¡¯s a lot of such a thing.¡±


    The boy shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly.


    ¡°Scary things that no ordinary young lady could ever imagine happen in the back alleys of Buerno!¡±


    The boy said exaggeratedly, clumsily imitating gentlemen as if he had seen them somewhere.


    ¡°But last night¡¯s Buerno was very peaceful, so you don¡¯t have to worry!¡±


    Liv thanked him, gave him another coin, and turned away.


    It was peaceful. There was such a loud gunshot, but it was peaceful.


    Would it have been called peaceful if she had been mugged helplessly? The mere thought of it gave her the chills.


    In any case, it seemed that the Marquis had taken care of things, as it was not known that the shot had been fired in the middle of the night or that anyone had been knocked out by it. He seemed to have the ability to clean up all the problems. Moreover, he shot a person himself, so of course he would have taken care of it so that it could be covered up smoothly.


    Liv was not worried about the robber who had been shot. It was more accurate to say that she was worried about the Marquis. If he were to get into an unnecessary incident because of her, it would be tough on Liv because she¡¯d become financially dependent on him.


    Of course, it wasn¡¯t necessarily because of financial problems¡­


    No, it was not.


    ¡°Are you still looking for God in the chapel?¡±


    Liv gently pressed her chest.


    The rapid beating of her heart somehow made her feel a little devastated.


    ***


    A slight sprain in her ankle wasn¡¯t enough to keep her out of Millian¡¯s class. Liv arrived at the Vendons Manor, feeling relieved that her bruised legs were covered by her skirt.


    ¡°Teacher, teacher!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Millian. I¡¯m listening.¡±


    ¡°I heard you moved to the neighborhood of F¨¦mont Street!¡±


    Once again, Millian focused more on small talk than class. Liv nodded dryly and graded Millian¡¯s test. The more strokes she put in, the more the wrinkles on Liv¡¯s forehead grew.


    ¡°There¡¯s a really delicious cake shop there!¡±


    It meant that it was really great if the picky Millian said it was delicious. As Liv nodded in response to Millian¡¯s words, Millian spoke in a more cheerful voice.


    ¡°It¡¯s across from the jewelry store in the center of F¨¦mont Street! They have a really good cream cake there.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see. By the way, Millian. I¡¯m pretty sure I told you to review, but why did you get so many of these wrong?¡±


    I think she got half of this wrong. No, is it more than half?


    Apparently, Millian hadn¡¯t followed through on her request to review.


    ¡°Aside from cake, they also sell fruit juice. You can even see them squeezing the juice on the spot!¡±


    ¡°Your coming-of-age ceremony is just around the corner, but you got a lot of the answers wrong. This makes me ashamed to face Baroness Vendons.¡±


    Liv touched her forehead. Baroness Vendons might get appalled when she saw this test and consult with her about changing her teaching method.


    ¡°My coming-of-age ceremony is still two years away. More than that, Teacher!¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 51

    ¡°Millian, do you know that the fact that etiquette is not the only thing you have to study is making me more worried?¡±


    ¡°Uh, Teacher¡­¡±


    Millian, who had been babbling away, finally dropped her shoulders and raised the white flag. She meekly took the test from Liv and checked off the wrong questions with a sullen face.


    What Millian was learning was social etiquette. Although it was a bit old-fashioned for young ladies to learn these days, it was something that Liv, who had discussed the course with Baroness Vendons beforehand, could not exclude. It was also a lesson Millian had to learn for her to participate in the aristocratic society in the future.


    ¡°Honestly, this stuff only worked in the old days.¡±


    Millian pouted and grumbled as she flipped through the test papers.


    ¡°It¡¯s not to that extent yet.¡±


    Even Liv wasn¡¯t entirely sure about that. It was natural because she didn¡¯t engage in the aristocratic society.


    However, what she was teaching now was something she had learned when she was a student at Clemence Boarding School, something that all of her aristocratic peers were also required to learn. Thus, Millian surely needed to have the minimum knowledge of it.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure everything will change by the time I¡¯m entering the society.¡±


    ¡°I understand your wishes, but the aristocratic society is more conservative than you think.¡±


    Millian pouted her lips in complete disagreement. However, she reluctantly opened the textbook as if she could not turn a blind eye to it all along.


    ¡°By the way, Teacher. Did people really get engaged at birth in the old days?¡±


    Unfortunately, Millian¡¯s concentration couldn¡¯t hold out for more than three minutes. With her hands propping her chin like a flower, Millian stared at Liv with gleaming eyes.


    ¡°Where else did you read that?¡±


    ¡°In a book I read yesterday, the female protagonist was engaged to a man she didn¡¯t even know at birth!¡±


    ¡°Aha, so it¡¯s a new romance novel.¡±


    No wonder she didn¡¯t do the review. She must have been busy reading a novel. No matter how much she hated studying, she didn¡¯t usually neglect her study to this extent.


    Liv could guess how late Millian must have fallen asleep last night without having to listen. She probably stayed up all night.


    ¡°But on her coming of age, she met the love of her life and broke off her engagement despite her family¡¯s disapproval!¡±


    ¡°What an adventurous and reckless protagonist.¡±


    The protagonist even broke the engagement against the opposition of the family.


    It seemed the novel she read this time had made her reluctant with the old-fashioned nature of the aristocratic society. Liv finally realized where Millian¡¯s uncooperative class attitude was coming from.


    Millian was an avid reader who immersed herself in novels, and the depth of that immersion usually depended on how entertaining the novel was.


    Millian¡¯s reaction indicated that she was deeply engrossed in the novel she read yesterday.


    Sure enough, Millian, putting her hands to her chest as if she had become the protagonist of the novel, screamed in an exaggerated tone.


    ¡°But it turns out the male protagonist was the king¡¯s illegitimate son!¡±


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s surprising.¡±


    Despite Liv¡¯s dry reply, Millian¡¯s emotions reached a fever pitch. Clenching both her fists, Millian put her arms up in the air.


    ¡°So a crisis struck the two of them, and they got over it with love!¡±


    ¡°I see, it¡¯s a great novel.¡±


    Novels are novels. Liv nodded, thinking indifferently.


    She was surely from a family with a long history for her to get engaged at birth, so it was unrealistic to overturn it. And out of all possibility, she had an affair with the king¡¯s illegitimate son. It was absurd that they overcame the situation with love. A king¡¯s illegitimate son would most likely end up on the guillotine.


    As expected of a fiction book, it was definitely focused on romantic love with a lot of realism removed.


    Unaware of what Liv was thinking, Millian¡¯s eyes lit up again as she was unable to shake off the afterglow of the novel.


    ¡°So, Teacher, did people really get engaged as soon as they were born in the old days?¡±


    ¡°Some people out there still do that.¡±


    ¡°Eek, you¡¯re lying!¡±


    Millian, who became a devotee of romantic and adventurous love, shivered with disgust.


    ¡°How can they get engaged to someone they don¡¯t even know?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a union between families of long history. I¡¯m sure that you said you knew about partnership between families before.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s just a partnership! Engagement with someone you don¡¯t even love?! What kind of partnership is that!¡±


    ¡°Because there¡¯s no alliance as secure as marriage.¡±


    Millian, looking resentfully at Liv who relentlessly shattered her romantic fantasies, said in a gruff voice.


    ¡°But it will be different now. I heard that the Malte family and the Sighild family also broke up their marriage.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 52

    Malte and Sighild.


    The name sounded vaguely familiar, causing Liv to recall it for a moment. Pretty soon, Liv remembered the names from a newspaper she had seen recently.


    The newspaper she had read only to find the news of the breakup of the next country¡¯s noble families, not the news of the new medicine she wanted.


    Malte and Sighild were the stars of that tumultuous breakup. They were two of the most prominent noble families in the neighboring country of Torsten, rumored to have produced famous cardinals, renowned generals, and politicians for generations. At the time of their union, it didn¡¯t make much of a splash because many people thought it was natural. Thus, the breakup was so shocking that it even reached the provincial town of Buerno in the neighboring country of Beren.


    ¡°Your interest in Torsten is very high, Millian. I didn¡¯t know you were so interested in diplomacy. I will definitely ask Baroness Vendons to nurture this talent.¡±


    Baroness Vendons was a mother who always took a keen interest in her child¡¯s academic achievements. Therefore, if Liv had informed her of Millian¡¯s ¡°new talent,¡± she would have been delighted and willing to nurture it.


    Millian screamed as she remembered her mother¡¯s enthusiasm for education, which might seem a bit extreme.


    ¡°Argh! Teacher! I don¡¯t want to increase my class! And what I¡¯m interested in is love, not diplomacy!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief. Because the place where that exciting love unfolds is the aristocratic society. You¡¯re going to read that book and build your knowledge, right?¡±


    Eventually, the conversation between the two returned to square one. Millian grumbled, her shoulders slumping at the sight of Liv smiling softly but never backing down.


    ¡°Ugh¡­ The stories about the society from Teacher Camille are much more interesting.¡±


    Millina grumbled, saying that everything in the textbook was like a nagging from a grandmother.


    ¡°Does Mr. Marcel knows the aristocratic society well?¡±


    ¡°A lot! You¡¯ll see how boring this textbook is once you hear it.¡±


    He behaved as if he knew only artists and their patrons, but in fact he seemed to be more deeply involved in aristocratic society.


    He said he was from an insignificant family, but it wasn¡¯t the truth?


    ¡°I¡¯m sure Teacher Camille is popular with the ladies.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I think so.¡±


    ¡°Right? Next time, I¡¯ll ask Teacher Camille about the scandal in society!¡±


    Giving a smile at Millian, who set her will in the wrong place, Liv lowered her gaze.


    No matter what family Camille came from or how popular he was, she didn¡¯t need to know more. She wouldn¡¯t meet him unless she made an appointment.


    Liv frowned as she recalled the face of the fine young man who was visibly pleased to see her every time they met. She remembered that she had given him an address to send a letter to, because he had said that he would ask for advice from time to time.


    Do I need to give him my new address now that I¡¯ve moved?


    Liv, who was thinking for a moment, shook her head.


    She didn¡¯t think there was a need for her to tell him because he didn¡¯t seem to have any difficulty in teaching Millian. She guessed he would say something through Millian if it was something urgent.


    Liv shook off her momentary thoughts and opened the book resolutely.


    This time, Millian couldn¡¯t do anything else and could walk away from her desk only after faithfully checking off the wrong answers to the questions she had gotten wrong.


    ¡­


    She eventually wrapped up the class after completing all the progress of the day. Even so, it was not dark.


    This was because Liv purposely started the class early. For the time being, it looked like she would have to start work this early and be home before the sun went down.


    Checking the sky out of habit, Liv saw the sun still shining brightly and breathed a sigh of relief.


    She felt so lucky to be able to move as soon as she got in trouble. She really didn¡¯t want to think of that neighborhood anymore.


    Liv walked quickly past the main gate of Vendons manor. Her heart raced as the memory of the time she almost got assaulted came flooding back.


    I have to think of something else quickly. Something unrelated to¡­


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 53

    At that moment, she felt a presence approaching her from behind.


    ¡°Gasp!¡±


    Liv turned around, her shoulders hunching in surprise. In response, the person who approached her was also surprised.


    ¡°Miss Rhodes?¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ Mr. Marcel.¡±


    Behind her back, Camille was frozen in place with his hand outstretched awkwardly toward her. Camille, lowering his hand, furrowed his forehead awkwardly.


    ¡°I chased you because you were walking so fast, but I ended up surprising you. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine. I was¡­ over-sensitive.¡±


    The startled heart had yet to calm down, and the pale face remained the same. Nevertheless, Liv tried to answer in a calm tone.


    Perhaps realizing that her answer was a lie, Camille remained apologetic.


    ¡°I was happy to see you and just wanted to say hello.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here to see Baron Vendons. He asked me to look at some paintings.¡±


    Apparently out of embarrassment, Camille blurted out something that wasn¡¯t asked. Liv could see the awkwardness he felt now from the way his hand kept rubbing the back of his neck.


    It was hard for Liv to keep a straight face when she realized how sorry he was. She nodded with a much calmer face.


    ¡°I see. Then go ahead and go in.¡±


    Camille quickly shook his hand as he saw Liv was about to turn around right away.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I still have some time before my appointment. Speaking of, I heard that you moved. Is that true?¡±


    She wondered how Camille knew that.


    Even though she ended up nodding, Liv stared at him without hiding her questioning expression. Yet he didn¡¯t seem to notice Liv¡¯s questioning gaze.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I¡¯m going to send my letter to the wrong place.¡±


    The reason he wanted to write to Liv in the first place was because of Millian¡¯s guidance.


    But would he ever need to send a letter? Liv immediately recalled today¡¯s class. When she thought of what Millian said, she didn¡¯t seem to dislike Camille¡¯s class.


    Rather, in some ways, it could have been better than Liv¡¯s class.


    ¡°From what I¡¯ve heard from Millian, you two seem to have a great relationship. Now that you¡¯ve adapted well, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any advice I can give you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve only stirred her interest briefly with a little gossip I know. I don¡¯t know when I¡¯ll get stuck again.¡±


    The answer that flowed up with a light smile was exceedingly smooth. Liv, who had been staring at Camille with dubious eyes, tilted her head slightly and asked.


    ¡°¡­ But how did you find out that I moved?¡±


    ¡°I stumbled upon it while talking to Millian. ¡­ Oh, was it a secret?¡±


    He looked at Liv, belatedly lowering the lips he arched up. The sight of him looking at her like a puppy with its tail between its legs made it hard for Liv to react sharply anymore. If that look was intentional, then she had to say that Camille was a very good actor.


    Liv forced herself to rationalize.


    Millian was usually quite chatty even in Liv¡¯s class. This kind of attitude wouldn¡¯t be different in any other class, so she probably would have made the same kind of small talk in art class.


    Yes, I¡¯m sure she would have told Camille about the cake shop on F¨¦mont Street too.


    Even though she thought so, Liv felt somewhat uncomfortable. Although she couldn¡¯t pinpoint the cause.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that secretive. I¡¯m just a little surprised.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to keep surprising you. By the way, you moved all of a sudden. Nothing happened to you, right?¡±


    Camille, who was scratching his forehead with an embarrassed face, soon stared at Liv with worried eyes.


    ¡°Actually, it bothered me that I couldn¡¯t escort you when we met at the chapel. The atmosphere in the neighborhood around the chapel didn¡¯t look very good to me. In hindsight, I¡¯m glad you decided to move.¡±


    The day she encountered Camille in the chapel was also the day when she almost got attacked by a robber. Liv looked away, feeling somewhat stabbed, even though Camille had no way of knowing that.


    ¡°¡­ Nothing happened that day. The move was originally scheduled to happen.¡±


    She did think about moving after all.


    Liv, who tried so hard to comfort herself, talked about it roughly. Then Camille smiled and said.


    ¡°I see. Then where should I send the letter?¡±


    Camille was pretending not to know, even though she had already refused to give her address indirectly. Liv¡¯s face, which had barely softened, stiffened awkwardly again.


    This¡¯s a bit, well, pushy, isn¡¯t it? I don¡¯t think he¡¯s someone who doesn¡¯t have an understanding of things.


    She tried to let it pass as nicely as possible, but it was hard to manage her expression anymore. Liv, who was staring at Camille with grim eyes, replied in a blunt tone.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any need for us to send a letter anymore.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 54

    It was a more explicit rejection. At that, Camille drooped his eyebrows and made a small whimpering sound.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m not making you hate me, am I?¡±


    ¡°As I said the other day, we haven¡¯t known each other long enough for me to have that feeling.¡±


    At the sight of Liv drawing a clear line, Camille couldn¡¯t help but stop being brazen. A subtle smile tugged at the corners of his mouth, and he nodded in agreement.


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    Still, he went on to say.


    ¡°But this is a little upsetting because you¡¯re the only acquaintance I¡¯ve met in this place. And please talk to me if you happen to run into me like this. I know a lot of interesting stories from the aristocratic society, so you won¡¯t be bored with the conversation. From the most trivial gossip, to the rumors of a big shot like the marquis.¡±


    Camille, who spoke in a rather mischievous tone, twitched his nose playfully. Liv, who seemed to hesitate for a moment while listening to him, slowly opened her mouth.


    ¡°Yes, I will.¡±


    The marquis Camille was referring to was likely Demus Dietrion.


    It was obvious that the story Camille could tell her was nothing more than unreliable gossip.


    Still, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder inside. If he could tell her something more credible than Millian.


    In this manner, at least, she wanted to know a little more about the Marquis.


    ***


    Peaceful days followed for a while.


    She still couldn¡¯t leave the house in the evening, but she had already stocked up a lot of medicine for Coryda and Millian¡¯s class was finished before sunset, so it was fine.


    She was a little worried about coming home in the evening after modeling nude or extra work that would soon restart, but she thought it would be okay because she would be provided with a carriage.


    It was a leap of faith, but the Marquis had already taken care of a robbery for her. Therefore, she came to think that he wouldn¡¯t remain idle when she got in danger.


    This made Liv able to calmly wait for the next work date.


    ¡­ Although she didn¡¯t expect to hear this on the day.


    ¡°You can¡¯t work this week?¡±


    In an hour, a carriage would pick them up to take her and Brad to the appointed place. Therefore, she came to the studio to meet Brad, but unlike usual, he wasn¡¯t ready to go at all.


    And the next thing he said was that he couldn¡¯t work today.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Did the Marquis allow you to do that?¡±


    Seeing the shocked look on Liv¡¯s face, Brad nodded ambiguously.


    ¡°I sent a letter yesterday. Though I don¡¯t know if it has arrived.¡±


    Liv narrowed her eyes. She had known Brad for quite some time, and it allowed her to see at a glance that he was lost in other thoughts.


    ¡°¡­ Brad, this work is not an ordinary painting work. You¡¯ve been drawing sincerely lately, so what¡¯s wrong with you all of a sudden?¡±


    Just last week, Brad was confident that he would be able to complete the painting soon.


    Was that all? He often fell into a happy delusion alone, picturing himself getting the Maquis as his official supporter after he completed the painting. He didn¡¯t listen to whatever Liv told him.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not feeling well today.¡±


    That was a ridiculous excuse. Brad was the kind of person who proudly bragged about his health, having never caught a cold in the middle of winter despite wearing only a few layers.


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie.¡±


    Instead of answering, Brad took out a dirty handkerchief and wiped the cold sweat from his forehead. As if that weren¡¯t enough, he fiddled with his handkerchief with both hands and looked around nervously.


    That reminded her of a scene from one day. The scene of the day he broke his promise to Liv and painted a nude with her side face revealed.


    ¡°Brad.¡±


    ¡°¡­ If the carriage comes, say something for me. That I¡¯ve been sick.¡±


    ¡°At least you have to tell me the truth.¡±


    ¡°Liv¡­¡±


    Brad looked up at Liv pleadingly, not wanting her to ask any more questions. But Liv couldn¡¯t just walk away.


    This was about a painting for the Marquis of Dietrion, not anyone else. It wasn¡¯t even a regular commission, but a painting to get back the one he bought.


    There was nothing good for him to act like this when he was getting all the conveniences to work smoothly.


    As though he had somehow noticed Liv¡¯s firm will to hear the reason, Brad let out a long sigh and said.


    ¡°Actually, if I finish the painting quickly, it¡¯s a bit, um, tricky.¡±


    ¡°Tricky?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I need to sign a sponsorship contract before the painting is finished¡­¡±


    ¡°Sponsorship contract?¡±


    Liv frowned. She had a vague premonition that he had gotten into trouble again.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 55

    ¡°I¡¯ve talked about it to his aide, but I haven¡¯t heard from him. If I finish the work at this rate, I will never see the Marquis again.¡±


    With his tongue moistening his parched lips, Brad rambled on.


    ¡°As long as I¡¯m painting, I¡¯ll still get to see the Marquis, so if I somehow manage to catch his eye for the rest of the time, won¡¯t he write me a sponsorship deal?¡±


    Brad was telling that he wanted to be sponsored by the Marquis, but he was ignored. And if the painting got completed in this situation, he would get in trouble because he lost the reason to meet the Marquis.


    He was determined to get the sponsorship from the Marquis before the work got completed somehow.


    Seeing the look of disbelief on Liv¡¯s face, Brad hastened to explain.


    ¡°Even if it¡¯s not for the Marquis¡¯s sponsorship, he recognized my talent so he may connect me with a good sponsor. That¡¯s all it takes! I can do anything with that!¡±


    It seemed like Brad wasn¡¯t aiming for the Marquis¡¯s patronage. Rather, his goal seemed to be to get the ¡°sponsorship contract¡± itself.


    ¡°Why do you need a sponsorship contract?¡±


    Brad, who had been rambling, closed his mouth to Liv¡¯s question. Once again, cold sweat formed on Brad¡¯s forehead. Liv, who was carefully examining his reaction, squinted her eyes.


    ¡°Are you gambling again?¡±


    ¡°No! That¡¯s impossible!¡±


    Brad denied it at once. His face was filled with sincerity as he shook his hand violently, so it seemed true that this was not about gambling.


    ¡°Then what is it?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t about gambling, but there must be another problem. Liv persisted, and Brad, looking troubled, cautiously spoke up.


    ¡°Actually, there¡¯s a very famous businessman I recently met. He works in the capital. He¡¯s someone who can sell my paintings and he can open a private exhibition for me in the capital!¡±


    He was hesitant at first, but by the end, his voice had become cheerful. Brad looked at Liv¡¯s reaction, his eyes shining. He was expecting that Liv would be surprised or impressed.


    Unfortunately, however, Liv didn¡¯t feel impressed at all.


    No, she was surprised. It was just that the surprise wasn¡¯t the kind of thing Brad expected. When Liv heard the word ¡°businessman,¡± the first thing that came to mind was ¡°swindler.¡±


    Don¡¯t tell me¡­


    But Liv couldn¡¯t accuse him of anything without knowing the circumstances, so she asked calmly.


    ¡°How did you get to know such a great person?¡±


    ¡°Of course¡­¡±


    Brad shut up again with a look of reluctance on his face. Liv glanced at him again with suspicious eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you told him about our work¡­¡±


    ¡°No way! I may be a loose-tongued person, but I do know how to keep a secret!¡±


    Surely, even though Brad was bad at reasoning, there was no way he would go around mentioning the Marquis. If he had done such a thing, the Marquis would have noticed it and done something.


    ¡°It¡¯s just, I¡¯ve mentioned a few times while drunk that I think I¡¯ve caught the eye of some wealthy aristocrat and will get patronage sooner or later. Well, he happened to hear about me while looking for a painter to invest in!¡±


    Thinking about it, Camille had mentioned that. He clearly said that Brad walked around proudly these days because he had met a huge supporter.


    If Camille, who didn¡¯t know Brad at all, knew about it, that meant it had gotten around, at least in the art industry.


    It was so easy to imagine what Brad would have looked like walking around.


    Liv sighed, grasping her throbbing head. Brad, who looked a little embarrassed at the blatant sigh, coughed and raised his head.


    ¡°But, well, I didn¡¯t make a debut, right? So he said I need such a¡­ guarantee to prove my skills.¡±


    ¡°¡­ He will sell your paintings, but he¡¯s looking for an artist with a sponsor? It doesn¡¯t make sense.¡±


    Why is a sponsor a sponsor in the first place?


    Despite Liv¡¯s criticism, Brad shook his head firmly. It was an unbelievable change in attitude for a person who was determined to get the Marquis as his supporter.


    ¡°People don¡¯t rely on their sponsors for everything these days. Relying on sponsors like the old days is a bad idea! Besides, I can hold an exhibition in the capital! I¡¯ve already paid for the rental fee as¡ª!¡±


    ¡°The rental fee? Why are you paying for the rental fee when you said he¡¯d hold an exhibition for you? No, before that. Did you have the money for that?¡±


    The person who spent his money in gambling houses and bars without fail?


    At the sight of Liv asking in a tone of incredulity, Brad raised his voice, his face reddening.


    ¡°Liv!¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 56

    ¡°Brad, has it never occurred to you that this situation is strange?¡±


    Liv thought back on her first meeting with Brad. So, the very first meeting when they met as the victims of the same fraud.


    By this point, even Brad, who had been lost in all the fancy words, seemed to be starting to feel a little uneasy. Feeling a bit disheartened, Brad stammered.


    ¡°Bu-but the businessman has already paid for it on my behalf. And he said everything would be free of charge if I showed him my sponsorship contract.¡±


    ¡°What on earth did you¡­¡±


    Speechless, Liv opened her mouth. Brad seemed a little intimidated by Liv¡¯s reaction, but he still remained stubborn. It seemed like the businessman had told him something quite convincing.


    Perhaps it was the promise of selling his paintings or opening a solo exhibition for him in the capital that particularly swayed Brad. After all, these things were usually possible for artists who had made their debut. It made sense for Brad, who must have felt a great sense of shame as the number of times he was excluded from the art exhibition increased, to be tempted.


    But unfortunately, Liv didn¡¯t think the businessman really appreciated Brad¡¯s skills. If Brad was really good enough for such a great businessman to approach, he would have won an art exhibition.


    Paying on his behalf? It also made her worried that some threatening gangsters would suddenly be chasing him, saying that they came to get debts.


    ¡°You said you sent a letter yesterday, so I¡¯ll tell him that you are sick today. So please fix it right away before the next work date. And the sponsorship contract? Do you really think the Marquis would write something like that?¡±


    ¡°Why would the Marquis want me to keep painting? I¡¯m sure he does it because he likes my painting! There¡¯s a reason why he provides me such a good environment!¡±


    Seeing Liv responding with a straight face, Brad refuted with a little offended expression. He believed with all his heart that the Marquis liked his painting.


    ¡°How can you be sure of that?¡±


    ¡°What? The Marquis asked for another painting in exchange for the wrong one! It means he wants my painting!¡±


    Liv was about to refute Brad that what the Marquis liked might not be his painting but the model in it, but she paused.


    It was because she realized that she was secretly thinking that the reason the Marquis wanted Brad¡¯s painting was because of her.


    Really. Her delusion was just as ridiculous as Brad¡¯s wild imagination that he would soon get a sponsor.


    Brad¡¯s face crumpled even more as he tried to figure out the meaning of Liv¡¯s pause.


    ¡°Are you also looking down on me because I couldn¡¯t debut?¡±


    Brad snapped angrily. In his response, it was clear how he usually accepted the fact that he couldn¡¯t have his debut.


    Liv, biting her lower lip, tried to soothe him.


    ¡°You know it¡¯s not like that. I¡¯m just¡­¡±


    It wouldn¡¯t reach him now no matter what she said. Even though she knew it, it was hard for Liv to give up.


    She had known him for a long time, and she didn¡¯t want to see him lose a lot of money because he got caught up in something obviously suspicious.


    ¡°Anyway, I got it. So end your relationship with that businessman immediately. No matter what you said, I could only conclude that he¡¯s a scammer.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because you didn¡¯t see him!¡±


    ¡°The coffee house we met at. Wasn¡¯t he your companion there?¡±


    Brad paused at Liv¡¯s question. He seemed to not expect that she would point to a specific person at once.


    Having confirmed that her guess was correct through Brad¡¯s reaction, Liv grabbed her forehead.


    In fact, she thought something was strange when she ran into him that day. She wondered what was happening when she saw him with someone he didn¡¯t usually associate with. And it turned out that he was enchanted by a con artist.


    ¡°Brad, this is a really pure concern. Even if the Marquis really writes you a sponsorship contract, it¡¯s too dangerous to use it as a trade item. And you even borrow money with that as collateral? It would be wise to take care of it before it¡¯s too late.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know if it could be taken care of, but he should try to do it first.


    Brad shook his hand at Liv¡¯s request. There was a forced smile on Brad¡¯s face as he patted Liv on the shoulder.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It won¡¯t take too long. I¡¯m just trying to buy time because I haven¡¯t found a way to convince the Marquis yet. I will develop a revolutionary art technique that will catch the Marquis¡¯ eye until the next session.¡±


    Liv, who was about to say something more, sighed and shook her head.


    That was all she could do. It was impossible for her to interfere any further, so she could only pray that Brad would come to his senses.


    ***


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 57

    Was it because she was coming alone to the mansion where she used to come with Brad all the time?


    Liv walked in silence, feeling somehow anew aware of the size of the mansion, which seemed larger than usual. Normally, she would go straight to the studio as soon as she arrived at the mansion, but since Brad wasn¡¯t here today, she didn¡¯t have to go to the studio.


    Liv was led to another room instead. It was the drawing room where she discussed the extra work with the Marquis the other day.


    It was the first time she came to face the Marquis in this mansion since the Marquis decided to stop observing the work. Liv, who stood alone before the Marquis after the servant who had led her had quietly retreated, looked at him with tense eyes.


    The Marquis, sitting with an apathetic face and reading some letters, opened his mouth first without raising his eyes.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do the work today?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Brad doesn¡¯t feel well today¡­¡±


    The sound of rustling paper echoed loudly over Liv¡¯s calm voice. The Marquis, who was reading through the letter with a disapproving look, clicked his tongue as if the contents were disappointing. He hovered the end of the letter over a nearby candlestick. The paper burned to a crisp, and the flames spread.


    Black ash scattered over the table.


    ¡°Then did you come here on an errand to deliver his words?¡±


    The Marquis looked at Liv with indifferent eyes after dusting off the black ash. Liv, bewildered, opened her mouth to answer him, but the Marquis went on before her.


    ¡°If the painter didn¡¯t show up, the model didn¡¯t need to show up either.¡±


    Liv¡¯s shoulders slumped as she felt the Marquis¡¯ gaze on her. His gaze seemed to see right through her.


    About what she was thinking, about why she bothered to come all the way to this distant mansion and face the Marquis.


    ¡°I¡­ came to explain Brad¡¯s situation, but I also wanted to thank you for the help you gave me¡­¡±


    ¡°I remember receiving your thanks on the same day.¡±


    There was a subtle boredom in the Marquis¡¯ eyes. Swallowing hard, Liv looked at the Marquis, then lowered her gaze.


    She let out a low, hot breath through her open lips and then said, doing her best to make her tone as calm as possible.


    ¡°¡­ My extra work is separate from painting work. I haven¡¯t heard if it¡¯s still on hold, so I¡¯m here.¡±


    A moment of silence fell over the drawing room after Liv¡¯s articulate answer.


    Liv, who had been looking down at her feet, waiting for the Marquis¡¯ answer, looked up in wonder, for the silence was longer than she thought.


    The Marquis, whom she thought was burning the remaining letters, was staring at her. Liv opened her eyes wide as she made eye contact with him.


    The Marquis, accepting Liv¡¯s puzzled look, raised his mouth slightly. It was a very faint smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re diligent.¡±


    His tone was nuanced as if he was praising a student for not skipping class. Liv¡¯s cheeks turned red at the sight of him acting as if praising her for being commendable.


    If he had ridiculed her instead, asking if she had known the taste of money and was trying to increase the number of additional work hours even once, she could have bravely ignored him.


    She really couldn¡¯t figure out how to respond to being treated like a child like this.


    The Marquis continued on before Liv¡¯s embarrassment could fade.


    ¡°How is your injury?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s getting bet¡­ Oh.¡±


    Liv, who was answering while repressing her embarrassment, paused. Only then did she realize that there was still a livid bruise on her leg.


    The reason the Marquis made her sit naked was to see her clean body. Certainly, he didn¡¯t want to see a body stained with bruises and scabs.


    She had no need to come like this in the first place.


    Liv bit her lips, sighing at her foolish judgment. She waited for an order to leave that would soon come from the Marquis.


    But what ensued was something she didn¡¯t expect.


    ¡°How is your ankle?¡±


    The Marquis¡¯ gaze shifted to her skirt. Liv inadvertently took a couple of steps away to avoid that gaze. But she immediately recognized her behavior and stopped quickly.


    ¡°It¡¯s, it¡¯s all right, my Lord.¡±


    She didn¡¯t go out much except for Millian¡¯s class. Her ankle was getting better and it had gotten to the point where she could forget she was injured unless she was running hard.


    The Marquis nodded to Liv¡¯s answer and raised himself. Having burned the remaining letters at once, he brushed off his darkly stained gloves and walked past Liv.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start the extra work early today.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 58

    The room was changed.


    She thought they would obviously go to the topmost floor, but the Marquis took her to the lounge on the same floor as the drawing room. Instead of a bed, the room had a sofa large enough for two adults to lie on.


    The room seemed to haven¡¯t been prepared, judging by the way the servant who followed into the room hurriedly closed the curtains and arranged the table and sofa. The wine, which had always been prepared in advance, was also nowhere to be seen.


    Liv turned her eyes after watching the servant who was wiping the table that was already shining enough again and again.


    The room in which she usually took off her clothes was full in white, but this room was decorated with various and colorful things like the lounge of any other mansion. A large piano on one side of the lounge caught her eye. In terms of size and form, it was not an ordinary luxury.


    Seeing that Liv¡¯s gaze landed on the piano, the Marquis asked in a casual tone.


    ¡°Do you know how to play it?¡±


    ¡°A little bit.¡±


    As she replied, Liv somehow felt a twinge of despondence.


    When she graduated, she was confident that she could save face with her skill anywhere, but since she hadn¡¯t touched it for so long, she didn¡¯t know if her skill was still the same.


    Telling her to play, the Marquis gestured with his chin to Liv, who stood with an unconfident look on her face. The servant who had been busily organizing the lounge had already left the room.


    Liv sat down reluctantly and ran her fingertips over the white keys. Treading her memory while feeling the smooth keys, she relaxed her shoulders and lifted her hands.


    There was no sheet music on the piano, so she had to choose one of the few songs she remembered.


    Fortunately, there was one piece that any woman with a decent level of education had learned. The composer wrote this song as a lullaby for his daughter, but it was too perfect to be a lullaby, so it was often played at concerts.


    The piano was perfectly in tune, playing a crystal clear sound every time she pressed the keys. She had expected it, but Liv was surprised by the condition of the piano that was better than her expectation and unwittingly relaxed her fingers.


    A cautious, shy melody echoed through the lounge, following the tapping of her hands, which was like a trickle of water.


    There was no confidence at all in her performance as she only relied on memories a few years ago.


    The Marquis wouldn¡¯t have expected her to play professionally, so she thought it was enough for her to play it just enough to get by.


    It was when Liv continued to play little by little with that thought.


    Rustle.


    On her back, Liv sensed the feel of fingertips tracing the nape of her neck horizontally. Judging from the soft texture of the cloth, it was definitely the Marquis.


    Following his touch, the hair that covered the nape of her neck was gathered and drifted over one shoulder. A bundle of long auburn hair that had slid over her shoulder to the front came into Liv¡¯s view.


    ¡°What¡­?¡±


    The fingers that pressed the keys according to her memorized routine became slower and slower. Nevertheless, the presence behind her did not disappear.


    Pop.


    Along with a small sound, the tightness surrounding her neck disappeared. Then, there was a series of the same sound. Following the sound, the clothes that had been tightening around her chest became looser and looser. Crumpled underwear and skin were exposed defenselessly through the open clothes.


    The slow-running performance was completely cut off.


    The hand, which had been unbuttoning straight down to her waist at a constant speed, also stopped. Liv couldn¡¯t turn around for some reason, so she stayed seated and focused all her nerves on her back.


    ¡°Do I need to keep stripping you?¡±


    It was the Marquis who broke the tense silence. As soon as she heard what he said, Liv jumped to her feet in surprise as if she had been burned. The loosened top slipped down slightly due to her movement.


    Clutching the hem of her clothes over her bosom, Liv glanced back. The Marquis, who was probably standing near her, was walking away as if it was a lie that he had come near her.


    So far, the Marquis had never touched her. Not even once, over the course of quite a few extra work sessions.


    Was he in a hurry today to take my clothes off personally? Or was there something wrong?


    Did he mean to play the piano naked? What kind of hobby is that?


    A storm of thoughts raced through her head, but they were all meaningless questions.


    Since the Marquis had made so many unfathomable demands, Liv decided to give up finding meaning in his actions. Instead, she took off her clothes a little quicker.


    The few layers of clothing disappeared before long, and she stood naked before the Marquis.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 59

    Perhaps it was because the room was changed. Liv was ashamed to be without her clothes. Excusing herself to sit down to play the piano would probably be less embarrassing than to stand idle in the middle of the room.


    Liv stole a glance at the Marquis. He, sitting on the sofa, looked down at his gloves, which were smeared with black ash, and was lost in thought.


    ¡°Do you want me to¡­ continue playing?¡±


    The Marquis, who seemed to be thinking about something while rubbing his thumb and index finger, raised his head to the question. Instead of answering the question, the Marquis looked at Liv¡¯s exposed leg.


    It was the most seriously injured area when she fell, and now it was a place stained with bruises and scabs.


    The injury suddenly became itchy when the Marquis¡¯ gaze landed on it. Liv faked a cough for no reason.


    The Marquis, who tilted his head crookedly and watched her, raised his hands.


    ¡°You know, Teacher.¡±


    Moving his lips slowly, he grasped the edge of a glove and pulled it leisurely.


    ¡°I like clean bodies.¡±


    The glove was pulled out smoothly, revealing the man¡¯s long fingers. From the way his hands were covered with gloves, she thought his hands would be fine, smooth, white and quite pretty, but the hands that were revealed were surprisingly manly, large and sturdy.


    They also looked to be¡­ perfect to hold a gun.


    ¡°So this is strange, you see. I think it won¡¯t be that bad for your body to get a little dirty.¡±


    Liv, who looked blankly at the Marquis¡¯ hands, suddenly realized that his hands were part of his bare skin that had always been hidden. It was the first time that the Marquis, who had always covered his whole body thoroughly, took off his gloves in front of her.


    Her heart beat wildly as she noticed it. Blood rushed through her body, and chills ran down the nape of her neck where his touch had been just moments before.


    Not wanting her reaction to be noticed, Liv forced herself to speak.


    ¡°What do you mean by that, and with what are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°With anything.¡±


    The Marquis tossed his gloves nonchalantly down the sofa. He seemed to have no intention of using them again.


    ¡°Preferably with anything I want.¡±


    Liv¡¯s face heated up.


    Liv remembered Adolf¡¯s reaction when she drew up the contract for this extra work. His blatant laugh, a response he gave when she asked what if the Marquis requested for something immoral and lascivious, which was not written in the contract.


    Adolf acted as if it was rather strange for something to happen between her and the Marquis. But the situation right now¡­


    Liv wasn¡¯t a child, and she wasn¡¯t na?ve enough to not recognize the tension that flowed between the Marquis and her. She also wasn¡¯t stupid to say it out loud.


    It was better to pretend to not know it. Until the Marquis brought it up himself. She didn¡¯t want to be treated as a woman who jumped at him because she desired for him. Though she didn¡¯t know what led to that response from the Marquis.


    Liv opened her lips to ask once again about playing the piano.


    However, the words that came out of her lips were completely different.


    ¡°You came to the birthday party of the daughter of Baron Vendons.¡±


    The Marquis raised his eyebrows at the sudden topic.


    ¡°Yeah, so?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Your brief greeting led many to speculate. As you might have known.¡±


    The Marquis propped his chin and leaned back. He responded to Liv¡¯s words with interest.


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know you well, but I¡¯ve heard that you don¡¯t normally interact closely with nobles. So, then why did you do that to the Vendons¡­¡±


    The Marquis never visited the manor of the Vendons again after Millian¡¯s birthday party. Nevertheless, Baron and Baroness Vendons were still buying paintings and decorating the mansion with great care to greet the Marquis, whom they had no idea of when he would come again.


    It felt strange for Liv, who saw it every time she went for teaching. Would the Marquis really maintain his friendship with the Vendons? Even if the first visit was really because of the painting deal, was showing his face at the birthday party really for maintaining their friendship?


    As she met the Marquis, and the more time she spent with him, the more the event at Vendons Barony became an unsolvable riddle in Liv¡¯s mind.


    She came to wonder if he had any other intention at least at the birthday party.


    ¡°Why are you curious about that?¡±


    The Marquis asked straight back as if he had looked into Liv¡¯s thoughts. Liv explained in a polite tone, putting all her speculations behind her.


    ¡°I am the teacher of the daughter of the Vendons. Ever since you attended the birthday party, there has been a disturbance in her life.¡±


    ¡°Oh, so this is about the heart of a teacher who cares about her student.¡±


    There was a hint of cynicism in the Marquis¡¯ voice as though there was something funny with Liv¡¯s answer.


    Liv, feeling her conscience pricked, thought of a more legitimate reason. But before she could give any further explanation, the Marquis replied briefly.


    ¡°To see you.¡±


    Liv¡¯s gaze, which was wandering at her feet, looked up at once. The appearance of the Marquis crossing his legs nonchalantly filled Liv¡¯s wide open eyes.


    ¡°You would be different from what I know there. So I went to see you.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 60

    The Marquis¡¯ face was fully decorated with boredom as if he didn¡¯t know why he had to explain the obvious.


    Liv was left speechless and stared at the Marquis. No matter how much she thought about it, what she had heard earlier didn¡¯t sound realistic at all.


    So, did he really come to Millian¡¯s birthday party to see me?


    ¡°No way¡­¡±


    ¡°No way?¡±


    The Marquis echoed Liv¡¯s words.


    ¡°That¡¯s a very dry response. Isn¡¯t this what you wanted to confirm?¡±


    The Marquis laughed at the way Liv stared at him blankly.


    ¡°About my interest in you, Teacher.¡±


    That was a direct hit.


    Liv, who had been opening her lips, moistened her lips with her tongue. She felt thirsty and wanted to drink cold water, but unfortunately, there was nothing to drink. If there was wine at least, she would have asked for it right away.


    Liv, swallowing her saliva as there was no other choice and choosing her words, finally managed to speak up.


    ¡°My Lord, I¡¯d appreciate it if you could¡­ let me know how I should respond to that interest of yours.¡±


    ¡°Well. I have never given it a thought.¡±


    The Marquis looked away from Liv with an expressionless face and took out a cigar case from his pocket.


    ¡°You decide.¡±


    Having returned to his usual cold self, the Marquis said without giving a look at Liv.


    ¡°Play.¡±


    Liv turned her stiff body and faced the piano again. However, the musical score in her head had become so jumbled that she didn¡¯t know what she was playing, and her performance was very poor.


    The Marquis, however, didn¡¯t stop her play.


    ***


    Does he like me?


    In the past, Liv would have laughed it off as a fantasy, but unfortunately, she couldn¡¯t anymore. Of course, it was very weird for the Marquis and her to discuss the pure love between a woman and a man.


    He expressed it as ¡°interest,¡± but do people usually go this far to the person they have their eyes on?


    No matter how she looked at it, the Marquis¡¯ behavior was excessive and unusual. Liv now even had an unfounded conviction that he had come to the chapel to see her. Because in all honesty, there was no reason for him to show up in that tiny, shabby chapel otherwise.


    Needless to say, the reason he kept picking up Brad¡¯s paintings was because she was the model. The sponsorship that Brad believed in so strongly would probably never happen.


    He saved her from a robber, rented this house to her for a very small amount of price, and offered extra work to her who was in dire need of money.


    Furthermore, he told her to pray to him in the future.


    ¡°But why¡­¡±


    As she thought about all the things the Marquis had done for her, Liv ran her hands over her face in confusion.


    She understood enough that his treatment of her was special, but she couldn¡¯t figure out where the root of that interest came from.


    Was it simply because he liked her body? Did he really take care of her this much because of that simple reason?


    Regardless, she was sure that there were countless women around the Marquis who had naked bodies more beautiful than hers. There was no doubt that there were people in this world waiting to undress at the Marquis¡¯ beck and call.


    She had a better body than those beautiful people? Did it even make sense? Did she exude an unbelievable charm she couldn¡¯t recognize through her whole body?


    ¡°Liv, Liv.¡±


    ¡°Oh, mhm.¡±


    Liv, who had been sitting at the table in a daze, pulled herself together.


    ¡°Look at this, Liv!¡±


    Coryda held out her hands, her eyes shining. In her hands was a wooden music box.


    After berating Coryda for sneaking in sewing materials to help her, Liv bought her some fun items. The wooden music box in her hands was one of them.


    ¡°Are you done assembling it?¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡±


    It was a music box that came with all the parts, and all she had to do was assemble it according to the instructions. She heard it was popular, so she bought one, and it seemed that Coryda really liked it.


    Liv pushed the Marquis out of her mind and focused on Coryda.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t as hard as I thought it would be. I finished it in no time.¡±


    Coryda lifted her chin smugly.


    ¡°That¡¯s awesome.¡±


    Liv smiled and accepted the wooden music box. The music box looked exactly like the finished product pictured on the outside of the packaging.


    Even though it was included with the instructions, she couldn¡¯t believe the finished product could be this perfect. Liv was genuinely impressed.


    ¡°You¡¯re so dextrous!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s simply about fitting the parts into the right holes.¡±


    Coryda smiled sheepishly.


    ¡°I think I have a knack for making things.¡±


    ¡°Look at you getting prideful just from assembling a music box.¡±


    ¡°No! It¡¯s not just this music box. There are also¡­!¡±


    Coryda was about to retort, but stopped. Alas, the smile on Liv¡¯s face had already disappeared.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 61

    Liv put the music box on the table, then she crossed her arms and stared at Coryda.


    ¡°Also what?¡±


    ¡°No, I mean¡­¡±


    ¡°What else did you do while I was gone?¡±


    On the verge of tears, Coryda rolled her eyes around, unable to withstand Liv¡¯s gaze, and parted her lips.


    ¡°Well¡­ Actually, the broker of this house came the other day to fix the fence. But he worked alone.¡±


    Coryda explained. Not long after Liv left for work, Adolf came by and asked if he could repair the fence for a moment. He said the move was done unprepared, so there were some things he hadn¡¯t checked.


    Coryda, who had already gotten to know Adolf, nodded in agreement, and later found out that Adolf was working alone, so she helped him out a bit.


    ¡°Coryda!¡±


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t do anything! I just handed him a few things he asked for!¡±


    ¡°He could do it alone, so why did you do that? What if you collapse?¡±


    In Liv¡¯s eyes, the world outside was full of danger.


    Adolf might have taken Coryda¡¯s help for granted because he didn¡¯t know anything about her, but if he was repairing a fence, he would have used dangerous tools. What would happen if anything got on her?


    Coryda, seeing Liv¡¯s hardened face, said with an exasperated look on her face.


    ¡°He said that staying inside too much makes the body weaker. He told me to go out in the yard because the fence was fixed securely!¡±


    ¡°He is not a doctor. He doesn¡¯t know your condition.¡±


    ¡°He sounded more dependable than the doctor who examined me in the past!¡±


    Silence fell between the two of them as Coryda finished her rant. When she saw Liv¡¯s complexion turn pale, Coryda flashed her a regretful look.


    ¡°Liv, so, what I mean¡­ I meant to say that I¡¯m healthier than I used to be. I didn¡¯t mean to talk about that doctor. And, and, it was that grandpa who was bad. You did nothing wrong!¡±


    Coryda nervously clasped her hands together and lowered her gaze.


    ¡°I know that I look the same in your eyes, but¡­ That was years ago. That¡¯s not going to happen anymore. I won¡¯t collapse because I¡¯ve been taking the medicine. And as you know I¡¯ve been eating a lot of good things lately because you¡¯re making a lot of money.¡±


    Coryda, being careful around Liv who was sitting, added another question.


    ¡°Liv, you¡¯re not angry, are you?¡±


    Liv smiled softly, swallowing back the bitter water that was rising in her throat.


    ¡°Why would I get angry? I¡¯m just worried about you.¡±


    Fortunately, Liv¡¯s smile seemed pretty genuine, and Coryda nodded in relief. Then she swiftly changed the topic. Liv also complied and changed the talk to Coryda¡¯s wishes.


    Yet, in the back of her mind, she felt heavy, like a huge weight had been laid on.


    ***


    It was during a cold winter when Liv was eighteen that her parents died.


    A carriage skidded on the icy road and toppled over, knocking over her parents. Her parents died at the scene, and Liv was left alone with her eight-year-old sister.


    It was barely a year after Liv graduated and came home. When she didn¡¯t even have a clear idea of what she wanted to do yet. The time when she still had her teenager¡¯s dreams.


    At the time, Liv was busy thinking about her future. Coryda, who was sick, was obviously being taken care of by her parents. Liv without doubt had picked up on Coryda¡¯s condition, but it was her parents, who took care of Coryda for years, who knew the details better.


    In light of her parents¡¯ sudden absence, Liv felt it necessary to find out exactly what Coryda¡¯s condition was. This led her to pay a large sum of money and call a doctor. He was a gray-haired old doctor, who said he had a very long career. Liv, who had never had what she could call a social life, felt at ease with the confident doctor.


    With that quack.


    He was the one who drew Coryda¡¯s blood and caused her to bleed excessively, making her hang between life and death. He even made a crazy suggestion that since it is the head that controls the body, they should open up her skulls to get to the bottom of it. He said there was a new treatment by opening up the body.


    Thanks to the quack, she found out that Coryda couldn¡¯t stop bleeding very well, so that one really helped.


    Anyway, after being so badly screwed by that quack, Liv didn¡¯t trust doctors. Sure, there were good doctors out there, but they were all serving the nobles. None of the street doctors seemed to have a decent brain.


    She believed in medicines instead. The only thing she had seen that really made a difference was medicine after all.


    All she had to do was buy the same medication her parents had always bought for Coryda. It was much more reliable than experimenting on Coryda¡¯s body with an uncertain diagnosis.


    Liv took a deep breath as she remembered the past she had forgotten.


    ¡°Come in, please.¡±


    Liv¡¯s head snapped up at the call of the usher.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 62

    It was an ordinary office on the outskirts of Buerno. The kind of office that didn¡¯t have a sign and didn¡¯t look impressive at first glance. It was hard to guess what the people here did exactly.


    If it weren¡¯t for this occasion, Liv would likely never find out that such a place existed.


    As she followed the usher inside, a familiar face greeted her with a welcoming smile. Liv nodded lightly to that person.


    ¡°Good morning, Mr. Adolf.¡±


    ¡°I never expected you wanted to meet me, Miss Rhodes.¡±


    Liv went to Brad to get Adolf¡¯s contact information. She remembered that Brad had sent him a letter notifying that he couldn¡¯t work on the painting. He gave her the address of this office, and Adolf sent a message back via his errand boy.


    And that was how she ended up in this office.


    ¡°Thank you for your time even though you¡¯re busy.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. You¡¯re an important contractor, Miss Rhodes.¡±


    Having guided Rhodes to sit with a fresh smile, Adolf sat across from her.


    ¡°But what brings you here?¡±


    Watching how Adolf skillfully brew the tea, Liv carefully hastened to bring up the thing she had sorted out in her head on her way here.


    ¡°I came here because I heard you came to repair the fence.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yes, I did.¡±


    Adolf nodded with a cool look on his face.


    ¡°Normally, I would hire a laborer, but your dwelling¡­ needs a little more attention. We want to avoid exposing it to others as much as possible.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for taking care of it personally.¡±


    Liv gave her thanks with a light smile. Adolf, glancing at her, filled the teacups.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t think that is what you want to say.¡±


    Offering the tea with a smile, Adolf replied with a nonchalant face. Liv¡¯s face flushed at that, and she glanced away.


    Liv¡¯s face was distorted by the ripples in her teacup.


    ¡°I heard you met my sister when you were repairing the fence.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yes. I felt it the first time I met her, but she¡¯s a very kind girl.¡±


    ¡°To tell you the truth, she¡¯s very sick. So¡­ I hope you¡¯ll pay attention to her in case you run into her in the future. I came to ask you this.¡±


    Adolf looked puzzled by Liv¡¯s words.


    ¡°What exactly do you mean by that?¡±


    Liv, touching the teacup with both hands, spoke carefully.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want my sister to be exposed to dangerous situations. For example, I heard that she helped you repair the fence¡­ But when she gets hurt, she can¡¯t get well easily. This needs a lot of attention. So, it would be nice if you could get her into the house so she doesn¡¯t get caught up in such a thing.¡±


    ¡°Aha¡­¡±


    Adolf let out a low exclamation and lost in thought. Adolf, who was lost in thought while rubbing his chin for a moment, then spoke in a soft voice.


    ¡°First, I would like to apologize if this is presumptuous.¡±


    Adolf apologized, flashing a nice smile, and continued with a calm voice.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know exactly what your sister¡¯s condition is, but it seemed like she could do light activities.¡±


    ¡°Of course she could because she¡¯s been taking her medicine. But¡ª!¡±


    ¡°I have a sick daughter around your sister¡¯s age, so I know a little bit about the challenges of supporting a sick family member.¡±


    Liv paused at Adolf¡¯s words. Not missing that chance, Adolf quickly continued on.


    ¡°You can¡¯t bear the pain in her place, so you¡¯ll care for her and treasure her more. I know that well.¡±


    He did look quite old, but he didn¡¯t seem to have a daughter as old as Coryda.


    Liv closed her mouth without realizing it. If Adolf really had a sick daughter, it made sense why he was so kind to Coryda. If he thought of his own daughter, he would probably treat Coryda similarly.


    Adolf, noticing Liv¡¯s slightly softened appearance, asked her a question.


    ¡°Has your sister received a definite diagnosis from a doctor?¡±


    ¡°¡­ In the past, yes.¡±


    Adolf seemed to notice the ¡°past¡± Liv talked about happened a very long time ago.


    ¡°Medical practice is advancing every year. As you know, it¡¯s gotten a lot better through various studies. Some diseases are now curable.¡±


    Liv¡¯s eyelids fluttered lightly. Swallowing her saliva, she glanced at Adolf.


    ¡°What are you trying to get at?¡±


    ¡°If you care enough about your sister to come to me like this, I think you also realize that it¡¯s not just about covering and protecting her.¡±


    Liv¡¯s face hardened completely.


    ¡°You¡¯re being presumptuous as you¡¯ve said.¡±


    ¡°This is just advice from someone in the same boat. If it¡¯s been a while since she¡¯s had a checkup, it¡¯s a good time to check up on her health. I did that, too.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 63

    Liv got speechless again as he brought up her daughter. Adolf, carefully examining Liv who was biting her lip, spoke in a gentle tone.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t heard of any good doctors in Buerno¡­ But I¡¯m sure the Marquis could find someone good enough.¡±


    ¡°The Marquis?¡±


    Liv couldn¡¯t hide her genuine surprise as she didn¡¯t expect Adolf to mention the Marquis. Seeing the distrust in Liv¡¯s widely open eyes, Adolf drew a light smile.


    ¡°He has already provided you with a dwelling place, Miss Rhodes. I¡¯m sure he can grant you other favors as well.¡±


    Liv, who opened her lips, couldn¡¯t find any words to retort him and averted her gaze.


    If the Marquis favors me enough for Adolf, who is also his aide, to say something like that¡­


    Then, won¡¯t it be okay to ask for a bit more help? This kind of thing would be nothing to the Marquis after all.


    Introducing me to a good doctor should be a piece of cake for him.


    Liv realized that her heart was shaking uncontrollably. She felt like she would ask Adolf to let her meet the Marquis right away at this rate.


    Along with the hope that burned like wildfire, long-held fears stirred and rose to the surface.


    But what if I get to know a weird doctor like in the past? What if I make a mistake and endanger Coryda?


    ¡°Thank you for your advice.¡±


    This wasn¡¯t something she could decide on impulse. Liv managed to calm herself and changed the topic.


    ¡°Speaking of, I didn¡¯t know your office would be in a place like this, Mr. Adolf. You are the Marquis¡¯ aide, so I thought you would obviously be by his side.¡±


    ¡°Ah, the office is a little shabby, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Adolf smiled wryly and looked around his office.


    ¡°The Marquis has several aides by his side. Specifically, I¡¯m handling various legal matters for him. Because I¡¯m so prolific, he gave me my own law office.¡±


    Liv then found out why Adolf appeared with the contract for the extra work. It also reminded her that the house contract was also delivered by Adolf.


    ¡°You¡¯re amazing.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the Marquis who¡¯s amazing. He sent a talented person like me to this dusty office.¡±


    The tense atmosphere was broken a bit by Adolf, who chuckled and took it as a joke. Liv drank the tea with a more relaxed face.


    ¡°By the way, you care a lot about your sister. That¡¯s a very impressive sisterly love.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s my only family.¡±


    The death of her parents wasn¡¯t exactly something to hide. Liv, who replied to Adolf right away, made a wistful smile.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be living this diligently without her.¡±


    Adolf nodded as if he understood her.


    ¡°She must mean so much to you. I can see why you are so protective of her.¡±


    ¡°You said you have a sick daughter, so I¡¯m sure you know. I can even sacrifice my heart as long as she can get better.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. That¡¯s a family, after all.¡±


    In all honesty, it was hard to take care of Coryda, but if it weren¡¯t for her, she wouldn¡¯t live this tenaciously. Coryda was Liv¡¯s shackle, but she was also her only goal in life. Would her life be different if Coryda weren¡¯t by her side?


    She could no longer imagine it, and she hated to imagine it.


    ¡°Still, that¡¯s a bit unfortunate. I¡¯m sure you have a lot of things you want to do, Miss Rhodes.¡±


    Things she wants to do. She couldn¡¯t remember the last time she had heard something so flowery. It was both intriguing and bittersweet to hear such a cheesy question.


    Liv shook her head, flashing a bitter smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m just, happy enough to have Coryda by my side as she is now.¡±


    Not vomiting blood, not collapsing, and only smiling happily as she is now. That was all Liv hoped for.


    Adolf tilted his head at Liv¡¯s answer. He asked, his voice gentle and indifferent.


    ¡°What if your sister gets healthy?¡±


    ¡°Sorry?¡±


    Liv turned her head with a questioning gaze. Adolf, examining Liv¡¯s reaction, drew his usual kind smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking about when your sister gets better and the time for her to leave you comes.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s someone I have to take care of by my side.¡±


    ¡°But she won¡¯t stay a child forever. And you won¡¯t need to take care of her when she gets better. You want your sister to get healthy, so shouldn¡¯t you also think about this situation?¡±


    Coryda leaving me when she gets better?


    Liv felt like she was struck in the back by a possibility she had never thought about. A future when Coryda would leave her, her heart sank at that.


    The confusion she felt was just for a moment, however. Liv quickly regained her composure and replied in a calm manner.


    ¡°Coryda won¡¯t leave my side even when she gets better.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 64

    Adolf raised an eyebrow at Liv¡¯s stern response. Adolf pursed his lips in a straight line, lost in thought for a moment, then nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Oh, I see. That¡¯s a good sisterly love. It¡¯s such a good thing that your sister has a good older sister.¡±


    Adolf didn¡¯t ask more about it.


    ¡­


    The conversation with Adolf stuck in Liv¡¯s mind like a thorn in the side.


    Not only his advice to ask for help to the Marquis about Coryda¡¯s disease, but also about the other talks.


    Coryda¡¯s independence¡­


    Liv, who had been taking care of Coryda since she was eight years old, couldn¡¯t imagine her as an adult and independent. No, she could imagine Coryda became an adult, but she really couldn¡¯t picture Coryda leaving her wings and living alone.


    It was unknown whether she couldn¡¯t picture it or didn¡¯t want to picture it.


    Liv swept up her throbbing head. If Coryda got healthy, she would surely try to stand on her own as it was her personality.


    Coryda had already shown signs of self-will, such as getting a sewing kit from Rita and helping Adolf repair the fence. She held back now because of her disease, but if she regained her health¡­


    Liv, obviously, wanted Coryda to be healthy. Why not? It was just if Coryda left and she became alone, it would be very perplexing to her.


    So this was something she had a fear of.


    As much as Coryda relied on her, she relied on Coryda as well.


    ¡°Are you there?¡±


    Liv, who had been sitting absentmindedly, looked up at once. Someone was calling out beyond the door.


    She couldn¡¯t think of anyone who would come to her house.


    Liv, standing up with a questioning face, suddenly remembered Camille and hardened her expression. He was the man who wanted to know her address most recently. She wondered if he paid for her information somewhere and chased her here. He was strangely persistent in his inquiries about her whereabouts, so Liv couldn¡¯t help but be suspicious.


    Liv carefully approached the front door and replied while holding the knob strongly.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m the coachman. I¡¯m here to pick you up.¡±


    The coachman?


    Liv blinked her eyes and carefully opened the door. The person standing neatly at the door was the coachman of the carriage to whom Liv was indebted for each trip to the Marquis¡¯ studio.


    But she had already been to the studio.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t hear there¡¯s a work session today.¡±


    ¡°Master ordered me to pick you up. Are you busy?¡±


    Liv¡¯s expression turned puzzled. Behind the coachman was the black carriage she always took. It seemed that he was telling the truth that the Marquis ordered him to pick her up.


    It was only a few days ago that she met the Marquis. She couldn¡¯t guess the reason for this situation.


    ¡°He also added to not bring you if you¡¯re busy.¡±


    The coachman looked like he was ready to turn around if Liv refused. Pondering a while, Liv swallowed her saliva and glanced behind her. Coryda was in her room taking a little nap. She had no idea of what was going on, but she thought it would be okay to leave a memo and leave for a while. It was the Marquis, not anyone else. She couldn¡¯t even think of refusing his summon.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get out soon. Please wait a minute.¡±


    ¡­


    Stepping out of the carriage as usual, Liv soon realized she was in an unfamiliar place.


    This place was not the outskirt mansion where she always visited for the nude painting work. The mansion in front of her also gave off a remote atmosphere, but it was surely different. For starters, it was the way the house looked, and the landscape around it.


    What if the one who called me wasn¡¯t the Marquis?


    Liv, who belatedly thought of that possibility, looked back at the coachman with an unease gaze. The coachman was soothing the horse without much care.


    Am I supposed to go into that mansion in front of me? But I don¡¯t know what and who¡¯s there. Just as Liv¡¯s anxiety was about to spiral out of control, someone came up to her from the entrance of the mansion.


    ¡°Are you Miss Rhodes?¡±


    He was an old man with graying hair and a benign look on his face. He, dressed decently, bowed his head toward Liv.


    ¡°Welcome to Verworth Manor. My name is Philip Philmond, the butler. You can call me Philip.¡±


    Philip¡¯s soft voice, coupled with his impeccable demeanor, instilled a profound degree of trust in the other party. Nevertheless, Liv couldn¡¯t ease out her guard and greeted him back with a look of wariness on her face.


    ¡°Nice to meet you, Mr. Philmond.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 65

    Philip wasn¡¯t surprised even though Liv clearly showed a distance. Instead, he put on a big smile and casually offered to guide her.


    ¡°This way please. Did you have a comfortable ride?¡±


    ¡°Before that, Mr. Philmond. I have something to ask.¡±


    ¡°Go on, please.¡±


    Liv, standing awkwardly, looking back and forth between the carriage and the mansion, asked dubiously.


    ¡°Is the one who wants to meet me¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Marquis Dietrion.¡±


    Philip answered with clarity. Hearing that answer erased her anxiety without a trace.


    Liv, who heaved out a breath of relief without realizing it, flashed a shy smile.


    ¡°Ah, this is my first time meeting the Marquis here¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem. Well then, can you please follow me this way?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Philip led the way to the mansion. As he did so, he spoke casually to Liv.


    ¡°If there¡¯s any food ingredient you¡¯re avoiding, I¡¯ll take note.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing in particular.¡±


    ¡°I see. Then, are there any particular food ingredients you prefer?¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ I don¡¯t really have any food preferences.¡±


    More accurately, she couldn¡¯t afford to do so. Her kitchen budget hadn¡¯t been generous enough to allow her to complain about food. Liv, who cleared her throat with a bashful look, glanced up and saw Philip walking ahead of her.


    ¡°You¡¯re kind.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve welcomed a guest to the Verworth manor, so I¡¯m a little excited.¡±


    Philip answered with quite a cheery tone as though to prove that he wasn¡¯t lying.


    She felt more and more relaxed as the old man, who had a mild demeanor, smiled and acted like a gentleman. His ability to make her feel so relaxed with just a few words of conversation was truly remarkable. All the more so compared to the Marquis, who could send a person¡¯s nerves into overdrive with a single glance.


    They entered the mansion in no time as they shared a short conversation. Upon entering, Liv let out an involuntary gasp. Seeing the interior of the mansion, which was decorated in an old-fashioned way, left her in awe.


    In the center of the spacious lobby, where they now stood, there was a thick, colorful patterned carpet, and the high ceiling was lit by glittering, ornate chandeliers.


    The wooden staircase in the center of the lobby spiraled upward on two sides, and the railings were so well maintained that the shine was visible from a distance.


    ¡°Where is Master?¡±


    ¡°He is in his study.¡±


    The servant on guard near the front door answered politely. He appeared to offer to accept Liv¡¯s hat or coat, but since she didn¡¯t seem to have any intention of handing him anything in particular, he simply backed away.


    In hindsight, she thought she should have handed her hat over to him. However, Liv soon threw away that thought and chased after Philip.


    After climbing a staircase that was too much for her feet, she found herself in a hallway lined with large, clean windows. With all the curtains drawn, sunlight was streaming in through the windows.


    The sunlight not only brightened the hallway, but also created a gentle warmth. For that reason, Liv grew increasingly fond of the large, antique mansion. Unlike the mansion she had been visiting to work on the nude painting, this one felt inhabited.


    ¡°Behind this mansion is a very large arboretum. It¡¯s a very good place to take a walk.¡±


    Philip smiled and said as if he noticed Liv¡¯s fascination. Liv, who had been busy admiring the mansion¡¯s interior, gasped and looked down at his words.


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°The arboretum also has a greenhouse.¡±


    ¡°It must be cool.¡±


    ¡°That is something this old man is proud of.¡±


    Liv smiled instead of answering. Even though it was a beautiful greenhouse, she didn¡¯t think she would have a chance to take a look at it. Aside from that, Philip¡¯s friendly demeanor was not bad.


    ¡°This is the study.¡±


    After walking down the long hallway, Philip stopped in front of a door. It was a large door with carvings on it.


    Philip knocked it lightly and then spoke to the one inside.


    ¡°Master, I have brought Miss Rhodes.¡±


    A second later, approval was granted to enter from the inside. Before Liv had time to prepare herself, the heavy door slowly opened. Philip stepped out of Liv¡¯s way and gestured for her to enter.


    The first thing she noticed was the smell of paper that washed over her like a wave. Her vision took in the bookshelves that filled the walls. The interior, with its soaring ceilings, was large enough on its own, but the books lining the walls made it feel even more imposing.


    But it wasn¡¯t just filled with bookshelves. Large windows above let in plenty of light, and thick red velvet curtains were neatly hung. There was also a white fireplace that went well with the solid looking red-brown wood bookshelves.


    She remembered the library of Clemence Boarding School she often visited in her school days. It was big, too, but it didn¡¯t have the same sense of openness like this.


    It seemed like there was more space further in, not merely what was visible in her eyes. Although part of her wanted to explore every nook and cranny, Liv resisted her desire and turned her head toward the one who had called her.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 66

    The Marquis was sitting in a chair near the fireplace.


    Sitting comfortably, he held a book in one hand and his chin in the other. A pair of clear glasses hung loosely on the bridge of his high, sharply defined nose.


    His outfit was the thing that surprised Liv the most. He, who had always been in his stuffy outing clothes, was wearing loose loungewear. He didn¡¯t button up his clothes thoroughly to the neck, and he didn¡¯t wear his gloves either.


    ¡°Do you like books?¡±


    Without moving his gaze from the book, the Marquis asked indifferently. Liv answered while approaching him carefully.


    ¡°I do.¡±


    It was more appropriate to say she liked it so much. She liked to learn something she had no knowledge of, and books were the easiest way to learn things she didn¡¯t know.


    The Marquis finally looked up after he heard Liv¡¯s answer. He closed the book he was looking at and placed it on a nearby table. Then he took off his glasses and tossed them roughly on the book cover. It was a small, mundane gesture, but it was splendid enough to catch her eye.


    ¡°You look puzzled.¡±


    ¡°I thought you were summoning me to the usual mansion.¡±


    ¡°Today is not the work day. That mansion is only open on painting days.¡±


    Liv recalled the somewhat dreary mansion where the studio was located.


    It was too big and beautiful of a place to be opened only for a nude painting work. But if she thought about whether it could be opened for another purpose, she didn¡¯t think so. It was fancy, but it felt a bit cold. Compared to that mansion, this place was really warm.


    ¡°So here is¡­¡±


    ¡°This is just a place I use for personal reasons. There is also a good hunting ground here.¡±


    Replying casually, the Marquis pointed to a chair across from him with his chin.


    ¡°Have a seat.¡±


    Just then the door to the study opened, and Philip entered, pushing a mobile tray.


    Liv wondered if a butler was originally in charge of something like that.


    As though he didn¡¯t feel Liv¡¯s questioning gaze, Philip, preparing the refreshments personally, looked like he was very happy.


    ¡°This is black tea. We just got some high quality tea yesterday, and I hope you like it. I¡¯ve also brought some heated milk, just in case, so if you need it, let me know. And these scones are the dessert our chef is most proud of. The chocolate next to it is handmade, not too sweet, and just right.¡±


    Liv focused on listening to the kind explanation from Philip without realizing it.


    Fine, neat porcelain tea cups were filled with black tea, and platters of fragrant scones and chocolate were set out. There was even a selection of creams, butters, and jams to spread on the scones.


    ¡°Our chef is actually very good at making tarts. It¡¯s a pity we couldn¡¯t get it served because we were in a hurry. I hope there¡¯ll be another time for it.¡±


    Since the chance for it wasn¡¯t up to Liv, she opted to answer with an awkward smile.


    By the time all the refreshments on the tray were set down, the table was full. Philip, looking proud with all the refreshments he set, turned to the Marquis. The Marquis, who quietly watched Philip while propping his chin, asked apathetically.


    ¡°What made you do this yourself?¡±


    ¡°The more we age, the more we need to move our bodies. Otherwise we will get rusty.¡±


    The Marquis pressed his index finger firmly to his brow at Philip¡¯s shameless reply.


    ¡°Just finish up and get out.¡±


    Philip seemed to want to stay in the study a little more. He showed his reluctance openly and said with a look of helplessness.


    ¡°Well then, please don¡¯t hesitate to call me if you need anything.¡±


    When Philip, who had been explaining the dessert in casual conversation, left the room, silence descended on the study. The silence was so heavy that lifting a teacup felt cautious. As if the Marquis noticed that Liv couldn¡¯t easily bring herself to touch the refreshments, he lifted his cup first.


    ¡°Try it. The chef is not a bad cook, and I¡¯m sure it¡¯s to your taste.¡±


    Even without such a statement, the exuded fragrance was enough to make her mouth full with water. The refreshments couldn¡¯t be compared to the luxury ones gifted to her by the Vendons barony.


    Nevertheless, Liv was more curious about the reason she was here than the taste of the desserts.


    Liv, who had taken a sip of black tea out of politeness, spoke first.


    ¡°I want to know the reason you summoned me.¡±


    Did she speak in a very low voice? The Marquis showed no particular response.


    After agonizing for a while, Liv parted her lips again.


    ¡°Do you have something to say, my Lord?¡±


    He showed a response this time. The Marquis put down the cup gracefully and glanced at Liv.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s you who have something to say, not me.¡±


    ¡°Pardon?¡±


    ¡°I heard you visited Adolf.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 67

    He seemed to have heard her business with Adolf. On reflection, it could have been relayed to the Marquis. Since the Marquis was the house owner, a report that the house had been fixed up would surely go to him.


    What happened along the way may have been naturally reported.


    ¡°He said you looked to be in a tough spot.¡±


    Liv wondered how much he heard.


    She kept her silence for a moment, biting her lip.


    Adolf was the one who suggested for her to ask for help from the Marquis. So, wouldn¡¯t he tell enough story to make the Marquis pity her circumstance? Maybe Adolf¡¯s words had stirred up some sympathy to make him call her like this. If that was true¡­


    Is this the time to ask the Marquis for something?


    ¡°I have¡­ a sick sister. I think that¡¯s what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    As she struggled to speak, the Marquis nodded for her to continue. Liv hesitated, then finally spoke in a slightly clearer voice, as if determined.


    ¡°She¡¯s surviving on medication, and I just heard that a new medicine has been developed at the Dominian Medical Research Institute. I¡¯ve been told that the medicine might even cure my sister¡¯s illness, but¡­ I don¡¯t know where to look for it. If only I can get information about it¡­¡±


    ¡°Medicine, huh¡­¡±


    The Marquis, tilting his head at an angle, muttered to himself.


    ¡°Is that the reason you need money?¡±


    Her need for money was now unabashedly displayed before the Marquis. Taking Liv¡¯s silence as an affirmation, the Marquis gave a small nod.


    ¡°That¡¯s a sad family situation.¡±


    The Marquis said it, but his tone was quite emotionless.


    ¡°But before you start looking into the medicine, shouldn¡¯t you get her to a doctor first?¡±


    He said the same thing as Adolf. Regardless, Liv still couldn¡¯t be sure of it. Wouldn¡¯t it be the same for anyone if they saw that child bleeding to death?


    ¡°Of course she got a doctor to examine her, but it didn¡¯t go anywhere.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure it was a proper examination?¡±


    ¡°Sorry?¡±


    ¡°Judging from your circumstances, I¡¯m guessing the doctor you went to wasn¡¯t a good one.¡±


    Liv opened her eyes wide as the Marquis unexpectedly hit the mark. The Marquis stared at Liv closely and then raised his cup again.


    He didn¡¯t open his mouth again as if he had already said everything he needed to say. Liv was the one who got restless as the silence grew longer. She had already said what she wanted to the Marquis, and the Marquis pointed out what should be done first.


    It likely meant he wanted Liv to ask for something else.


    Does he want me to ask for a referral to a doctor?


    Liv parted her lips and eventually let out her voice again as if wringing it out.


    ¡°By any chance, if you could help me take care of my sister,¡±


    ¡°What if I can?¡±


    ¡°I, will do whatever it takes.¡±


    Such unspecified promises are dangerous.


    Liv understood well how reckless and fearless she sounded. But she couldn¡¯t say anything else. She had no material things to offer in return for the Marquis¡¯ help.


    At Liv¡¯s words, the Marquis let out a subtle hum. Then, with eyes narrowed, he asserted.


    ¡°Nothing you can give me is worth anything, Teacher.¡±


    Liv suddenly raised her head and looked at the Marquis. Liv¡¯s eyes shook greatly. Seeing her desperate expression, the Marquis raised the corner of his mouth at an angle.


    ¡°What? Do you think you have something you can give to me?¡±


    Her face turned red at that. Liv realized that the Marquis had recognized a deeply hidden imagination that she hadn¡¯t even recognized herself. That presumptuous imagination that perhaps the Marquis would like to have her in his bed.


    ¡°Yes. On second thought, there¡¯s something good in you.¡±


    The Marquis nodded coolly and leaned his back. Liv¡¯s shoulders stiffened with tension as he spoke.


    ¡°You are interesting.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t a complicated statement, but Liv didn¡¯t understand what on earth he was talking about. She wondered what was interesting about herself.


    ¡°So go ahead and keep me entertained. If you don¡¯t disappoint me, good luck will come to your doorstep every day.¡±


    Is that really good luck? These things are too great to be wrapped in the sweet words of good luck, aren¡¯t they?


    Liv felt her heart pounding with a vague sense of anxiety.


    ¡°Bring your sister. I¡¯ll introduce you to a good doctor.¡±


    ¡°A doctor?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s been taking care of my health for a long time, so there is no need to doubt her skills.¡±


    Surely, the Marquis¡¯ doctor would be better than the quack she met in the past. In the first place, Liv wouldn¡¯t be able to meet such a person. She was stunned by this piece of good fortune that seemed to have fallen from the sky.


    The Marquis, who had casually dropped a piece of luck in front of her, said in an aloof voice.


    ¡°And in the future, the extra work will be kept separate from the painting. I¡¯ll send a carriage for you.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 68

    ¡°Are you saying¡­ that the frequency will increase?¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s needed.¡±


    Not only would she be referred to a doctor, she would also get to earn more money. In less than an hour of being in this mansion, all of the problems that bothered Liv were being solved like a lie.


    And that solution was made possible by a few words from the Marquis. It was so effortless that it felt unreal, leaving Liv speechless.


    It was unknown how he interpreted her silence, but the Marquis added, feigning generosity.


    ¡°I¡¯ll skip the day you go to the Vendons manor.¡±


    His tone was as if he was granting a huge concession.


    ¡°Have some dessert, too. The chef will get so sad if you don¡¯t.¡±


    At his words, Liv raised her stiff hands and grabbed the tableware. Meanwhile, all kinds of thoughts filled her mind. But beyond all the confusion there was a deep sense of relief, gratitude, and a faint sense of excitement that gradually made its presence felt.


    The Marquis was a man capable of making a huge impact on her life, and she had caught his attention. She began to realize the enormity of this.


    After her parents¡¯ deaths, Liv had never been able to rely on anyone. She would always be the breadwinner as she had a younger sister to support.


    But when she was by the Marquis¡¯ side, if she could stay with him¡­


    ¡°Master.¡±


    Liv snapped out of her thoughts. Philip, who walked in after knocking, approached the Marquis. Judging by his cautious demeanor, he was conscious of Liv¡¯s presence.


    Liv looked down at her dessert, deliberately avoiding the Marquis and Philip. But she couldn¡¯t stop herself from listening.


    Philip gave a brief report in a hushed voice, so Liv practically couldn¡¯t hear anything. As Liv stifled her curiosity, she heard the Marquis mutter something in irritation.


    ¡°In person?¡±


    Philip¡¯s expression was as grave as the Marquis¡¯, which had become noticeably more sensitive.


    Liv wondered if there was a problem and if she needed to leave. She quietly put down her fork. Although she felt a bit apologetic for the chef¡¯s efforts, the atmosphere was not right for her to eat a scone leisurely.


    ¡°Tch.¡±


    ¡°How should I handle this?¡±


    ¡°Reject it.¡±


    ¡°However¡­¡±


    Philip trailed off with a puzzled look on his face. But the Marquis asked irritably, as if he had no intention of withdrawing his decision.


    ¡°Do I need to be wary of them?¡±


    ¡°I will do as you say.¡±


    Philip bowed his head without asking further. The Marquis seemed to have lost his appetite as he rose to his feet. Liv, who watched the situation, also raised herself carefully.


    She was about to say that she would leave. But before she could say anything, the Marquis spoke to her without looking at her.


    ¡°Have you ever learned to ride a horse?¡±


    ¡°Pardon? I did learn for a while, but¡­¡±


    After glancing at Liv, who stood there in bewilderment, the Marquis left the study while saying.


    ¡°While you¡¯re here, let¡¯s go to the hunting ground.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t an offer, so Liv didn¡¯t have a choice.


    ¡­


    Liv¡¯s horseback riding skills were, honestly, terrible.


    She was never very athletic. When she was in school, she often got low marks in classes where she had to use her body. She almost lost out on scholarship because of it.


    It was not just athletics or horseback riding, but also dancing. At the time, Liv, a student, had given up dancing to spend more time on her other studies because she didn¡¯t think she would ever need to show off her amazing dancing skills.


    To this day, she didn¡¯t regret that choice.


    However, she wished she had worked harder on learning to ride a horse.


    Compared to the Marquis, who rode the horse skillfully, Liv¡¯s horse walked at a slow pace like crawling. That, too, was thanks to the servant who held the reins that she could travel steadily. She would have been in trouble had she ridden alone.


    The Marquis obviously didn¡¯t seem like he would consider her situation even if she got in trouble. He looked to be in a very bad mood.


    The Marquis¡¯ sudden declaration of a hunt made all the servants prepare it quickly. It seemed like everyone had been through this more than once or twice.


    They quickly prepared shotguns, lined up the beaters, and got the hounds ready. It wasn¡¯t an official hunt, so obviously a lot was lacking, but it was enough to get the ball rolling.


    ¡°This place should be good.¡±


    The beaters and the chasers moved swiftly at the Marquis¡¯ words.


    The Marquis seemed to have no intention to go inside the hunting ground personally. In the first place, it would be wearing to chase the prey with Liv accompanying him.


    In that sense, this was very strange. Liv couldn¡¯t be of any help in this hunt. She was rather close to being a hindrance in the hunt.


    Why did he bring me along?


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 69

    Liv thought about it and concluded that the most likely reason was ¡°someone to talk with.¡± Apart from that, there was nothing else for Liv to do in this hunting ground.


    Thinking of what she should say, Liv decided to bring up the simplest topic.


    ¡°Do you like hunting, my Lord?¡±


    The Marquis, who was looking far at the sky, waiting for a signal from the beaters, glanced at his side.


    ¡°Not at all.¡±


    The answer that came without hesitation left Liv with a puzzled look on her face. She assumed that since he had a mansion with a hunting ground, he would love it. Moreover, didn¡¯t he rush to hunt as soon as he got in a bad mood?


    Don¡¯t people usually try to drown out their bad moods with something like a favorite hobby?


    As Liv hesitated, unsure of how to react to the unexpected answer, the Marquis chimed in.


    ¡°I do this because I have to.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Because you have to?¡±


    ¡°Sometimes some killing is necessary, Teacher.¡±


    At that moment, a flock of birds flew over, accompanied by the sound of their wings in the distance. The Marquis raised his gun and pointed it at the sky in one swift motion. The long barrel was aimed at its target without hesitation.


    Bang!


    Liv¡¯s shoulders twitched at the sound of gunfire coming from her side.


    Bang! Bang!


    Two more shots rang out in quick succession. The smoky smell of gunpowder hit Liv hard, and she reflexively covered her nose and looked up at the sky. She could see flocks of birds scattering in all directions, startled by the gunfire. As a layperson, Liv had no way of knowing if the hunt was successful.


    The Marquis, who had fired his gun out of nowhere, lowered his muzzle nonchalantly. He glanced at the scattered empty shotshells, then casually reloaded.


    ¡°Is this the first time you¡¯ve ever watched a gun being fired?¡±


    ¡°I have¡­ no reason to watch it.¡±


    ¡°You grew up without difficulty.¡±


    His tone was the one that he sometimes showed when he treated her like a child. Liv couldn¡¯t help herself and quickly retorted.


    ¡°That is not necessarily true.¡±


    The Marquis didn¡¯t reply. But judging by the faint twist of his mouth, he seemed not to be taking Liv¡¯s words seriously.


    She didn¡¯t particularly need to explain the struggles of her life, and she didn¡¯t need his validation. Would he even understand if she told him?


    Liv, however, was feeling aggravated by the Marquis¡¯ attitude of concluding her as an immature young lady.


    ¡°If I¡¯d grown up without difficulty, I wouldn¡¯t have gotten involved with you in this way.¡±


    The Marquis, who had been reloading his gun, looked up at that. He stared at Liv¡¯s stiff expression, then narrowed his eyes.


    ¡°Then you should be grateful for that misfortune, Teacher. You¡¯re here thanks to that.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I would be happy to be here?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Liv pursed her lips as if she were speechless. The Marquis nodded casually and turned his attention back to his gun.


    ¡°If not, feel free to deny it.¡±


    Saying so, the Marquis looked like he didn¡¯t think his conviction was wrong at all. He made her become a bit annoyed that she wanted to deny him at once, but somehow, Liv couldn¡¯t open her lips.


    It wasn¡¯t simply because of some ways she got related to him. Of course, she was in a position where she had to play along with him, but more than that¡­


    The Marquis was right. Liv was inwardly happy to be here, to be in a relationship with him that everyone could see it was special.


    ¡°You are right, my Lord.¡±


    The Marquis raised his eyebrows as if he didn¡¯t expect Liv to readily admit it. Staring quietly at the Marquis who was looking at her, Liv continued on.


    ¡°You must have known that it was irresistible for me, so there¡¯s no use for me to pretend to be not.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re quicker to admit it than I expected.¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯ve given it quite enough thought.¡±


    ¡°Thought, huh¡­ About what?¡±


    ¡°About how I should accept that interest from you, my Lord.¡±


    The Marquis didn¡¯t hide that he found this to be interesting. Staring at Liv with intrigue in his eyes, he drew a light smile.


    ¡°How are you going to accept it?¡±


    ¡°Just as it is.¡±


    Liv lowered her gaze. For Liv, in fact, there was no other option.


    The Marquis¡¯ interest was an endless, gigantic wave, and she, standing in front of it, was no more than a small boat that could only be swept along. It didn¡¯t matter even if that wave were going to turn the boat over, tear it to pieces, and send it sinking into the depths of the ocean.


    Fighting against a force that was too strong would only make her crumble. Sometimes, just going with the flow was the way to increase the chances of survival.


    ¡°If you tell me to come, I will come, if you tell me to go, I will go, if you give me help, I will accept that help¡­¡±


    ¡°If I tell you to take your clothes off.¡±


    ¡°¡­ I will take them off.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 70

    Having answered in a low, yet clear voice, Liv looked up.


    The smile was no longer on the Marquis¡¯ face. The expressionless gaze staring at Liv was cold and distant, and there was a hint of persistence in it.


    As the conversation between the two came to a halt, the sound of birds and the insects¡¯ chirp in the forest began to take over. It was a peaceful, mundane sound, as if the commotion caused by a few gunshots had been a lie.


    ¡°Signal for everyone to come back. Let¡¯s end this.¡±


    The Marquis suddenly handed the shotgun in his hands to a servant. Liv, who saw it, opened her mouth in a questioning tone.


    ¡°The hunt¡­¡±


    I think it hasn¡¯t even started yet.


    The Marquis replied quickly even before Liv could continue.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you just say it yourself? You will take them off if I tell you to.¡±


    The indifferent eyes looked straight at Liv.


    ¡°Or, do you prefer the outdoors?¡±


    Red-faced, Liv quietly squeezed the reins.


    ***


    Liv thought maybe this time he would ask for something different from her, but he just stared at her naked body, no different from any other time.


    However, every now and then, he would tap his fingers quickly on the table or chew the end of his cigar with his teeth, as if on edge. He also looked like he was contemplating something.


    Nevertheless, he didn¡¯t do anything in the end, and Liv came home safe and sound, as always.


    ¡°Liv!¡±


    Coryda, who had been sleeping soundly when Liv left, was waiting for her with her eyes wide open. Seeing Liv come back home, Coryda narrowed her eyes and strode to her right away.


    ¡°What is it? There¡¯s no class today, no? Where did you go suddenly? You don¡¯t know how shocked I was when I woke up and you weren¡¯t there!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Coryda. I had to make a quick trip because of the extra work I¡¯ve been doing lately.¡±


    Liv immediately handed over what she¡¯d brought to Coryda, who pouted her lips and was about to nag for more. It was a basket that Philip had given her before she left the mansion.


    The sweet smell of the basket made Coryda forget her anger and her eyes widened.


    ¡°Oh my God, what is this?¡±


    ¡°The talk went well, and I got a little more work to do. I¡¯m going to be working more often.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re bribing me in advance because I¡¯ll be alone now?¡±


    Although she was grumbling, Coryda¡¯s face was full of curiosity as she opened the basket.


    The basket was filled with scones and chocolates that Liv had enjoyed for refreshments. Also some freshly made tarts.


    ¡°I prepared this for you in case you weren¡¯t able to enjoy the refreshments while you were talking. Please don¡¯t feel pressured, and consider this a gift in the hopes that you¡¯ll visit again.¡±


    Philip laughed loudly as he said that. Liv was swept up in his insistence that she must have it because there was no one else to eat it but her and ended up accepting the basket. She was inwardly relieved to see Coryda exclaim.


    Well, it was made for her anyway, so it was a good thing that Coryda enjoyed it.


    ¡°And Coryda, listen while you eat.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, what is it?¡±


    ¡°Well, someone heard about our situation and wants to help.¡±


    ¡°Wants to help?¡±


    Coryda, her mouth filled with tart, opened her eyes wide. Liv said in a calm voice, brushing the crumbs from the corner of Coryda¡¯s mouth with her hand.


    ¡°He said he would refer us to a good doctor.¡±


    The mouth that had been moving so vigorously stopped. Coryda blinked rapidly and forced the tart down her throat. But even then, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to say anything.


    As if understanding Coryda who made a complicated look, Liv caressed her head.


    ¡°I¡¯ll turn it down if you don¡¯t like it. He can help in other ways, too.¡±


    Coryda¡¯s life was threatened at a young age by a quack doctor. Naturally, she would have been even more reluctant than Liv.


    Liv remembered Coryda, who had been hiding for a while after the quack¡¯s cure, freaking out at the sight of anyone who looked like him.


    Some time passed, and Coryda had grown a lot, but had that fear gone away as well? Liv couldn¡¯t be sure of it.


    ¡°But if you¡¯re telling me this, isn¡¯t it because that person said he was going to help us with that?¡±


    Liv drew an awkward smile as Coryda was quick at catching on. After a few moments of silence, Coryda blurted out a question.


    ¡°Who is this person who wants to help us?¡±


    As she couldn¡¯t reveal the Marquis¡¯ identity, Liv pondered for a moment about how to introduce him. But nothing really came to mind. Therefore, Liv decided to use the excuse of Adolf, whom Coryda was at least familiar with.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 71

    ¡°You remember Mr. Adolf, the broker of this house, right? I got to know that person through him.¡±


    ¡°Is that person trustworthy?¡±


    ¡°The doctor he would refer to us is probably very skillful. Nothing else, just a checkup. We will just take a look at your condition again.¡±


    Perhaps Coryda¡¯s question was not about the doctor, but the person who said he would help them. Liv cleverly changed her answer. It was so natural that Coryda couldn¡¯t notice anything strange and readily let it pass.


    Coryda put down what she had been eating and fell into thought. Watching Coryda¡¯s complexion closely, Liv asked carefully.


    ¡°Are you okay with that?¡±


    ¡°What should I do?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to do anything. If you say okay, you will go to see the doctor with me.¡±


    Coryda looked like she really didn¡¯t like the idea.


    ¡°Do I really¡­ need to get examined? I can explain my condition even without doing that.¡±


    ¡°We need to diagnose your condition properly so we can find a way to get you better.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m already on medication?¡±


    ¡°I told you, there¡¯s a new medicine. Instead of relying on medication like you do now, you can actually be healthy like other kids. And that¡¯s why we¡¯re going to do an examination first to see how you¡¯re doing.¡±


    After listening to Liv¡¯s lengthy explanation, Coryda let out a shallow sigh.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Liv, who thought that Coryda might have rejected it, made a surprised look when she saw Coryda nod slowly.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°If you think it¡¯s okay, it is okay.¡±


    It meant like she would get checked up because she trusted Liv. It was clear that she didn¡¯t think Liv would recommend anything bad for her.


    For some reason, it tugged at her heartstrings, making Liv bite her lip hard. Liv pushed down her rapidly rising emotions and hugged Coryda tightly.


    ¡°Mhm, everything will be okay. Because I will protect you.¡±


    Everything was getting better, so she was sure that Coryda¡¯s health would surely get better as well. Liv prayed fervently.


    I hope this is the right choice.


    ***


    Marquis Demus Dietrion had several mansions.


    The largest and most enormous of these was his home, the Lanxess mansion. It was a large mansion of stone, set on privately owned land quite a distance outside of downtown Buerno. It could have been called a castle, and no guests had ever been allowed inside the main gate. Anyone trying to get near the private property, let alone the main gate, would be stopped by guards.


    Even the exterior of the mansion was a mystery due to its vast grounds and woods, causing rumors to overgrown. The Lanxess mansion was also the main setting for all the vicious rumors about Demus. But at the same time, it was also a place that everyone wanted to visit at least once.


    Apparently, the writer of this letter was one of them. He was never this persistent, but seeing him say the same thing again.


    ¡°They really can¡¯t understand.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t hard to ignore the letter.


    But how long would it last? The fact that the sender wrote to him directly to let him know that they were coming, suggested that they had already made all the plans. And that plan wouldn¡¯t have taken into account anything like Demus¡¯ opinions.


    Demus got a bit annoyed.


    ¡°About the reply¡­¡±


    ¡°Just as before.¡±


    Philip bowed his head and stepped back. Demus glanced at him, then tossed the letter he was holding into the fireplace. Staring impassively at the burning paper, he rose to his feet.


    The long hallways were well maintained, beautiful and clean. But somehow there was a certain chill in the air. The chill air permeated every inch of the mansion, unobstructed by tapestries or carpeting.


    No amount of fireplaces and sunshine helped. This chill was embedded in every single stone that made up the mansion.


    So at times this place felt like a cold prison. In spite of the fact that nothing bound him.


    In reality, it was no different than a prison. Especially when he remembered that when he came here, he was no better than an exile.


    How many years have I been here?


    Demus counted the passing days in his mind. Although it was hard to pinpoint, he was sure he¡¯d made it past the third year.


    The first year went by in a blur of anger and helplessness, and it wasn¡¯t until the second year that he finally started to take steps outside. Even then, his steps weren¡¯t very active.


    When he first came here, Buerno was just a rural town with no particular identity. If he had stayed under the radar, as he did in his first year, Buerno would still be a shell of its former self.


    It was only when Demus started buying art like a madman that Buerno became lively.


    Artists began to flock to the town as word spread that there was a huge collector in town. Politicians, who were intrigued by the identity of the tycoon, began organizing events in Buerno and supporting the art galleries. Since no one knew anything about the ¡°House of Dietrion,¡± everyone tentatively concluded that Demus was a member of royalty who had hidden his true identity.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 72

    It was inevitable that Demus¡¯ name would spread in Buerno.


    Sure, it had been a few years, so they must have heard the rumors one way or another. It was about time. Demus rubbed his weary forehead.


    His casual steps took him down the hallway and into the long gallery. In any other mansion, this would have been a place to hang family paintings or portraits, but Demus filled the long gallery with weapons. All kinds of guns and knives were hung on the walls or placed in glass cases.


    Some were too ornate to be weapons, so they were perfect as ornaments. Yet some of the others were so old and shabby that it was a wonder they were even kept. There were also some with ghastly clumps of unwiped blood.


    As he crossed the long gallery, his eyes taking in all the guns and knives on display, Demus suddenly stopped. He stood in front of a beautifully crafted sword with its long, slender blade.


    He was given this sword on the day he was promoted. The day he believed everything was going well. When he was certain that all that lay ahead of him was dazzling fame and glory.


    Demus of that time was a na?ve and foolish young man. A blatant mockery crossed Demus¡¯ face as he recalled the past.


    All that shiny sword did was inspire useless jealousy.


    ¡°You might be slow to recognize a situation because you¡¯re young. But, Major, only your mother would understand such foolishness.¡±


    Right. He did hear such a thing.


    ¡°Oh, and wasn¡¯t it said that your mother wasn¡¯t a cultured person? You¡¯re such a juvenile fragrant. I wonder who the hell your backers are.¡±


    The vicious voices in his memory no longer evoked any emotion in him. He had grown well past the age of being outraged by childish mockery.


    But just because he didn¡¯t mind, it didn¡¯t mean he wanted to hear it again. He found them annoying, and all their ploys to get him back on board years later were ridiculous.


    He thought it would be a good idea to increase security. There was nothing Demus could do to stop them from visiting Buerno, but he had no intention of offering his mansion as a lodging for them.


    Should I just stay away altogether?


    Maybe a week or two or a month, depending on the length of the visit.


    The impulse was short-lived. He didn¡¯t want to look like he was running away from the vestiges of the past that were chasing him. Once was enough for the humiliation of defeat.


    After a brief pause, Demus resumed his steps. Compared to a moment ago when he was walking aimlessly, this time he had a clear destination.


    He trudged on and reached the basement of the mansion. As he descended into the basement, an even colder chill enveloped Demus¡¯ entire body.


    Aside from the chill in the air, it was beautifully decorated like any other room in the mansion. Demus looked up and scanned the wall slowly.


    All the pieces of nude paintings he had collected over the years were stored here. As he casually scanned the eye-catching array of beautiful naked bodies, Demus¡¯ gaze suddenly settled on one specific spot.


    ¡°Liv Rhodes¡­¡±


    The first painting of Brad he bought. The very same painting in which he first saw the back of a woman named Liv Rhodes.


    The trigger that made him, who was satisfied enough with the works of art, feel curious about the living model for the first time.


    Demus was still in awe of how he felt at that time.


    The same was true when he faced Liv Rhodes. She made him feel like nothing was wrong with doing something he wouldn¡¯t normally do. Most recently, that was the case as well.


    Had he ever been to the hunting grounds and returned so quickly?


    He didn¡¯t bring her to the hunting ground with the expectation of anything in particular. It was more like he brought her along like baggage, just because she was in front of him. She would have quickly realized that there was nothing she could do in the hunting grounds.


    And yet, she made her useless existence useful.


    The urge, which would always end only when his eyes saw the dying breath, the blood staining the earth red, and the smell of tainted blood, came to an end easily, enough to leave him speechless. Only because of his conversation with her.


    That day, for the first time in his life, Demus was seized by a lust that overcame his desire to kill.


    The thought alone made his lower body stiffen again. Demus chuckled in amusement at the immediate reaction from his body. Even the tickling sensation from the scars all over his body seemed to be substituted for sexual stimulation. The sensations became increasingly acute and severe.


    Will it get better after I sleep with her once?


    Not that he didn¡¯t think about it. Nevertheless, Demus knew his temperament well. It was hard to imagine that such a fierce desire would be quenched after just one time.


    Furthermore, this sexual desire was not some savage urge to forcefully violate a crying, unwilling woman. If it was that kind of thing, it would have been resolved already. This was demanding more than that, it was about mental fulfillment.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 73

    He had always sought the perfect victory. Demus had always won, at least in situations where no unjust powers were involved. It was a long-held second nature of his to create the perfect conditions for victory before going into battle.


    Demus, who had been eyeing the painting, ran his tongue over his lips. As of late, a thirst that seared his throat had been gnawing at his nerves little by little.


    But for now, it was still bearable.


    She would kneel before him and surrender herself to him anyway. He was certain of it.


    As if the whole pretense of expecting nothing was a lie, she would look up at him with wavering eyes and try to take his penis into her mouth herself.


    Aah, imagining victory always felt good.


    ***


    ¡°Teacher! Did you hear that Cardinal Calliope is coming to Buerno?¡±


    Once again, Millian brought up a topic completely unrelated to the class. Even when Liv flipped through the book without wavering, Millian kept the conversation going.


    ¡°Maybe this time my parents will be the ones to welcome the Cardinal!¡±


    This time, she couldn¡¯t ignore it. Liv, who had vowed not to respond, looked up with round eyes.


    ¡°In the Vendons manor?¡±


    ¡°Yes! There¡¯s no place like our home in Buerno!¡±


    As if she was satisfied with Liv¡¯s response, Millian lifted her chin smugly, then paused, suddenly remembering something. After rolling her eyes and avoiding eye contact, she added in a sour voice.


    ¡°Sure, there¡¯s the Marquis of Dietrion, but he¡¯s the kind of person who doesn¡¯t really care about who¡¯s in town. And the Blaise family¡¯s mansion is too far from the center of Buerno for the Cardinal to travel to and from.¡±


    ¡°But doesn¡¯t the Cardinal have many companions?¡±


    ¡°Ay, we can just open all the annexes!¡±


    Well, even if they ran out of buildings, the Barony of Vendons would still build one out of thin air to house the Cardinal.


    Liv nodded, dismissing the unnecessary worry.


    Certainly the Vendons barony had a fairly large estate considering its location in the center of Buerno. It was a better place to get to and from than the mansion of Blaise county, which was located near the village side of Buerno.


    ¡°It would be a great honor to serve the Cardinal.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it is!¡±


    ¡°But if the Cardinal himself is coming, wouldn¡¯t the Marquis of Dietrion have no choice but to step up?¡±


    Regardless of how much of an arrogant, looking down on everyone, man he was.


    Unlike all the aristocracy that flooded countries and was treated as an honorary title, cardinals were a very small group of priests who were specially elected. A very high ranking cleric who might one day lead the Order.


    Not even the greatest nobleman could treat a priest with disrespect. They didn¡¯t belong to a nation, they belonged to the Order. And most countries had adopted the Order¡¯s religion as their state religion.


    ¡°But I heard that in all this time, Marquis Dietrion has never hosted a guest. It didn¡¯t matter even if the highest nobleman came from the capital.¡±


    ¡°But the Cardinal is a different story.¡±


    Although, recalling his words in the chapel, there seemed to be no trace of piety in him¡­


    Liv recalled the Marquis¡¯ mansions she had visited. There were two, at most, but each was beautiful and grand. She had heard the words that he never entertained guests at his main home, the Lanxess mansion, but the other mansions were stunning enough, and she thought he could just open one of them.


    ¡°Actually, there¡¯s a reason I¡¯m so sure of this.¡±


    ¡°A reason?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll be surprised to hear it.¡±


    Leaning forward, Millian whispered in a low voice as if sharing a secret.


    ¡°Among the nobles who are accompanying the Cardinal, there is one whom Teacher Camille knows!¡±


    ¡°¡­ Did you say Mr. Camille?¡±


    ¡°Yes! So of course he¡¯s going to invite them to my house! After all, it¡¯s more comfortable to be around people you know!¡±


    Liv couldn¡¯t hide her surprise this time as it was truly unexpected. She had guessed that Camille had a wide connection, but she hadn¡¯t expected it to be like this.


    If his acquaintance could even get to honor a cardinal, he must be from a pretty prestigious aristocratic family.


    Liv came to wonder. What in the world does Camille do, to be friends with someone like that? Why would someone like that be an art teacher in a small town like this?


    ¡°That¡¯s why Teacher Camille has been meeting with my parents almost every day lately. He now spends more time with my parents than he does in my class. He¡¯s probably in my dad¡¯s office now.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    In her mind, it was an interesting coincidence, but Liv had a feeling that something was out of place. It was ambiguous, something she couldn¡¯t quite define what it was, but it was just too disturbing and unpleasant to ignore.


    However, there was nothing Liv could do about it. What did Camille¡¯s weirdness have to do with her?


    Liv turned her attention back to her textbook, trying to ignore the prickle of discomfort like a thorn in her neck.


    Cardinals, nobles, they were all so far away from Liv¡¯s life. It would be much more productive to worry about Coryda, who would soon be seeing a doctor.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 74

    When the day to paint the nude came again, Liv went to Brad¡¯s studio, but he had locked it and was away.


    She could understand it for once, but it was unbelievable he did it twice in a row like this.


    Normally, she would have been worried about him and asked around, but unfortunately, Liv didn¡¯t have time to pay attention to Brad. This was because she was told to bring Coryda in while the work was canceled. As for the medical treatment, she convinced Coryda with Adolf¡¯s name, and Adolf himself came to pick them up.


    And that seemed to put Coryda¡¯s mind at ease a bit. In addition, Adolf had a way with words, and even managed to relax Coryda with some lighthearted talk during the carriage ride.


    By the time they reached the mansion, the tension in Coryda¡¯s face had completely dissipated.


    ¡°Well, here we are.¡±


    ¡°Woah¡­¡±


    Coryda¡¯s mouth dropped open at the sight of the Verworth mansion in front of her. Liv understood how she felt about that, so she let Coryda admire it.


    This place was still stunningly beautiful despite it being her second visit after all.


    ¡°Good morning, Miss Rhodes.¡±


    Philip, who was already at the entrance, offered a polite greeting to Liv and Coryda.


    ¡°We¡¯ve got a cute little guest here. Welcome to Verworth Manor. I am Philip Philmond, the butler. Please feel free to call me Philip.¡±


    ¡°Hello, Grandpa Philip. My name is Coryda Rhodes. You can call me Coryda.¡±


    Liv was appalled at Coryda¡¯s casualness at calling out to Philip, and was about to interrupt her, but Philip was the first to burst out laughing.


    ¡°Thank you, Miss Coryda. If you have any questions about the mansion, you can ask me anything. Oh, and do you happen to like fruit tarts?¡±


    ¡°I like them!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief. We¡¯ve got them just in time for today.¡±


    The last words were addressed to Liv. Liv flashed an awkward smile at Philip, then took Coryda¡¯s hand and walked slowly toward the mansion. Adolf said he had to report for a while and went in first, so it was Philip who led them in.


    Coryda couldn¡¯t keep her mouth shut all the way to the parlor. Liv had visited the mansions of aristocrats before, when she was a live-in tutor, but they weren¡¯t as glamorous and large as this one.


    ¡°Would you mind waiting here for a moment?¡±


    The parlor was toasty warm inside, probably due to the fireplace. The maids quickly set out refreshments for Liv and Coryda as soon as they were seated. Coryda, who had never been treated in such an incredible way before, looked around in amazement.


    Once the maids had retreated, Coryda, who had been looking around, leaned over and whispered to Liv.


    ¡°Liv, the owner of this mansion is the one who wants to help us, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Have you met him? What kind of person is he?¡±


    ¡°¡­ He¡¯s just a good-hearted person.¡±


    Liv¡¯s answer led Coryda to shoot Liv a suspicious look.


    ¡°So he¡¯s going to help us just because he pities us? Does such a person exist?¡±


    ¡°He must have felt so bad about us.¡±


    ¡°I mean, that¡¯s just plain weird. We¡¯re not the only poor people in the world. Could it be that he wants something else?¡±


    Liv thought Coryda was simply mesmerized by the spectacular scenery, but it seemed that she had a question in her mind.


    ¡°Something else?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Something like he fell for your beauty¡­¡±


    Liv made an awkward smile as she watched Coryda ponder in earnest. Hearing something that wasn¡¯t quite the right answer, but strangely close to the point, cut off the words of denial she was about to say.


    Fortunately, before Liv could respond, the parlor door was opened and Adolf stepped in.


    ¡°I apologize for the wait.¡±


    Behind Adolf, an unfamiliar woman appeared.


    She was a thin, middle-aged woman with a monocle and a somewhat stern look. With her brown hair, mixed with sparse gray, neatly tied into a bun, she held a doctor house call bag in her hand.


    ¡°This is Dr. Thierry Gertrude. She¡¯s the one who will examine Miss Coryda today. Dr. Gertrude, this is the guardian, Miss Liv Rhodes, and next to her is the patient, Miss Coryda Rhodes.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you, Doctor.¡±


    Thierry eyed Liv and Coryda with a somewhat arrogant look. Liv quickly reached out her hand to shake hers, but instead of taking it, she just stared at it.


    Seeing that attitude, which was not very friendly, Liv naturally withdrew her hand. Nevertheless, she didn¡¯t wipe the smile off her face.


    ¡°I heard you¡¯re a very competent doctor. It¡¯s an honor to be under your care. Please take good care of Coryda.¡±


    ¡°Miss, Coryda?¡±


    Thierry¡¯s gaze locked on Coryda. Coryda, who had been frozen with nervousness, flinched at the gaze, her shoulders shaking.


    Clutching the hem of Liv¡¯s dress tightly, Coryda hung her head, her face pale white. But when she saw the doctor bag in Thierry¡¯s hand, she turned even paler.


    As if her initial excitement had been a lie, Coryda was utterly frightened. It wasn¡¯t just because of Thierry¡¯s aloof demeanor.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 75

    The bag Thierry was holding looked like the kind of bag most doctors carry. So when she saw that, it must have reminded her of the past.


    Thierry frowned slightly at the sight of Coryda being defensive. Seeing that, Liv wrapped one hand around Coryda¡¯s shoulder and said.


    ¡°She has a bad memory with a doctor. I hope you can understand if she gets scared.¡±


    For the first time, Thierry¡¯s expression changed slightly. Raising an eyebrow, Thierry turned to face Liv.


    ¡°What kind of memory?¡±


    Liv, unsure of how far to go with her explanation, said calmly.


    ¡°It was an excessive depletion of blood.¡±


    ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°When it became life-threatening, he insisted on doing an incision.¡±


    ¡°Incision? With the symptoms I was told, an incision shouldn¡¯t have been necessary.¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t see it that way. So¡­ He said he needed to check inside her head.¡±


    Coryda gasped for air faintly. However, Liv gritted her teeth and as calmly as she could, she recounted the whole situation. She had realized that embellishing her words wouldn¡¯t work with Thierry.


    She would rather have informed her of the pressure Coryda was under and expected her to be as professional as possible.


    At Liv¡¯s blunt explanation, Adolf made a wistful face, and Thierry was silent for a moment.


    Thierry¡¯s gaze shifted to Coryda again. Her gaze was much softer than before.


    ¡°To be honest, I¡¯ve never had a young patient before.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°But my skills are so good that it doesn¡¯t matter that this is my first time. I¡¯ve kept alive people who wouldn¡¯t be weird to die right away many times. You won¡¯t find a better doctor than me anywhere.¡±


    There was not even a slightest hint of arrogance in Thierry¡¯s voice as she said that. Her tone was dry, as if she were delivering a really objective fact.


    ¡°I can tell you one thing for sure. I¡¯m pretty sure that quack you encountered in the past wasn¡¯t a doctor, but a lunatic trying to take advantage of you for his own curiosity. And I¡¯m a doctor, not a lunatic.¡±


    Thierry walked over to Liv and placed her bag on the table.


    ¡°A doctor¡¯s job is only to keep patients alive and cure them. For that, the patient needs to trust the doctor. I¡¯m not going to force you to trust me, but I refuse to be treated as if I¡¯m the same as that lunatic you met in the past.¡±


    Thierry¡¯s gaze shifted to Coryda, who was hiding behind Liv. Coryda, who looked like she might cry at any moment, opened her eyes wide and looked up at Thierry.


    ¡°Are you willing to get yourself examined by me, Miss Coryda Rhodes?¡±


    Coryda, gazing at Thierry blankly, nodded as if she was enchanted. The frightened face had calmed down considerably.


    Liv heaved a sigh at the sight without realizing it. She had a hunch, at the very least, that Thierry was a much more sane person than the quack she¡¯d encountered in the past. She was the Marquis¡¯ physician, so it must be true.


    At the same time, Liv thought absentmindedly. That she wanted to see the Marquis because she needed to thank him.


    No. She wanted to meet him on the pretext of thanking him.


    ***


    Liv had no idea that Coryda was so sociable.


    No, she had a vague idea, for Coryda had always gotten along with the neighbors. She had also become close to Adolf in a very short time.


    However, she had no idea it would be to this extent. Unlike Liv, who always made sure to keep a respectful distance from people and be polite, Coryda didn¡¯t hesitate to accept the favors offered to her.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you enjoyed the dessert. Haha.¡±


    The easy-going Philip bonded with Coryda without much difficulty. With Adolf, at least she was aware that he was the landlord, so she kept a minimum of courtesy, but with Philip, she was treating him like a friendly neighborhood grandfather.


    And Philip rather looked happy with Coryda¡¯s demeanor.


    ¡°This is really delicious. Open a shop downtown and you¡¯ll have no shortage of customers!¡±


    ¡°Ivan will be thrilled to hear that. Oh, Ivan is the mansion¡¯s head chef. He¡¯s always been sad that people don¡¯t give him much feedback on his cooking.¡±


    ¡°If it were me, I¡¯d be sharing my thoughts all day long!¡±


    ¡°Hahaha, I¡¯d love to introduce you to Ivan if there¡¯s a chance. He¡¯s a master of all cuisines.¡±


    Liv let out a long breath as she watched Coryda ease up as if she had been to this mansion dozens of times before. She would rather see Coryda be comfortable like that than scared and nervous.


    ¡°Miss Rhodes, would you mind seeing Master for a moment?¡±


    Adolf, who was helping to lighten the mood just as much as Philip, came up to Liv and hinted at her.


    Liv nodded at that, as she herself had been thinking of meeting and thanking the Marquis. Still, she didn¡¯t forget to send a worried glance toward Coryda.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 76

    Sensing Liv¡¯s gaze, Coryda put down the fork she was holding and wobbled to her feet.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    It wouldn¡¯t be a good idea to bring Coryda to face the Marquis directly. The Marquis had a reputation for being aloof and unsociable. For such a man to do her the favor of introducing her to a doctor out of the blue would have been strange, even to Coryda, who hadn¡¯t yet known about the world.


    Besides, from the Marquis¡¯ perspective, there would be no reason for him to meet Coryda. Liv shook her head without delay.


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to. Erm¡­ Will you be okay on your own while I¡¯m gone?¡±


    ¡°Are you sure I don¡¯t need to thank him?¡±


    ¡°It is okay, Miss Coryda.¡±


    Philip, who was next to them, gently dissuaded Coryda. Adolf also waved his hand dismissively, telling her to not feel pressured. Coryda said cautiously.


    ¡°I can do well on my own¡­¡±


    ¡°It won¡¯t take long. If you¡¯re worried about Miss Coryda, I can stay by her side.¡±


    Adolf spoke as if trying to soothe Liv.


    Liv paused for a moment. Neither Philip nor Adolf seemed like they would do Coryda any harm. She had been examined by Thierry just moments ago, so what would be dangerous? Moreover, all of this was done under the Marquis¡¯ orders.


    Thus, if they were to harm Coryda, they would also be breaking the Marquis¡¯ orders.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be right back, Coryda.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Don¡¯t worry and go!¡±


    All right, let¡¯s hurry up.


    Having made up her mind, Liv pushed herself to her feet. Thankfully, Adolf had assigned her a servant, which allowed her to find the Marquis without getting lost. The Marquis was in his private lounge on the top floor of the mansion.


    Leaning against the window, he was smoking a cigar, a stray puff of smoke wafting out through the open window.


    ¡°Did she get examined?¡±


    ¡°Yes. It¡¯s all thanks to your generosity, my Lord.¡±


    ¡°Dr. Gertrude is a little picky, but she¡¯s good at what she does, so you can count on her. I heard she didn¡¯t return your greeting properly.¡±


    Given the speed of the news, someone must have passed the word along in real time. He introduced her to his doctor in the first place, so even if he wasn¡¯t in the same room, he would have paid attention.


    Liv nodded, not surprised, and replied in a low voice.


    ¡°That¡¯s fine. As long as she takes good care of Coryda.¡±


    As if to prove her assertion, Thierry was very serious during the whole examination. She didn¡¯t jump to conclusions about Coryda¡¯s illness and documented every detail of her symptoms.


    Although she did draw some blood, it wasn¡¯t like the bloodletting in the past. She simply pricked her fingertip with a needle and took only as much as needed. She also asked for Coryda¡¯s consent when using the stethoscope and asked for permission beforehand whenever she touched her body.


    Coryda seemed quite relieved by her attitude. Coryda¡¯s stiff demeanor at the beginning of the appointment softened considerably afterward.


    ¡°Did you not hear the results of the appointment?¡±


    ¡°Not for now. I was told that it would take some time to do some checking.¡±


    ¡°I see. I will tell her to forward the results to you as soon as she has them.¡±


    After a moment of relief that the appointment was over, the Marquis¡¯ words sent her into another turmoil.


    What if the results come out bad? If the medications she¡¯s been taking are not working, if she¡¯s gotten worse over the years, if there are problems with her caregiving¡­


    Liv fought back the frightening swell of bad thoughts. She didn¡¯t have to worry about it, at least not here, because she wasn¡¯t alone now.


    Liv clasped her hands together and belatedly uttered the thank you she¡¯d meant to say.


    ¡°Thank you. You¡¯ve helped me so much¡ª¡±


    ¡°Have a seat.¡±


    Before Liv could finish, the Marquis gestured to the couch.


    As soon as she sat down, her legs seemed to loosen up, and the sound of the sofa cushions crunching down echoed a bit loudly.


    ¡°One would think you were the patient.¡±


    Liv retorted with a slightly reddened face.


    ¡°That was a mistake.¡±


    ¡°I can show you a mirror if you haven¡¯t noticed how pale your face is.¡±


    Liv, who had been sitting neatly, looked up at that. The Marquis, who had been leaning against the window the whole time, walked slowly.


    Dropping his half-burnt cigar into the ashtray with a flick, he picked up the cigar case next to it. With a casual touch, he pulled out a cigar, snipped off the cap, and approached Liv¡¯s side.


    He offered it to Liv with the same indifferent, nonchalant touch he had given her when he had handed her his handkerchief.


    ¡°Smelling the scent surprisingly makes me feel better.¡±


    Liv, who accepted the cigar before she knew it, looked up at the Marquis with bewildered eyes. The moment she met his impassive eyes, Liv flinched and averted her gaze as if on fire. She fiddled with the thick cigar, then carefully brought it to her lips.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 77

    Mesmerized by the tiny flame flickering in front of her face, Liv then reflexively removed her cigar at the stinging, searing heat.


    ¡°Cough, cough!¡±


    Liv, who had been breathing mindlessly, sucked on her cigar without much skill and clamped her mouth shut. But it didn¡¯t completely stop the violent coughing fits. After a coughing fit that brought tears to her eyes, she finally looked up.


    The cigar in her hand was still lit and burning.


    ¡°Oh, was it too hard for you?¡±


    The Marquis must have expected Liv¡¯s response from the start. Otherwise, how could he be so nonchalant?


    Looking down at Liv, whose cheeks and eyes were red from coughing, the Marquis took the cigar from her hand.


    ¡°If so, you¡¯ll have to learn first.¡±


    He skillfully sucked on the cigar that Liv had been taking a moment ago. Keeping the smoke into his mouth and then spitting it out, the Marquis lightly grabbed Liv¡¯s chin with his other hand that wasn¡¯t holding the cigar. Following the pull, Liv¡¯s chin lifted, and her eyes made contact with the Marquis.


    The smoke from a cigar up close stung her nose and blurred her vision. Alas, she was too distracted to pay attention to the acrid smoke.


    By a somewhat rough, wet texture that pressed down on her lips.


    ¡°¡­!¡±


    A different kind of heat pushed its way between her defenselessly parted lips. He had just smoked a cigar, so his saliva was laced with an aroma. The aroma, which used to be only spicy, had changed into bitterness, with traces of dry, parched leaves.


    Liv, frozen with confusion and shock, squeezed her eyes shut. Seeing the Marquis¡¯ face right in front of her seemed to aggravate the stimulus.


    However, when she blocked her vision, her tactile senses became more sensitive.


    The tongue that invaded her mouth gently twirled around her tongue and swept across her mouth lining. The slow, controlled movement took all her attention. She could feel the tip of his tongue all too clearly, where and how it nudged and rubbed.


    The sensation that took her away helplessly gradually spread to her entire body. A chill ran up the back of her neck, as if someone had scratched her spine.


    ¡°Ngh¡­¡±


    A sobbing escaped from between her gasping lips. As if that were a signal, the lips that had been gently pressed together tensed.


    With a stronger force than before, Liv¡¯s upper body was pushed backward. But even though she pulled back, let alone leaving hers, his lips advanced fiercely.


    His tongue lapped at hers, swirling around her mouth, demanding that she stay put. She could feel the fingers gripping her chin getting stronger.


    Saliva, unrecognizable as whose, ran down the corners of her mouth. She could no longer smell the cigar on their steamy, tangled breath.


    Her body, kept leaning backward, was close to losing its balance. Liv instinctively grabbed the hem of the man closest to her to keep from falling. The moment she felt the soft texture of the shirt crumple in her hands, the power that had been stealing her breath finally left her.


    The tight grip on her chin also disappeared. Liv took a deep breath and barely managed to lift her fluttering eyelids. As she straightened her hunched back, she could see the Marquis moving away.


    He was so elegant and unruffled that if it weren¡¯t for his lips glistening with saliva, she might not have known what had happened a moment ago. The only trace left on him was the crease in his chest where Liv had clutched him like she was going to hang on for dear life.


    Liv stared at the Marquis blankly, still unable to catch her breath despite his lips had left hers. The Marquis casually crushed the cigar, which was quite charred, onto the table.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure if you¡¯ve learned it right.¡±


    A black, round mark was left on the expensive table. Tossing the still-smoldering cigar on top of it, the Marquis completely turned his back on Liv.


    Only then did Liv come to her senses.


    ¡°¡­ Learn¡­ what?¡±


    ¡°How to roll smoke in your mouth.¡±


    He wiped the saliva from his lips with a handkerchief and frowned when he spotted the crease on his chest. Roughly smoothing out the crumpled mess with his fingertips, he opened a drawer in the table and pulled out something.


    It was a tiny piece of candy.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never taught anyone, so I don¡¯t know the outcome of this class.¡±


    The Marquis put a round candy in Liv¡¯s hand where he had put the cigar earlier, and tilted his head at an angle to look at her.


    ¡°But I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll do well because you¡¯re diligent.¡±


    The slanted lips were arrogant to say the least, but it was so beautiful that she couldn¡¯t look away.


    Liv clutched the candy in her hand. As if it were the sole rescue.


    Like believing that holding that candy would get her out of this swamp.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 78

    ¡°Teacher, Teacher!¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°What are you thinking that you couldn¡¯t hear me when I called you right in front of you?¡±


    Liv snapped out of her reverie and apologized quickly, her brow furrowed.


    ¡°Ah, are you done?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not it, Teacher. You didn¡¯t listen to me, did you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was a bit¡­ distracted.¡±


    Brushing back her hair with a rough hand, Liv let out a long sigh. Seeing that Liv was looking exhausted, Millian called for the maid outside the door out of worry. Liv watched apathetically as Millian pestered the maid to prepare a tea that was good for the body, then looked outside the window with a disturbed expression.


    It had been three days since she visited Verworth Manor.


    That meant¡­ It had been three days since she and the Marquis had kissed.


    It disrupted Liv¡¯s daily routine, and even by the third day, she hadn¡¯t gotten back on track.


    It couldn¡¯t be helped. Wherever she looked, whatever she did, all she could think about was the Marquis. That brief kiss she had shared with him, and the entire scenery of that moment, was firmly embedded in her mind.


    No, could it even be called a kiss? The Marquis called it a ¡°lesson,¡± and he might have really meant to teach her how to smoke a cigar¡­


    That¡¯s just plain ridiculous!


    It was a kiss, no matter how she wrapped it up. A short but intense kiss. The kind of physical contact that might happen in a very intimate relationship.


    Liv, obviously, had already been naked in front of the Marquis many times before, so it should be surprising that she was surprised by this kind of contact. She herself had guessed that perhaps the Marquis might ask for more.


    But it wasn¡¯t at the time for extra work!


    It was just a normal, casual visit to thank him for a favor he had done for her. She wasn¡¯t naked, and she wasn¡¯t there as a nude model.


    She had always prepared herself beforehand for undressing, but at that time, she was truly defenseless. This made her even more surprised, and she helplessly accepted his kiss, not even thinking about coming to her senses. But if she was asked if she hated it¡­


    ¡­ How could I hate it?


    A kiss with a man whose face made her swoon just by looking at him.


    She could understand a little why so many women wanted to have something to do with the Marquis despite his notorious character.


    Whether she loved him or not, it didn¡¯t matter. The kiss itself was so powerful that she couldn¡¯t think of anything else. So powerful that it made her want to throw herself down for more.


    I never knew I had such a desire.


    The candy he had given her was kept in her room, in her desk drawer. She felt like if she ate it, she would never be able to recover from the memories that were already messing with her head. However, she didn¡¯t like the idea of throwing it away, so she put it out of sight.


    But just because she couldn¡¯t see it didn¡¯t mean it wasn¡¯t there.


    Just today, right before she left for work, Liv¡¯s eyes were glued to the desk drawer where she kept the candy.


    Liv touched her forehead and made a distressed sound. The more she thought about it, the deeper she felt like she was sinking. She could not afford to keep being distracted like this. Liv had a lot on her plate, not just the Marquis.


    Millian¡¯s class, Coryda¡¯s health, Brad who went out of touch, the extra work¡­ At the extra work, she would meet with the Marquis again¡­


    Oh, when will this persistent memory go away!


    ¡°Teacher, are you in very bad shape?¡±


    Millian, who had taken the tray directly from the maid, scanned Liv¡¯s complexion with concern. Liv immediately removed her hand from her forehead and shook her head.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m sorry, Millian. I¡¯ll make up for any progress we didn¡¯t make today.¡±


    ¡°Ugh, I don¡¯t need a make-up lesson! Anyway, Teacher, I¡¯m going to say it again because I don¡¯t think you heard me.¡±


    Worried that Liv would schedule a make-up class right away, Millian quickly changed the subject.


    ¡°Are you available for dinner tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Dinner tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Yes. My parents said they wanted to treat you. Normally they would have asked directly, but they were both out today on short notice.¡±


    Since her extra work with the Marquis had become unspecified, Liv had been avoiding personal appointments for some time. She wasn¡¯t the kind of person who enjoyed meeting people anyway, so it wasn¡¯t a huge inconvenience.


    ¡°We will also invite the other teachers. And you should definitely not be left out! Because you are the closest to me.¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 79

    As Liv didn¡¯t reply right away, Millian explained with a tearful look.


    Perhaps it was held in the hopes of giving Millian a little extra attention since her social debut was just around the corner.


    After pondering for a moment, Liv nodded. It did occur to her that the Marquis might have called her out of sudden, but she insisted on looking away from such probability.


    Even if he really summoned her, in all honesty, she was not in the mood to face him.


    Meeting with parents was one of the regular tasks she had to do as a tutor. The Marquis said he would be considerate of classes in Vendons Barony, so she should use that as an excuse if needed.


    Having created a convincing argument, Liv smiled at Millian.


    ¡°Let me know the time and I¡¯ll be there.¡±


    ***


    This was her first time visiting the Vendons mansion in the evening.


    She sometimes had a meeting with Baroness Vendons, but it was more of a tea time.


    ¡°Miss Rhodes, is the food right for you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s very tasty.¡±


    She was smiling outside, but Liv would restlessly look outside the window from time to time. The sky, which had been at sunset when she arrived, was now pitch black.


    Liv¡¯s shoulders were already slumped from the time she left the house. All this time, she would leave before nightfall when Millian¡¯s classes were over, and when she had extra work, she would always be driven home in a carriage so she wouldn¡¯t have to walk the streets at night.


    Thanks to this, she had forgotten for a while. About the horror that dark streets could inspire.


    This is because I was distracted.


    She felt guilty for agreeing so quickly, but it couldn¡¯t be helped since she had already said she would attend.


    At least it was only sunset by the time she got there, not completely dark. The problem was the way back.


    Although she knew her new neighborhood was very safe compared to her old one, human nature is not always rational.


    I guess I better take a shared carriage on the way back.


    The distance was too close for a carriage ride, but she felt more comfortable paying for a carriage ride than walking in the dark.


    ¡°Please continue to take care of our Millian.¡±


    Baroness Vendons made a friendly smile, and the guests around the table laughed along with her.


    In fact, not every teacher who taught Millian attended the dinner. In Liv¡¯s eyes, only the people with the relevant level were in the room right now. In other words, teachers with very high status or authority were not visible at all.


    They didn¡¯t speak to each other, but they had a general idea of what Millian was learning from whom. The teachers in this room were, of course, skilled in their respective fields, but they were most likely commoners like Liv.


    In that sense, it was really unexpected to see Camille at the table.


    Camille was seated closest to the Baron and Baroness Vendons, and he appeared to be the closest of the teachers in the room to the Baron and Baroness. Given that he was the last of them to be hired, it was quite fascinating. It seemed that his recent frequent meetings with them over art purchases and entertaining the Cardinal had resulted in this.


    Liv drank her water in silence and looked at Camille. As if noticing her gaze, Camille, who had been exchanging light hearted banter with the Baron, glanced over at Liv. There was no time for her to avert her eyes.


    Locking eyes with Liv, he curled his lips upward. The slight scrunch of his nose suggested that if he weren¡¯t so far away from her, he would have talked to her right away.


    Liv, however, turned away without a second thought. Even if she were to talk with Camille¡­


    Oh.


    She came to remember that Camille was said to be a socialite. Which led her to wonder how much did he know about the Marquis.


    If only¡­ I could know if the Marquis is the kind of person who does that.


    She thought that if only the Marquis had some salacious gossip on him, it might help her settle her shaken heart.


    Of course, she wouldn¡¯t really like to hear that, but if he was just trying to play with her lightly, it would be easier to deal with. She had already dealt with humans who came to harass her many times before after all.


    At the end of the meal, there would likely be time for dessert and relaxed conversation. Liv figured she should ask Camille outright then.


    However, she wasn¡¯t sure till the end if the Marquis¡¯ scandalous rumors were really what she wanted to hear.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 80

    Finding a chance to talk to Camille was more difficult than she expected. The Vendons couple would not let Camille go. In the meantime, Millian had managed to drag Liv into the backyard.


    ¡°The backyard of my house is also beautiful at night! It¡¯s beautiful, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Millian urged Liv, saying the lights were lit especially beautifully tonight.


    It was a time after dinner for small talk in the parlor or a nice leisure stroll. Several teachers were already looking at the backyard even without Millian¡¯s invitation.


    ¡°Yeah, this is really beautiful.¡±


    As Millian said, the backyard was well lit, making it pleasant to look at, and the night air was not too cold for walking. She figured that at this level of brightness, she wouldn¡¯t be intimidated by the darkness.


    ¡°Millian! Millian?¡±


    Millian, with her arm linked to Liv¡¯s, headed for the backyard, but a call from behind her stopped her in her tracks. It was the voice of Baroness Vendons.


    ¡°Millian!¡±


    ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    ¡°Haah¡­ I really want to walk you through the backyard myself.¡±


    Millian pouted her lips and made a face of disappointment. But she could no longer ignore the continuous call and reluctantly released her arms.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be right back, so you should wait for me, okay?¡±


    ¡°Okay, I get you, so go ahead. Lady Vendons is waiting.¡±


    Liv looked at Millian, who walked away despite her grumbling, and then looked back at the backyard.


    Seeing the other teachers huddled together and chatting, it made her realize how unsociable she had been. Judging by the atmosphere, the other teachers had gotten to know each other before this dining occasion.


    The atmosphere was definitely different from Liv¡¯s, who never visited the Vendons mansion outside of class or met anyone associated with it.


    She thought this might be a great opportunity to make new connections. But instead of trying to get to know her teachers, Liv chose to observe the backyard in silence.


    In the past, she would have done whatever it took to get one more student introduced to her, but now she didn¡¯t have the same sense of desperation or urgency.


    It must be because of that man.


    Liv let out a weak sigh as she slowly made her way into the backyard. She was still unsure if this change was a good thing. It was just that she was no longer inclined to resist or be wary.


    The Marquis was hard to figure out, but he was dependable, even charming.


    And I had a kiss with that man.


    Plus, it was her first kiss.


    The truth was, Liv had never attached much significance to first kiss. It was a luxury to fantasize about such things. It would be more accurate to say that since she became the head of the household, she never really became interested in it.


    However, due to the situation, the intensity of her first kiss remained abnormally strong.


    The hot flesh that stirred in her mouth was both familiar and exciting, and the sound of mixed saliva was somehow arousing. Her heart beat faster as the kiss lengthened, and she felt the urge to connect with him a little deeper. It was a raw sexual impulse that Liv had never felt before.


    If he didn¡¯t pull his lips away first, I might have gotten carried away and wrapped my arms around his neck.


    Touching her lips absentmindedly, Liv came to realize what she was doing and pulled her hand away. Her face lit up at the mere thought, and she strode deeper into the backyard with a flourish. She felt like if someone were to look at her face right now, they would recognize all of her wicked thoughts.


    There were quite a few people at the backyard entrance, but it was pretty deserted inside. The atmosphere with no people around, even with the lights on brightly, was a bit eerie.


    It took a moment for Liv, who was busy trying to cool her flushed face, to realize the atmosphere.


    ¡°Should I go home now?¡±


    She walked around so thoughtlessly that she ended up going deeper than she intended. Liv turned quickly, realizing that the noise from the mansion had grown distant. At that moment, she heard a rustling in the corner, hidden by the garden trees.


    ¡°Is it you, Millian?¡±


    She wondered if Millian came to bring her back.


    Liv beamed and called out her name, and a large shadow stepped out from behind the tree.


    ¡°Oh, my, sorry to disappoint you.¡±


    Liv muttered absentmindedly as she recognized the man who was scratching the back of his head with an awkward smile.


    ¡°Mr. Marcel.¡±


    ¡°Millian told me you were here, so I came over, but I got a little lost because you went deeper than I thought.¡±


    Camille, who appeared with an awkward smile on his face, approached her, beaming.


    ¡°Did you have any business with me?¡±


    ¡°I always have. Although it might not be the case with you, Miss Rhodes.¡±


    Today, she also wanted to talk to Camille, but she didn¡¯t bother to let him know. In the first place, she and Camille probably had different reasons for talking to each other.


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 81

    Liv smiled awkwardly at the way the young man expressed his interest without reserve. She thought his crushes would have died down given that she had drawn the line so hard, but apparently not.


    ¡°The backyard is more beautiful than expected, isn¡¯t it? Are you enjoying the view? There¡¯s a nice flower bed over there. Have you seen it?¡±


    He pointed to the entrance to the backyard. Following Camille, who casually walked as if to guide her to the flowerbeds, Liv moved slowly. After all, she had to move in the direction Camille said to get outside.


    Keeping a good distance, Camille led the conversation with ease.


    ¡°Apparently, the gardener at the Vendons estate is very good.¡±


    ¡°I see. You must have been here a lot.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been visiting the Vendons estate quite a bit lately. I¡¯m not the owner, but I know enough to give you a general idea of what¡¯s where.¡±


    He smirked as he acknowledged his connection to Baron Vendons.


    ¡°And of course, I¡¯ve also got some interesting stories to tell about while looking at the pretty flower beds.¡±


    ¡°By interesting stories, do you mean the ones you mentioned before?¡±


    From trivial gossip to the backstory of tycoons like the Marquis.


    That was what Camille said to Liv one day. Camille nodded quickly, as if remembering what he had said.


    ¡°Yes. Oh, by any chance, you don¡¯t find that topic very interesting?¡±


    Normally, it would have been the case. But today, Liv had something she wanted to hear from him, and she decided to listen.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine with it. Anything that¡¯s out of the common experience is bound to be interesting.¡±


    Camille raised an eyebrow, not expecting Liv to agree so readily.


    ¡°You know, you don¡¯t seem to have much interest in the world.¡±


    ¡°As you can see. But I know that there are some things in the world¡­ that you can¡¯t help but care about.¡±


    Had he sensed something in Liv¡¯s words? Camille¡¯s expression changed subtly. He tilted his head slightly, studying Liv¡¯s complexion, then asked in a cheerful voice.


    ¡°What do you want to know?¡±


    He was indeed a sharp man.


    Although she was concerned that her question might sound weird, Liv asked it straightforwardly.


    ¡°Rumors about the Marquis of Dietrion.¡±


    As she had already hinted that she was interested in the Marquis a few times, Camille was not surprised. He just pouted his lips a little and expressed his regret.


    ¡°What kind of rumors?¡±


    ¡°Anything. I have no other place to find out about him, so I was wondering if this would be a good opportunity to hear about him. ¡­ The gossip circulating in society isn¡¯t verified anyway.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s true. That is certainly the case with¡­ the rumors regarding the Marquis.¡±


    Rubbing at his jaw, Camille made a distressed sound.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯re familiar with the Marquis¡¯ reputation for being unkind and cranky to everyone, men and women, young and old alike¡­¡±


    They reached the flowerbeds in no time as they walked and chatted. The entrance to the backyard was getting closer, and the noise from the mansion was now quite audible.


    Camille glanced toward the entrance, where shadows of people were moving in and out.


    ¡°Starting with the most mundane, it¡¯s not even clear what country the Marquis of Dietrion is from. Then again, it¡¯s impossible to know if he¡¯s really a marquis.¡±


    Liv¡¯s eyes widened at that.


    ¡°But everyone calls him the Marquis.¡±


    ¡°Yes, he¡¯s been the Marquis of Dietrion since the day he appeared. But he couldn¡¯t have been a marquis from the start, could he?¡±


    ¡­ Well. That¡¯s true.


    Liv agreed, then thought of the Marquis.


    Looking at the cold, arrogant man, it never felt out of place for him to be called the Marquis. Even though she knew it was unlikely, she felt like he had been a marquis since he was born. It seemed so natural for him to look down and give instructions to someone.


    ¡°Since we have no idea of his House, his past is naturally shrouded in mystery as well. This makes him a perfect target for all sorts of rumors. And his look, you¡¯ve seen him before, right? It¡¯d be weird if the word didn¡¯t get out.¡±


    ¡°Indeed.¡±


    If it were possible to ruin a country with one¡¯s face, the Marquis would have already burned half a continent. If he¡¯d been a little kinder, he¡¯d have turned the country upside down with a crime of passion.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if he knows that by not showing his face in the party hall, he¡¯s actually drawing attention to himself. This has led to a lot of people eager to pry into the Marquis¡¯ business.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s good about prying his business?¡±


    ¡°Who knows. I guess it depends on what comes up. On the small scale, it can be used for silly love affairs, and on the large scale¡­¡±


    If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know via our discord so we can fix it as soon as possible.

 Chapter 82

    camille trailed off for a moment, then muttered to himself.


    ¡°it can be used for political purposes.¡±


    he soon shrugged and continued in a lighter tone.


    ¡°the marquis is, however, notoriously difficult to get along with, so i know no one has succeeded yet. well, how do i put this? he¡¯s now an expensive statue that everyone tacitly agrees not to touch. the kind of expensive statue that only a few tycoons could afford to have in their home.¡±


    ¡°i don¡¯t think it looks good to treat a person like a statue.¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m sure the marquis himself thinks of other humans less than statues.¡±


    ¡°it could be that he¡¯s just¡­ shy.¡±


    she was the one who said it, but it was just utterly ridiculous. nevertheless, liv cautiously sided with the marquis. maybe it was because of the secret connection between them. she didn¡¯t want to hear any slander about the marquis.


    camille laughed and shook his head, perhaps he thought that she said that because she really didn¡¯t know anything,


    ¡°from what i¡¯ve heard, he has a major mental illness and hates to be touched. it¡¯s hard to sustain a conversation with him, let alone a handshake. i¡¯ve never even heard of any aristocrat who has shared a meal with him. so when rumors circulated that the vendons was close to the marquis, i was very surprised.¡±


    camille¡¯s gaze drifted toward the mansion. staring at the mansion with narrowed eyes, he tilted his head and said.


    ¡°but from what i can see, that doesn¡¯t seem to be the case.¡±


    his voice was gravely serious. immediately after speaking, camille grinned and added in a mischievous voice to liv.


    ¡°it¡¯s a secret that i said this.¡±


    ¡°sure.¡±


    the fact that the marquis had a rather stiff demeanor was something liv had often felt in the early days of her acquaintance with him. however, he was no longer overly cranky in front of liv. camille mentioned that the marquis hated to come into contact with others, but¡­ hadn¡¯t liv already locked lips with the marquis?


    so she thought it was safe to say that mental illness was a stretch, and that he was just a sensitive person. if he were truly morbid, doing such a thing, using his tongue, would be¡­


    her thoughts continued, and liv quickly looked away. when the memories of that day came flooding back, she deliberately took the time for a closer look at each flower in the flowerbed.


    the illuminated flower beds had a mystical feel to them. no wonder camille mentioned this place. perhaps if the topic had been a little more romantic, it could have created a more compelling atmosphere.


    as liv was still gazing stubbornly at the flowerbed, camille suddenly spoke up again.


    ¡°oh, i¡¯ve heard that one before.¡±


    under liv¡¯s questioning gaze, camille said in a nonchalant tone.


    ¡°since it was impossible to find any trace of him in social circles, he may have been a military officer. but i couldn¡¯t find it, at least as far as i know. though, military records above a certain level are inherently off-limits.¡±


    a military officer.


    in retrospect, she did hear something similar from millian. millian had said there were rumors that the marquis had been an officer and was therefore good at killing.


    the image of the robber getting shot and falling to the ground suddenly flashed through liv¡¯s mind. and the marquis¡¯ voice as he told her it was him who shot that robber.


    when she recalled how he handled a shotgun on the hunting ground, it was clear he was no stranger to firearms.


    ¡°sometimes some killing is necessary, teacher.¡±


    maybe the marquis really was a former military officer. an officer with a lot of field experience, perhaps.


    ¡°it¡¯s said that it was his time in the military that caused him to become mentally ill, and i think that¡¯s pretty convincing.¡±


    ¡°it is not reasonable to assume someone is mentally ill based on mere speculation. health issues are too serious to discuss lightly.¡±


    ¡°that¡¯s also true.¡±


    although she dismissed camille¡¯s words as a stretch with her own mouth, liv couldn¡¯t help but keep them in the back of her mind. all the more so because there was a certain amount of overlap between what she had seen and heard. liv¡¯s mind wandered.


    if he was a military officer, what country¡¯s army did he serve in? given his arrogant demeanor, i doubt he was in a low position.


    if so, would he have led his own unit? what did he look like in his uniform? he would surely look amazing.


    if he was a high ranking officer, he would be very popular, so why is he single? how did he end up in such a remote city?


    while people with healthy limbs could attempt to be an average soldier, military officers were a different story. to become an officer, one must graduate from a military academy, which itself requires a large amount of sponsorship to attend.

 Chapter 83

    therefore, the second and third sons of aristocratic families who did not become heirs usually became military officers. of course, there were a very small number of people who were accepted through their skills, but¡­ honestly, if their number among all the cadets was so small to be counted, they were practically non-existent.


    due to the status of its enrollees, the military academy was, naturally, an exclusive world, similar in some ways to the aristocratic society. even if someone with a lowly status was lucky enough to get in through hefty sponsorships, if they failed to catch the eye of the powers, their life would be decided before they even graduated.


    if the marquis graduated from the military academy and became an officer, even a high ranking one with his records off-limits, then he must have a pretty interesting backer.


    while liv was unable to control her burning curiosity, she heard camille¡¯s question in her ear.


    ¡°you¡¯re very interested in the marquis. were you interested in him from the start?¡±


    that put to rest the curiosity that had been running wild. after trying to compose herself, liv replied in a calm tone.


    ¡°i guess seeing him from afar at millian¡¯s birthday party the other day imprinted deep impressions on my mind.¡±


    ¡°oh, i see.¡±


    camille seemed to not believe it at all. however, he didn¡¯t ask further. that rather made liv uncomfortable. maybe it was because she held a secret. she felt nervous around camille for no reason.


    liv fiddled with her clasped hands and finally parted her lips, unable to resist the silence.


    ¡°clearly, it¡¯s you who knows a lot. it¡¯s hard to believe you are just a regular art teacher.¡±


    ¡°these are things you can pick up on with a little listening.¡±


    camille¡¯s reaction was, as usual, mild. however, liv was no longer buying into his rhetoric.


    ¡°seeking out information yourself is a much more proactive action than simply picking it up through words, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    camille was the one who said with his own mouth that he looked into if the marquis was a former military officer. he raised an eyebrow as liv pointed it out. realizing that he made a tongue slip, he drew an ambiguous smile.


    ¡°¡­ oh, you are sharp.¡±


    he rubbed the nape of his neck awkwardly, then parted his lips as if to say something more. but before that could happen, liv spoke up.


    ¡°i know my request may have been annoying, and i appreciate your willingness to talk about it.¡±


    people who were strolling by the backyard entrance were entering the mansion one by one.


    upon seeing them, liv felt compelled to go inside as well, but camille stopped her from behind.


    ¡°miss rhodes.¡±


    camille frowned slightly, then flashed a vague smile. he pursed his lips for a moment, as if contemplating something, then spoke somewhat cautiously.


    ¡°please don¡¯t be too interested in the marquis.¡±


    his tone was so different from the casual, playful, and sometimes witty tone he had always used. liv realized he was being very serious with his advice.


    looking at camille with a puzzled expression, liv tilted her head.


    ¡°why?¡±


    camille furrowed his brow a little more, as if he was thinking about liv¡¯s question. he then replied, averting his eyes for no reason.


    ¡°erm, because i think you are a good person.¡±


    ¡°sorry?¡±


    what on earth is that supposed to mean?


    liv, not understanding his point, asked back, but instead of explaining, camille rubbed his forehead and sighed.


    ¡°i wonder if this is how it feels to see an acquaintance who is about to go down a bad path.¡±


    ¡°what do you mean by that¡­¡±


    ¡°let me know anytime if there¡¯s anything i can do to help. i know you can¡¯t believe me right now, but who knows, maybe i¡¯ll have an answer for you when you are pressed for time.¡±


    something shapeless and unnerving came through in his vague words. but then again, it didn¡¯t seem like camille was trying to say anything bad to liv.


    unsure of how to make sense of his unexplained goodwill, liv ultimately chose to take a step back.


    ¡°i¡¯m grateful for your kind words.¡±


    camille nodded without showing any sign of reluctance.


    ¡°we wasted a lot of time, didn¡¯t we? i think we should go back.¡±


    ***


    she left the vendons estate later than she had planned. liv wasted no time and headed for the street where the shared carriages were gathered.


    even though the barony was on the main street of buerno, the streets were quite deserted as darkness had truly fallen. that alone was enough to set liv¡¯s mind on edge.


    liv pulled the shawl around her shoulders a little tighter, trying to ward off the unnecessarily chilly night air. she moved her steps quickly.


    and just as she was about to reach the roadside.


    neigh!


    a horse¡¯s whinnying sound came from the corner of a dark alley. it was followed by the sound of hooves pounding on the ground.

 Chapter 84

    liv¡¯s eyes widened as she reflexively turned toward the source of the sound. her hurried legs came to a halt. this was because she had spotted a black carriage that was hard to see in the dark.


    the coachman, who made eye contact with liv, raised his hat, greeting her.


    ¡­ so, that coachman was the same one whom liv knew, the one who usually took her to the marquis.


    ¡°how¡­?¡±


    how could i happen to run into him in a place like this?


    liv stared at the coachman in disbelief, and he gestured for her to come over. liv glanced around to make sure no one was watching, then cautiously approached the carriage.


    ¡°what brings you here¡­¡±


    the coachman gestured toward the carriage instead of answering.


    liv looked around once more. there were a few passersby, but they didn¡¯t seem to pay much attention to liv.


    it was basically a plain black carriage with no special features, so anyone who saw it would assume that liv had called the carriage.


    liv, who had been hesitant, carefully grabbed the carriage door handle.


    click.


    did the marquis insist on bringing me over at this late hour? if so, isn¡¯t it better to call me¡­


    ¡°¡­!¡±


    out of habit, liv sat down and stopped herself before she could finish closing the door. there was someone sitting inside the carriage, which she assumed would be empty.


    ¡°¡­ my lord the marquis.¡±


    the man sitting cross-legged was definitely the marquis. seeing liv¡¯s bewildered face, he gestured toward the carriage door.


    ¡°let¡¯s close the door first. there is a small lamp on the ceiling to light up.¡±


    ¡°ah, yes.¡±


    liv hastily closed the door and turned on the lamp. as the carriage turned bright, she could see the marquis¡¯ face more clearly.


    he pulled a pocket watch from his pocket and frowned slightly as he checked it.


    ¡°you finished later than expected.¡±


    he made it sound as if he was intentionally waiting for liv.


    ¡°my lord, why are you here¡­¡±


    ¡°i heard you were out by invitation of baron vendons.¡±


    he had probably sent a carriage home to call on liv today. still, that didn¡¯t explain why the marquis was in this black carriage near the vendons estate.


    ¡°did you need to do something urgent?¡±


    she couldn¡¯t think of anything urgent he needed to see her for, unless it was for extra work. the marquis glanced at liv, who had a puzzled expression on her face, and said with a blank expression.


    ¡°the coachman said you were afraid of the dark streets, so he always dropped you off in front of your house after work.¡±


    liv¡¯s puzzled expression changed subtly. she realized that he was referring to the way home after the extra work.


    ¡°how did you plan to go home today?¡±


    ¡°by a shared carriage¡­¡±


    ¡°a shared carriage won¡¯t take you to your doorstep.¡±


    that was true. even if she took a shared carriage, she would have to walk home from the carriage stop. the distance couldn¡¯t be defined as long, but it was true that she worried about it.


    however, such a situation was liv¡¯s to handle; there was no need for the marquis to meddle in.


    the marquis drew a faint smile as he saw the confusion on liv¡¯s face. he picked up the cane he¡¯d kept by his side and tapped the window on the coachman¡¯s side. the marquis then spoke in an aloof voice.


    ¡°do you still see me as someone who doesn¡¯t even know what escort means?¡±


    ¡°¡­ so you¡¯re here to escort me?¡±


    ¡°why else would i be wasting my time?¡±


    liv¡¯s jaw dropped open involuntarily. she couldn¡¯t believe it, but it was happening right in front of her, so there was no way she could deny it.


    meanwhile, the carriage, which was cued by the marquis, began to move slowly. the destination was liv¡¯s house.


    ¡°i can¡¯t believe you accepted a dinner invitation when you¡¯re afraid of dark streets. you are more reckless than i thought.¡±


    liv, who had been sitting absentmindedly, snapped out of her reverie at that.


    ¡°occasional meetings with parents are part of my job. i casually assumed you¡¯d understand because it¡¯s my job at the vendons barony. if you don¡¯t mind, i¡¯ll make up for the extra work i missed today tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°that depends on my mood.¡±


    liv¡¯s shoulders drooped unconsciously at the flat rejection.


    in hindsight, from the first time, the condition of that extra work was when the marquis wanted it.


    she was concerned that she might have caused trouble for her extra work by trying to avoid the marquis out of emotion.


    in the midst of her concern, liv was reminded of what had caused her to want to avoid the marquis in the first place.


    the kiss with the marquis.


    her face heated up as she thought about it. the surprise at the sudden arrival of the marquis gradually faded away, and it was replaced by a rush of excitement.


    worried that her emotions might show in her face, liv ducked her head and fixed her gaze on her lap. the marquis seemed to have no intention of speaking to her anymore.

 Chapter 85

    i won¡¯t get caught if i arrive home quietly like this, say thanks, and get off quickly, right?


    fortunately, the distance from the vendons estate to liv¡¯s house was short. she usually walked to work, but by taking a carriage, she would arrive earlier than usual.


    feeling the carriage slow down and then come to a steady stop, liv quickly spoke up.


    ¡°thank you for taking me home. i hope you have a safe trip in, and i¡¯ll try to avoid making unplanned appointments next time.¡±


    after a quick rambling, liv grabbed the carriage door handle. however, before she could open the door, the marquis interrupted her with a question.


    ¡°did you do a good job reviewing?¡±


    liv¡¯s knuckles on the door handle turned white from the strain.


    liv blinked and remained silent, then slowly looked back at the marquis. he, who was still sitting in the same position as the first time, was staring intently at liv.


    the marquis narrowed his eyes as liv failed to answer. he looked at liv with his head tilted askance, but then he broke into a faint smile and added.


    ¡°i can teach you again if you don¡¯t remember it.¡±


    a few strands of his gleaming platinum hair strayed as he cocked his head, and his blue eyes, illuminated by the lamp, flickered with even mystical colors than usual.


    but it was his lips that caught her attention more than anything else.


    liv knew the feel of those lips of his.


    ¡°i¡­¡±


    no.


    vivid warning lights flashed in her head. the bright red warning lights were screaming at her to get off this carriage right away.


    but she couldn¡¯t move the door handle even the slightest bit. all liv could do at the moment was gasp for air, like a fish hauled out of water.


    no!


    the warning lights flashed once more, but a voice soon overrode them and whispered in her ear.


    why no?


    ¡°i mean¡­¡±


    liv pursed her lips and swallowed dryly. she could smell the aroma of cigars that weren¡¯t there.


    her eyelashes fluttered, and she answered in a barely audible whisper.


    ¡°¡­ please teach me again.¡±


    the marquis¡¯ faint smile deepened just a tad, and a hint of glee flashed in his blue eyes.


    ¡°that¡¯s the right answer.¡±


    eventually, she released her grip on the door handle.


    ***


    the man was born in the streets.


    his mother was an ordinary village woman. since his father was absent from his birth, he lived alone with his mother as if it was a matter of course. his mother had been carrying him from place to place since the days he could not remember.


    it wasn¡¯t a bad life, even if it was unstable. after a few failed attempts, the mother and son settled on a neighborhood that didn¡¯t judge the beautiful single mother. the mother and son were able to fit in relatively easily.


    the mother was a hardworking, compassionate parent who loved her son.


    if there was one scene that particularly stood out, it was the image of his mother praying in a small chapel in the rural village. she was one of the most devout believers in the village. besides the weekly services, she also visited the chapel¡¯s prayer room whenever she could, holding her son¡¯s hand.


    those moments were hard for the little boy to bear.


    but he endured those moments. it was because he liked to see his mother praying. in the prayer room, she looked more peaceful and happy than ever. so he prayed to god. may these peaceful days continue.


    god did not grant the little boy¡¯s prayer.


    when the man was a seven-years-old boy, a war broke out. a flying cannonball destroyed their home, and his mother died under the rubble. the boy, who had gone out to run an errand for his mother, narrowly survived and frantically fled with the rest of the villagers.


    fortunately, they were able to get back to the village quickly. the wails of those searching for their families under the crumbling, charred rubble echoed.


    the man also went back to his home. he was unable to clear the debris with his small body, and it wasn¡¯t until people were dispatched to help with the cleanup that he was able to properly identify his mother. her platinum hair, which had always shone beautifully, was scorched and tangled, and her limbs were covered in blood.


    but surprisingly, the face of his mother was calm.


    like when she was praying.


    by the time all the bodies of the dead villagers had been recovered, priests were dispatched to the grievous scene. those priests were pretty high up to be sent out into the rural village. it was to recover the small chapel that had existed and the body of the priest who had served there, and to comfort the grieving believers.


    ¡°dear god.¡±


    ¡°please lead these poor souls to your side!¡±


    the priests gently patted the shoulders of the villagers as they cried out to god in desperation.


    the man stood alone in the middle of it all. he was simply standing by the body of his mother, her eyes closed in peace.


    the man was approached by a priest. he was a handsome young priest with blue eyes.

 Chapter 86

    ¡°you are¡­¡±


    the priest only stared at the man, and did not recite scripture or weep in lamentation as the others did. the priest, dropping to one knee and making eye contact, looked at the man for a long moment before turning to his mother. the priest¡¯s clean, white hand stroked the man¡¯s mother¡¯s pale, blackened cheek.


    ¡°why did you choose to go with this?¡±


    the priest¡¯s muttering was vague. but somehow the man managed to get the implied meaning. just as that priest realized something when he looked at him without having to say it out loud.


    his mother wasn¡¯t praying to god. she was waiting.


    for the man in front of them.


    she was sure her death would bring her to meet the person she was waiting for, thus why she made such a peaceful face.


    the priest offered a belated prayer for his mother¡¯s soul. he then held out his hand to the man. it was quite common for priests to take in poor war orphans, so no one thought it was strange. the priest seemed to have a fairly good standing within the order, and provided decent support for the man.


    the war was still raging everywhere at this moment, and the way for someone from an uncertain background to succeed quickly was to grab weapons.


    luckily, the man had good skills. he, who barely scraped by as a village woman¡¯s son, enrolled in a military academy.


    ¡°let the death that abounds in this land save you.¡±


    said the priest upon seeing the acceptance letter.


    ¡°if this is your calling, give it your best shot. god must have brought you to me, for when you ascend to a glorious place, there will certainly come a worthy reward.¡±


    on that day, the man realized how high the position the priest was aiming for.


    also why he had never appeared in front of his mother before.


    the man, who took on his mother¡¯s striking features, realized that his essence resembled his father¡¯s.


    ***


    the painting work was temporarily suspended.


    the reason was ostensibly for the painter¡¯s health. the painter, whose name was brad, was deeply relieved when the marquis readily accepted his lame excuse. he seemed to believe that he was deeply trusted.


    demus could tell at a glance that the painter was a tactless, airheaded human being, but seeing him relax in a situation where he would have been skeptical before, he seemed really distracted.


    well, he must have fallen hard on the fire.


    demus tossed the report on brad¡¯s whereabouts onto the desk.


    ¡°how foolish.¡±


    his aide, charles, who brought the report, said in a worried tone.


    ¡°he might run away before the contract is up.¡±


    ¡°just let him be. it¡¯s convenient to not have to do anything.¡±


    there were many people like brad around demus. people who showed off as if they had a great relationship with him after just one or two meetings or conversations.


    in most cases, they had similar aspirations.


    either the money he had, or the way he looked, or the background and connections he seemed to have.


    so did brad. it wasn¡¯t hard for demus to see through him the first time they met.


    honesty, it was just plain obvious. brad had been rejected from art shows so many times, but he couldn¡¯t come to terms with his skills and spent his time futilely. he also loved to drink and gamble, so it was easy to bribe him with money.


    worse, he wasn¡¯t trustworthy. when he realized that his paintings were showing promise of selling periodically, he broke his promise to liv and did his best to paint her face.


    perhaps brad had kept the nude model¡¯s identity a secret for so long, not because he was a loyalist, but because he couldn¡¯t find anyone other than liv to model for him, an unskilled painter.


    ¡°are you not going to take action against him?¡±


    ¡°do i have to?¡±


    the syndicate that brad had become entangled in was not an easy one. even if demus didn¡¯t do anything, they wouldn¡¯t leave brad alone.


    now that they had gotten him to borrow money, they would do whatever it took to get it back. even if that method was overly cruel.


    ¡°have you told her?¡±


    under demus¡¯ gaze, adolf spoke up.


    ¡°yes, but¡­¡±


    it was adolf who broke the news to liv that brad¡¯s work had been temporarily suspended. it wasn¡¯t his job, but it couldn¡¯t be helped as he needed to send someone liv trusted the most.


    ¡°she appears to be worried that she won¡¯t get the promised painting back if the work comes to a complete stop.¡±


    demus raised an eyebrow at adolf¡¯s words.


    ¡°oh, that painting.¡±


    thinking back to the nude painting he had hung in his basement, demus was silent for a moment.


    truthfully¡­ he never intended to give it back in the first place. although he had signed a contract, it wouldn¡¯t be hard to make it void.


    ¡°she hasn¡¯t given it up yet, huh?¡±


    he thought she had forgotten about the painting.

 Chapter 87

    her initial intention to get the painting back was because she feared it would affect her job as a tutor. and she did that job to take care of her sick sister as the head of the household. she modeled nude for the same reason.


    in the end, it was all about money, which demus had solved for her in the name of extra work. so, would there be a problem if it interfered with her tutoring job?


    there would be no point in getting the painting back.


    ¡°i¡¯ll talk about that with her later.¡±


    he was thinking of calling her soon, anyway. the kiss with her was better than he had imagined, and he didn¡¯t find it repulsive at all.


    considering that he usually found contact with others to be gross and unpleasant, this feeling he felt toward her was clearly exceptional and special. when it came to something rare, it had to be seized quickly.


    he wasn¡¯t repulsed by touching her bare skin and saliva, so he supposed he could handle more.


    demus, not surprisingly, didn¡¯t expect her to reject him either. the distance she had worked so hard to preserve was gone the moment she was unable to get out of the carriage.


    the thought of her approaching him voluntarily made him feel better.


    ¡°if you like her, why not just keep her around?¡±


    charles, who had been listening to the conversation between adolf and demus with a puzzled look on his face, cautiously voiced his opinion. adolf looked at demus, inwardly agreeing with that opinion.


    demus glanced at them, and took out a cigar, indifferently.


    ¡°a great piece of art should be worth its price.¡±


    that¡¯s what owning an artwork is all about. knowing the value of the work. recognizing its value. treating it with the value it deserves.


    ¡°only then can it be ¡°owned¡±.¡±


    liv was a woman too valuable to get to know only indirectly through brad¡¯s poor skills. unlike her lame rear image, her front side was quite spectacular.


    her slightly skinny, moderately curvy body and surprisingly clear skin were just minor matters. what caught demus¡¯ attention most was her face.


    especially her sorrowful green eyes. she stared at him like she was about to burst into tears, but her words were unexpectedly measured. she looked fragile, like she could break at any moment, but the way she held on was both funny and fascinating, making him want to keep messing with her.


    moreover, he loved it when her stoic expression cracked.


    her naked expression couldn¡¯t be seen by simply removing her clothes. this required him to do some work, but he didn¡¯t mind it as the payoff was well worth the effort.


    this had given his boring life a bit of a spark.


    ¡°if i only keep her body around, would that make her any different than other statues?¡±


    ¡°do you want to possess her heart?¡±


    charles raised his voice a little in surprise. it was strange for demus to do such a thing, given that he had heard pleas for him to accept the heart they offered even though he did not want it. demus didn¡¯t bother to answer.


    adolf, who had been watching this in silence, frowned slightly. he knew better than anyone what demus was doing to get liv to be by his side, and he couldn¡¯t help but be concerned.


    ¡°that would make her crave only for your attention and love, my lord.¡±


    and that was one of the things demus hated. crying and begging for him to give his attention. wasn¡¯t that the reason he brought in paintings and statues in the first place?


    ¡°she is a living human being. you need to give her¡­ a different kind of attention than artwork.¡±


    demus understood adolf¡¯s words without difficulty.


    ¡°that¡¯s kind of, not fun.¡±


    demus muttered to himself. he did want to see liv crumble down, but it would be very disappointing if what she would be begging for was something useless like love or attention. there were plenty of things in the world that cost more than that.


    she was a smart woman, so he thought she¡¯d be able to tell the difference.


    ¡°she knows her place, so i¡¯m sure she knows how to behave if she wants to stay by my side for a long time.¡±


    ¡°what if she is unable to conduct herself¡­¡±


    having frequently faced liv rhodes, adolf seemed to have developed some sympathy for her.


    demus stared at adolf with somewhat annoyed eyes. adolf flinched, realizing that he had asked too much.


    ¡°there¡¯s no reason to keep a piece of artwork that has lost value. when that time comes, you¡¯ll have to step up, adolf. isn¡¯t that why we drew the contract?¡±


    adolf bowed his head. already displeased despite his compliance, demus gestured irritably to his aides to leave.


    as he lit a cigar in his lone office, demus thought of adolf¡¯s words.


    what if liv rhodes is unable to conduct herself?


    if she ends up getting as boring as everyone else?


    ah, the thoughts alone were not fun.


    if possible, he hoped it wouldn¡¯t happen¡­ but if it did, demus¡¯ reaction was set in stone.


    one of the virtues of being a collector is the ability to recognize what to throw away.

 Chapter 88

    again, the door to brad¡¯s studio was locked tight.


    liv, who had been eyeing the locked door with frustration, turned around, her shoulders slouching.


    ¡°it¡¯s been decided that the painting will not be worked on for the time being. apparently, the painter¡¯s health is in a terrible state.¡±


    adolf said that when he came to inform her that the nude painting work had been suspended. however, liv couldn¡¯t believe that brad was in poor health. nor could she believe that the marquis actually believed it.


    although it was true that the marquis had been generous to liv, she knew it was extremely rare.


    from what she could see, the marquis¡¯ temper was by no means gentle, and he was not particularly attentive to the poor painter¡¯s health. it was more believable that he was watching and waiting how far brad would go.


    liv wanted to meet with brad and give him a warning, but the studio hadn¡¯t been open for days. uncollected mail was piled and scattered under the studio door.


    she recalled the last conversation she had with him.


    a businessman¡­


    he said he met a businessman who promised him an exhibition in the capital. liv advised him to cut ties with him, and brad went into a rage. she wondered if he got into trouble because of that.


    liv was just about to take a step ahead after walking down the stairs with a worried look on her face.


    ¡°who are you?¡±


    a question in a clear, high-pitched voice came right from her side. liv reflexively looked back toward where the voice had come from.


    ¡°sorry?¡±


    ¡°who are you? that¡¯s my husband¡¯s studio.¡±


    the woman, the corners of her eyes flaring upward, eyed liv suspiciously. liv looked at her with a puzzled expression, then realized she was brad¡¯s wife. perhaps she came to pick up the mail that was piling up in front of the studio.


    brad¡¯s wife, who was small and plump, strode toward liv with her hands on her hips.


    ¡°i said, who are you?¡±


    at the sight of her advancing on her with the intent to yank her hair at any moment, liv replied nonchalantly.


    ¡°uh, i¡¯m mr. brad¡¯s work partner.¡±


    ¡°work partner?¡±


    the woman¡¯s face was full of disbelief. knowing her husband¡¯s skills, she refused to believe that brad would have a proper work partner.


    still, liv couldn¡¯t confess that she was a model. the only paintings brad had done with liv as a model were nudes.


    liv, racking her brain, quickly explained.


    ¡°i¡¯m providing mr. brad with painting tools.¡±


    to be fair, it wasn¡¯t exactly wrong. after all, it was liv who got him to work on the marquis¡¯ mansion. well, it could be said that she indirectly provided the painting tools.


    ¡­ maybe.


    ¡°painting tools?¡±


    ¡°yes. as you know, painting tools are essential for painters. so they tend to be careful when buying those things.¡±


    the woman, who had been scanning liv with suspicion, crossed her arms and spoke bitterly.


    ¡°so what brings you to the studio?¡±


    she looked at her with doubt, but decided to let it pass for the moment. liv was inwardly relieved and quickly answered.


    ¡°i was going to deliver the item, but it¡¯s been a while and i haven¡¯t seen him. i didn¡¯t hear anything beforehand from him, and because he suddenly stopped communicating with me, it can cause problems with the deal.¡±


    the woman frowned at liv¡¯s statement and asked sharply.


    ¡°haah¡­ did that guy buy it on credit or something?¡±


    it seemed that this was not the first time they were in credit debt. the woman looked like she was ready to pour out some harsh words at any moment, and liv quickly waved her hand.


    ¡°no, he¡¯s not on credit. it¡¯s just that i have a set number of deliveries. if the schedule is delayed, it will disrupt other transactions.¡±


    liv started sweating as she blurted out whatever came to mind. it seemed that liv was doing a pretty good job of managing her facial expressions, and the woman replied in a more subdued tone.


    ¡°i don¡¯t know what you were supposed to deliver, but this guy won¡¯t be around for a while, so just settle your other deals first.¡±


    ¡°he won¡¯t be around?¡±


    ¡°yes.¡±


    liv thought something bad had happened, but judging by the woman¡¯s reaction, it seemed that she was wrong. that was a relief, but it didn¡¯t mean she could just sit back and wait.


    ¡°may i know what¡¯s going on?¡±


    liv glanced up toward the studio. she smiled weakly, then opened her mouth to speak.


    ¡°i have to go back and report on it, too. i need to know the exact reason so i can resolve the transaction without much difficulty.¡±


    she had no knowledge of how merchants work, but she doubted they would abruptly stop regular transactions over some vague statement. apparently convinced by liv¡¯s improvisation, the woman reluctantly replied.


    ¡°he went to the capital.¡±


    ¡°the capital?¡±


    liv¡¯s eyes widened at the unexpected news.

 Chapter 89

    ¡°yes. he will be opening an exhibition there, so he went to check out the venue. he¡¯ll still need painting tools to paint his artwork for the show, so i¡¯m sure the deal won¡¯t be canceled.¡±


    liv was close to lamenting, but she managed to hold herself.


    ¡°ah, oh. i see. yes, i see.¡±


    at the very least, this woman was obviously oblivious to the fact that the venue rental fee was going to come out of brad¡¯s pocket. liv was horrified by the news of brad¡¯s decision to take the businessman¡¯s hand.


    she thought that maybe she should tell the woman the truth.


    having no clue what was going through liv¡¯s mind, the woman suddenly narrowed her eyes.


    ¡°speaking of, did that guy never tell you about the exhibition? he would surely boast about it all over the place.¡±


    as she said, based on brad¡¯s personality, he would spread the news about his exhibition everywhere. liv immediately nodded in agreement.


    ¡°i did¡­ hear about it, but i thought it hadn¡¯t been settled yet.¡±


    the one in charge of their household budget was not brad, but the woman in front of her. which meant that the bigger the problem brad caused, the bigger the responsibility this woman had to take.


    liv, who knew all too well how economic hardship could drain a person¡¯s blood, found it hard to look away.


    when liv finally made up her mind and was about to open her mouth, the woman waved her hand and changed the subject.


    ¡°well, that¡¯s what happened. by the way, you said you¡¯re supplying painting tools, right? where is your store? i¡¯d like to see the receipt.¡±


    the woman stared at liv hard. liv stiffened in panic once more.


    ¡°sorry? oh, we¡¯re doing¡­ small business through words. so, we¡¯re unable to open a store. i don¡¯t bring anything with me now. how about i show you the receipt next time?¡±


    ¡°when will you come again?¡±


    it seemed that the woman¡¯s mind was still filled with doubts. well, liv¡¯s appearance was a bit off for a merchant.


    liv smiled with the reassuring smile she had honed as a tutor.


    ¡°i¡¯ll pass it on to mr. brad when the studio opens.¡±


    ¡°hmm. that guy might not bring it to me, so mail it to me.¡±


    the woman, as expected, knew brad¡¯s character all too well. liv nodded, trying to keep the smile on her face, then coughed and began to give a hint.


    ¡°by the way, ma¡¯am. from what i heard about the¡­ venue rental fee. erm¡­ i heard mr. brad had to pay for it, but i guess he didn¡¯t?¡±


    the woman¡¯s complexion changed drastically at liv¡¯s words.


    ¡°what?¡±


    ¡°sounds like you¡¯ve solved that problem for the exhibition. congratulations.¡±


    the woman¡¯s expression hardened as liv continued. she then crumpled her face. then as though she had figured out something, she began to spew out fierce curses.


    forgetting that she was supposed to give her address for the receipt, the woman gave a curt goodbye and turned away in a rush. liv let out a long sigh as she stared at the back of the woman, who was quickly walking away.


    she didn¡¯t know if she did the right thing, but she hoped brad would come to his senses.


    he should know that it would be more productive to complete the marquis¡¯ painting as soon as possible than to listen to that businessman¡¯s nonsense.


    ***


    ¡°let¡¯s go back.¡±


    ¡°pardon, sir?¡±


    the coachman, who had assumed they would take liv, glanced into the carriage with a puzzled expression on his face. demus, who had used the tip of his cane to pull back the curtains and peer out, averted his gaze with an impassive expression.


    ¡°turn the carriage around.¡±


    it was as whimsical as when he decided to pick up liv in person. however, the coachman took the reins without complaint.


    liv, who hadn¡¯t spotted the black carriage, trotted away. the coachman glanced at the back of her head, then turned the carriage around as his master commanded.


    in the same manner as it had come, the black carriage quickly left the city of buerno.


    ***


    adolf was unmarried.


    therefore, the whole ¡°i have a sick daughter¡± thing he told liv was totally an unscrupulous lie.


    normally, he didn¡¯t like to lie, but that time he really had no choice. he could clearly see that liv wouldn¡¯t open up if he didn¡¯t tell such a lie.


    since working for the marquis, sometimes he had to do things he didn¡¯t want to do, and he felt the same way about lying to liv.


    but unlike usual, his lie this time hit him harder.


    especially when he faced coryda.


    ¡°uncle, how old is your daughter?¡±


    adolf felt like his head was going numb from making up a story about his non-existent daughter. he thought it was more relaxing to read law books.


    he was not a creative person, nor was he a person with high imagination. he couldn¡¯t easily make things up because he was afraid it would be hard to clean up if his lie grew too big.

 Chapter 90

    ¡°she¡¯s about your age, miss coryda.¡±


    today, he came to meet liv, but there was only coryda in the house.


    after repeatedly apologizing that she couldn¡¯t invite him inside because of her sister¡¯s request, coryda came out and served him tea instead. this resulted in adolf being treated to tea in the yard.


    ¡°is your daughter also unable to go to school? it must be so boring being home alone. but you can bring her with you. she can just play with me!¡±


    ¡°¡­ she¡¯s in school now. she was sick when she was a little.¡±


    coryda let out a loud gasp at that.


    ¡°woah, so she¡¯s okay now? was it the doctor who examined me who treated your daughter?¡±


    ¡°it wasn¡¯t her¡­¡±


    finding it difficult to continue with the story of his non-existent daughter, adolf decided to change the subject. well, he had been meaning to have a chat with coryda anyway.


    ¡°speaking of, do you have any thoughts of going to school, miss coryda?¡±


    coryda made a long face at adolf¡¯s question.


    ¡°i can¡¯t go to school.¡±


    coryda couldn¡¯t go out without her sister. obviously, school was never an option. under the circumstances, she would have been praying every day that her health would not deteriorate, much less hope for a complete cure.


    even though he could have guessed it, adolf pretended to not know and continued.


    ¡°you know, when you get healthy. dr. gertrude is an expert, and soon she¡¯ll make you healthy. so why don¡¯t you start thinking about it now?¡±


    ¡°¡­ when i get healthy?¡±


    coryda, her eyes wide open, thought for a moment. then, remembering, she said,


    ¡°my parents were artisans. they were so good that even some of the highest nobles commissioned them. i don¡¯t know much about it, but my sister said they were really amazing.¡±


    coryda, who had been speaking in a light tone, suddenly leaned toward adolf. narrowing her eyes, she whispered in a low voice as if sharing a secret.


    ¡°i want to have amazing skills like my parents. and with those skills, i¡¯ll get a bunch of commissions from nobles and get rich.¡±


    adolf sensed, instinctively, that liv didn¡¯t know the true nature of coryda. coryda wouldn¡¯t have been able to share this with her sister, who was always overprotective of her.


    however, adolf had once advised coryda to go for a walk in the yard as it¡¯s not good to stay inside all the time. naturally, he assumed she would understand what he was saying better than liv.


    adolf¡¯s eyes lit up for a moment, then he put on a nonchalant face and asked.


    ¡°i see, skills¡­ do you have anything in particular in mind?¡±


    ¡°erm, it could be embroidery, woodworking, and i think it would be fun to work with leather and stuff like that.¡±


    coryda¡¯s eyes twinkled as she folded her fingers one by one. she had probably envisioned it dozens of times in her head.


    adolf beamed at her.


    ¡°i don¡¯t think miss rhodes will allow it.¡±


    ¡°oh, you¡¯re right¡­¡±


    the spark in coryda¡¯s eyes disappeared. adolf glanced at coryda, who had grown sullen again, and said in a casual tone as he sipped his tea.


    ¡°but you said your parents were famous artisans, so i¡¯m sure you have some talent, miss coryda.¡±


    ¡°do you really think so?¡±


    ¡°yes. there are a lot of related books in the study at the verworth manor, so next time you¡¯re there, come with me and let¡¯s browse through them and find something that catches your eye. narrowing down the options is a good way to start planning.¡±


    whatever coryda¡¯s doctor¡¯s note said, the treatment would begin. considering her future treatment, the verworth manor would be a place coryda would visit often.


    coryda went blank at adolf¡¯s words, then frowned.


    ¡°but no matter the subject, it costs money to study.¡±


    coryda was someone who watched liv working all day and night as the head of the household from her side. in addition, she was the reason liv worked so hard. she was already burdening her with her weak body, so she couldn¡¯t let herself burden liv more with monetary problems to study.


    adolf noticed coryda¡¯s concern and flashed a benign smile. the talk was going smoother than what he had anticipated.


    ¡°this is why sponsorship exists for many talented people who are unable to fulfill their potential due to practical issues. if you find a good sponsor, you can study the subject you want without putting pressure on your sister.¡±


    ¡°a sponsor?¡±


    ¡°yes. exceptional handcrafted items are more like works of art, so you can certainly get a sponsorship. there are a lot of people who want to support that field. mazurkhan is particularly famous for this. it¡¯s also the country where many famous handicraft artisans go to study. the public safety there is very good.¡±

 Chapter 91

    even though coryda was always at home, she knew the names of the neighboring countries. so instead of asking where it was, coryda made a tearful face and shook her head.


    ¡°but mazurkhan is far away.¡±


    ¡°but the curriculum is solid, so if you¡¯re going to study, isn¡¯t it better to do it in such a secure place? that is if you are really into handicrafting.¡±


    coryda opened her eyes wide. she didn¡¯t give a particular answer, but it was obvious that she had a lot on her mind.


    ¡°well, while we¡¯re on the subject, i actually have a connection in mazurkhan. he¡¯s a dedicated sponsor in training handcrafted artisans. i¡¯d be happy to connect you with him if you want.¡±


    adolf was telling the truth. marzukhan was a country farther away than the neighboring country, torsten, but it was really advanced in its handicrafts and produced a lot of famous artisans. and adolf, who had acquaintances in every country, also had a good connection in marzukhan.


    thus, if coryda was really into handicraft, he could always introduce her to a sponsor. if coryda¡¯s talents were good enough to get her into a vocational school in mazurkhan, she could become a highly sought-after artisan wherever she went.


    ¡°but, certainly, you need to get healthy first. so i hope you can follow dr. gertrude¡¯s treatment well.¡±


    coryda smiled widely at adolf¡¯s request. she nodded and answered eagerly.


    ¡°yes!¡±


    seeing the hopeful look on coryda¡¯s face, adolf felt an unusual pang of remorse. while he felt so, he prayed inwardly.


    i will do my best to connect you with a good sponsor, so please get well soon and leave your sister with ease.


    so may this awkward situation end soon.


    ***


    when liv returned home, coryda and adolf were having a chat as if they were really close friends.


    ¡°oh? liv!¡±


    ¡°why are you out¡­ mr. adolf?¡±


    liv, who had opened the gate and was walking weakly, opened her eyes wide when she found adolf. adolf quickly rose to his feet and smiled.


    ¡°ah, i was told you¡¯ll be back soon, so i waited for you.¡±


    ¡°he said he has something to give you!¡±


    liv tilted her head with a puzzled look, glancing back and forth between coryda and adolf. as if he saw no reason to waste time, adolf held out what he had brought.


    it was a manila envelope.


    ¡°i brought this as it was delivered from dr. gertrude. i didn¡¯t read it, of course. my master isn¡¯t aware of its contents as well.¡±


    realizing that what adolf was handing her was coryda¡¯s medical report, liv took the envelope with a stiff face. as if to show that the content hadn¡¯t been checked, the opening of the envelope was sealed tightly.


    studying liv¡¯s face as she stared down at the envelope, adolf spoke up.


    ¡°my master added that he would proceed with the treatment as you would like, miss rhodes.¡±


    ¡°what exactly are you referring to when you say as i would like?¡±


    ¡°whatever it may be.¡±


    liv remained silent as he replied with what sounded vague to her. but then she nodded. having finished his duty, adolf smiled and said goodbye.


    ¡°i¡¯ll take my leave now. miss coryda, thank you for talking with me while i wait.¡±


    ¡°yes, be careful on your way!¡±


    adolf turned around as coryda sent him off. coryda, who had closed the gate instead of liv, hovered around her sister. the mere mention that it was from dr. gertrude was enough for coryda to deduce the identity of the envelope.


    ¡°that¡¯s my diagnosis, isn¡¯t it? right?¡±


    ¡°yeah, i think so.¡±


    after answering and sighing, liv moved her steps toward the house. coryda walked after her and rambled on.


    ¡°let¡¯s hurry up and open it.¡±


    ¡°do you even know what¡¯s written inside?¡±


    ¡°it can be anything.¡±


    coryda looked so curious, as if she had forgotten all about her fears before the examination. at the sight of coryda looking at the envelope with an innocent expression, liv sighed and asked.


    ¡°aren¡¯t you afraid it might say something bad?¡±


    ¡°that doctor is really skillful. uncle adolf told me earlier.¡±


    liv couldn¡¯t decide if she should be happy about coryda¡¯s friendship with adolf. he clearly didn¡¯t look like a bad person, but¡­


    no, what¡¯s the use of having this kind of concern?


    liv shook her head. as long as adolf was the marquis¡¯ aide, she would see him often, regardless if she liked it or not. if she had to see him often, it would be better to have a good relationship than a bad one.


    ¡°this is just a diagnosis, and we haven¡¯t even started the treatment.¡±


    ¡°then we can start the treatment based on the diagnosis.¡±


    unlike liv, who was full of worry, coryda was carefree. when liv stared at her without answering, coryda frowned and asked.


    ¡°is he not going to help us with the treatment? was it just for the examination?¡±

 Chapter 92

    ¡°no, it¡¯s not like that.¡±


    just a while ago, adolf told liv that ¡®he would proceed with the treatment as you would like.¡¯ technically, it was the marquis¡¯ words. well, anyway, it meant that he would support coryda in any way he could to help her get well.


    assuming her body wasn¡¯t irreparably damaged, coryda would be cured for real this time. this was a chance they shouldn¡¯t miss.


    ¡°it¡¯s just, i feel you are braver than me.¡±


    hearing liv¡¯s mutterings to herself, coryda pouted her lips.


    ¡°i¡¯m not brave. i just don¡¯t worry much because i have you.¡±


    it was an expression of unfounded trust that whatever happened, it would somehow work out because liv was by her side.


    sure, liv felt she shouldn¡¯t be indecisive like this when coryda trusted her so much. liv calmly tore open the envelope.


    the diagnosis was longer than expected. she thought it was going to get simplified, but to her surprise, it was a detailed diagnosis of coryda¡¯s overall health.


    it detailed everything about coryda¡¯s current condition, what was causing the symptoms she was experiencing, what could happen if left untreated, how her medications were working, and what the restrictions were.


    ¡°what does it say?¡±


    seeing the long, endless sentence, coryda raised her hands after reading only a few lines. she seemed to have decided to wait for liv to see and interpret it rather than read it herself.


    liv¡¯s hand, which had been flipping through the papers for several minutes despite coryda¡¯s question, finally reached the last page.


    ¡°liv?¡±


    it wasn¡¯t until she reached the period symbol at the end of the last sentence that liv realized she had been holding her breath from nervousness. she let out a long sigh and turned her gaze to coryda.


    ¡°so, to conclude, it says it¡¯s not an incurable disease.¡±


    ¡°really?¡±


    ¡°yeah, it says we can get close to a complete cure.¡±


    according to the analysis, corryda¡¯s disease was named ¡°scurvy beri.¡± the term had been coined less than three years ago, and while it was still being researched, it was explained that depending on the severity of the disease, it could be treated to near perfection.


    ¡°i guess all those meds weren¡¯t for nothing.¡±


    it said to bring the medications with them to the next appointment. it also advised her to review coryda¡¯s lifestyle and dietary habits in light of her symptoms.


    there was also a note telling that the disease could get worse and kill her, and that the medication she had been taking was probably just slowing it down a bit.


    however, as liv feared, coryda¡¯s current condition could cause her bones to break easily from the most minor of impacts, and she would bleed more easily than others. she was advised to start treatment right away, as coryda would probably collapse within half a day if she tried to go about the normal daily activities.


    ¡°it says it¡¯s true that your body is weak. so even if you think you¡¯re feeling well, you shouldn¡¯t go out recklessly.¡±


    ¡°ugh, really?¡±


    liv kindly pointed out the sentence to coryda, who looked annoyed. coryda drooped her shoulders and looked at the papers with disappointment.


    ¡°still, it¡¯s good to know it¡¯s not an incurable illness.¡±


    ¡°am i really going to get healthy?¡±


    ¡°mr. adolf said that the doctor is really skillful, right?¡±


    compared to the past, where the doctor would just draw blood without reason, this result was much more reliable. she could tell by the way the doctor wrote down all the details of coryda¡¯s symptoms that she hadn¡¯t mentioned at the time of her appointment. at least there was a difference in the fact that it stated the proper disease name.


    of course, the name for the disease had been around for less than three years, so the quack doctor she met in the past probably didn¡¯t even know the disease.


    ¡°you¡¯ll get healthy, coryda.¡±


    liv had always spoken of wishful thinking, but for once, she could be confident about it.


    coryda would get healthy. this time for real, it felt like all her troubles and worries were gone.


    ***


    the first time liv did her first extra work, she was so nervous and stiff that he was worried she might break if he touched her. demus still remembered her silly appearance at the time.


    and now, it became more amusing to see liv unable to hide her excitement. the report of her sister¡¯s doctor¡¯s appointment had arrived, and apparently it wasn¡¯t bad.


    well, even if it weren¡¯t for that¡­ liv no longer appeared stiff in front of demus. the emotions she expressed were more diverse and richer.


    ¡°since you¡¯re the one who introduced me to the doctor, i thought it would be only right to show you, my lord.¡±


    there was a faint blush on her face as she carefully handed over the papers.


    demus wasn¡¯t curious about the contents of the report, but he took it readily. after skimming the lengthy text, he nodded impassively.

 Chapter 93

    ¡°dr. gertrude does not travel outside of the mansions owned by the dietrion family. all future treatments will take place here.¡±


    ¡°thank you, my lord. and mr. adolf said that the bills¡ª¡±


    ¡°dr. gertrude is my physician, so i don¡¯t need it.¡±


    he cut to the chase, and liv froze, pressing her lips together. watching her reaction, demus tossed the papers on the table and asked.


    ¡°or do you want me to charge for it?¡±


    could it be the result of years of living paycheck to paycheck? for someone who said she¡¯d gladly accept anything, liv seemed unwilling to accept material support for no good reason.


    it reminded him of the time he offered her a ruby necklace, which she rejected outright. he was also told that she was paying the rent on the house she had just moved into.


    she accepted his referral to a doctor, but didn¡¯t want him to help with the bill.


    demus easily guessed liv¡¯s thought. she didn¡¯t want to see that she was being pitied. it was a futile pride; willing to earn money with her naked body, but not to be treated like a beggar.


    ¡°do you think a few bucks for medical bills will cause me great distress?¡±


    ¡°¡­ it won¡¯t, of course.¡±


    ¡°money comes and goes. getting free money from other people isn¡¯t going to change your life.¡±


    liv quietly lowered her gaze. on the surface, she seemed to agree with him, but demus could tell she was having a hard time convincing herself.


    demus pressed his index finger firmly against his temple, staring at liv through narrowed eyes, then twisted his mouth.


    ¡°if it really bothers you, why don¡¯t you try to entertain me? i¡¯ll take that as the price.¡±


    ¡°how?¡±


    ¡°why would you ask me that? that¡¯s yours to find out.¡±


    he thought it had all fallen apart, but when he realized that liv still had some sturdy bits inside her, demus quickly became very bored.


    he hated things that were flimsy even before he touched them, but he also didn¡¯t like things that were still rigid even after he took a great deal of care with them. not because he had no patience, but because he didn¡¯t feel the need to put up with it.


    liv must have noticed the change in demus¡¯ expression.


    she glanced back at the doorway, a perplexed look on her face. today¡¯s meeting had been arranged for extra work, so it was just her and demus in the room.


    confirming that the door was locked, she grabbed the neatly tied ribbon of her collar. the thin, cheap fabric ribbon came unraveled.


    all through her extra work, liv had always waited for demus to say ¡°take it off.¡± that action was a tacit signal that all of those hours were ¡°extra work.¡± however, she was undressing herself now, without waiting for demus to tell her to.


    liv, who had been hesitating from untying the ribbon to unbuttoning the first button, took a deep breath and undressed a little more briskly.


    her caraco, her petticoat, plopped down and piled up. following a pace that was neither slow nor fast, liv¡¯s body grew lighter and lighter.


    considering that every time she took off a piece of clothing she would fold it up and put it to one side, this certainly differed from her usual practice.


    demus leaned back a little, rubbing his upper lip languidly with his index finger. the cushy sofa wrapped around him gently.


    liv, having removed her coarse outer garments and stripped down to her underwear, glanced up out of nowhere. green eyes stared straight at demus.


    keeping eye contact, liv tugged at the straps of her underwear. the tightly bound ribcage loosened, revealing her white breasts.


    demus had always thought her breasts looked good from the first time he saw them. they had a moderate amount of flesh, and they would bounce around a bit whenever she took off her clothes. the movement was especially noticeable when viewed from the front.


    liv¡¯s chest was visibly bouncing as she took a deep breath. liv moved her hand down, her fingertips grazing the slightly exposed skin of her plumpy breasts.


    the clips on the old garter belt holding the stockings in place came undone with a soft clank. consequently, the tightly pulled suspenders slipped down, and the tightly pulled stockings loosened.


    the thin stockings had become so frayed that it seemed as if they might rip at any moment.


    wouldn¡¯t they probably break into pieces with a little force?


    imagining the feel of those easily torn stockings made demus¡¯ mouth go dry.


    wetting his lips with his tongue, demus crossed his long legs and propped his jaw, his hand on the armrest for support. he considered drinking to quench his thirst, but somehow it didn¡¯t feel right. he didn¡¯t want to get drunk and lose control of his clarity.


    liv, who had undone the belt, pushed the thin stockings down. as the stockings curled down from the top, her hidden legs came into view.


    the next moment, demus rose to his feet.

 Chapter 94

    ¡°my lord?¡±


    he reached liv with only a few steps and bent down.


    his hand came to touch liv¡¯s leg, where her stocking was halfway down. his hand, holding the back of her thigh, slowly trailed over the flesh and down to the back of her knee.


    ¡°¡­ it¡¯s all better.¡±


    he guessed it was around this area. the place with the ugly bruises and bloody spots.


    the wound was probably minor, for the scar was barely visible. he pressed his finger firmly into the dent behind her knee, and liv gulped down a gasp and flinched away. he could see the thin, fine hairs rising up close.


    she couldn¡¯t bring herself to shake his hand, but the way she squirmed suggested that she wanted him to let go. alas, demus only tightened his grip on her leg.


    ¡°teacher, you do realize that i¡¯m lusting after you, right?¡±


    the squirming body stiffened at once. demus raised his head and looked at liv. looking up from below, her long, lush eyelashes were particularly well defined. liv was silent as she fluttered her eyelashes, and then she slowly moved her lips.


    ¡°¡­ yes.¡±


    ¡°you do, but are you seducing me anyway?¡±


    ¡°yes.¡±


    her answer this time came out a bit faster.


    ¡°i¡¯m seducing you, sir.¡±


    demus suddenly found the situation hilarious. her eyes were quite determined, as one might expect from someone who had no idea how those who had acted coquettishly in his presence had been humiliated. and the way his body responded to the most clumsy and awkward act of seduction he had ever seen.


    releasing his grip, demus raised himself. he moved a little closer to liv, and her rounded breasts pressed against the underside of demus¡¯ sternum. it was softer than he had expected.


    ¡°what if i don¡¯t fall for it?¡±


    liv was silent for a moment at the question. but then, with a hint of defiance, she answered.


    ¡°how could you ask me that, my lord? the choice is yours.¡±


    demus didn¡¯t bother to stifle his laughter.


    ¡°you¡¯re very smart, teacher. i like it.¡±


    the movement of his hand around liv¡¯s nape was gentle, but that was as far as his patience would go.


    ¡­


    unlike demus, who was fully clothed, liv was naked. this made the changes in her skin more visible.


    she seemed to be expecting him to undress as well, but was quickly caught off guard when demus pushed her down onto the bed with a kiss. she looked too preoccupied to think about demus¡¯ clothes, much less to control the heat rising in her body. when he rubbed her with his gloved hands, the white flesh turned red easily.


    staring at the glaring trace, demus narrowed his eyes.


    ¡°does it hurt?¡±


    ¡°¡­ i¡¯m fine, my lord.¡±


    liv¡¯s voice vibrated slightly as she answered, perhaps from nervousness. demus didn¡¯t ask further and moved his fingers again.


    his long fingers grasped the jutting nipple and twisted it, and he felt liv¡¯s body flinch beneath him. the longer he rubbed the hardened nipple, as if playing with a grape, the greater her jerking motion became.


    what would this taste like if i bit into it?


    in truth, at some point in his life, demus had thought of sex as filthy.


    aside from the fact that he hated showing his scarred body to other people, he also felt dirty about the body fluids the other person would release as they gasped for air. and if they jumped on him in arousal, let alone felt the same way, he¡¯d want to punch them in the face with his fist.


    that being said, it wasn¡¯t that he didn¡¯t have a sex drive. he just didn¡¯t feel the need to release it with a woman. for him, it could be solved by masturbation, which he could handle in moderation and finish in a short amount of time.


    by the time he started participating in the war, he found killing more stimulating than sex.


    he had some knowledge about sex, had heard of it, and had once been dragged to an orgy and seen naked people tangled together in a nasty mess. but that wasn¡¯t all. what he saw on the battlefield was worse than he could have imagined.


    those various experiences built up his dislike for it.


    it was rare for him to be so interested in someone else¡¯s body. much to the surprise of anyone who had seen him over the years, he was currently aroused by the woman in front of him.


    what¡¯s so special about her?


    he wondered what was so special about this woman, who acted bravely, doing an awkward strip show, but then lying down stiffly like a wooden doll.


    ¡°¡­ is it curiosity?¡±


    ¡°pardon?¡±


    shuddering, liv asked at the sound of demus¡¯ muttering. however, instead of answering, he tightened his grip on her chest. liv gasped hard and squeezed her eyes shut.


    this woman was clearly a stranger to all of this. perhaps she had never allowed herself to be touched in this way by another.


    this must be the first time she had ever been so obedient, so helpless, and writhing.

 Chapter 95

    the thought filled demus with a strange sense of satisfaction. even the painter, who must have seen liv¡¯s naked body many times, would never have seen her so disheveled. the guard of this woman would never have dropped in front of anyone.


    ¡°gasp!¡±


    liv¡¯s shoulders shook and she covered her mouth with one hand. demus had just pressed his lips to her breast.


    her scent wafted up to him as he ducked his head. the scent was unfamiliar, but somehow addictive, making him think it wouldn¡¯t be a bad idea to keep his nose buried in it. he opened his mouth and swirled his tongue around her nipple, and once again, a stifled moan escaped liv¡¯s lips.


    as he bit and sucked on her nipple as he did when he kissed her, liv, whimpering, gripped demus¡¯ shoulders tightly. her hands involuntarily tensed as if to push him away. to no surprise, demus¡¯ body was not pushed away in the slightest. if anything, liv¡¯s body sank deeper into the bed.


    demus slid his hand down from its grip on liv¡¯s hip and grabbed her thigh, pushing it upward in one swift motion. liv let out a helpless cry and her eyes widened in surprise.


    ¡°wa-wai¡ª¡±


    she tried to say something, but demus raised his upper body and forcefully pushed her legs apart, positioning himself between her crotches. her exposed genitals came into his view.


    they say women will get out of control if they get sucked here.


    his thumb pressed firmly against her clitoris, and her lifted legs fluttered and spasmed. her lower belly was visibly twitching.


    ¡°you¡¯re used to this, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°no, no¡­¡±


    ¡°but your response is quite fast for that.¡±


    demus laughed cynically, and liv looked at him, looking like she might cry at any moment. seeing the faint resentment in the green eyes, demus felt much better. so much so that he wanted to shame her, even though he knew it was her first time.


    ¡°is it natural for a woman who took her clothes off without constraint in front of a stranger?¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m no¡­ hht!¡±


    liv, who was about to argue with a flushed face, let out a sobbing moan. demus had violently rubbed her clitoris. the merciless touch made her legs, which had been spread apart, keep moving toward the center.


    although he didn¡¯t necessarily want to suck it, the more he teased it, the more she squirmed, which was quite satisfying.


    ¡°hhh, stop there¡­!¡±


    ¡°i told you to entertain me, but all you do is have fun with yourself.¡±


    eventually, glistening tears formed at the corners of liv¡¯s eyes. her quivering lips let out a hot breath and a weak moan, and her hands, finding nowhere else to hold, clutched at the hem of demus¡¯ shirt.


    his touch was somewhat indifferent, perhaps even uncaring. nevertheless, liv responded faithfully, and her vagina grew wetter and wetter.


    ¡°how outrageous.¡±


    muttering grumpily, demus pressed his hips against hers. his penis was already hard and swollen inside his pants, and it was visible on the outside. he rubbed the bulging part of his penis firmly against her vagina, causing her juices to stain his pants.


    liv seemed to realize the heavy force weighing down on her lower half.


    she, who had been busy shaking like a butterfly on a pair of tweezers, blinked hard. her eyelids, drenched in tears, moved abnormally heavy.


    ¡°you look like you¡¯re already¡­¡±


    liv spoke slowly, her words coming out like a huff.


    ¡°having a lot of fun from tormenting me.¡±


    he thought she would have a hard time keeping up with all of this, since she was a virgin, but she knew how to talk mischievously.


    demus reached out and grabbed liv¡¯s chin. then, suddenly, he realized his gloves were quite damp, and he found them quite uncomfortable.


    with a yank, demus pulled off his gloves and tossed them off the bed. he then grabbed liv¡¯s chin and parted her lips. he pushed his tongue into her unresisting mouth, and a strangled, helpless moan crept into his throat. it was a rough kiss, he sucked on her tongue, devouring her lips.


    ¡°mmph!¡±


    he moved his fingers without unlocking their lips. his middle finger slipped down to the entrance of her damp vagina, and suddenly dug into the tender flesh.


    the pleated inner walls clenched tightly at the foreign intruder. he slipped in and out his finger to the base, and his middle finger got slick with wetness.


    ¡°hhhh, hht!¡±


    one finger became two, then three. only sobbing moans now escaped her captured lips in response to the relentless thrusts downward. after kissing her deeply, as if to devour those moans of hers, demus removed his lips with a steamy spit of breath.


    ¡°it¡¯s unfortunate if you describe this much as tormenting.¡±


    he felt like his pants were going to tear. blood rushed to his penis, and he felt like he could get in trouble if he didn¡¯t put it somewhere right away.


    after sweeping his tongue across his saliva-drenched lips, demus brought the hand that had stroked liv¡¯s insides a moment ago to graze her bottom lip. when he smeared her juices across her lips, which were parted after the kiss, liv pursed her lips. the tip of her red tongue peeked out with her hot breath.


    in the past, demus had certainly found all of this was dirty.


    he did.

 Chapter 96

    ¡°sexy.¡±


    he could see her red lips were slightly swollen from their rough kiss. he couldn¡¯t tell if it was his saliva, hers, or maybe her juices. all of them, probably.


    he wondered why that made her look so naughty.


    ¡°you¡¯re so sexy, teacher.¡±


    a smile of satisfaction grew on his face. liv, gasping for breath, stared into demus¡¯ face.


    the corners of her eyes and cheeks were flushed, and the excitement in her pupils hadn¡¯t worn off yet. she looked dazed, like someone under a spell.


    staring at demus without blinking, liv muttered to herself.


    ¡°it¡¯s you¡­¡±


    she couldn¡¯t even finish the sentence, but it was enough for him to grasp the meaning. demus snorted in amusement and loosened the crotch of his pants. liv¡¯s gaze drifted there, naturally.


    liv, whose gaze had been blank until then, suddenly widened her eyes. stunned, liv stammered.


    ¡°wait, that¡¯s too¡­!¡±


    ¡°haah¡­¡±


    his penis, which sprang free right after it was freed, slapped her vagina hard. that thing was lurid, fully erect without needing any extra touch. grasping the shaft, demus rubbed the tip of the glans slowly against liv¡¯s vagina, causing her to shudder.


    ¡°it, it can¡¯t go in!¡±


    even liv¡¯s panicked cries were not enough to deter demus. he grabbed her squirming waist, fixing her firmly in place. he then glanced up and locked eyes with liv.


    ¡°it can.¡±


    the taut, engorged glans slowly worked its way into the tightly closed vagina. their gazes remained locked.


    ¡°this hole is designed for that.¡±


    slam!


    he slammed his massive shaft into her all of a sudden. liv couldn¡¯t even utter a scream as the immense size pierced her without the slightest mercy. her puckering lips closed as she swallowed dryly. the tears that had begun to dry up welled up once more.


    demus paused for a moment, looking down at her who was like a harpooned fish, barely able to breathe. as much as she was, he too was momentarily overstimulated.


    the tightness below squeezed him to death as he forced his way through the hot, narrow opening. the intense pressure on his cock was both painful and intensely stimulating.


    ¡°huff¡­¡±


    having expelled his excitement in a single breath, demus arched his back. he kissed her gaping, helpless lips, and liv desperately wrapped her arms around his neck. accepting her hold, demus kissed her deeply, then ghosted his lips to her ear.


    ¡°teacher, you¡¯re going to cut my dick off if you do not relax.¡±


    ¡°i can¡¯t do any¡­ nngh!¡±


    demus, now somewhat composed, pulled his hips back swiftly and then slammed hard again. her insides, which were quite wet, were stiff and cramped due to her nervousness. demus gritted his teeth and rubbed his hand over liv¡¯s lower belly.


    the idea of having his entire cock inside this tiny belly sent his excitement skyrocketing to new heights.


    ¡®will it get better after i sleep with her once?¡¯


    he realized how casual and carefree the thought he¡¯d had one day had been.


    doing this only once? impossible.


    ¡°how are you feeling, teacher?¡±


    ¡°hhgh¡­¡±


    ¡°i know this can¡¯t be all pain.¡±


    he could feel the twitching of her lower stomach through his palm. oddly, he felt as if her flat stomach had bulged out.


    such a thing shouldn¡¯t be possible.


    ¡­ but it might really bulge out if i thrust a bit more.


    ¡°wa-wait, a second ple¡­¡±


    liv gasped and pleaded. she seemed to struggle to breathe with all the mass that filled her from below. her body stiffened even more from the tension that she hardly could control.


    considering whether or not to continue to drive her to the edge, demus decided to be generous and patted her on the side.


    as he rubbed vigorously with his fingers, sweat broke out on her skin.


    ¡°teacher.¡±


    ¡°gh.¡±


    ¡°describe how it feels.¡±


    the hand that had been clasping her side crept back a little. squeezing the flesh of her ass that filled the palm of his hand, demus spoke quickly in a low voice.


    ¡°convince me. i will pull out if you have a good reason for it.¡±


    at that, liv gingerly opened her tightly closed eyes. she blinked her drenched lashes and drew in a shaky breath.


    she was so na?ve, not realizing that the burning breath she exhaled was only making demus more aroused.


    ¡°my lower belly, is so full, making me breathless¡­¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s because it¡¯s narrow. we need to stretch it out.¡±


    ¡°you move too rough. you might rip it apart.¡±


    ¡°a human body doesn¡¯t rip that easily. it¡¯s tougher than you think.¡±

 Chapter 97

    demus took liv¡¯s hand and placed it on her lower belly. he purposely made sure it covered her lower belly and pressed down hard, causing liv¡¯s breathing to quicken once again. liv, panting, spoke in an urgent tone.


    ¡°you also said it¡¯s hurt, so why don¡¯t slow down¡ª¡±


    ¡°it feels like it¡¯s going to cut me off, but it doesn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    liv, who had been rambling anything, looked up at demus with resentment in her eyes. she realized now that no matter what she said, demus would not back down.


    seeing that, demus smiled at her with his eyes closed. the smile caused liv to relax momentarily, making a dazed face.


    without missing that chance, demus rocked his hips. the monstrous shaft that had slipped out as he drew back slammed inside without any hesitation. the walls of her vagina clenched and spasmed around his penis.


    reflexively, liv¡¯s arms tightened around demus¡¯s neck. a series of wild thrusts followed, and liv¡¯s trapped body was pushed upward, inch by inch.


    ¡°hht, nghh!¡±


    demus caught her by the shoulder as she was being pushed away, keeping his grip tight around her waist. liv, who had been secretly pushing him away as she drifted upward, had no choice but to accept him.


    biting her lip in embarrassment, she eventually couldn¡¯t hold back a sobbing moan. all sorts of emotions mingled in the sharp cry.


    it was certainly different from the cries that echoed through the battlefield.


    ¡°aht, slowly. my lord, please!¡±


    plea was evident in her broken voice. but demus didn¡¯t answer, concentrating instead on moving his hips. soon, the beads of sweat that had soaked his platinum hair dripped down onto liv¡¯s flushed body.


    as she tugged futilely at demus¡¯ collar, liv¡¯s hips suddenly convulsed. it was a crushing sensation that seemed to rip his penis to the base. demus instinctively chased after that reaction, thrusting violently.


    every time demus pounded his cock deep inside her, she gasped and jerked her legs like someone who had been electrocuted. now liv instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist, even when demus didn¡¯t pull them up.


    her walls, which used to feel stiff, now felt smoother. it was a sign that she was getting aroused as well as loosening up. as her juices flowed, it became easier to move his penis. the squelching and skin slapping sounds blended with their breathing.


    ¡°aagh!¡±


    liv¡¯s mouth opened wide in a short scream. her head snapped up, beads of sweat trickling down her stretched neckline. demus bit down on her neck, which was red from excitement. he could feel her rapidly beating pulse through his lips.


    ¡°i think this was meant to be used for my dick in the first place.¡±


    it was a perfect fit, and it felt great.


    demus was biting down on the nape of her neck like he was going to choke her out at any moment, and liv murmured in a shaky voice.


    ¡°that, that is.¡±


    ¡°is it too blunt?¡±


    demus smirked against the nape of her neck. he continued his ferocious movements, giving no regard whatsoever to the immensity of the arousal liv was experiencing. yet the voice he muttered in her ear was clear and rational.


    ¡°but what can i do?¡±


    there was a hint of excitement in his hot breath, but demus was definitely being rational. he was facing his desires with reason.


    ¡°that¡¯s the truth.¡±


    thus, he accepted it rationally. he realized that he had a greater desire for this woman than he had realized.


    his father said to him one day ¡°god must have brought you to me.¡±


    in all his life, demus had never sneered so much. being a priest, his father had always taken things in his stride.


    but to his surprise, he now understood why his father had spoken such nonsense. he couldn¡¯t help but understand now that he had found the right person, at the right moment, in the right place.


    ¡°ahh, my lord, feels strange, aaht!¡±


    in this moment, he was everything to her. he was her god, the only thing she could rely on.


    ¡°i¡¯m sticking my dick in your hole, which was made for me to stick my dick in, so it¡¯s only natural that you feel good about it.¡±


    ¡°haa, haahhh¡­¡±


    ¡°so remember this feeling now. you may indulge yourself. there is no shame in enjoying pleasure.¡±


    liv, unable to restrain her excitement, brushed her lips against demus¡¯ cheek. demus whispered generously, as if he were teaching a young, innocent person a lesson.


    ¡°if you didn¡¯t know, you can learn now.¡±


    blood rushed to the tip of his red, swollen cock, and the sensation of ejaculation surged through him. demus bit down hard on liv¡¯s shoulder, pinning her down completely.


    he thought to himself that this must be what it¡¯s like to receive an oracle. it felt like a white lightning bolt had struck him in the head, and he was more convinced than ever.


    god must have brought this woman to me.

 Chapter 98

    liv had thought that he might want her.


    although she couldn¡¯t be sure if he would have wanted her in this way, she felt a strange, unfounded confidence that at least she would not get a humiliating rejection.


    that confidence encouraged the lustful desire that liv had been secretly nurturing as she met him. a raw desire to sleep with him, just once. and as expected, he held her.


    it was more intense than she had expected.


    standing under the trickling water in the bathroom, liv looked down at her body for a moment. her once white and clean body was dotted with marks. handprints from the man¡¯s large hands, bruises from his vicious bites, and minor cuts caused by the friction against his clothes.


    was that all? everything below her waist was so numb that she could barely stand.


    even the slightest stroke of a finger across her skin brought a tingling pain. the sensation triggered a vivid recollection of what had just happened.


    it was a tantalizing, blissful moment of ecstasy that she had never experienced in her life. she was definitely¡­ excited. most definitely sexually.


    it was just that she had no clue that the end of that storm of pleasure would leave her with such a hollow feeling.


    unlike her, who had blackened out so many times, the marquis remained unruffled until the moment he ejaculated. his relaxed demeanor was also evident in the clothes he didn¡¯t remove until the very end, even though they were stained with bodily fluids. that said, he did click his tongue briefly, as if to express his displeasure with the rumpled and stained clothes.


    after checking out his appearance, he got out of bed as if to leave the room right away. however, instead of going right away, he took out a cigar and brought it to his mouth.


    by then, liv was still lying in bed, gasping for air.


    ¡°i¡¯ve instructed the nude painting work to be put on hold for the time being.¡±


    the marquis, puffing out a thick smoke in front of the table, spoke first. liv was exhausted and didn¡¯t have the energy to get up, but she couldn¡¯t have a conversation while lying down, so she forced herself up.


    ¡°i¡¯ve heard about it.¡±


    ¡°he claimed to have developed some kind of art technique and implored me to sponsor him. when i turned him down, he said he was sick.¡±


    the marquis, as expected, didn¡¯t seem to buy brad¡¯s excuse about being ill at all. the evidence was the slightest hint of mockery in his impassive voice.


    liv glanced away, feeling her face heat up for no good reason.


    ¡°brad may be¡­ a little short tempered, but i don¡¯t think he¡¯s doing it out of malice. he¡¯s not wise, but he¡¯s not an evil person who¡¯s going to cheat and be mean to anyone. i think he¡¯s just having some impossible wishes because he¡¯s been going through a rough time lately.¡±


    he was just a carefree guy who didn¡¯t think thoroughly, but he wasn¡¯t a bad person by nature. liv looked pensive as she remembered brad¡¯s wife, who turned around in frustration the other day.


    the fact that he had gone to the capital made her unnerving, but if he could get to his senses by now, he might be able to avoid getting into trouble. moreover, the painting was far from finished, so it would be wise to speak positively about brad to the marquis.


    ¡°what¡¯s your relationship with him?¡±


    liv, who was trying her best to speak up for brad, looked up at once. the marquis, standing at an angle, eyed her intently.


    ¡°a painter and a model, obviously.¡±


    ¡°you seem to be advocating for him quite zealously for such a relationship. is there something more to it?¡±


    it was a vague question, but the implication was clear. liv¡¯s cheeks flushed in exasperation.


    didn¡¯t her disheveled appearance at this moment prove whether or not she had been such an easy woman, meeting people casually?


    besides, brad was a married man! though she wouldn¡¯t have fooled around with him even if he was an unmarried man, liv wasn¡¯t one of those people with prurient morals who would play around with someone with a spouse. as such, she found the marquis¡¯ casual, rude question insulting.


    ¡°when i first set foot in buerno, brad saved me from a scam. he also offered me a second job because i was having a hard time making ends meet.¡±


    this might have seemed insignificant to the marquis, but to liv, it was a big deal.


    ¡°is that all?¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m only feeling grateful for his help. you may think i am an easy woman, but nothing like today has ever happened in my life.¡±

 Chapter 99

    the assertive words from liv caused the marquis to remain silent for a moment. when she noticed that the smoke from the cigars wafting around him had thickened a bit, he murmured with a faint smile.


    ¡°that¡¯s nice to hear.¡±


    liv¡¯s pupils shook. regardless of whether he was aware of her agitation or not, demus returned to his impassive face and flicked the charred ends of his cigar into the ashtray.


    ¡°the painter¡¯s conduct seems to be unbecoming. i think it would be good for your safety to keep a good distance from him.¡±


    perhaps the marquis was aware that brad had been hanging out with a suspicious person lately. his rather kind advice made liv¡¯s complexion darken a little.


    ¡°as i said, he is someone¡ª¡±


    ¡°if you get into trouble from trying to help him, what will happen to your poor little sister?¡±


    in that moment, liv forgot that she was talking to the marquis and immediately retorted curtly.


    ¡°why would coryda be in this problem?¡±


    ¡°my, i see you don¡¯t know who that painter is getting involved with.¡±


    the sight of the marquis looking at her with such pity in his eyes made liv¡¯s heart sink.


    she thought it was a little suspicious, but that was all. she did not bother to look into it and did not have the capacity to do so. but if the marquis would say something like that, brad must have gotten involved with some shady people.


    if that was the case, she should have warned him right away, not just watched from the sidelines.


    ¡­ however, what if she got into a rough situation¡­


    ¡°is there somewhere else you can leave your little sister if you get into an unavoidable emergency?¡±


    ¡°¡­ not exactly.¡±


    when the marquis brought up coryda again, her desire to immediately warn brad of the danger faded away.


    the marquis was right. what to do if she got herself entangled in the mess from trying to meddle in? she didn¡¯t know who or what brad had gotten himself into, but debt was usually a messy business.


    besides, despite her advice, brad refused to listen to her. he wouldn¡¯t likely change his attitude just because she said something more.


    she couldn¡¯t afford to risk herself over a casual acquaintance. if something happened to liv, there was no way for coryda, who wasn¡¯t healthy, to survive. she was just now getting some hope that she could get healthy again¡­


    ¡°in that case, you may want to think about it. you could end up putting yourself in danger just because you¡¯re that painter¡¯s model.¡±


    the marquis said nonchalantly and put his cigar down in the ashtray. this time for sure, he seemed to leave the room.


    maybe. that was if he didn¡¯t hear liv¡¯s question.


    ¡°if i get in trouble, will you just stand by and watch?¡±


    stopping in front of the doorway, the marquis looked back at liv slowly. he seemed to not have expected it.


    facing the marquis, who didn¡¯t answer, liv spoke again.


    ¡°you wouldn¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°are you sure?¡±


    ¡°you already haven¡¯t.¡±


    instead of answering, the marquis turned around completely toward her. instead of leaving the room, he walked over to liv. then he kissed her softly and deeply, as if to praise her.


    gradually, her breathing became shallow, her body tumbled backwards, and the little energy she¡¯d managed to gather vanished without a trace. the reason was the marquis once again¡ª


    knock! knock!


    the soft knocking on the door snapped her out of her reverie. liv quickly turned off the water that was dripping over her head and grabbed a towel.


    she had taken her time, and this was the marquis¡¯ mansion. she, who was lost in thought as she stood in the luxurious bathroom she had never used before, quickly regained her senses.


    she had dried herself and dressed, but her hair was still wet. there was no time to dry it, so she went to the room first.


    the marquis had already left. there was no trace left on the bed, perhaps the maids had come and gone while she was washing. even the windows were slightly open for ventilation. if it weren¡¯t for the red marks all over her body and the pain she felt, she could have sworn it was all a dream.


    knock! knock!


    the knocking sound rang once again. taking a deep breath of the chill air in the room, liv approached the door.


    click!


    liv opened the door carefully, and her eyes widened.


    ¡°mr. adolf?¡±


    ¡°oh, miss rhodes. i know this is rude, but i have something urgent i need to give you.¡±


    adolf apologized as he noticed liv¡¯s damp hair. liv quickly shook her head.


    ¡°it¡¯s fine. so, what¡¯s the urgent business?¡±


    ¡°take this.¡±


    after checking the empty hallway, adolf took out a pouch and handed it to liv.


    ¡°water must have been prepared in the room. take one now, and it will take effect.¡±


    ¡°what is this?¡±


    ¡°birth control pills.¡±

 Chapter 100

    liv, who had accepted the pouch without much thought, froze. adolf arched an eyebrow and spoke in a serious voice.


    ¡°well, i never thought this would happen. it was obviously my fault for laughing off your question the other day, ms. rhodes. i apologize. i¡¯ve put in as much as i can get for now, so when you run out of it, feel free to ask for more. these are the most harmless ones in circulation. should you require any additional assistance, please don¡¯t hesitate to ask.¡±


    liv looked down at the pouch in her hand with an unusual expression.


    that¡¯s right, i should take it.


    birth control pills weren¡¯t actually commercially available. however, she heard that they were in high demand and came in many varieties. from the cheap ones used by prostitutes in brothels to the expensive ones used by the nobles¡¯ paramours.


    these were likely¡­ the latter.


    ¡°dr. gertrude will now check your health every month. it¡¯s a simple procedure, so don¡¯t feel pressured.¡±


    it was fitting to call it a favor. if what happened today was a start, she might have more of this sort of time with the marquis in the future.


    however, it was clear that he had no intention to get a child from her, and even if she became pregnant, she would have to have an abortion. therefore, it was a hundred times better to prevent it.


    liv understood it all in her head, but it made her down for some reason.


    in fact, she had felt that way since she had washed herself; when she saw the marks he had ruthlessly left on her body. she felt strange when she recalled him leaving first once it ended, like the extra work session.


    despite the fact that it was her who provoked him in the first place.


    it shouldn¡¯t come as a surprise that adolf, who knew everything about the situation, would provide her with birth control pills, but still, it sent a chill down her spine.


    she felt like a whore, fresh from the bath, accepting the birth control pill from the marquis¡¯ subordinate.


    ¡­ it¡¯s hard to argue with that.


    ¡°thank you for your thoughtfulness.¡±


    liv lowered her gaze, trying to hide the bitterness that flooded one side of her chest. adolf told her to rest comfortably and to call him if she wanted to go back, then turned away.


    the door closed, and she was left alone again. however, she had no desire to stay in the chilly room for long.


    she crudely tied up her less dry hair and left the mansion.


    ***


    liv was concerned about brad, but the warning from the marquis echoed in her ears, making her afraid to visit his studio. cowardly, indeed.


    camille, who had said something vague to liv, now frequented the barony from time to time, regardless of class, and often ran into liv when she came to teach millian. on each occasion, he would greet her in a friendly manner, and she would smile faintly and keep her distance from him.


    coryda¡¯s treatment also had started. in place of the suspended painting work, liv began to make regular visits to verworth manor for coryda¡¯s treatment. coryda was nervous about starting her treatment, but as time went on, she gradually loosened her guard.


    furthermore, coryda was allowed to enter the study at verworth manor. it was a favor from the marquis.


    liv, who had been inwardly concerned about coryda¡¯s education, was grateful for the favor. in addition, adolf, who had gotten close to coryda, helped her by spending time with her in the study. it was barely enough for a lesson, but it was enough for them to talk about books that coryda was interested in.


    seeing that, liv joined in, hoping to teach what she knew, but for some reason, coryda seemed to prefer to be alone with adolf. eventually, liv, who noticed it, had to move out of the way, half-heartedly.


    today was no different. coryda, who was talking about a topic liv didn¡¯t know much about, pushed liv¡¯s back, telling her to do her business if she got bored.


    what was there for liv to do at the verworth manor?


    inwardly, she felt sad, but she couldn¡¯t complain because she knew how much this time would mean to coryda, who had always been home alone.


    ¡°looks like you got kicked out again today.¡±


    liv, who had been standing staring at the study door with a sour look on her face, turned around. it was philip, pushing a mobile tray. he always brought snacks to coryda himself when she stayed in the study. even though liv had stopped him, telling him it was okay, he only laughed heartily, but he had no intention of stopping.


    moreover, the ingredients of the snacks that philip brought were carefully selected based on thierry¡¯s advice. it felt embarrassing to say no to such a thoughtful gesture.


    ¡°since you¡¯re already kicked out, could you please wait a minute?¡±


    he hurried into the study after telling that to liv. she could hear a noise from inside, but it wasn¡¯t long before philip exited the study. he came out empty handed, apparently having left the tray in the study.


    ¡°this way, please.¡±


    philip gave liv a smile and led her away. liv couldn¡¯t tell his intentions, but she followed him anyway.

 Chapter 101

    they walked down the hallway and out the building. after only a few steps, the entrance to a lush arboretum came into view.


    ¡°i don¡¯t know if you remember, but i¡¯ve mentioned before that we have a greenhouse in the arboretum.¡±


    ¡°yes, i remember that.¡±


    ¡°this is a great place to explore while you wait for miss coryda and adolf¡¯s book discussion, and there¡¯s even a place to relax in the greenhouse.¡±


    liv glanced around the arboretum. generally, coryda spent about an hour in the study. that meant she had to wait for at least an hour doing something else. usually she¡¯d prepare for millian¡¯s class while she waited, but today she¡¯d forgotten her materials.


    since there was nothing else to do at the mansion, she figured it wouldn¡¯t hurt to take a walk, as philip had suggested.


    ¡°i see. thanks for letting me know.¡±


    leaving behind philip, who told her to take her time, liv strode into the arboretum.


    she could feel the cool, crisp air filling the space. unlike many contrived, manicured gardens, the arboretum at verworth manor seemed to be quite uncontrolled. surprisingly, though, it didn¡¯t feel messy. she even heard the occasional chirping of unidentifiable birds.


    the greenhouse philip mentioned was not far away. made of opaque glass, the greenhouse looked like a hemisphere from the outside, looking mysteriously all by itself. the surface of the glasshouse glittered and shone in the sunlight that fell through the leaves.


    ¡°wow¡­¡±


    she couldn¡¯t believe such a greenhouse was made of glass. it was surely no ordinary technique. there was a reason philip was so eager to show it off.


    liv¡¯s jaw dropped in amazement, and she rushed over to the greenhouse. the glass of the greenhouse was cloudy and opaque, so she couldn¡¯t get a true view of the landscape inside. however, she could make out the jagged lines of green shadows. they stood like a fence or a curtain, blocking the interior.


    she carefully pushed the doorknob and the greenhouse door opened soundlessly.


    the first thing that caught her eye were the colorful flowers. just as she took a look at all the flowers that filled the greenhouse, she could smell their sweet, fragrant scent.


    wide-eyed, liv looked around as she made her way inside the greenhouse. there were flowers, large and small, as far as the eye could see.


    there were not only flowers, but also a small waterfall-like fountain carved out of the stone. the sound of trickling water blended with the scent of the flowers, creating a peaceful atmosphere.


    walking slowly along the path that led inward, liv found herself mesmerized by the flowers.


    a splashing and tapping sound came from somewhere. liv looked around for the elusive source of the sound and soon found a new fountain. a horizontal bamboo pole caught the water falling from above, tilting to the other side like a seesaw before returning to its original position.


    however, what caught her attention was the golden kingfisher resting on top of where the water was falling.


    golden color?


    liv didn¡¯t know much about birds, but she knew that no other bird had such vivid golden feathers. unable to hide her surprise, liv stared at the kingfisher.


    the kingfisher was staring down as if it was ready to dive to the water¡¯s surface at any moment. its long beak looked like it would open at any moment, and its neatly folded wings looked like they were about to flap.


    the kingfisher didn¡¯t move, though, no matter how long she waited.


    ¡°that¡¯s taxidermy.¡±


    hearing a voice behind her, liv spun around quickly. it was the marquis with his cane in hand. from where he was standing, he must have been inside the greenhouse.


    ¡°oh, i didn¡¯t know you were here¡­¡±


    liv trailed off, stepping back slightly. the marquis turned his head toward the kingfisher, seemingly unconcerned.


    ¡°when it was crafted, the feathers were dyed with a dye mixed with golden dust.¡±


    golden dust? no wonder the color was too vivid.


    liv¡¯s mouth dropped open at the way the marquis had so casually left such an useless luxury in the greenhouse.


    while she was staring at the kingfisher in disbelief, the marquis walked slowly to her side. the two of them drew closer despite liv¡¯s initial attempts to keep her distance.


    as the massive figure stood closer, she couldn¡¯t help but become conscious of him.


    moreover, he was a man she had slept with.


    liv quietly dropped her gaze. only the sound of trickling water echoed between them as she closed her mouth.


    this was the first time she faced the marquis since the day they¡¯d had sex. the reason for this was that coryda¡¯s treatment had begun, and she hadn¡¯t been called in to do extra work, even after several treatments. liv¡¯s extra work had been so irregular that if the marquis didn¡¯t call her, she¡¯d have no choice but to wait.


    was the sex not to his liking?


    or did he lose interest because they had sex already?


    the idea had crossed her mind. however, liv vaguely suspected it wasn¡¯t the case. if the marquis was truly losing interest, he wouldn¡¯t be so generous with coryda¡¯s treatment.


    and liv confirmed her guess with the behavior the marquis was showing her now.

 Chapter 102

    ¡°you seem to have recovered well.¡±


    ¡°pardon, sir?¡±


    ¡°your physical fitness didn¡¯t look all that good, though.¡±


    liv¡¯s cheeks flushed red as she realized what the marquis was saying. it took a while for her to recover her strength after their sexual intercourse. if they hadn¡¯t done it in the marquis¡¯ mansion, she would have slept right there.


    no, actually, the marquis said she could sleep over.


    it was liv who insisted on washing up and returning home because she couldn¡¯t bear the thought of coryda waiting for her at home. and honestly, she wasn¡¯t in the mood to stay in that dreary room with its cold air for long.


    ¡°¡­ i have an average level of fitness.¡±


    ¡°aha.¡±


    the marquis exclaimed, unimpressed, with a look of total disagreement on his face.


    ¡°if so, you might want to raise the baseline of that average.¡±


    ¡°what do you mean by¡ª¡±


    ¡°unless you¡¯re going to turn me down now that we¡¯ve done it once. i doubt i¡¯ll be able to give you this much time to recover next time.¡±


    was it not a loss of interest, but rather a concern for her recovery that caused him to not call her for so long?


    liv looked up at the marquis with a puzzled look. as always, he had an indifferent, flat expression on his face. staring blankly at that face, a nonsensical thought crossed her mind; he must have a conscience, given that he gave me time to rest.


    she honestly thought that if he didn¡¯t have that bare minimum of conscience, he wasn¡¯t really human. having to take that kind of lethal thing in her first experience, liv thought she was going to get sliced to pieces.


    later on, however, it was all replaced with pleasure, which made her cry unabashedly.


    liv quickly parted her lips, trying to shake off the sensations of that day that naturally came to her.


    ¡°i didn¡¯t know i had a choice.¡±


    ¡°i have no intention of forcing those who don¡¯t want it.¡±


    answering in a lighthearted tone, the marquis¡¯ blue eyes glanced at liv.


    ¡°also, i know they have no reason to say no.¡±


    how arrogant of him. it implied that no matter who they were, they would want him.


    what annoyed her was that he wasn¡¯t entirely wrong. there was no shortage of men and women, young and old, who would jump at the chance to serve the marquis for the night.


    liv, who had already spent the night with him, had no desire to turn the marquis down in the future.


    ¡°weren¡¯t we both satisfied?¡±


    ¡°were you satisfied with me?¡±


    ¡°yes.¡±


    sometimes his affirmations were so easy to utter that she doubted their authenticity. seeing liv remain silent, unable to offer any response, the marquis smirked.


    ¡°i¡¯m a very picky collector. so be proud that you met my criteria.¡±


    ¡°it sounds like i¡¯ve been chosen for your collection, my lord.¡±


    ¡°you don¡¯t think so?¡±


    for some reason, camille¡¯s words came to mind at this moment. the marquis, who was treated like an expensive statue by everyone, thought of other people less than statues.


    was she supposed to be grateful to be treated like a collection piece by such a man?


    a subtle feeling of discomfort bloomed in the back of her mind. it was similar to the way she felt when she was left alone the day they had sex.


    the idea that it was pitiful of her flashed through her mind. she was acting as if she expected something great from the marquis and was betrayed, when their relationship had been so clear from the start.


    from the beginning, the marquis had seen her as a decent amusement, and liv had been the one to receive his attention. it was nothing more than a shallow relationship where the control was one-sided.


    liv brushed aside her useless sentiment and asked in a casual tone.


    ¡°do you also collect taxidermy?¡±


    ¡°taxidermy?¡±


    noticing that liv¡¯s gaze was on the kingfisher, the marquis replied in a nonchalant tone.


    ¡°there¡¯s no harm in owning something of value.¡±


    for such a thing, the way he managed them was not very good. she had heard that taxidermy has its own way of managing.


    liv, who had been studying the kingfisher¡¯s delicate feathers, one by one, spoke in a slightly lowered voice.


    ¡°i heard that rumor. the rumor that you keep taxidermy people in the basement of your mansion.¡±


    ¡°what an interesting rumor.¡±


    the marquis let out a short chuckle as if it were truly funny.


    ¡°so are you afraid of being taxidermied?¡±


    ¡°i heard, but i don¡¯t believe it.¡±


    the marquis clicked his tongue, not bothering to hide his laughter.


    ¡°what if it¡¯s true?¡±


    ¡°if so, i¡¯ll have to blame my foolishness and poor judgment.¡±


    ¡°oh my.¡±


    the marquis grabbed liv¡¯s chin as she kept looking at the fountain, turned her to him, and tilted his head. liv had clearly heard a hint of laughter in his voice, but as she faced him, it was nowhere in his face. the marquis¡¯ blue eyes were not only calm, but rather chill.

 Chapter 103

    ¡°what i want to see is you alive, not dead and beautifully decorated, teacher.¡±


    his breath was hot from up close. liv could feel the hand holding her chin moving slowly. it rubbed and glided across the chin, then down the neckline, and finally to the back of her neck.


    it was entirely up to the marquis to decide where and when this intimate contact would stop. nevertheless, she could not leave it entirely to him.


    after running her tongue across her lips, liv spoke calmly.


    ¡°i came to verworth manor for coryda¡¯s treatment.¡±


    her voice naturally came out lower due to the close distance. still, liv at least tried not to tremble or stutter. she didn¡¯t come to this mansion alone after all.


    an hour from now, coryda would be looking for her. considering the one night she had spent with the marquis, he would never finish such a thing in an hour.


    ¡°i hope you will consider it, my lord.¡±


    ¡°you¡¯re getting good at making requests, teacher.¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m giving it a try.¡±


    liv, who had been looking away, moved her pupils slightly. the blue pupils in front of her looked like fancy jewelry that could suck one¡¯s soul dry. therefore, she couldn¡¯t help but stare straight into them. although she didn¡¯t know how that would reflect on the marquis¡¯ eyes.


    ¡°since i think that¡¯s what you want.¡±


    the marquis narrowed his eyes. liv realized she had once again picked the right answer.


    ¡°you¡¯re a fast learner. ¡±


    i¡¯m proud of you.


    his last sentence was lost in the overlapping lips.


    ***


    the date for cardinal calliope¡¯s visit to buerno had been announced.


    or more accurately, the cardinal¡¯s pilgrimage itinerary had been made public, and buerno was among the stops. the cardinal would spend a few days visiting some of the chapels and orphanages in the city.


    by now, the attention of the people was no longer on the cardinal¡¯s visit, but on the specific schedule he would spend in buerno. there were already a lot of one-off events being organized by the city itself to honor the cardinal, and typically these events would be attended by all sorts of famous people.


    some were hoping that this time for sure the marquis of dietrion would make a public appearance. in particular, the press; they prepared their cameras, hoping to get a few good shots of the marquis of dietrion, who tended to avoid showing his face at all costs.


    not surprisingly, all of this attention was none of demus¡¯ business.


    ¡°we¡¯ve given the press a heads up, but they¡¯re still looking forward to it.¡±


    carefully studying the expression on demus¡¯ face as he read the newspaper, charles reported.


    ¡°they can¡¯t release the photos even if they have taken them, though.¡±


    ¡°they don¡¯t know about it, sir.¡±


    with a faint sneer, demus tossed the newspaper onto his desk. on the front page was a large picture of the cardinal smiling and waving his hand benignly.


    ¡°for now, i¡¯ve adjusted your schedule accordingly.¡±


    ¡°i doubt my schedule is so busy that it needs to be adjusted.¡±


    in general, demus¡¯ day-to-day routine was tedious. he had no aristocratic duties or responsibilities, no pressure to lead his family, and no sense of mission.


    the most he did was periodically meet with the directors of art galleries to make art purchases and attend private auctions. except recently, meeting liv had added a bit of spice to his otherwise dull life.


    while he thought it was unnecessary to adjust his schedule according to the cardinal¡¯s visit, demus didn¡¯t criticize charles. after all, it wouldn¡¯t hurt to be prepared.


    ¡°shall i arrange a date?¡±


    ¡°he said he¡¯d come himself, so i have to see him.¡±


    he thought he might give him an hour for the trouble of traveling to his place of exile.


    muttering cynically, demus stared at the man in the picture. even after all these years, the cardinal was still a handsome man.


    that alone made it easy for the cardinal to win the hearts of the believers. it is human nature to seek beauty; demus realized this as he watched the cardinal¡¯s followers.


    in addition, cardinal calliope was a particularly outspoken advocate of peace within the order. in this continent of conflicts, great and small, no believer would dislike a benevolent and kind-hearted cardinal who wished for peace.


    ¡°i heard that this time he¡¯s truly going to be the next gratia.¡±


    demus slanted one corner of his mouth up at charles¡¯ words.


    as the highest cleric and head of the order, the gratia was elected from among the cardinals. the most honorable position, the one that stood tall and was revered by everyone.


    in order to get that position, blood had to be spilled, and it had to overflow to form a river.


    demus let out a blatant sneer, then muttered to himself.


    ¡°didn¡¯t they say cardinal augustine was the strongest contender?¡±


    ¡°it seems that his standing within the order has taken a major turn for the worse since the battle between elba and torsten last year. would you like me to investigate further?¡±


    ¡°no need. i¡¯ve sort of figured it out.¡±


    it was none of demus¡¯ business to find out the details. he had long since exited the stage they had created. judging by how they were acting friendly toward him now, they¡¯d probably concocted a silly storyline involving an ex-cast member being brought back to the stage¡­


    but that was their business.


    just as he was about to look away, charles continued his report.


    ¡°next, malte sent someone over.¡±

 Chapter 104

    ¡°crazy people.¡±


    charles cleared his throat in response to demus¡¯ frank muttering.


    ¡°they said they didn¡¯t think the letter had gotten through, so they would check on it themselves.¡±


    ¡°if they couldn¡¯t read the letters in my reply, all of the people in that family must have trouble with their eyesight, right?¡±


    demus was sure he had sent the same reply three or four times, and charles was just as puzzled as demus was annoyed.


    ¡°they said lady luzia malte will be visiting in person and asked us to prepare for it.¡±


    ¡°right, so i said no, but it seems they didn¡¯t get it at all.¡±


    twisting his lips, demus glared at the newspaper in annoyance.


    the news of the cardinal¡¯s visit included the names of some of the most prominent nobles that served him. luzia malte, the precious and only child of the malte duchy, was among them.


    ¡°what would they do if she gets shot while walking around fearlessly?¡±


    ¡°the visit of the cardinal this time is under the name of a peace pilgrimage. even if it¡¯s not for the malte¡¯s name, anyone who harms the pilgrims will face a backlash from the order¡¯s members around the world.¡±


    ¡°aha, that must be why they¡¯re so stubborn.¡±


    demus sneered and leaned back. leaning himself deeper into the chair, he pressed his temple.


    ¡°do they think i¡¯m going to open the door for them because i¡¯m afraid of the order?¡±


    ¡°there is a possibility that this is the case.¡±


    for the record, luzia malte was not a stupid woman. as the daughter of a high-ranking noble family, she was highly educated and took great pride in her blood. she was the classic aristocrat who knew how to use people to her advantage and wield power.


    besides, she was a member of the great malte family, one of torsten¡¯s most powerful nobles. nothing had ever gone against her will in her life.


    it was very different from demus¡¯ arbitrary demeanor. unlike him, luzia had a natural arrogance that stemmed from her birth. her choice to come in person this time was also based on that arrogance.


    this meant that the limits of her thinking were clear, but she was likely unaware of them.


    ¡°i don¡¯t know why this one is so foolish when both of them grew up without difficulty.¡±


    ¡°¡­ pardon, sir?¡±


    charles thought about demus¡¯ remark with a puzzled look on his face, and then, a little later, he understood it fully.


    ¡°well, since you mention it, i¡¯ll report to you that i¡¯ve concluded my further investigation of miss rhodes.¡±


    the report charles had put aside to break the urgent news was belatedly placed on demus¡¯ desk.


    ¡°her parents were artisans, whose main clients were aristocrats. she has only one sibling, a younger sister, and no other relatives with whom she is in contact. her childhood was relatively ordinary, and her reputation as a student at clemence boarding school was equivocal. she lost her parents after graduation and started tutoring through connections she made at school. apparently, she moved around a lot for her job. she didn¡¯t have a great reputation at her former workplaces.¡±


    demus raised an eyebrow as he skimmed the report and listened to charles¡¯ voice.


    ¡°that¡¯s unexpected.¡±


    he didn¡¯t see liv rhodes as a woman with a bad reputation.


    ¡°why was her reputation at school equivocal?¡±


    ¡°she might have suffered a bit from gossip. considering that clemence boarding school is co-educational and has a high percentage of aristocrats, i suspect her life there wasn¡¯t always easy.¡±


    demus recalled her face, which had a certain something that evoked a sadistic ego from others. he didn¡¯t think he was the only one who felt this way.


    even if it wasn¡¯t for that, she, objectively speaking, wasn¡¯t a bad-looking person, and she probably did a pretty good job in school, so someone would have taken a liking to her.


    ¡°how about at her previous workplaces?¡±


    ¡°she had a good reputation when she was a short-term tutor. however, she had a bad rating at the two places she worked as a live-in tutor.¡±


    clearing his throat, charles continued his report in a calm tone.


    ¡°in karyn viscounty, she was kicked out for trying to seduce the viscount¡¯s eldest son, and in lucette county, she was fired for her lack of teaching skills. at lucette county, they refused to pay her three months¡¯ salary for her poor performance, and instead charged her for living expenses, which led to further conflict.¡±


    three months of salary. he didn¡¯t know much about it, but he could guess that it was a lot of money for liv. demus looked at the report in disbelief. apparently, the living expenses had been taken care of, but she hadn¡¯t been paid.


    ¡°it seems she¡¯s been struggling to make ends meet for a long time. we can¡¯t rule out the possibility that she¡¯s trying to grab a share by becoming a mistress of a nobleman.¡±

 Chapter 105

    after noticing the unusual interest demus was showing in liv, charles offered to do a more detailed background check on her. he was uneasy that his master, who had never shown much interest in women in his life, was putting so much effort into her.


    naturally, he was suspicious of her since she had such a scandalous past.


    demus could understand charles¡¯ reaction. to the outsider, it would appear that the beginning of this relationship was a one-sided, desperate endeavor on liv¡¯s part.


    ¡°if she was that kind of person, she would have settled in anywhere.¡±


    demus replied casually, putting the report down and rubbing the corner of his eye.


    ¡°at least she¡¯s been behaving herself lately¡­¡±


    when they met in the greenhouse, she subtly rejected him, saying that they couldn¡¯t have sex because she came with coryda.


    he could have forced her down, but he didn¡¯t. it was because he liked the way liv didn¡¯t act like they had become something just because they had sex, or particularly changed. better, she was rational enough to think about her sister in front of him.


    however, that didn¡¯t mean he was going to tolerate coryda¡¯s existence forever.


    still, that should be enough to get her to do what he wanted in any situation.


    ¡°it might be better that way.¡±


    ¡°pardon, sir?¡±


    ¡°an ego that grows tall without difficulty is easily broken at the slightest provocation. i should probably get rid of this nuisance while i¡¯m at it.¡±


    charles looked at demus curiously. instead of explaining it to him, demus tapped a spot on the newspaper with his pen. there, dotted with black ink, was the date of the cardinal¡¯s visit with the pilgrims.


    the newspaper did not mention it in detail, but most likely the advance pilgrims would arrive in buerno first, with the cardinal arriving a few days later along with the rest of the convoy.


    ¡°since the date of their request to visit me precedes this day, it is likely that luzia will be arriving in buerno before the cardinal.¡±


    glancing at the dots of ink, demus ordered charles.


    ¡°book an opera in time for luzia¡¯s visit.¡±


    ¡°¡­ opera, sir?¡±


    incredulity gradually colored charles¡¯ face.


    ¡°if you do that in front of the public¡­ you won¡¯t be able to avoid the rumor spreading within buerno.¡±


    ¡°i was never going to keep it hidden forever, so it doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    even if he didn¡¯t expose liv rhodes¡¯ face, his appearance with a woman would be enough to set the town abuzz. nevertheless, this didn¡¯t bother demus. he was used to being talked about, and unlike in the past, he was no longer in a position to be careful with his behavior.


    ¡°besides, what¡¯s the harm in having a rumor?¡±


    ¡°no, of course not¡­ for you, my lord.¡±


    dismissing charles¡¯ dubious mutterings, demus rolled the pen in his hand over the newspaper. a few drops of ink splashed free, wetting the letters.


    if it were revealed that the woman involved with demus was liv rhodes, liv would probably get a little troubled¡­ but he was sure she would handle it in moderation.


    and if things got so troublesome that she quitted her job as a tutor for the vendons family, that would be even better.


    ¡°oh, and i¡¯d like you to buy some jewelry.¡±


    with nowhere else to turn, she would settle down in his shadow, and he would enjoy his new collection.


    he was generous with his money when it came to precious collectibles, so she would be surely delighted with the result.


    just like the first night they had shared.


    ***


    millian screamed out loud the second she saw liv¡¯s face.


    ¡°aah! teacher, have you seen the list of the pilgrims?¡±


    ¡°all right, all right. everybody has been talking about it.¡±


    liv replied in a light tone.


    she didn¡¯t even have to look for it in the newspaper. everyone on the street was talking about it.


    on her way to work at the vendons estate, liv had heard a few names over and over again from passersby that had left her ears aching, and now those names were threatening to come out of millian¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°it¡¯s malte, the malte! oh, my god!¡±


    ¡°i see that your interest in torsten is still strong.¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s not torsten, but malte! they¡¯re the protagonist of the engagement breakup that shocked the world not too long ago!¡±


    millian, a devotee of romance novels, cupped her cheeks and squealed many times. in her mind, lady malte had long since been honored as a courageous noblewoman who refused to marry for the sake of her passionate love.


    in addition, lady malte was known for being a beautiful woman with honey-colored blond hair. she was probably nowhere lacking to be the heroine of many romance novels.


    ¡°do you remember what i told you before? that teacher camille knows someone who serves the cardinal. well, i heard he¡¯s close friends with lady malte! he¡¯s also on the pilgrims list!¡±


    at this point, camille seemed to have no desire to hide the fact that he was hiding an extraordinary identity. liv smirked and nodded, somehow not surprised by the news.


    ¡°so, would they be staying at the vendons estate this time?¡±

 Chapter 106

    liv had expected millian would say yes right away, but for some reason, millian paused. millian, her brow furrowed and her lips pursed, said in a sullen voice.


    ¡°i don¡¯t think so.¡±


    ¡°really? didn¡¯t you say the cardinal would be staying at the vendons estate?¡±


    ¡°we¡¯ve been informed not to prepare any rooms. ¡­ well, apparently someone in the pilgrimage is acquainted with the marquis of dietrion. we might be able to arrange a meal here, but the accommodation will likely be at the marquis of dietrion¡¯s mansion.¡±


    liv opened her eyes wide.


    ¡°at marquis dietrion¡¯s mansion?¡±


    ¡°yes. it seems like those in high places know each other regardless of nationality.¡±


    seeing that liv was silent at the unexpected comment, millian whispered in her ear, her face full of excitement.


    ¡°so i made a guess, teacher. could it be that the marquis of dietrion is the reason for the breakup of lady malte¡¯s engagement?¡±


    ¡°huh?¡±


    ¡°first, it¡¯s surprising that very marquis dietrion is accepting guests, and it happens to be lady malte who¡¯s recently broken up her engagement! besides, both of them are unmarried! maybe the marquis of dietrion has remained single and unmarried for so long because he has a crush on lady malte, who had a fianc¨¦e! but now, by fate, they¡¯re reunited!¡±


    liv, who had been staring at millian blankly, narrowed her eyes.


    ¡°i wonder what novel you¡¯ve been reading this time?¡±


    ¡°aww, this isn¡¯t a novel! doesn¡¯t it sound so convincing?¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m sorry to burst your bubble, but i don¡¯t think so.¡±


    liv, who had always agreed with millian, disagreed for once.


    millian looked at liv in disappointment, but liv only looked at her textbook with a straight face. eventually, millian pouted her lips and stopped her chattering.


    liv glanced at millian, who quickly turned her attention elsewhere, and lowered her gaze with a subtle expression.


    for some reason, it tasted bitter on the tip of her tongue.


    ¡­


    she ended the class a little early.


    the reason for this was that millian had begged her to finish class early and go for tea in the backyard. normally, she would have been strictly punctual¡­ but liv decided to give in to her wishes.


    as though she was regretting that she hadn¡¯t been able to show her around the backyard before, millian took liv around and showed her the flower beds.


    ¡°oh? teacher camille!¡±


    arriving at the outdoor table where the maids had prepared refreshments, millian and liv ran into baron vendons and camille strolling through the backyard. deep in conversation, they heard millian¡¯s voice and looked over at the same time. liv quickly bowed her head in greeting.


    the two men, who she expected would leave, stopped and exchanged a few words. after a few moments, camille approached the outdoor table with a smiling face. he looked at millian and spoke to her.


    ¡°i was going to go to see you after class, but then i ran into you here, how romantic.¡±


    ¡°me?¡±


    ¡°to be precise, the baron has some business with you.¡±


    baron vendons was standing in the distance, looking this way. it was clear he was waiting for his daughter. millian, who had to leave when she had just sat down, looked back at liv with a pout. camille also looked at liv and asked a question.


    ¡°is the class not over yet?¡±


    millian blinked desperately. whatever was going on, it was clear that she didn¡¯t want to go to her father for now. as much as she pitied her efforts, liv couldn¡¯t risk being on the wrong side of her employer.


    ¡°no, the class is over.¡±


    ¡°that¡¯s good to hear. millian, i think it¡¯d be best not to keep the baron waiting too long.¡±


    ¡°but i¡¯ve prepared the refreshment¡­¡±


    with her shoulders slumped, millian pouted her lips and glanced at the table. there, a specially prepared and delectable strawberry cake was set out, radiantly colored. but millian reluctantly rose to her feet, unable to resist a glance from her father, who stood and waited for her.


    camille, who had stepped aside to let millian pass, asked, smiling broadly.


    ¡°do you mind if i take your seat?¡±


    ¡°sure.¡±


    after answering bluntly, millian approached baron vendons. the distance prevented liv from hearing their conversation. after a brief exchange of words, the father and daughter turned and walked away together.


    watching the scene from her chair, liv started to get up. however, camille, sitting across from her, quickly stopped her.


    ¡°it¡¯s all right. feel free to enjoy the refreshments, i have the baron¡¯s permission.¡±


    ¡°sorry?¡±


    ¡°i¡¯ve told him that i¡¯m interested in you, but it¡¯s hard to get a chance to meet you, and if i do, it¡¯s hard to pass you by.¡±


    liv stopped her movements and blinked. her face went rigid with surprise, and then a deep furrow formed in her forehead.

 Chapter 107

    ¡°¡­ you must be joking, right?¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m serious, though?¡±


    he had always had a carefree demeanor, so she wanted to believe this was a joke as usual. alas, there was no hint of mischief on camille¡¯s face as he flashed liv a cool smile.


    liv, her lips pursed, replied in a tone of disbelief.


    ¡°did you really say that to the baron?¡±


    ¡°yes. i don¡¯t think i¡¯d be able to get a chance like this without the baron¡¯s help.¡±


    so, the reason baron vendons took millian away was so that he could give camille and her some tea time? since when did baron vendons play the matchmaker for tutors?


    liv pressed the corner of her eye. it was so absurd, she couldn¡¯t even be angry.


    ¡°i don¡¯t like this way of approach.¡±


    ¡°oh, baron vendons is only guilty of taking pity on me, so¡ª¡±


    ¡°i have no intention of protesting to the baron. i¡¯m not in a position to do so.¡±


    having cut camille off, liv glanced up to meet his gaze.


    ¡°unlike you, mr. marcel, i¡¯m employed by them, which means i can¡¯t afford to act emotionally.¡±


    unlike camille, who could say whatever and whenever he liked, liv had to choose her words more carefully. sensing the rebuke in liv¡¯s tone, camille arched an eyebrow.


    ¡°i¡¯m also employed like you.¡±


    she couldn¡¯t believe he was still in that repertoire of his.


    liv propped her forehead, remained silent for a moment, and then took a deep breath. the way he was burying his head in the sand was only adding to her exhaustion. she had already been distracted by the marquis¡¯ presence, and the last thing she needed was to be further entangled with someone else.


    ¡°i have no idea what brought you to the vendons, or why you keep approaching me, and i don¡¯t want to know. all i know is that i don¡¯t think our lives will ever overlap, so i¡¯d like us to go our separate ways.¡±


    camille swallowed hard as he listened to liv with a friendly smile.


    ¡°erm, i¡­ must have been so suspicious.¡±


    ¡°isn¡¯t it odder to think you¡¯re not suspicious? i¡¯m not an idiot.¡±


    even if she tried to pretend that whatever he was hiding had nothing to do with her, she couldn¡¯t do that when he had gone this far to approach her.


    camille stared at liv¡¯s stony face for a moment, then made a bitter face. with his brow furrowed, he grunted in distress, and then he sighed in frustration.


    ¡°actually, ¡°marcel¡± is my mother¡¯s last name.¡±


    no, she wasn¡¯t telling him to expose his identity.


    before liv could interrupt him, camille was the first to speak up.


    ¡°my father¡¯s last name is ¡°eleanor¡±.¡±


    liv, who was about to say she didn¡¯t want to hear it, gulped and shut her lips.


    eleanor was one of the prestigious noble families of beren. they had served the king for generations, and were rumored to still be in power in the capital. in addition to politics, they were said to be notable in commerce and art.


    ¡°don¡¯t tell me that count eleanor is your¡­¡±


    ¡°that¡¯s my oldest brother. for reference, it¡¯s my second brother who manages the business. my third brother is on his way to the priesthood. the fourth son, me, is nothing. i¡¯m just studying art a little bit, but i still help out around the house every now and then.¡±


    throwing up his hands and rambling on, camille bit his lip and sighed again.


    ¡°i apologize for not telling you this from the beginning. it¡¯s a bit of a long story to tell, and there¡¯s¡ª¡±


    ¡°i don¡¯t think this is something you should be telling me right now either.¡±


    liv interrupted him, her tone even more stern than before. her face was now filled with discomfort.


    ¡°oh, you¡¯re really difficult.¡±


    realizing that the distance between him and liv had increased by multiples, camille sighed and ran his hands over his face.


    ¡°everyone always shows an exaggerated reaction when i reveal my family name. i don¡¯t like that, so i use my mother¡¯s last name when i¡¯m out in public, but it¡¯s a sad thing to know that¡­ eleanor has no power in this situation.¡±


    liv wondered if he was asking her to bow to the authority of his family.


    the bitter thought washed over her, but liv didn¡¯t show it and remained silent. camille then proceeded to rant more desperately.


    ¡°the reason i came to buerno, actually, is because of the marquis of dietrion. he seems to have a pretty good backing, and my family is worried that he might be a spy for another country. sure, he¡¯s not the typical spy, but¡­ if someone like that popped up out of nowhere, wouldn¡¯t it look suspicious?¡±

 Chapter 108

    by all means, liv hadn¡¯t meant to hear this from him.


    ¡°i don¡¯t want to hear it anymore. i mean, why did you tell me this? what will you do if i go around and talk about this?¡±


    liv, her face was pale white, eventually spoke back to him in a scolding tone.


    ¡°you said you don¡¯t want to expose both your identity and job, didn¡¯t you? it¡¯s careless of you to say it out in the heat of the moment.¡±


    ¡°anyone can find out my identity through a little investigation, and for the marquis¡­ it doesn¡¯t have to be me, anyone would have been checking his background. this is not something to talk about openly, but it¡¯s also nothing to hide.¡±


    liv¡¯s jaw dropped as she listened to camille¡¯s shameless statement. was it really okay to proudly open up that he had been snooping on someone?


    ¡°even so, why would you¡­¡±


    ¡°i¡¯ve told you before that i¡¯m interested in you. and it has nothing to do with my job.¡±


    as though he felt better after letting everything out, camille had found back his carefree smile.


    ¡°i felt like i would never get close to you if i didn¡¯t tell you this. and i don¡¯t want you to keep seeing me as a suspicious person.¡±


    ¡°have you ever had the thought that i might be even more distant from you after hearing that?¡±


    ¡°your question made me regret it a bit, but¡­ it can¡¯t be helped. it¡¯s better than lying, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    liv was speechless for a moment. it might have sounded more persuasive if he said he wanted to sleep with her once, but what he was saying now didn¡¯t sound like he meant it that way.


    even so, it didn¡¯t sound romantic to her. rather, it made her disturbed. they had only been running into each other and sharing a conversation a few times. moreover, this suspicious approach from camille hadn¡¯t been started recently.


    ¡°i really can¡¯t understand. you¡¯ve been friendly to me since the first day we met, mr. marcel. are you telling me that you did it without any ulterior motives?¡±


    ¡°ah¡­¡±


    this time, liv¡¯s point left camille speechless. scratching his forehead and looking perplexed, he replied in a dejected voice.


    ¡°yes, i will let you know about it. at that time, i thought you might have some connection with the marquis.¡±


    ¡°me and the marquis?¡±


    ¡°to be precise¡­ i was skeptical that the marquis of dietrion¡¯s visit to the vendons estate was truly due to his relationship with the baron couple. therefore, i tried to keep a close eye on everyone who was present when the marquis visited the estate.¡±


    liv remembered her first meeting with the marquis. when they had stumbled upon each other due to a mistake of a servant.


    that led her to recall that the buyer of the nude painting she was working on at the time was the marquis. there was already a connection between her and the marquis without her realizing it. of course, the marquis wouldn¡¯t have known that liv was the model for the painting, but¡­


    he wouldn¡¯t, would he?


    he must have learned liv¡¯s identity after receiving the nude painting with her side profile depicted. since he recognized her from the painting, he would have acted as if he knew her in the chapel. if not for that nude painting, that great man would never have recognized her.


    ¡°that¡¯s such an¡­ absurd speculation.¡±


    ¡°well, there was no lead at all. but in particular, i found it was a bit interesting that your movements strangely overlapped with the marquis¡¯.¡±


    liv thought of the little chapel she used to attend. she had never imagined it then, but now she knew. the marquis had shown up at the chapel to see her.


    ¡°so, have you solved that suspicion?¡±


    ¡°the marquis really visited the vendons estate for an art deal. he¡¯s a very picky man, and apparently must have what he sets his eyes on. normally, he buys works of art through the director of the royven gallery, but the one the baron had purchased was through a different source.¡±


    it appeared that the only reason camille was so friendly with baron vendons was to find out about his relationship with the marquis. and it turned out that he had been barking up the wrong tree.


    ¡°do you think it has nothing to do with me?¡±


    ¡°if you¡¯re making fun of me, i¡¯m really sorry, but let me tell you this. i¡¯ve figured out that he¡¯s resolutely avoiding women.¡±


    ¡°resolutely¡­¡±


    liv lowered her gaze, mulling over camille¡¯s answer. she felt like camille and she were talking about a different person. the more the distinction grew, liv, strangely enough, felt the closer she was to the marquis.


    though the marquis did not show the slightest consideration for her, who was new to the world of sex, and often rubbed her the wrong way with his sarcastic remarks.

 Chapter 109

    regardless, liv was quite close to that person. she had shared intimate kisses with him, gotten on his bed, and accepted his help. only them and the marquis¡¯ subordinates knew about their relationship.


    even so, she didn¡¯t think it was bad. this secretive intimacy with him was more tolerable than she thought it would be.


    this much is okay.


    she was shocked to find that she felt good about it, even though she couldn¡¯t show it off to anyone. she also felt a sneaky sense of superiority. even camille, who had been eagerly prying around, didn¡¯t know the marquis that liv knew.


    having no idea of what was going in liv¡¯s head, camille muttered to himself.


    ¡°the marquis seems to have an abnormal sexual preference since he has a morbid fondness for nude paintings.¡±


    liv¡¯s expression hardened at the mention of nude paintings. as though he  had interpreted that reaction in his own way, camille quickly added.


    ¡°this is not a false rumor, it¡¯s factual information i got from the director of the royven gallery.¡±


    ¡°oh, i see.¡±


    liv nodded awkwardly and fiddled with her teacup for no reason. liv¡¯s face was reflected on the tea she hadn¡¯t sipped at all.


    so, apparently, he wasn¡¯t just an art collector, but had an unusual hobby of collecting artworks of nudes. so, he bought brad¡¯s¡­


    liv, having thought that far, suddenly wondered a question that had never crossed her mind before.


    brad said his other nude paintings are all sold. then, the one who bought all of those is¡­


    thinking about it, brad was a painter who hadn¡¯t even debuted, so the route for him to sell his works would have been tricky. brad didn¡¯t only draw nude paintings, and she had never heard of him selling his other paintings. in this buerno city, except the marquis of dietrion, who would buy brad¡¯s nude paintings?


    ¡­ if all the other paintings i¡¯ve modeled for are with the marquis¡­


    what if he had known her from way back?


    she knew it was a ridiculous imagination, but this imagination didn¡¯t leave her mind.


    even if he has the other paintings, there¡¯s no way he would recognize me because they¡¯re all my back view.


    besides, her hair color wasn¡¯t unique, so it would not have been possible to identify the model.


    ¡°anyway, the more i talk to you, the more i feel like i¡¯m losing my brownie points¡­ but i¡¯ve been honest with you, so please take that into account.¡±


    camille whined, and liv gave him a curt nod before taking a sip of the cold tea. while camille in front of her was eager to smooth things over, liv had her mind busy about the marquis.


    ***


    liv, distracted by the unexpected conversation with camille, left the vendons estate looking like she was possessed by something.


    she couldn¡¯t believe that camille was the youngest child of the eleanor family who had been hiding his identity.


    it all happened in the span of just a few months. her normal life was entangled with some extraordinary people she thought she¡¯d never have to deal with.


    liv was not particularly curious about the political agendas of these great noblemen. she knew that it was best for a powerless commoner like herself to stay out of such matters. thus, she had to keep camille in the dark about the secret affair between her and the marquis.


    no, not only camille, but anyone.


    it was obvious how massive the impact of getting into the marquis¡¯ bed and having his attention would cause. the mere mention of her name alongside the marquis would disrupt her life. it was a problem for her, but for coryda¡¯s sake, she had to keep her life quiet and peaceful.


    ¡°miss liv?¡±


    liv, who had been walking in deep thought, looked up. across from her, a man in a dark brown cloak greeted her with a welcoming smile. liv immediately recognized him.


    ¡°oh, bethel.¡±


    he was bethel, a volunteer at the small chapel liv used to attend. they hadn¡¯t seen each other since she stopped visiting the chapel, so it had been quite a while.


    ¡°wow, i didn¡¯t expect to see you here! that reminds me, did you say you work for the vendons barony?¡±


    bethel coolly offered his hand and looked in the direction liv had just come from.


    ¡°yes, you¡¯re right. it¡¯s been a long time, bethel.¡±


    ¡°it really has! why haven¡¯t you been to the chapel since then? you didn¡¯t move to another chapel, did you?¡±


    ¡°ah¡­ i had to move suddenly, and the distance to the chapel became too far.¡±


    liv wondered if she should have stopped by the chapel and told him about it no matter how rushed the move was.


    at the time, she didn¡¯t have time to think about anything else, and later, in the hustle and bustle of life, she didn¡¯t think about the people she knew in her old neighborhood.


    feeling a little guilty, liv smiled awkwardly. rita, her neighbor, would probably feel sad about liv and coryda¡¯s sudden move.

 Chapter 110

    the contract with pommel had been settled in writing with adolf¡¯s help. therefore, there was no need for her to visit that neighborhood again, but she felt bad for rita for cutting off contact so abruptly.


    ¡°oh, goodness. i see. it¡¯s sad that we lost a faithful believer. is coryda okay?¡±


    ¡°yes, she is. she¡¯s getting better.¡±


    ¡°you probably go to a different chapel now, but please stop by from time to time, even if it¡¯s far away. the chapel is empty because you¡¯re not coming, miss liv.¡±


    liv could only offer a vague smile, for she couldn¡¯t say she had stopped visiting the chapel lately.


    she hadn¡¯t been praying much in recent days, let alone going to chapel. the funny thing was, she had a much more stable and good life than when she was praying diligently.


    ¡°are you still looking for god in the chapel?¡±


    it is humans who have the power to achieve something. that statement was true.


    it was the marquis who made things happen for her.


    ¡°i remember there were a lot of believers the last time i was there.¡±


    liv calmly changed the subject. bethel laughed hollowly at her words.


    ¡°haha, we did have such a moment, but it quickly died down again. turns out, there was a rumor going around that the marquis of dietrion was attending the chapel! amazing, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°¡­ it is.¡±


    she wondered how it was possible that his name popped up in her everyday life.


    liv realized that he had woven himself into every aspect of her life. it was incredible how no matter who she talked to, the marquis would eventually come up at the end, or how she would be reminded of him.


    ¡°it was marquis dietrion! why would such a person come to our chapel? he has the power to speak to the priest in charge of the largest chapel in buerno.¡±


    bethel shook his head as if he had heard a stupid joke. he shrugged his shoulders and said he wished he could see the beautiful face of the man who was said to be the sole recipient of the god¡¯s blessings. his voice was full of sincerity.


    liv, who had been listening to him, tilted her head.


    ¡°¡­ have you never seen that person even once, bethel?¡±


    ¡°yes. there¡¯s no way i would have forgotten if i had!¡±


    however, liv had seen the marquis several times in the chapel. did this mean that a man as conspicuous as the marquis was secretly visiting the chapel out of the public eye to meet her?


    she had guessed his purpose for coming to the chapel, but she hadn¡¯t expected him to come and go so stealthily that bethel, who was practically a permanent resident of the chapel, would never know. liv was about to ask bethel something more but stopped herself when she spotted the carriage behind him.


    a black carriage. it was a common carriage, but it was no longer common to her eyes. she recognized it at a glance.


    ¡°i¡¯ve got a schedule, so i¡¯ll leave now.¡±


    liv smiled and said goodbye. bethel nodded in return.


    ¡°yes. and you should come to the chapel!¡±


    liv smiled, then approached the carriage with a brisk walk. she gave the coachman a glance and climbed into the carriage calmly.


    it was her first time being called on the day she had to teach at the vendons estate, but she wasn¡¯t troubled by it. on the contrary, she was excited by the call.


    this would be the first extra work since the encounter with the marquis at the greenhouse last time. that day, per liv¡¯s request for him to consider coryda, who had come with her, the marquis had done nothing more than kiss her. but today it would surely be different.


    leaning back against the carriage¡¯s padded chair, liv let out a long breath. then it dawned on her.


    she was waiting for this extra work.


    ***


    she thought she had gotten used to this mansion by now.


    however, liv, sitting on her seat, stealthily looked around. she, who thought she would naturally undress as soon as she arrived, was ushered into the dining room.


    ¡°you haven¡¯t eaten yet, have you?¡±


    seated at the head table, the marquis greeted her as casually as if they had made a prior arrangement. the food seemed to have been prepared in time for liv¡¯s arrival, for as soon as she was seated, the table was laid with appetizing dishes.


    ¡°we¡¯ve got some good quality veal.¡±


    philip explained, setting the plates. in the center of the large table was a golden brown piece of veal. a servant cut it and placed it on the marquis and liv¡¯s plates, then quietly withdrew. philip also left, following the other servants.


    ¡°you may dine.¡±


    liv followed the marquis and hesitantly picked up her cutlery. however, her confusion remained as she sliced the meat in front of her. the marquis must have noticed her state of mind, and he spoke to her in a flat voice.


    ¡°do you not have the leisure to dine?¡±


    ¡°rather than that, i¡¯m¡­¡±

 Chapter 111

    ¡°i thought you were done with your class today, or maybe you have another appointment?¡±


    the marquis, slicing the meat with an elegant posture, glanced up and saw liv.


    ¡°is it with the guy you had an intimate conversation with on the street?¡±


    liv wondered if the coachman, who had seen her talking to bethel, had passed the word along. if so, it was a quick report.


    liv shook her head quickly at the marquis¡¯ unexpected question.


    ¡°bethel is a priest in training at the chapel i used to attend. he doesn¡¯t spend time with the believers in private.¡±


    in addition, those who sought the path of the priesthood were pure people who served only god. however, despite liv¡¯s adamant words, the marquis scoffed as if dismissing it.


    ¡°pleasure and priesthood are two distinct things.¡±


    every priest and devout believer would have exploded and reported him to the order¡¯s headquarter if they had heard his statement. even liv, who wasn¡¯t very religious, found it to be irreverent. staring at the marquis in disbelief, liv shook her head and looked away.


    ¡°my lord, i¡¯m well aware of your piousness, so you don¡¯t need to remind me.¡±


    liv added defensively, cutting the meat into small pieces.


    ¡°i haven¡¯t been going to chapel since i moved. i ran into him, and we just said hi. there¡¯s no appointment, and right now i¡¯m just a little surprised because i didn¡¯t expect you to call me today.¡±


    in truth, she didn¡¯t need to explain so much about his conversation with bethel. however, the way the marquis used the phrase ¡°intimate conversation¡± bothered her. it made her feel uncomfortable, as though she looked like a woman who would get intimate with any man.


    that was it. she didn¡¯t want to get falsely misunderstood.


    as she rationalized, liv glanced up at the marquis. he was sipping his wine with a calm expression on his face as if he didn¡¯t care about her words at all.


    bethel said that the marquis was a man who could speak to a priest of high rank whenever he wished. however, he was not religious enough to converse with a priest. nevertheless, he and liv had crossed paths in the chapel several times.


    ¡°you even visited that chapel, my lord. do you remember?¡±


    ¡°i do.¡±


    the marquis nodded in affirmation. liv, who had been watching the marquis for a while, idly nudged the meat with the tip of her fork.


    ¡°bethel said he had never seen you in the chapel.¡±


    he was the kind of man who attracted everyone¡¯s attention just by standing there quietly. such a man had come to the chapel several times, hiding his identity.


    ¡°how is that possible?¡±


    ¡°why not?¡±


    the marquis asked back in a questioning voice.


    ¡°it¡¯s not hard to trick people¡¯s eyes. i don¡¯t like to leave traces. there¡¯s a lot of people out there who will chase even after the smallest crumb.¡±


    indeed, she could picture that it was likely the case. he didn¡¯t seem to like having people around him and seemed to hate anyone acting close to him. naturally, the whole process of concealing his identity and visiting the chapel must have been annoying to the marquis.


    could that mean she was special enough for him to tolerate the annoyance?


    liv subconsciously gripped her fork and knife tighter. she slowly parted her lips, praying that her face was nonchalant.


    ¡°are there many people doing background checks on you, my lord?¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s an interesting issue, after all.¡±


    he readily affirmed.


    ¡°it must have looked appetizing.¡±


    liv thought of camille. camille had said the marquis avoided women resolutely, but he had liv by his side. if camille continued to keep an eye on the marquis, he might eventually find his connection to liv. besides, camille was interested in liv.


    if the marquis were to have a troublesome label attached to him through liv, would he still consider her special? it was indeed true that he treated her differently, but the way he visited the chapel so discreetly must mean that he didn¡¯t want anyone to know about his encounter with her.


    in fact, liv suspected that the marquis was somewhat aware of camille¡¯s presence. his dislike of having people on his tail meant that he was vigilant enough to prevent such annoyances from happening. still, liv was worried about this relationship, which was developing somewhat carelessly.


    to be precise¡­ she was afraid that she would be a nuisance to the marquis.


    ¡°what will you do if¡­ there¡¯s someone who¡¯s been checking your background in buerno?¡±


    the cutlery, which had been moving smoothly, came to a stop. putting down his cutlery silently, the marquis leaned back a little and touched his wine glass. he then asked indifferently, as usual.


    ¡°who?¡±


    his concise question was so soft that liv almost spat out camille¡¯s name. luckily, she still had a shred of reason left in her. parting her lips, liv swallowed back camille¡¯s name and instead warned the marquis in a roundabout way.


    ¡°i happened to hear a talk about how our paths overlapped. i wonder if we should be a little more care¡ª¡±


    ¡°about what?¡±


    the marquis¡¯ sneering voice interrupted liv¡¯s measured words.


    ¡°our affairs?¡±

 Chapter 112

    liv¡¯s eyes widened. the frankness of the phrase ¡°our affairs¡± somehow tickled her ears. liv ran her tongue across her lips and coughed for no reason.


    ¡°cardinal calliope and his pilgrimage will be visiting soon. the last thing you need is for strange rumors to start.¡±


    perhaps the marquis was displeased with liv¡¯s narrowly spot on remarks. he furrowed his brows.


    ¡°speak clearly about your means.¡±


    ¡°i heard that you¡¯ll be welcoming the guests that will soon arrive in buerno, my lord.¡±


    liv¡¯s reply led the marquis¡¯ lips to twist. he looked to be completely annoyed now.


    ¡°who said that? the one who does a background check on me?¡±


    ¡°no, i heard it by chance when i was teaching at the vendons estate.¡±


    ¡°aha, the vendons.¡±


    the marquis, who said ¡°the vendons¡± with an irritated tone, clicked his tongue. irritation was evident in his furrowed brows. liv only lowered her gaze as the atmosphere turned cold in an instant. judging by his reaction, it was unlikely that the marquis would be hosting the cardinal and his pilgrims.


    however, millian clearly said that he knew someone in the pilgrimage. was this also false like the other rumors about the marquis? but if it was truly false, they wouldn¡¯t have told baron vendons to not prepare their accommodations.


    millian¡¯s story, which she had tried so hard to ignore, came back to mind. lady malte¡¯s breakup of the century, and the dashing, unmarried marquis.


    her curiosity swelled up at once.


    ¡°i was told that there¡¯s someone on the pilgrimage who knows you.¡±


    the marquis showed an immediate response at liv¡¯s words.


    ¡°who that may be?¡±


    liv could tell instinctively from his response that millian¡¯s story was true.


    otherwise, the marquis would have cut her off at once, saying no, instead of asking who.


    ah, he really knows someone.


    ¡°i don¡¯t know who exactly¡­¡±


    there were many nobles in the pilgrimage, and millian¡¯s imagination was close to a stretch. nevertheless, liv felt her heart dropped just from finding out a little possibility. liv bit her lip hard, feeling her reaction to be strange.


    she wanted to act nonchalant, but she felt the muscles of her eyes keep contracting. she couldn¡¯t deny that she was curious about the marquis and lady malte¡¯s relationship if he really knew her.


    feeling bloated as if she had finished the food she didn¡¯t even eat, liv thought of drinking the wine when the marquis asked in a cold voice.


    ¡°who do you think it could be, teacher?¡±


    ¡°well, maybe lady malte¡­¡±


    she answered whatever came to mind as she was half lost in her thoughts, but then suddenly she heard some noises. surprised, liv looked up and saw the marquis put down his cutlery.


    ¡°i was trying to get you to eat because your stamina is so poor.¡±


    having taken a sip of his wine and wiped his lips, he muttered to himself. the marquis, who dropped the napkin next to the table, got up gracefully and walked over to liv.


    liv, looking puzzled, opened her lips to say something. however, she couldn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°mmph¡­!¡±


    a hot tongue invaded through her parted lips. it had a strong scent of wine mixed on it. the tongue, which entered deep from the get go, swirled across her mouth in a somewhat rough movement.


    it was impossible for her to move away. first, there was the backrest behind her so she couldn¡¯t pull herself back, and her nape was held in place so she couldn¡¯t move her head.


    the wet kiss went on for a while. it wasn¡¯t until she was out of breath that the marquis let go of liv.


    liv took a breath as soon as his lips left hers and lifted up her fluttering eyelashes. she could see such a subtle arousal in the blue eyes of the man in front of her.


    ¡°why did you suddenly¡­?¡±


    a sudden kiss at the dining table instead of going on with their conversation. that was really out of the sequence.


    as liv stared at the marquis with a quizzical look, he pressed on her lower lip with his thumb and said.


    ¡°because you said something cute.¡±


    what does it mean?


    she had heard the answer, but she still couldn¡¯t understand. perhaps he found liv who stared at him with a blank face to be funny, the marquis closed his eyes and drew a smile.


    ¡°don¡¯t worry. i have no plan to let in other guests in the place i fooled around with you.¡±


    hearing that, liv¡¯s face turned pale, but then soon flushed bright red.


    ¡°i-i didn¡¯t ask in that sense¡­!¡±

 Chapter 113

    ¡°i can see how the rumor got started, but they will not be staying at my mansion.¡±


    puckering her lips, liv frowned and averted her gaze. she had tried to turn her head along, but all she could do was barely avoid his gaze because the marquis had a firm grip on the nape of her neck.


    ¡°does my answer satisfy you?¡±


    ¡°¡­ i have nothing to do with your decision in accepting guests. it¡¯s for you to do as you please, my lord.¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m just asking if my answer met your personal and private satisfaction.¡±


    it was a soft yet persistent question. the thumb, which had been taking its time in rubbing her lower lip, slowly moved to sweep under her chin and around her neck.


    ¡°huh?¡±


    liv swallowed dryly. whenever she breathed through her slightly open lips, the marquis would pressed hard on her throat. could this be how the victor looks like after a successful hunt, holding the most beautiful trophy?


    liv, trembling, finally confessed sincerely.


    ¡°i¡¯m satisfied, my lord.¡±


    the sight of liv, breathing heavily with rosy cheeks, was like a freshly captured deer to the hunter. she must have looked ridiculous. even though she was well aware of it, liv couldn¡¯t control her wild breath. and on high probability¡­ the marquis seemed to be quite pleased with her disheveled appearance.


    ¡°then now it¡¯s my turn to enjoy the satisfaction.¡±


    the marquis tilted his head at an angle again. unlike the first one, where he came to her aggressively, this was a peaceful, sweet movement.


    ¡°let¡¯s see if you learned well last time.¡±


    ¡­


    the soft tablecloth under her back was crumpled and disheveled carelessly.


    the hard table didn¡¯t creak at all despite the violent movements. it was just as the tablecloth moved, the cutleries on top of it lost their original position. at the end, a few pieces of the cutlery fell on the floor with loud noises.


    clang!


    no one glanced at the source of the noises despite its loudness. more accurately, the marquis was not interested in it, and liv couldn¡¯t afford to care.


    ¡°gasp!¡±


    she had experienced it once, but she felt like coming back to the first time. the thick mass that thrust deep inside her was tortuous, like an ordeal she had never experienced before, and each thrust sent a tingling sensation down her spine like an electric shock.


    liv wondered if the first sex was also like this. she had no idea why this felt so unfamiliar.


    maybe it was because of the different locations. at that time, they did it on a normal, functioning bed.


    ¡°hht, htt!¡±


    ¡°you don¡¯t get better at all.¡±


    the man¡¯s muttering cut through the wet sound of friction. he only removed his gloves again this time. liv was completely different from him.


    even though there were only two of them, the location was a wide dining room, and the place she lay down was the dining table. liv had never imagined there would be a day when she lay down on a table, stark naked, and cried out in pleasure in the dining room.


    but it was too late for her to feel ashamed. her mind was foggy from the ceaseless stimulation, and she was too busy crying from the strange pleasure that came with the pain.


    ¡°huff.¡±


    ¡°ahh¡­¡±


    the man, who took place between the widely spread legs, rocked his hips up hard. she reflexively curled up from the force, and her spine crashed into the hard tabletop, leaving her numb.


    aside from the embarrassment of committing a lewd act in a dining room, it was hard for her to lie down comfortably. this was made worse by the fact that there was no mercy shown by the marquis¡¯ penis, which was pounding her from below. the searing heat increasingly numbed her lower half, and her legs fluttered in the air like sheets of paper. her underwear, which hung down to her calf, fluttered along. it was all too plain to see, adding to her shame and sense of immorality.


    ¡°aht!¡±


    liv arched her back at the sensation of something rigid poked hard deep inside her. unlike the marquis, who hadn¡¯t ejaculated even once, liv had already drunk in pleasure several times. she fumbled around, clutching the marquis¡¯ clothes pitifully, making every effort to escape this pleasure at all costs.


    her efforts were futile.


    ¡°you¡¯ll have to do your best in reviewing.¡±


    the marquis whispered, as if making fun of her, and she wanted to retort, but the only thing she could let out was gasp for air.


    the wet friction continued at increasingly rapid intervals. with each quickening thrust, the fabric of his pants brushed roughly against her damp flesh. the monstrous rod dug its way instead and only stopped when it poked the deepest of her inside.


    ¡°ggrh.¡±


    she felt something explode in her lower belly. goosebumps rose over her sweaty skin. while his penis spurted semen against her inner walls over and over again, the marquis collected his breath, bracing his upper body with his arms. sweat glistened on his forehead, which was covered with his disheveled platinum hair.


    the corners of the marquis¡¯ eyes were subtly red as he furrowed his head. liv, who was under him, looked up at his face as if entranced. as before, and as now, the marquis was unruffled throughout their sex, but when he reached climax, he exuded an unrestrained arousal.


    liv unconsciously tightened her grip on his penis. the moment her throbbing vagina tightened around the root of his penis, the marquis¡¯ gaze, which had been blurred by pleasure, returned to clarity.

 Chapter 114

    his penis stayed in place even after he finished ejaculating. far from getting soft at the end of his climax, it was still cramming hard against her inner walls. liv, staring at the marquis¡¯ face, groped for her belly. it felt firm beneath her sticky skin.


    the marquis narrowed his eyes as he noticed her movements. he moved his hand, which had been propping him, to touch liv¡¯s chin and lips, then slowly parted his lips.


    ¡°i wonder how lady malte¡¯s name came out of this mouth?¡±


    the raspy voice was still laced with a note of climax from a moment ago. the slightly subdued voice, the penis that hadn¡¯t been pulled out, and the red tint that remained around the man¡¯s eyes. it all added to liv¡¯s arousal. as a result, she kept tightening her inner walls without realizing it.


    whenever she did that, his penis gradually became even more taut. it wasn¡¯t an illusion.


    ¡°answer.¡±


    the marquis pushed his thumb in through her lips as he demanded for her answer in a low voice. liv shrunk slightly at the touch of flesh on her tongue and quickly spoke up.


    ¡°i-i only said what millian¡ª nngh.¡±


    liv couldn¡¯t finish her words and let out a moan. this was due to his penis, which hadn¡¯t shrunk at all, slowly retracting.


    his penis, which she thought would leave her just like that, grazed her with its tip and then plunged back in deeply in one swift motion.


    slam!


    ¡°gasp!¡±


    ¡°aren¡¯t you believing the unverified word of your student too easily?¡±


    unlike his cold voice, the marquis¡¯ lower half was burning hot.


    ¡°i¡¯m, i¡¯m not believing it!¡±


    ¡°and to top it off, you hang out with someone who does background checks on others. i think you¡¯ve already passed the age to know who you should be friends with.¡±


    ¡°i mean, that¡¯s¡­ aahh! aht!¡±


    his penis struck her inner walls as if punishing her. hot sweat trickled down her forehead and into the corner of her eye.


    liv squinted at the stinging sensation and let out a sob-like moan. the marquis stroked the corner of her eye, wiping off the sweat.


    as steady as his touch was, his thrusts were heavy and slow.


    ¡°you know, teacher. you said you¡¯ll accept what i give you as it is, but it seems like you¡¯ve taken a pretty active interest in it.¡±


    a strong forearm slipped behind liv¡¯s weakened waist. wrapping his arms around her waist and bracing her back, the marquis lifted liv¡¯s upper body smoothly.


    her limp body was lifted in a flash, and liv was thrown into the marquis, her ass resting on the table. his cock was still penetrating her, obviously.


    ¡°¡­ you¡¯ve been picking up a lot of things.¡±


    the marquis muttered as though he found it to be funny and then clasped liv¡¯s bottom. liv, who had been leaning into him weakly, was surprised by the motion and clung to him for dear life. the marquis then lifted her up as if he had been waiting for it. liv gasped and strained her arms as her body floated.


    ¡°nnnh!¡±


    she tensed up from the unstable position. naturally, her lower belly also contracted, and she could feel the presence of his penis clearly. it was an incredibly deep penetration.


    ¡°wa-wait. i will fall!¡±


    ¡°i won¡¯t let go of what i got my hands on.¡±


    perhaps the way liv clinging so desperately to him was silly, the marquis soothed her in a very kind voice.


    ¡°if i do, it¡¯s probably because i already get bored.¡±


    beads of sweat trickled down liv¡¯s back. the marquis, holding liv¡¯s slippery body securely, muttered with a long sigh.


    ¡°but it¡¯s only my second time fucking you.¡±


    the marquis¡¯ breath brushed against liv¡¯s nape, where her sweaty hair was tangled.


    ¡°it¡¯s too early to get bored of you.¡±


    his hips began a slow, upward motion from the bottom. liv¡¯s mind flickered into a daze.


    ***


    nothing got better just because it was the second time.


    if anything, her body creaked with soreness and stiffness worse than the first time. it was probably because they did it at the table. in addition, the unstable position when she clung to him¡­


    for liv, who had only ever imagined sex as something to be done only in bed, it was a shocking experience. the sensations that altered with each position also freaked her out.


    later on, she had to accept him while standing on one leg because he was holding the other. she trembled so much as she had to endure it while standing on her toes due to the height difference between them.


    her calves and thighs were aching, causing liv to sit down and massage herself between chores. it was a muscle ache that would heal with time, but it made the marquis¡¯ words echo in her head.


    ¡°i doubt i¡¯ll be able to give you this much time to recover next time.¡±


    he clearly said that.

 Chapter 115

    of course, he might have already forgotten about it because he said it in passing, and he had already¡­ satisfied his desire to the fullest, so he might not call her for a while.


    we don¡¯t know what the future holds, though.


    she just had a feeling about it.


    for better or worse, liv¡¯s hunch was correct, and she had to face the carriage that came to pick her up two days later. the aftermath was even worse than the second sex, as she had to accept the marquis again while she was still recovering from her sore muscles.


    the problem was that the carriage came again three days later. after that, the cycle of her extra work became more frequent.


    the marquis didn¡¯t hold back; he reached out when he wanted to, and promptly ducked his head. liv herself didn¡¯t turn him down, so it didn¡¯t take long for the arrangement of the extra work to change. liv, who had thought there could be a day they wouldn¡¯t do it, naturally considered the probability of sleeping with the marquis whenever she was called to the mansion after a few weeks.


    aside from that, though, those days were physically demanding.


    ¡°you don¡¯t look good, miss rhodes.¡±


    liv, who had been entrusting her weakened body to her muscle memory, looked up at once. making eye contact with philip, who was looking at her with concern, liv felt her face flush for no reason. it wasn¡¯t like he could see into her head, though.


    today, she visited the verworth manor.


    however, the reason for her visit this time was not for the extra work, but coryda¡¯s treatment. coryda¡¯s treatment was proceeding so smoothly, and they had switched her medication accordingly. thierry said that the rapid progress in coryda¡¯s treatment was due to the fact that she had been taking good care of her physical fitness.


    encouraged by thierry¡¯s praise, coryda was quite committed to her recovery. as usual, she actively followed her treatments and then headed to the study with adolf. she also told liv in advance that she was going to be in the study for at least three hours as if she had already made an appointment.


    according to adolf, he was going to introduce coryda to a good reading friend. liv had no reason to object, and thus she was forced to wait for coryda again today. then, as if knowing her situation, the marquis summoned her through philip.


    ¡°dr. gertrude hasn¡¯t left the mansion yet. would you like to see her?¡±


    ¡°no, it¡¯s fine.¡±


    liv, her face reddened, waved her hands urgently.


    ¡°you don¡¯t have to force yourself to heed master¡¯s call. i will tell him that you¡¯re not feeling well.¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m really fine. i guess¡­ i just didn¡¯t get enough sleep.¡±


    she couldn¡¯t tell him that she was lacking stamina from sleeping with his master.


    ¡°goodness.¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m truly fine. it¡¯s not a big deal.¡±


    seeing how liv refused the offer to get examined, philip didn¡¯t offer any more suggestions. instead, he changed the subject with a cheerful voice.


    ¡°the area around the hunting grounds is good for horseback riding. the flowers are in bloom now, so it¡¯s also a nice place for sightseeing.¡±


    ¡°i see.¡±


    hearing the mention of horseback riding, she naturally thought of the one time she followed to the hunting ground.


    she wondered if the marquis was going to hunt today. not that it matters, but she was a bit uneasy about getting on the horse. her back was sore, her thighs were sore, and most of all, her groin was uncomfortable.


    she was not a good rider, and she would likely fall off a horse in this condition. predicting the situation, liv was determined to tell the marquis about her condition.


    however, she did not have to step forward. philip had been the first to tell the marquis that liv was unwell. he told it vaguely, but the marquis immediately ordered the servants to call off the preparations for the ride. afterward, he walked ahead, suggesting that they tour the greenhouse.


    ¡°my lord. is it okay if we don¡¯t go horseback riding?¡±


    liv, watching the marquis¡¯ back, was the first to speak. her question made the marquis half-turn his head to look at her.


    ¡°you said you¡¯re unwell.¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m not unwell, but¡­¡±


    liv, hesitating, dropped her gaze.


    ¡°were you planning to go hunting?¡±


    ¡°i was hoping to improve your poor stamina. there are many places to ride around the manor outside of hunting.¡±


    the marquis seemed to have guessed the reason for liv¡¯s unwell state. liv coughed, feeling embarrassed for something that wasn¡¯t her fault. whether he realized it or not, the marquis turned his attention back to the path ahead.


    ¡°of course, most of the time, i¡¯m going to hunt.¡±

 Chapter 116

    liv thought back to the hunting ground she had followed the marquis to.


    although she had never joined in on an aristocratic hunt before, she had heard of it. it was thanks to her aristocratic classmates at clemence who were used to riding horses in the hunting grounds from a young age.


    some of them were from families that not only owned private hunting grounds but also organized periodic hunting tournaments. as far as liv knew, hunting tournaments were one of the main social events in the nobility.


    ¡°what happens to the hunted animals?¡±


    ¡°they can be slaughtered, taxidermy, or end up in a meaningless killing.¡±


    the two reached the greenhouse in no time. it had been rearranged, showing a slightly different selection of flowers inside.


    she noticed that there was a lot more green grass than flowers. in between, there were new trees with large leaves, so whoever was inside would be completely invisible from the entrance.


    as liv¡¯s eyes darted around, a golden kingfisher came into view. the taxidermy was still in the same place she had seen it before. looking at it again, it did not look so well maintained.


    he would not taxidermize every animal he hunted. the marquis was a man who wanted to own something of value.


    however, he did not seem to have a hobby of hunting rare animals either. rather, according to camille, the marquis had a hobby of collecting nude artwork.


    ¡°i guess the only thing you really collect is art. ¡­things like statues and paintings.¡±


    the marquis noticed where liv¡¯s gaze had landed and flashed a cold smile.


    ¡°well, we can¡¯t taxidermize a human being.¡±


    it was a somewhat spooky answer. he collected statues and paintings because he couldn¡¯t taxidermize humans.


    she couldn¡¯t figure out the reason, but she could tell that the marquis was not a fan of living things. liv tried to imagine the gallery of expensive statues and paintings he had collected.


    it might work if there was only one or two, but she didn¡¯t think the view of such collections displayed in one place would look cool.


    but for the marquis¡­


    ¡°i think you¡¯re familiar with death, my lord.¡±


    the marquis, who had passed the kingfisher casually, stopped. he looked back at liv with a surprised look on his face, but then he nodded nonchalantly.


    seeing that the marquis wasn¡¯t particularly dodging the question, liv was encouraged and continued her question.


    ¡°have you been to war?¡±


    ¡°do i look like that?¡±


    ¡°you seem familiar with weapons and killing.¡±


    in the innermost part of the greenhouse, there was a table and an outdoor bench with padded cushions. there were also a few books on the table, looking rather messy as if they had been read, suggesting that this was a place the marquis often frequented.


    sitting on the bench, he leaned back in familiarity and stared at liv.


    ¡°looks like you¡¯re not scared by that.¡±


    ¡°there¡¯s no reason for me to be afraid, unless you¡¯re going to aim them at me.¡±


    there were no chairs in sight, except for the long bench. instead of sitting next to the marquis, liv walked over to the table.


    she could see a bookmark sticking out of the top of the book, and the title on the cover suggested it was a book about liberal arts.


    the title was written in delicate cursive. she could easily imagine the marquis holding this book. she had the feeling that even a small book could make the marquis stand out.


    without realizing it, liv ran her fingertips across the title. the bumpy texture tickled her fingertips.


    ¡°so what scares you?¡±


    liv, who had been tracing the handwriting with her fingertips, paused. blinking slowly, she raised her gaze.


    something she was scared of. there were so many of them. even that beautiful man in front of her was a sort of fear for liv.


    coryda¡¯s health, the handful of money that would occasionally strangle her, the embarrassing situations she sometimes found herself in¡­


    the answer that tied it all together flowed out of liv¡¯s lips.


    ¡°surviving.¡±


    ¡°you talk like a soldier on the battlefield.¡±


    ¡°a battlefield doesn¡¯t have to be covered in gunpowder and bullets.¡±


    liv drew a bitter smile. the marquis rested one arm long on the bench¡¯s backrest, crossed his legs, and tilted his head stiffly.


    ¡°if you graduated from clemence, things wouldn¡¯t be so bad for you that you¡¯d be whining.¡±


    ¡°clemence is¡­ a good school. since the admission fee is quite expensive, there are various scholarship programs, so even commoners can dream about attending that school. there are some requirements, but fortunately, i was able to fulfill them.¡±

 Chapter 117

    clemence boarding school was the only achievement in her life that liv could boast of. upon entering, liv was confident that her life would be better once she graduated from clemence.


    therefore, she persevered. to keep up with the expectations of her parents, who supported her education at boarding school, and to keep up with the level of her diverse and extraordinary classmates at school.


    ¡°requirements?¡±


    ¡°someone who¡¯s not an aristocrat, has no pride, looks just right, and has good grades.¡±


    liv smiled faintly as she listed the requirements.


    ¡°the school needs some poor, hardworking commoner student to showcase every year.¡±


    ¡°i didn¡¯t expect that appearance and pride would be part of the requirements.¡±


    ¡°we have to look nice because we have to walk around saying thank you for taking pity on us at school events, and we have to have a low self-esteem to withstand the possible scorn from some classmates.¡±


    the hardest time was right after school started. the maliciousness of young children is pure and unrefined.


    inside the small world of school, status and family were quickly made known. it was the first factor that determined the starting line for new students.


    but that was not the end of it. before that starting line, commoner students were once again filtered. they had to become scholarship recipients and to sing praises for the school¡¯s name at events large and small.


    getting a lot of her tuition fees deducted by giving conventional thanks; liv had no reason to pass it up.


    as a result, she was envied and ridiculed by both her commoner and noble classmates upon entering school, but¡­ after a few years facing it, she got used to the school life and made good friends regardless of their status.


    ¡°the scholarships given to commoner students are part of the donations that noble students pay for admission, and those donors like to see their generosity validated.¡±


    ¡°were you discriminated against for not being able to make a donation?¡±


    ¡°i don¡¯t think it was discrimination. at the time, i had a much better education than my peers in my neighborhood, and it was all thanks to clemence¡¯s scholarship program. i¡¯m making money now because of it. how can i say i was discriminated against? i was just doing what i was supposed to do in my position.¡±


    the days at boarding school were long, and liv saw a small caste system in it. she learned where those with power and those without stood and what their roles were.


    knowing your place has been the first rule of survival for the weak.


    ¡°you have an uncanny awareness of your place.¡±


    ¡°i wouldn¡¯t be able to survive if i didn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°do you know anyone who couldn¡¯t survive because they couldn¡¯t figure out their places?¡±


    liv¡¯s once casual expression stiffened subtly. even though he must have seen the change, the marquis continued bluntly.


    ¡°your parents?¡±


    ¡°i¡¯m not sure what you¡¯re referring to, my lord.¡±


    she had already assumed that he had run a background check on her. he probably went deeper than she expected. however, she was sure the results would not have included anything about ¡°parents who dreamed of rising up their status.¡±


    liv calmed her stirring insides and gave an awkward smile.


    ¡°as you probably know from digging around, my parents died in an unfortunate accident.¡±


    ¡°i heard they were famous handicraft artisans. even if they died suddenly, it¡¯s hard to imagine how the daughters they left behind would struggle to make ends meet.¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s just¡­ a combination of overlapping circumstances.¡±


    liv, who finally graduated from clemence, took care of the sick coryda¡¯s medication, and things got a little rough in their household. and¡­ the decrease in the amount of orders for crafts around that time, probably contributed to her forgetting about the extra money. the death of her parents before she could regain her footing was the catalyst.


    anyway, it was all in the past, and there was no point in recounting it back. liv couldn¡¯t wait to escape this uncomfortable topic.


    the marquis, however, seemed to have a different opinion.


    ¡°i heard there was a lot of talk about you when you were in school. you also had a bad reputation when you were a live-in tutor.¡±


    liv averted her gaze with a burning face. the marquis didn¡¯t seem to care and continued.


    ¡°my aide suspected you of coveting a position as a nobleman¡¯s mistress.¡±


    ¡°if i aimed for such a place¡ª!¡±


    ¡°you would have already settled in somewhere; i replied that to him.¡±


    the marquis said what liv was about to say.


    he was still sitting impassively, staring at liv. silence settled in the greenhouse as he shut his mouth. even that common insect sound couldn¡¯t be found now.


    it was as if everything had disappeared, leaving only her and the marquis.


    the beautiful, huge greenhouse felt like an unreal space just for the two of them.

 Chapter 118

    liv, who had been staring at the marquis, took her hand off the book. moving slowly, she sat down beside the marquis and clasped her hands together.


    ¡°there was a senior who thought i wouldn¡¯t have made it in if it wasn¡¯t for her donation.¡±


    the term ¡°expensive boarding school¡± applied only to liv. she was only able to get in because the school¡¯s main source of funding was a group of very wealthy donors.


    ¡°clemence was a boarding school, and it was impossible not to run into that senior. as a result, we clashed a bit, but i had a lot of good noble friends around me. i never got into any trouble because of their kindness. there was some gossip about me, but nothing serious enough to prevent me from graduating.¡±


    it was a story about her school days that she had never told anyone. after graduation, she thought it was all a meaningless skit and didn¡¯t think to remember it.


    ¡°i¡¯d rather not accept half-hearted goodwill.¡±


    ¡°still, it¡¯s goodwill.¡±


    how powerful was that goodwill inside the school?


    also, how meaningless and powerless was that goodwill outside the school?


    ¡°but you¡¯re right, my lord. sure, the half-hearted goodwill provided a momentary safeguard, but it didn¡¯t do anything later on. around the time of my graduation, that senior¡¯s parents deliberately trashed my parents¡¯ handiwork. that really put a dent in our order volume.¡±


    liv only learned about it long after she graduated. she thought the market had changed over the years, but that wasn¡¯t the case.


    she never thought a brief bump in the road would come back to haunt her in that way.


    ¡°but still¡­ my parents¡¯ deaths were just an unfortunate accident.¡±


    soon after her parents¡¯ death, she expected help from her ¡°friends from good families¡± she had made, or the ¡°high class boys¡± who had developed a crush on her. alas, outside of school, her world was different from theirs.


    like her parents, who had a mountain of aristocratic clients, but ended up being little workers living paycheck to paycheck.


    ¡°when i worked as a live-in tutor, it was also one of those typical disagreements.¡±


    the uproar at karyn viscounty, where she worked as a live-in tutor for the first time, was relatively innocuous. it was just the oldest son of that family kept hitting on liv. and the viscount couple blamed the young tutor for everything.


    as for the case in lucette county¡­ they blamed their child¡¯s poor academic performance on liv¡¯s inexperience.


    these things were surprisingly common, since not all parents in the world are the same. liv didn¡¯t think her experience was unique.


    liv finished her story casually, and the marquis muttered to himself.


    ¡°i see you are more popular than i thought.¡±


    ¡°my lord, it sounds so insincere when it¡¯s you who says that, not anyone else.¡±


    popular? she had never expected to be labeled as such from the great marquis demus dietrion. she felt like she was being teased when he, with that face of his, mentioned that she was popular.


    ¡°it would be better if you¡¯re so intensely gorgeous that no one would dare to touch you.¡±


    liv, who had been laughing weakly, looked up at that. the marquis¡¯ long arm, which was rested over the bench¡¯s backrest, reached her so easily.


    ¡°but you, teacher¡­ you¡¯re only attractive enough to touch.¡±


    his fingers, covered in white gloves, stroked liv¡¯s cheek lightly.


    ¡°this usually puts people like you in a pretty tough spot.¡±


    it was a teasing, ticklish touch, like petting an animal he found quite adorable.


    liv, who was giving her cheek to the touch, spoke up in a calm voice.


    ¡°you must already know someone like that. someone who was just attractive enough to touch.¡±


    ¡°yeah.¡±


    the marquis replied, in an almost inaudible voice.


    ¡°and that person died. in an unfortunate accident.¡±


    was it his unusually muffled voice? or was it the quiet surroundings? the marquis sounded like he was in confession.


    ¡°thanks to it, i learned that i have to be so gorgeous that nobody dares to touch me.¡±


    who was he talking about?


    liv¡¯s curiosity was piqued, but she didn¡¯t dare ask. she had a feeling that she wouldn¡¯t get any answers even if she did.


    the marquis smirked at liv, who remained silent. his arrogant face showed the certainty that his judgment was absolutely correct.


    seeing his conviction, liv suddenly spoke up.


    ¡°i am not sure if you are someone nobody would dare to touch, my lord.¡±


    liv moved her head slightly to the side. the fingertips that had been stroking her cheek playfully stopped in midair. liv¡¯s gaze shifted to that hand.


    with the marquis taking off his gloves in bed, liv now knew what his hands looked like. the real ones, the ones she couldn¡¯t see when he wore his gloves.

 Chapter 119

    ¡°beautiful roses have thorns, but there¡¯s always at least one person who reaches for them, willing to risk getting pricked by the thorns.¡±


    the marquis narrowed his eyes at liv¡¯s remark.


    ¡°then i would praise that person for their commendable bravery.¡±


    the slow, languid voice urged liv on.


    ¡°would you like to try it, teacher?¡±


    ¡°are you okay with that?¡±


    ¡°what¡¯s there for me not to be okay with? in the end, you¡¯re the one who¡¯s going to bleed from the thorns, not me.¡±


    his arrogant assurance made liv chuckle without realizing it.


    ¡°the rose will also feel pain when its branch is cut.¡±


    being fully armed with thorns means being much more cowardly than others, after all.


    then, wouldn¡¯t it be the same for the marquis?


    ¡°the branches of the roses that are cut will eventually wither, my lord.¡±


    steadily, the smile faded from the marquis¡¯ face, which had looked so relaxed as though he were on a relaxing boat ride. and finally, it was replaced by the cold, expressionless look that suited him best.


    ¡°so you¡¯re just going to watch with your eyes?¡±


    he shifted as if to rise from his seat. at that moment, liv reached out and grabbed the marquis¡¯ moving hand.


    her touch was timid compared to the marquis¡¯ nonchalant touch on her cheek. the moment the marquis lifted the corner of his mouth as if to sneer, liv grabbed the end of his white glove and yanked it.


    the glove came off smoothly.


    seeing his bare hand, which she had gazed at with pleasure-stained eyes, with a clear mind was a new sensation. since the marquis didn¡¯t brush liv¡¯s hand away, she got a chance to look down and touch the man¡¯s hand very closely.


    each finger had prominent knuckles, and the back of his hand was covered in blue veins that extended up his arm. his palms were rough; the calloused hand was not pretty at all.


    it was the hand that rubbed liv¡¯s privates, probing deeper, and paralyzed her reason. she knew how strongly it gripped her flesh.


    liv, who had been curiously tracing the veins on the back of his hand, pressed her thumb between his fingers. there was a scar between them that was hard to see unless from up close.


    ¡°i guess you¡¯re curious about that, huh?¡±


    the marquis, who had been silently letting liv take his hand, subtly twisted his lips.


    ¡°i remember holding a blade with my bare hand and almost cutting my finger off.¡±


    fiddling with the scar between his fingers, liv looked up and locked eyes with the marquis.


    ¡°did you win?¡±


    the marquis raised his eyebrows as if he had heard something unexpected. after a brief pause, he replied in a slightly lowered voice.


    ¡°yeah.¡±


    liv broke into an innocent smile at the answer.


    ¡°if so, this scar is a medal of victory.¡±


    with a quick movement, the hand of a man who wore the indelible medal of victory grabbed liv by the nape and pulled her into his arms. liv, having lost her center of gravity in an instant, tumbled forward into the marquis¡¯ arms.


    an urgent breath, no longer as relaxed as it had been a moment ago, crashed into liv¡¯s lips. a torrent of kisses rained down on her, more forceful and violent than ever before.


    in the quiet greenhouse, gasping breaths echoed faintly.


    ***


    the first scars on demus¡¯ body were from the military academy.


    academies in general were closed spaces, but military academies in particular operated under their own rules.


    a world of their own, where there was no flexibility in doing things that might be acceptable elsewhere.


    while power is often the logic behind any group of boys, in the military academy, power and status coexisted.


    the students with both naturally established themselves as predators, those with only one or the other showed off their backgrounds, and those without both were at the bottom of the ranks as prey.


    when demus first enrolled at the academy, he was a prey.


    indeed, he had talent, but compared to the children of noble families, who were nurtured from an early age, he was more like a gemstone in the mud. he had to go through a lot of hardship before he could wash away the mud and become a jewel that could truly shine.


    the rules of the academy forbid dueling with real swords, but the predators, naturally, were not bound by such trivialities.


    hot-blooded boys wanted stimulating events, and to fulfill that need, they often drew real swords. at the tip of those swords stood the preys. people like demus.


    demus was naked in front of his opponent, who wielded a real sword.


    that day, he almost cut off a finger from his grip on the blade. the school nurse recognized the wound from the blade on demus¡¯ hand and turned him over to the disciplinary committee. the reason for this was that there was evidence of academy rules violation. not surprisingly, the person who swung the sword at him got away with it.


    luckily, demus avoided being expelled. although he was disciplined for violating academy rules.


    well, there was such a time.

 Chapter 120

    the predators seemed to be quite impressed by his bravado to catch the blade with his bare hand. what they didn¡¯t know was that from the start he knew it wasn¡¯t a well-maintained sword, so he did it with the calculation that his finger wouldn¡¯t get cut off.


    as a result, demus gained their attention, and as time went on, he gained ground within the academy. his skills that progressed rapidly also helped him in his endeavors.


    he had no intention of wallowing in self-pity as he reflected on the hard time he had back then. he knew how worthless such sentiments were.


    however¡­


    ¡°did you win?¡±


    by ¡°won,¡± he meant exactly what he said. after all, he won the duel, which was clearly unfavorable to him. it was an objective fact.


    ¡°if so, this scar is a medal of victory.¡±


    demus had never called himself at that time ¡°victorious¡± even once.


    it was a reminder of his past, humiliating and insignificant. he had to play a trick to win, and it was far too ridiculous to be labeled a victory.


    how could such an ugly sight, barely surviving with such ugly marks, be a victory? victory should be more glorious and exalted than that.


    glancing down at the scar between his fingers, demus let out a long breath.


    ¡°did you win, she asked.¡±


    it was an unexpected question.


    before he hid his scars as seamlessly as he did now, the first words people said when they saw them were usually sympathetic: ¡°it must have hurt a lot,¡± or ¡°how did you get that?¡± it was an attention demus found deeply offensive.


    the prying questions about his past, not to mention the sympathy for his pain, were not pleasant.


    ¡°ha¡­¡±


    he recalled liv¡¯s face when she smiled innocently when he said he¡¯d won. she seemed to mean it.


    did this scar really look like evidence of victory in her eyes?


    he doubted she¡¯d say that after seeing the scars all over his body that he was covering up.


    evidence of victory? those ugly things?


    she was really something for saying that.


    ¡°beautiful roses have thorns, but there¡¯s always at least one person who reaches for them, willing to risk getting pricked by the thorns.¡±


    indeed, she was truly something. how dare she say that about him? if he had to describe their relationship, he would be the predator with the sword, and she would be the vulnerable, bare-handed prey.


    after rubbing the wound with his thumb, demus rose to his feet. he didn¡¯t crave a cigar or a drink. instead, he thirsted for something else. at any moment, it would be there, right in front of him, if he gave the order, but¡­


    ¡°the rose will also feel pain when its branch is cut.¡±


    somehow, he didn¡¯t want to appease the barrenness he felt now.


    so he just stood there, staring at the dark window. he couldn¡¯t see the view outside.


    he looked as if he were standing alone in the darkness. perhaps, it was the case.


    ¡°the branches of the roses that are cut will eventually wither, my lord.¡±


    ***


    day by day, the atmosphere in buerno became more energetic.


    with the cardinal¡¯s visit fast approaching, many events were organized around the city in preparation for the festivities. naturally, with all the excitement, there was no way the class was going to run properly.


    moreover, it seemed like word had gotten out that the marquis of dietrion would not be accommodating the cardinal and his pilgrims, so the barony of vendons had begun preparations to host them.


    baroness vendons had expected the classes would continue despite the chaos in the mansion, but she quickly gave up when she saw how excited millian was at the thought of meeting the pilgrims.


    eventually, the baroness asked for liv¡¯s understanding. in the past, liv would have been concerned about her living expenses, but now that she was much better off, she accepted the peculiarities of the situation.


    when the class she was supposed to teach was delayed again, liv decided to head back. she didn¡¯t want to take too much time to deal with the hustle and bustle at the vendons mansion


    all she wanted to do was to quickly leave the mansion, but¡­


    ¡°why should i go out in a carriage riding with you, mr. marcel?¡±


    ¡°well, because baroness vendons prepared it personally?¡±


    she could understand that the vendons were busy in many ways, given the sudden notice to prepare the rooms when they previously were told not to. she could also understand, to a certain extent, that camille would be helping out in the process. after all, camille had an acquaintance in the pilgrimage.


    at the baroness¡¯ request, he was given a servant and a carriage to take him out. however, his destination happened to be in f¨¦mont street, where liv lived.


    ¡°miss rhodes, i¡¯ve ordered a cake for you from a shop near f¨¦mont street. why don¡¯t you stop by and pick it up? actually, i was going to deliver it this evening via an errand boy, but it¡¯s better to eat a freshly made cake right away, no? a servant will escort you there.¡±

 Chapter 121

    the baroness seemed to feel bad about having to change her class schedule on such short notice. in addition, it would be a hassle to send an errand boy to deliver a cake to her when the mansion was already so busy. liv said she would just stop by the bakery and pick up the cake she had ordered.


    it wasn¡¯t a long distance, so she planned to take her time. however, the baroness apologized for not being prepared and pushed her into the carriage.


    ¡°i could just walk there.¡±


    at liv¡¯s muttering to herself, camille responded with a chuckle.


    ¡°i guess she also wants to cheer me on.¡±


    ¡°cheer¡­ no, please don¡¯t say anything.¡±


    it reminded her that camille had said something peculiar to baron vendons. liv had never thought that the baroness would be as nosy as the baron in others¡¯ love lives.


    she felt she should tell her in private that she was uncomfortable with this kind of situation. otherwise, she would end up in a similar situation again and again because of their nosiness.


    feeling somewhat dizzy, liv touched her forehead. when camille saw the look of distress on her face, he made a bashful face.


    ¡°was my honesty not enough to earn your trust?¡±


    did he really believe that being honest about his identity and purpose would make all relationships better? how naive of him.


    or maybe camille¡¯s life had always been that way.


    biting her lip, liv looked straight at camille, who sat across from her.


    ¡°i do not have a romantic interest in you at all, mr. marcel.¡±


    ¡°¡­ oh.¡±


    ¡°so i¡¯m uncomfortable with this kind of unnatural encounter.¡±


    camille blinked at the blunt rejection. his brow furrowed, he broke into an awkward smile and scratched his cheek.


    ¡°¡­ you treat me colder after i revealed that i am eleanor.¡±


    ¡°were you trying to get me intimidated?¡±


    ¡°no way.¡±


    camille immediately waved his hands in the air as if he had heard something outrageous. liv, looking at him, spoke in a slightly subdued voice.


    ¡°you¡¯ve been honest with me, so i gave you an honest answer. if i don¡¯t, i think you¡¯ll continue to pretend like you don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°for now¡­ yes, i understand.¡±


    if you understand, then that¡¯s it. what¡¯s with ¡°for now¡±?


    liv gave him a sour look at his answer, which was tinged with regret. however, camille rubbed his lower jaw, lost in thought, and then spoke up.


    ¡°by the way, i¡¯m asking this because i¡¯m really curious.¡±


    ¡°yes.¡±


    ¡°am i that unattractive?¡±


    he looked like he truly didn¡¯t understand. taken aback by his overconfidence and ironclad stance, liv dropped her jaw.


    she, who had been speechless, finally managed to reply.


    ¡°¡­ attractiveness can¡¯t be measured by an objective number.¡±


    ¡°sure, that¡¯s true, but i¡¯m not a guy who will get dumped. i¡¯ve never been so pathetic like this.¡±


    ¡°then maybe the problem is that you¡¯re acting pathetic for the first time in your life.¡±


    ¡°aha.¡±


    camille exclaimed as if he had come to a great realization. liv hadjust said it randomly, but apparently camille listened to her quite seriously.


    in fact, from what she could tell, camille didn¡¯t seem like the kind of person who would just get dumped by any woman. liv would probably get charmed by him, too, if it weren¡¯t for her circumstances.


    however¡­ aside from the fact that she wasn¡¯t in a situation where she could comfortably be in a relationship, liv couldn¡¯t feel any romantic attraction to camille.


    she was already deeply entangled with the marquis.


    ¡°oh, they¡¯re building an outdoor theater over there. i heard an outdoor performance will be held to welcome the pilgrims¡­¡±


    camille, who had been staring out the window, lost in thought, suddenly leaned his head close to the window. he recovered so quickly that it was hard to believe he had just been dumped a moment ago.


    ¡°you should check it out if you get a chance. the performance they¡¯re playing is quite interesting.¡±


    ¡°do you watch outdoor theater?¡±


    ¡°of course.¡±


    he seemed to realize what liv meant by her question. he shrugged, his explanation rolling off his tongue like he¡¯d done it many times before.


    ¡°if i don¡¯t reveal myself as eleanor, no one will ever associate me with that family. i¡¯m a bit of a street culture person.¡±


    well, from the way he dressed and the way he carried himself, it was hard to imagine that he was from an influential family.


    ¡°that reminds me, there will be an outdoor exhibition near the art gallery. i think it was a hastily made decision, so they seem to secure only a few pieces of art, but¡­ i guess it will be held before the cardinal leaves?¡±


    at camille¡¯s words, liv looked around the city with newfound interest. she thought the scenery was the same as usual, but now she could see things she hadn¡¯t seen before. she had always thought the cardinal¡¯s visit had nothing to do with her.


    ¡°i¡¯m sure the streets will be bustling. maybe you should come out for¡­¡±


    camille, who was speaking excitedly, locked eyes with liv and immediately raised his hands in surrender.


    ¡°okay, i¡¯ll stop making a move on you.¡±

 Chapter 122

    camille closed his mouth in disappointment, but then he stole a glance at liv and swiftly brought up another topic.


    ¡°still, you¡¯re interested in the benediction from the cardinal himself, right?¡±


    one of the reasons people were so excited about the cardinal¡¯s visit was that he was going to pray for a blessing for peace in the city he was visiting. naturally, everyone wanted to see this blessing in person.


    but even if they wanted to, they couldn¡¯t. it was a prayer led by the cardinal, not anyone else.


    ¡°i have learned that the chapel has a limited capacity and the people who will be attending are already decided.¡±


    ¡°i am one of those people.¡±


    she didn¡¯t know if it was a favor from baron vendons or it was the power of the ¡°eleanor¡± name. it surely must be one of them.


    liv nodded dully, not surprised. then camille spoke up, lowering his voice to a whisper.


    ¡°i can bring a companion, but like i mentioned before, i don¡¯t really have any connections in this city. the seat next to me will be empty.¡±


    ¡°sell that seat then.¡±


    there would be countless people who would pay a fortune to get into the chapel to see the cardinal pray.


    camille broke into laughter at liv¡¯s direct reply and asked playfully.


    ¡°do you want to buy it?¡±


    ¡°no, thanks.¡±


    ¡°but they say you are bound to get lucky if you see a prayer for a blessing from the cardinal himself.¡±


    the good fortune that came through the cardinal¡¯s prayers.


    a few months ago, she might have gotten herself tempted by such uncertain superstitions and cried and begged to see it. surprisingly, however, liv wasn¡¯t tempted at all.


    ¡°i don¡¯t think i deserve that kind of luck. i¡¯m¡­¡±


    she had already met the one who bestowed good fortune on only her.


    ¡°happy enough with the way things are now.¡±


    ***


    it was hard to shake off camille, who offered to escort her home, but the cake was so tasty it was worth the effort.


    coryda couldn¡¯t eat much of the cake as she had to watch her diet since she started her treatment, and it really made her sad. she kept telling herself that she would buy it herself once she got better.


    as a result, it seemed to have motivated coryda with her treatment, which was all the better.


    even to liv¡¯s taste, the cake was really delicious. so good that she was tempted to order a second one to take back to verworth manor. however, liv decided not to do that.


    there¡¯s a resident chef there. he might get offended.


    it was indeed delicious, but the chef of verworth manor might be displeased with the food from the outside.


    nevertheless, someday when she got the chance, she wanted to show her gratitude even in a small way. she felt that she had to show her sincerity to philip, adolf, and others who had always taken care of them.


    of course, they wouldn¡¯t get their favors if it weren¡¯t for the marquis¡¯ order, but even with that, they had always been friendly and kind.


    and more than anything else, liv was most grateful for their kindness to coryda. this was especially true as she was feeling that coryda had been noticeably brighter since she had been in and out of the verworth manor.


    i wonder if i can get them something.


    liv stared at philip¡¯s back as she crossed the entrance of the verworth manor she had quite gotten familiar with.


    perhaps noticing her gaze, philip looked back at her and flashed her a gentle smile.


    ¡°do you have anything to say?¡±


    ¡°oh, no. nothing.¡±


    she felt like he would reject it, saying it is okay, if she asked him about it. deciding to think more about the gift, liv conveyed her gratitude first.


    ¡°i heard you lent a book to coryda. thank you so much.¡±


    these days, coryda was very motivated. her time with adolf in the study must have done something to motivate her. philip seemed to find her high spirits very endearing; he was so kind to her that a stranger might have mistaken her for his granddaughter.


    ¡°miss coryda doesn¡¯t treat the book poorly, so i was able to lend it to her with confidence. by the way, miss cyrielle seems to want to hang out more with miss coryda. is it still difficult for her to go out? well, i don¡¯t know much about miss coryda¡¯s health.¡±


    ¡°ah¡­ i think that¡¯s a bit difficult, but i appreciate it.¡±


    cyrielle avilio was the reading friend adolf had introduced coryda to. she was a girl about coryda¡¯s age, and apparently she was a student from mazurkhan on a short-term study abroad program in beren.


    cyrielle, who had originally studied at a big city, was traveling through beren before returning to mazurkhan after her study abroad term ended.


    while she was on it, adolf, who knew her relative, offered to introduce her to coryda. cyrielle was happy to meet a new friend and decided to come.

 Chapter 123

    from what liv could see, coryda and cyrielle clicked. they even hit it off within a day of meeting and were writing to each other almost daily. she had no idea what they talked about so much, but their letters were always three or four pages long.


    ¡°haha. miss cyrielle has also made a good friend, so it¡¯s a win-win.¡±


    ¡°all of you always take care of us, and i don¡¯t know how to thank you enough.¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s fine. we do it because we want to.¡±


    ¡°tell me if there¡¯s anything i can help you with.¡±


    philip let out a hearty laugh at liv¡¯s sincerity.


    ¡°haha. i¡¯m happy enough with you visiting this mansion. if it weren¡¯t for you, miss rhodes, i would never know this mansion was inhabited.¡±


    that said, it seemed like there were a lot of employees working in this mansion.


    well, no matter how many people there were, life wouldn¡¯t be very dynamic if they had to guard a remote mansion like this all day long. in that sense, entertaining a guest could actually be a fun routine.


    liv, smiling like philip, asked casually.


    ¡°do you reside in this verworth manor, mr. philmond?¡±


    ¡°to be precise, i¡¯m going back and forth to serve the marquis.¡±


    ¡°going back and forth?¡±


    liv made a questioning look. philip nodded and when he was about to say something, an aloof voice interrupted the two.


    ¡°he¡¯s the butler in charge of the main house.¡±


    philip and liv¡¯s gaze turned to the source of voice at the same time. at the top of the stairs, which curved gracefully upward, the marquis, his hand lightly resting on the railing, was looking down at them.


    liv looked up at the marquis with a surprised expression on her face as she had expected him to be waiting for her in the room.


    the marquis was in his attire for the outing, buttoned all the way up to his neck, rather than the casual attire she had been seeing lately.


    ¡°he goes back and forth between the lanxess and verworth manor.¡±


    he added nonchalantly, slowly walking down the stairs.


    ¡°by lanxess, the one with taxidermy¡­¡±


    liv, who muttered to herself without realizing it, flinched and closed her mouth. philip, who heard her muttering, chuckled. it seemed that philip had also heard somewhere about the rumor liv muttered.


    ¡°the lanxess manor was once known as the haunted mansion in buerno. this led to a lot of vicious rumors circulating since the dawn of time. now it¡¯s just an antique manor after master purchased and renovated it.¡±


    the lanxess manor was the house of the dietrion family.


    although it was unknown if it was really the main house, or if that place was just set up for that.


    ¡°it¡¯s a shame when you¡¯ve come this far. i have to go back to lanxess.¡±


    ¡°ah¡­¡±


    ¡°philip, get ready.¡±


    having descended the stairs, the marquis ordered philip with a cold voice. philip nodded immediately and turned around after telling liv to wait a moment as he would prepare her a carriage back.


    walking down the stairs she hadn¡¯t climb much, liv arrived at the lobby and stole a glance at the marquis. the marquis¡¯ face looked expressionless like the usual, but on a closer look, irritation was evident on his subtly furrowed brows.


    ¡°¡­ is it a bad thing?¡±


    the marquis glanced at liv, rolling his eyes only, as he heard her faint question.


    ¡°it¡¯s annoying enough to have your personal time interrupted without having to think about it.¡±


    ¡°oh, i see.¡±


    there was no need to ask to know about it. liv nodded abashedly and lowered her gaze. the marquis¡¯ gaze stayed on her face for quite a while.


    then he suddenly changed the subject.


    ¡°aren¡¯t you curious?¡±


    ¡°sorry?¡±


    ¡°if the rumors are true.¡±


    a question flickered in liv¡¯s eyes. the marquis still had an aloof face, but the faint irritation had left his face.


    ¡°i¡¯m talking about taxidermy.¡±


    ¡°oh, that¡¯s¡­!¡±


    ¡°aren¡¯t you curious if i¡¯m really collecting taxidermy in the basement?¡±


    liv wasn¡¯t sure if she understood the marquis¡¯ intention right. to her ears, it sounded like the marquis was asking her to go to the lanxess manor with him.


    ¡°it¡¯s not taxidermy, but there¡¯s something else.¡±


    ¡°something else?¡±


    the marquis didn¡¯t speak any longer. he only stared at her.


    ¡°miss rhodes, your carriage is ready!¡±


    philip returned just in time. after telling liv to go home safely, philip took care of the marquis¡¯ coat and hat.


    like someone who couldn¡¯t remember the conversation he shared a moment before, the marquis ignored liv and accepted philip¡¯s assistance. he, with his coat on and hat pressed down, walked out the lobby with his cane in hand.


    at that moment, the marquis stopped his steps and looked down. his gaze landed on liv¡¯s hand clutching his cuff.


    philip looked at liv in wonder. liv, belatedly realizing that she was acting like a child, slowly let go of his clothes.


    the marquis, who had been looking at his cuff, finally looked up. he reached out his gloved hand to liv. liv swallowed dryly and put her hand on his hand gingerly. the man¡¯s firm hand took hold of her and led her away.


    the black carriage philip had prepared became useless. instead, liv would ride with the marquis to the lanxess manor.

 Chapter 124

    the sun was setting in the sky as the carriage passed through the front gates of the lanxess manor.


    against a crimson sky, the manor was so magnificent that it was hard to believe it was the source of such vicious rumors. this scene, however, did not inspire any excitement in the faces of either demus or philip, who had grown dull to it.


    the thing that caught more attention than the amazing scenery outside was liv rhodes, who couldn¡¯t hide the look of surprise on her face.


    ¡°what do you think?¡±


    philip, who had been entirely in charge of transforming the dusty lanxess manor into what it was today, beamed with pride as he spoke to liv. liv replied in a hushed voice, unable to take her eyes off the mansion that got closer.


    ¡°¡­ isn¡¯t this a castle rather than a manor?¡±


    ¡°haha, it¡¯s a manor. for now, it is.¡±


    ¡°no one would ever imagine there¡¯s such a cool castle around buerno.¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s a manor, not a castle, but¡­ indeed, it¡¯s cool, right? you don¡¯t know how sad i¡¯ve been since there¡¯s no one i can boast this off. i did a nice job renovating it, but there are only weird rumors going around.¡±


    ¡°you must have a hard time managing it, mr. philmond.¡±


    ¡°finally, someone notices my hard work!¡±


    demus, glancing at philip humorously continuing the conversation, clicked his tongue. liv was so absorbed in the view outside that she didn¡¯t notice demus¡¯ gaze at all.


    in general, it was irritating to see her not focusing on him and being absorbed in anything else. however, for some reason, he was fine with her being dazed like that now.


    in fact, he enjoyed it a bit. it was because she was so cute, with her rosy cheeks and sparkling green eyes.


    she had always been quiet, mature.


    but when she was like now, there was something childlike about her.


    the more she revealed herself, the more this aspect of her personality surfaced. given that liv rarely had anyone close to her, it was probably only in front of a very small group of people that she showed that side of her.


    demus found it satisfying whenever he saw that he was one of that ¡°very small group.¡±


    ¡°oh, there¡¯s a guest¡­¡±


    liv, who had been watching the view outside in excitement, opened her eyes wide as she found someone.


    demus looked outside the window at her reaction. he saw someone pacing on the porch of the manor, his horse was put in standby. he was the one who made demus come here.


    that person also seemed to notice the carriage. the pacing steps came to a halt.


    that person immediately walked over as soon as the carriage stopped. he opened the carriage door with familiarity and his eyes widened in surprise as he spotted liv, who was sitting near the window. liv, caught off guard, stared out the open carriage door in confusion.


    she then shifted her gaze and read demus¡¯ face.


    ¡°you¡¯ll need a foothold. let me get off first.¡±


    it was philip who stepped between the two awkwardly frozen people. philip got off the carriage first and then unfolded the folding foothold that was attached under the carriage.


    ¡°you may get off now, miss rhodes.¡±


    with philip¡¯s escort, liv ended up stepping out the carriage and hesitantly stood at a distance from the stranger. that person, without a doubt, also eyed her warily.


    as if to mediate the awkwardness between the two, philip stepped in and asked demus.


    ¡°should i go and show miss rhodes around?¡±


    liv¡¯s face turned bright in an instant. demus, who didn¡¯t have to look hard to figure it out, twisted his lips somewhat nastily.


    ¡°no need. just go and prepare the room.¡±


    ¡°yes, master.¡±


    liv, her eyes showing that she wanted to follow philip, drew a disappointed look. the sad gaze she flashed at philip, who entered the manor, incited a desire to tease her.


    demus got off the carriage. the person, who had been watching liv with wary until then, immediately raised his hand in salute to demus.


    ¡°i have to reach out to you because this is urgents news. forgive me, ma¡ª¡±


    (tn: ma¡ª major, not to be mistaken with master)


    ¡°sir roman.¡±


    demus cut him off with a cold voice.


    ¡°how long should i keep correcting you?¡±


    ¡°i will pay closer attention, sir.¡±


    roman quickly put his hand down. nevertheless, the way his shoulders tensed and upright posture told a lot about his origin. demus, who squinted his eyes, looked away coldly.


    ¡°i¡¯ll hear your report inside.¡±


    ¡°yes, sir.¡±


    demus, who was about to walk ahead, suddenly reached out his arm. he reached it out to liv, who was keeping a little distance behind him.

 Chapter 125

    he grabbed liv¡¯s arm, she was probably trying to step back in silence, and pulled her to his side in one swift motion. liv opened her eyes wide.


    ¡°my lord?¡±


    ¡°what is it?¡±


    demus let go of her arm and slid his hand down around her waist. as he rubbed his fingertips along the curve of her slim waist, liv¡¯s body stiffened. she then turned to look at roman.


    ¡°well, it¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°is there any problem, teacher?¡±


    ¡°no, there isn¡¯t, my lord.¡±


    her neck and earlobes were stained bright red. describing it merely as shyness would neglect the faint but discernible presence of anxiety and shame on the side of her face.


    demus ignored it, pretending to not notice the emotion he had read, and pulled her waist securely. liv walked along, practically being carried by him.


    it was an impulsive decision, but he liked the feel of the woman in his arms. meanwhile, roman glanced at demus in wonder.


    but perhaps because demus had intimidated him before, he didn¡¯t say anything carelessly.


    ¡°welcome back, master.¡±


    the grand front door of the lanxess manor opened, and the employees who had lined up to greet their master bowed. when they spotted liv standing next to demus, they looked puzzled.


    philip, who had come in first, must have told them beforehand. but seeing that they couldn¡¯t hide their expressions must mean they were amazed with the way demus acted now.


    well, this was demus, who only accepted the bare minimum assistant from his servants as he didn¡¯t keep people close to him, so they must be surprised with liv¡¯s presence he proudly kept by his side.


    liv seemed to feel their stares as well. the flush on her face didn¡¯t faint down, but only deepened.


    she twisted her body, apparently trying to keep some distance with demus. but demus tugged on her stronger, making her get openly hugged by him in front of the employees.


    looking at demus with troubled eyes, liv spoke in a small voice.


    ¡°my lord, i will wait elsewhere.¡±


    the way she kept trying to distance herself from him was cute at first, but it was starting to get annoying. demus rolled his eyes, glancing down at the top of liv¡¯s bowed head.


    ¡°you will come if i tell you to come, and you will go if i tell you to go¡­¡±


    he didn¡¯t say the rest. nevertheless, liv must have heard it until ¡°i will take my clothes off if you tell me to take them off.¡±


    ¡°wasn¡¯t that what you said?¡±


    liv didn¡¯t answer him. but he could feel her body slowly relaxed. demus¡¯ mood, which had been going down, got a little better.


    the body in his arm was soft.


    ***


    liv really had no idea what was going on in the marquis¡¯ mind.


    having herself eventually dragged to the marquis¡¯ office and made to sit alone in a corner, liv swallowed a sigh and looked up.


    the marquis was listening to a report from a man named roman a short distance away. at first, roman seemed wary of liv, but he was unable to defy the marquis¡¯ orders and began rattling off his report.


    as a result, liv was compelled to listen in on their conversation. although she couldn¡¯t understand all of it due to roman¡¯s adroit omission of the subject, she was able to infer a few things.


    ¡°considering that he was able to shake them off, he may indeed possess skillful tactics.¡±


    ¡°or maybe it¡¯s just the glory of eleanor.¡±


    not only was the marquis aware of camille¡¯s existence, but he was keeping an eye on him, and he recently tried to do something to him, but failed.


    liv lowered her gaze, hiding her restless expression.


    why did the marquis let her know about this?


    ¡°we¡¯ll respond more aggressively.¡±


    ¡°aggressively?¡±


    the marquis gave a faint sneer at roman¡¯s statement.


    ¡°he doesn¡¯t give up, and hovers around the vendons.¡±


    ¡°well, is he hovering around ¡®the vendons¡¯?¡±


    pulling out his cigar case with an indifferent look on his face, the marquis looked back at liv. liv, who had been keeping as quiet as possible, blinked in surprise at his unexpected gaze.


    the marquis brought the cigar to his mouth while keeping eye contact with liv. she could see the tip of his tongue darting out from between his slightly parted red lips.


    ¡°i wonder if that¡¯s true.¡±


    a strand of his platinum hair flowed down along his tilted head.


    ¡°what do you think about it, teacher?¡±


    roman looked puzzled as the marquis suddenly drew liv into the conversation.


    ¡°¡­ my lord?¡±


    ¡°sometimes you need an objective opinion from the outsider, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    the marquis, who replied dryly, lit his cigar and addressed liv again.


    ¡°you seem to be quite close to him, teacher, so why don¡¯t you answer?¡±

 Chapter 126

    ¡°i am not close to him.¡±


    ¡°is that so? i don¡¯t think you have many ¡®acquaintances you¡¯re willing to spend time with over a cup of tea¡¯.¡±


    the marquis, holding a lit cigar in his mouth, leaned his bottom against the bookcase. his long legs were roughly bent and his posture was sloppy, but the buttons buttoned up to his neck didn¡¯t make him look untidy at all.


    he seemed to know more details about her encounter with camille than she had expected. it surprised her, but on second thought, she realized it was only natural.


    it wouldn¡¯t have been hard for the marquis to find out if he had been keeping an eye on camille.


    ¡°we did have a conversation, but we are not close like you might think.¡±


    the one who responded to liv¡¯s answer was roman with his face stiffened.


    ¡°if he is trying to take advantage of that woman¡­¡±


    but roman didn¡¯t finish off his words.


    ¡°sir roman.¡±


    ¡°yes, sir!¡±


    roman stopped what he had been saying and quickly answered the marquis¡¯ call. after puffing out the smoke, the marquis asked in an indifferent voice while holding his cigar between his fingers.


    ¡°are you finished with your report?¡±


    ¡°pardon, sir? no. there¡¯s still¡ª¡±


    ¡°i¡¯ll hear the rest later.¡±


    ¡°¡­ sorry?¡±


    the marquis frowned at roman¡¯s question, which came out in an unnatural late beat. a deep furrow formed in his smooth forehead.


    ¡°have you gone deaf?¡±


    his tone was low and calm, but somehow harsh. roman, his face turned pale, took a quick step back and replied gallantly.


    ¡°yes, sir! i will be on standby, sir!¡±


    roman bowed after he saw the marquis¡¯ insincere hand gesture and quickly left the office.


    he was pretty much kicked out. what was going on?


    liv looked at the marquis with dubious eyes.


    ¡°didn¡¯t you come here for something urgent?¡±


    ¡°that¡¯s right.¡±


    ¡°but if you put it off like this¡­¡±


    the marquis flicked the end of his cigar into the ashtray.


    ¡°i was wondering if i shouldn¡¯t have brought it here, but what can i do? i¡¯ve already done it.¡±


    (t/n: actually, the marquis didn¡¯t use ¡°it¡± because korean often omits the subject/object, indicating that he could be referring to anyone or anything. but the tone he used refers to a person, but i used ¡°it¡± to keep it ambiguous.)


    ¡°¡­¡±


    it was easy for liv to recognize that she was the one he was referring to.


    ¡°i guess it¡¯d be more efficient to let it out once. don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    liv opened her mouth without knowing it. liv stared at the marquis, who kept his eyes on her as if demanding an answer, and then slowly looked around the office.


    it was a very well appointed office.


    an office.


    in other words, a room set up for the purpose of work.


    ¡°in here, sir?¡±


    ¡°the desk is wide enough for you to lie down.¡±


    she had already experienced fooling around in the dining room before. and it was more than enough to go through such an embarrassing and shocking experience once.


    she could have yielded if it was the lounge. but in such a room with a clear purpose, she didn¡¯t want to take her clothes off. besides, the marquis was putting off the report that was urgent.


    liv was certain that if she were to have sex with the marquis here, the man named roman had to wait for at least three hours. their sex wouldn¡¯t end in just one round, and nowadays, the foreplay and afterplay sessions had been steadily increasing.


    it was obvious what would run through roman¡¯s head as he waited. liv, who got herself stared at by many eyes on her way here, genuinely wanted to avoid such a situation.


    ¡°you have him on standby because there¡¯s more to report, so isn¡¯t it better to look for another approach?¡±


    liv forced a smile and persuaded the marquis. she said that, not believing it would work, but the marquis¡¯ gaze changed.


    ¡°another approach, huh?¡±


    rolling his cigar between his fingers, staying silent for a while, the marquis suddenly flashed a faint smile. the blue eyes glazed in amusement.


    ¡°well, there¡¯s one convenient method.¡±


    ¡­


    a solution that didn¡¯t require taking off any clothes or going through a long period of foreplay.


    it was as the marquis said. very convenient; she just needed to use her mouth, sitting on her knees between his legs.


    ¡­ of course, convenient didn¡¯t mean easy.


    ¡°haah¡­¡±


    a few licks of her tongue made the tip of his glans swell taut. the tip became wet with each pressure of her movement on the penis with its tangible veins.


    overhead, she could hear the man¡¯s low, hushed voice. it sounded quite heavy, like he was holding back his arousal. the growl in his throat sounded like it belonged to an animal.


    she wrapped her both hands on the penis and she felt its massiveness. she found it amazing that she could feel his pulse as it was. the marquis puffed out a breath at the sight of liv holding his searing penis and staring intently at it.


    the marquis gripped the back of liv¡¯s head and pulled her toward him. his thick scent wafted to the tip of liv¡¯s nose.


    liv felt a slight sense of overwhelm when the moment arrived to place it in her mouth.


    the marquis¡¯ penis was thick, large, and long. she couldn¡¯t believe that it had burrowed itself inside her.

 Chapter 127

    she wondered how she didn¡¯t get torn apart.


    ¡°open your mouth.¡±


    the marquis, touching the back of her head softly, whispered in a subdued voice. as if enchanted by his voice, liv parted her lips. the burning cock pressed on her tongue, probing in.


    ¡°open your mouth wider and use your tongue.¡±


    leaning his upper body forward, the marquis slightly pulled liv¡¯s head as he whispered. her head, which had been staying around his glans, moved forward in no time, taking in his cock.


    ¡°mmph.¡±


    ¡°don¡¯t use your teeth.¡±


    she had never done this kind of thing, so she had no knack on how to do it. liv, grimacing, opened her mouth as wide as she could.


    in her mind, she thought she had opened it as wide as she could, but his penis was perfectly thick enough to fill her mouth, leaving no space. needless to say, there was no space for air.


    her head turned dizzy and her heart palpitated as she couldn¡¯t breathe. the suffocation heightened her senses. so high that she could feel her nipples stiffening despite not being touched and rubbing against her clothes.


    ¡°breath through your nose.¡±


    the marquis smoothed out liv¡¯s furrowed brows with his thumb and then muttered to himself in an annoyed voice.


    ¡°shallow.¡±


    her mouth was already full, but the length of his shaft in her hands remained captivatingly long.


    the marquis¡¯ hand gradually moved down, past her forehead, to the corner of her eye, and then to her cheek. after rubbing the saliva around the corner of her mouth, which had taken in his penis, the marquis grabbed under her chin.


    ¡°you don¡¯t even take a half in, teacher. this doesn¡¯t warrant the effort of your bravado.¡±


    ¡°gag¡­¡±


    his other hand braced the back of liv¡¯s head. his cock, with no more room in her mouth, stabbed at her uvula. shuddering in fear that it would slip further in, liv clutched at the marquis¡¯ thighs. fortunately, he seemed to relent at that point.


    the penis, which seemed to advance forever, withdrew slowly. the hard shaft weighed heavily on her tongue.


    the sensations felt through her tongue penetrated liv. it automatically reminded her of the motion of his penis as it rubbed against her plump opening, heralding its impending entry into her vagina.


    ¡°you know, teacher.¡±


    his penis, which had slipped out leaving only the glans inside, made its way back into her mouth. slowly, but steadily. liv was already having quite a hard time keeping her jaw open. she felt nauseous from the deep thrust of his penis while her jaw was tingling in pain.


    even in this situation, the marquis¡¯ voice continued to stream gently over her head.


    ¡°you rode in the same carriage, went to the bakery together, and he offered to escort you home¡­¡±


    from some point on, liv simply left her head in the marquis¡¯ hands. she had neither the knack nor the skill to move it herself.


    ¡°and you said you two aren¡¯t close?¡±


    ¡°mmph!¡±


    the cock suddenly stabbed into her throat, just as she was getting used to it. physiological tears formed in the corners of liv¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°haah¡­ that bastard can¡¯t seem to take his eyes off you.¡±


    his movements turned rough. the marquis¡¯ breathing, which she had been sensing as calm, was also becoming increasingly heavy.


    ¡°oh my, you should have opened it wider.¡±


    the shaft scratched against her teeth as he thrust faster and harder into her mouth. it would surely hurt, but his cock didn¡¯t slow down.


    liv, who held into the marquis¡¯ thighs, squeezed her eyes shut.


    ¡°that reminds me, i think i often saw you two together before.¡±


    a trickle of saliva ran down her chin as his penis slid out. her lips, which had been stroked roughly, were reddening.


    unable to keep up with his thrusts, liv¡¯s breath caught in her throat and she pushed his cock out with her tongue. it seemed to provoke the marquis.


    ¡°i never thought i¡¯d find out about your popularity this way.¡±


    the huge mass of flesh that had filled her mouth was gone in an instant. the saliva at the tip of his glans stretched in a long line to her lips.


    liv could feel the marquis¡¯ eyes on her face, which was a mess of tears and saliva. but for the moment, she was just concerned with catching her breath.


    gasping, liv looked up at the marquis with tear-stained eyes.


    ¡°huff, puff¡­ it¡¯s not¡ª mmph!¡±


    a savagely erect penis thrust between her lips as she opened them to speak. liv reflexively tried to dodge it, but the marquis¡¯ grip on her chin prevented her from turning her head.


    ¡°it¡¯s no good if you try to avoid me. this is why it¡¯s faster to just lay you down and fuck you.¡±


    his pulsing penis hit on the roof of her mouth.


    ¡°and cut your ties with that guy as soon as possible. what are you trying to learn by hanging out with a hyena who¡¯s always going behind everyone¡¯s back?¡±


    despite the frantic thrusting of his cock down her throat, she could hear his voice exceptionally clearly.


    liv finally realized why the marquis had insisted on bringing her to this room and letting her listen in on the conversation.


    he was showing that he didn¡¯t like camille and gave her a subtle order to cut ties with him.


    ¡°i¡¯ve always felt it, teacher. you really don¡¯t have eyes for people.¡±


    the penis in her mouth seemed to have gotten bigger.


    she could feel a dull ache in the corners of her mouth as if they were torn. nevertheless, she couldn¡¯t care less about those little aches and pains because his cock was ramming down her throat.

 Chapter 128

    the marquis was now focused on the act, remaining silent. only his ragged breathing signaled his condition now.


    he was aroused. the blatant reality of it made liv¡¯s heart flutter in her chest.


    she, with that poor and clumsy technique of hers, was able to excite him.


    ¡°grrh!¡±


    a stifled groan erupted overhead as she realized that the marquis¡¯ thighs had swelled hard.


    ¡°mmph!¡±


    ¡°huff¡­¡±


    the cock throbbed vigorously in her mouth. the glans was practically reaching the root of her tongue, and the cum that spurted out at his climax slid down her throat without giving her time to spit it out.


    his cock, which had been pulsing with raw pleasure several times, finally withdrew slowly after he had spilled every last drop into her throat.


    ¡°huff, puff.¡±


    liv breathed raggedly. the smell of cum in her mouth, the unfamiliar sensation in her throat, and the strange taste that numbed her tongue.


    everything was strange, but the strangest thing was her body. she hadn¡¯t been touched, and yet she felt an intense sensitivity. sweat broke out on her back, and her panties were damp.


    she felt the urge to cling to him and ask him to embrace her right away.


    ¡°oh no, did it hurt?¡±


    while liv was gasping from the intense arousal, the hand that held her chin pressed against the corner of her mouth. her skin tingled with every touch of his fingers.


    liv didn¡¯t have to look in the mirror to know it was torn. she slowly blinked her eyes.


    her sex with the marquis had been rough, to say the least, but today¡¯s act wasn¡¯t just a reflection of his sexual preferences.


    his rough movements were, unmistakably, colored with irritation. and the reason he was so irritated was because¡­


    ¡°you said i don¡¯t have eyes for people.¡±


    speaking in a voice that resembled a crackle, liv looked up at the marquis.


    he was still in his neat attire, unbuttoned and crisp. despite his polished appearance, he unabashedly showcased his manhood out of the crotch of his pants. this display might have appeared indecent on someone else, yet the marquis managed to evoke desire even in this audacious stance.


    thus, liv wasn¡¯t ashamed or embarrassed with the way she was kneeling in front of him now. rather, she was getting horny.


    ¡°then, am i mistaken about you, too, my lord?¡±


    ¡°no.¡±


    his answer flowed out flatly.


    ¡°the way you have no eyes for people has nothing to do with me.¡±


    his penis, which had ejaculated once, was still half-erect. it made its presence known, throbbing as if the slightest touch would restore it to its former glory.


    the marquis, however, did not shove his glans between liv¡¯s lips. instead, he gently stroked her swollen lips with his thumb and muttered.


    ¡°because i am your god.¡±


    the blue eyes, still ablaze with passion, were difficult to interpret. it looked like he wanted to straddle her and strip her naked, and it also looked like he wanted to kiss the lips that had taken on his penis just moments before.


    the clear thing was that it contained desire. his lust was clearly not appeased by a single blast of ejaculation.


    ¡°this is better than my imagination.¡±


    ¡°have you imagined this?¡±


    getting a blowjob from her?


    he gave no answer. instead, he wiped his penis with his handkerchief and nonchalantly smoothed down his pants. liv, who had thought he would do something more, looked up at the marquis with a puzzled expression.


    he was back to his usual self in an instant and opened the window to let in some air. liv also scrambled to her feet.


    her mouth and face were still a mess, but at least her clothes weren¡¯t badly stained. the fact that she swallowed all the cum, in particular, made the cleanup easier.


    checking liv¡¯s face, the marquis held out a spare handkerchief.


    ¡°go out and ask philip to give you a tour of the mansion.¡±


    after watching liv recover her composure, the marquis added in a dry voice.


    ¡°if you¡¯re bored, you could see if i really have a collection of taxidermy people in my basement.¡±


    ¡­

 Chapter 129

    philip was surprised when she told him that she wanted to see the basement of the mansion; he couldn¡¯t believe that the marquis would allow her access to it.


    not only did philip question liv of her claims several times in disbelief, he even sneaked off to check with the marquis for verification. only then did he apologize for his suspicions and escort her to the basement.


    what kind of space is the basement that caused philip to react this way?


    liv, who impulsively said she wanted to go to the basement, was later scared.


    am i going to see something i shouldn¡¯t? am i going to put my life in danger?


    had she been her usual self, she would have waited in the parlor for the marquis¡¯ summons, unconcerned about the manor¡¯s secrets and vicious rumors. then, she wouldn¡¯t have had to worry as much as she currently did.


    but¡­


    liv recalled the look on the marquis¡¯ face just before she left his office. she sensed he wanted to show her the basement.


    was that her delusion?


    liv snapped out of her thoughts and looked up as she realized her surroundings had changed. the walls and display cases were filled with weapons of all kinds.


    philip, noticing that liv¡¯s pace had slowed, spoke up.


    ¡°this is a long gallery. these weapons are currently unused, so don¡¯t be alarmed.¡±


    if these weapons weren¡¯t used ¡°now¡±, it would mean they were used ¡°in the past¡±.


    liv¡¯s eyes drifted to a firearm hanging nearby. the handle was visibly worn, leaving a deep impression on her. there were many different types of guns here that she didn¡¯t recognize. there were also some swords.


    ¡°isn¡¯t a long gallery usually meant for hanging paintings?¡±


    ¡°well¡­ generally speaking, yes, but the marquis doesn¡¯t like to leave portraits.¡±


    sure enough, liv couldn¡¯t imagine the marquis striking such a majestic pose in front of a painter.


    liv nodded, accepting philip¡¯s answer, and muttered to herself.


    ¡°it¡¯s cold here.¡±


    ¡°maybe it¡¯s because there are too many pieces of iron.¡±


    in response to philip¡¯s lighthearted reply, liv simply smiled quietly. philip seemed to take her comment in stride, but liv was honestly quite impressed with the long gallery.


    it wasn¡¯t solely due to the weapons that adorned the long gallery. upon introspection, she came to realize that artwork was noticeably absent not only in this space, but throughout the entire lanxess manor.


    as she thought about it, she didn¡¯t see a single small landscape painting in the lobby, hallways, the marquis¡¯ office, or anywhere else she had toured. it was a bit surprising, considering that the marquis was a well-known collector in buerno. of course, he could have kept them in a private gallery, but¡­


    if he truly liked art, shouldn¡¯t he keep them visible in his living space? this was his home, after all.


    a space where it wouldn¡¯t be outlandish to decorate with the most expensive and precious artwork.


    i¡¯m sure his collection could have easily overflowed this long gallery.


    as liv continued her curious musings, she suddenly stopped walking. a sword had caught her eye.


    ¡°miss rhodes?¡±


    ¡°that is¡­¡±


    ¡°oh, you do have an eye, don¡¯t you? beautiful, isn¡¯t it? it¡¯s the most valuable object in this long gallery.¡±


    listening to philip¡¯s explanation, liv approached the glass case containing the sword. as philip had said, it was indeed beautiful.


    the blade of the sword, gleaming as if it had just been oiled, was engraved with elaborate patterns, and the hilt was intricately carved with gorgeously sinuous vines and luscious flowers. the gems embedded in between were probably diamonds.


    indeed, it was beautiful.


    so beautiful that it felt awkward.


    ¡°it feels out of place.¡±


    every weapon on display seemed to have a history of its own, but only this ceremonial sword felt somewhat foreign. it was like seeing an artificial flower blooming in all its splendor alone amongst the wilting flowers.


    even when it was displayed in a very visible place, it felt like it was meant to be seen as an oddity rather than something to show off.


    as if¡­ it was meant to mock this ceremonial sword.


    ¡°sorry?¡±


    ¡°oh, it¡¯s nothing.¡±


    liv quickly shook her head and turned around.


    ¡°by the way, the basement is far away.¡±


    ¡°there is only one entrance, after all. we¡¯re here.¡±


    exiting the long gallery, they arrived at a door. it was a side door, located next to the stairs, and much smaller than the other doors.


    ¡°this is it.¡±


    philip paused as he opened the door to the basement. when liv looked at him curiously, philip smiled benevolently.


    ¡°the basement is off-limits without permission from master. therefore, i shall wait at the entrance.¡±

 Chapter 130

    ¡°am i going down there by myself then?¡±


    ¡°rest assured, there¡¯s nothing particularly dangerous inside.¡±


    ¡°¡­ am i really going down alone?¡±


    ¡°master frequents this place often, and in terms of security, the basement takes the lead within the manor.¡±


    it wasn¡¯t that she couldn¡¯t trust philip.


    ¡­ she was just asking one more time to make sure.


    eventually, liv left philip behind and cautiously made her way down the stairs. perhaps it was because the lights were always on, the stairs to the basement didn¡¯t feel dark and dingy.


    except that she was freaked out by her own footsteps, so she had to stop several times. as a result, she spent a long time walking down the stairs that weren¡¯t very long.


    liv descended the last step, her shoulders slumped, and slowly looked around.


    it wasn¡¯t the typical space people picture when they think of a basement: dark, damp, dreary, and abandoned. rather, it was just as colorful, if not more so, as the rest of the rooms upstairs.


    as liv looked around, she spotted a human shadow and froze in alarm.


    ¡°who¡­!¡±


    she almost screamed, but when she took a second look, she realized it was a marble statue in the shape of a human being. next to it was a display of various statues and paintings.


    ¡°the marquis seems to have an abnormal sexual preference since he has a morbid fondness for nude paintings.¡±


    she remembered camille¡¯s words, which she had forgotten. like he said, the marquis apparently had a hobby of collecting nude artworks.


    this was a small gallery with a collection of nude paintings and nude statues. most portrayed full bodies.


    they were a whole different level from the few nude paintings of hers that had come out of brad¡¯s brushstrokes. muscles so alive they could move at any moment, colors so vivid, naked bodies so perfectly balanced with seductive posture.


    could it be that all the perfect human bodies in the world are gathered here?


    as she walked through the artworks, mesmerized, she spotted a particularly disparate frame in the corner. a painting in a wooden frame that looked plain and worn in contrast to the other colorful frames.


    it was a nude painting of liv.


    ¡°oh my god.¡±


    liv lamented to herself.


    it couldn¡¯t be helped. seeing it hanging side-by-side amongst all the amazing work, it was immediately apparent how incongruous it was. not just brad¡¯s poor skills, but also liv¡¯s clumsiness as a model.


    ¡°how could this be displayed so openly like this¡­¡±


    she felt her face heat up, even though no one could see it. liv cupped her burning cheeks and glanced around needlessly. sure enough, she was alone.


    comparing it to the other paintings confirmed it even more. liv was clearly devoid of any modeling talent. looking at her body, which she had always considered to be decent, was now so ordinary.


    she wondered how she had managed to shamelessly undress in front of the marquis all this time.


    what¡¯s with the posture? was she really standing like that? she was confident that a beautiful tree in a landscape painting would look more natural than that!


    the problem was that there were more than one nude paintings.


    ¡°did he really buy all of it?¡±


    all of the few nude paintings she had ever modeled for were here. from the first one she ever took off her clothes to her most recent with her side profile exposed.


    now she understood why brad was so confident that the marquis would sponsor him. brad could have been misled if the marquis continuously bought the nude paintings he did.


    as she watched them in silence, she felt a presence behind her. she didn¡¯t have to turn to know who it was, for there was only one person allowed in and out of this place. hearing the sound of approaching footsteps, liv opened her lips in a questioning grimace.


    ¡°can¡¯t you take these paintings down, my lord?¡±


    as she asked without taking her eyes off the painting, she felt a gaze on her cheek. liv turned her head to face that gaze.


    ¡°do you really need to display them like this?¡±


    she was mortified. her complexion must have reflected her emotions. the marquis, however, did not seem to mind in the least despite seeing it plainly.


    ¡°it¡¯s up to the buyer to decide how they want to store the art they¡¯ve purchased.¡±


    ¡°but all my paintings are too¡­¡±


    liv was silent, unable to find the word. then she finally managed to speak.


    ¡°weird.¡±


    at her words, the marquis nodded in approval.


    ¡°they are indeed poor in quality.¡±


    the other pieces of artwork, aside from liv¡¯s paintings, were amazing. it could be seen just from a few of them. it was obvious that the marquis wasn¡¯t just someone with abnormal sexual preference, but someone who recognized and collected works of great value.

 Chapter 131

    he had been collecting all these high quality paintings, but¡­ even in liv¡¯s opinion, someone ignorant in art herself, she couldn¡¯t understand why such shabby nude paintings were in the midst of all this amazing artwork.


    worse, it was hanging in the most visible spot. she couldn¡¯t think of any other reason he would place them in such a revealing location unless he was trying to make fun of her.


    ¡°i can¡¯t figure out why you bought them in the first place.¡±


    liv¡¯s murmur wasn¡¯t meant to elicit an answer, but to her surprise, the marquis responded.


    ¡°i was curious.¡±


    his answer was simple.


    ¡°they were so bad, i was curious.¡±


    liv¡¯s eyes widened in surprise as she expected the reason to be something along the lines of he bought them because they were nude artworks. she didn¡¯t understand what he meant when he said he paid for them because they were bad.


    was he curious about who dared to submit these as artworks?


    ¡°what were you curious about?¡±


    she thought the marquis would answer nonchalantly like he did a while ago, but he paused for a moment. then, he gave a short answer in a flat voice.


    ¡°the model.¡±


    liv¡¯s eyes shook softly. blinking slowly, liv checked out her nude paintings. nude paintings with only her back in sight. a back view that didn¡¯t look particularly spectacular except for the fact that she was naked.


    ¡°¡­ did you recognize me from the beginning?¡±


    the marquis shifted his gaze to the painting instead of answering. she wanted to ask him how long he¡¯d known her, if there was some of their encounter, which she assumed was accidental, intended, but she suspected he wouldn¡¯t answer.


    the painting the marquis was looking at was the most recent, a painting with her side face revealed.


    in liv¡¯s eyes, the woman in the painting was very shabby and pale. she looked so unattractive that she had no idea what had caught his attention.


    wait, he said it was the bad quality that made him curious. did it mean that shabbiness caught the marquis¡¯ attention?


    had it because he found them fascinating because he¡¯d been bossing people around all his life?


    ¡°if so, shouldn¡¯t that give you more reason to not hang those paintings?¡±


    this time, she got an answer.


    ¡°there is no safer place in buerno than this gallery. if you want to hide a painting, this is the place to keep it.¡±


    a basement that could only be accessed with the marquis¡¯ permission. in the first place, this basement was located in the mansion of the marquis of dietrion, whose gates were locked like a fortress. it was a place so closed off that it was hard to imagine anyone ever seeing beyond the gates.


    the marquis might be right. if he had purchased a nude painting, this basement would be the best place to hide it.


    still, liv didn¡¯t see a reason to hang them up.


    ¡°the model is in front of you, not in the paintings, my lord.¡±


    if the only reason he wanted the paintings was because of the ¡°model.¡±


    ¡°you may undress me whenever you want.¡±


    the marquis, whose gaze was briefly drawn to the painting, turned back to liv. his eyes, glazed with a particular color, bore into her intently.


    ¡°you have an uncanny way of spitting out vulgar words so decently.¡±


    his words were vaguely insulting, but his tone was so flat and his eyes so serious that she didn¡¯t feel insulted. the marquis chuckled and muttered to himself as he looked straight at her.


    ¡°i¡¯d have gotten tired of you quickly if you were vulgar.¡±


    liv felt her heart sink at his tone, which sounded like he was sad that he didn¡¯t get tired of her.


    she didn¡¯t want him to get tired of her. at this point¡­


    ¡°i¡­¡±


    all she wanted to do was get closer to him.


    ¡°i want you to see the real me, not the painting.¡±


    she hoped he, who showed his thorns to others, would show more of himself in front of her. she wished he wouldn¡¯t get tired of her in the future. she wanted him to take her with him on impulse like he did today, to show her the parts of him that others didn¡¯t see.


    she wanted to know his other sides, the ones no one else knew.


    ¡°so can you please get rid of those paintings?¡±


    the marquis took a step closer, staring into liv¡¯s eyes without blinking. he cupped her cheek, caressed it lightly, and then lowered his head.


    his lips were softer than ever. the tip of his tongue, parting her lips and invading, tickled liv¡¯s tongue, then probed the inside of her mouth.


    the marquis¡¯ teeth bit into her lip as painlessly as if he were biting into a soft cake. liv¡¯s heart fluttered at the tender, itchy contact.


    after a couple of playful kisses, he pulled away his head slightly and whispered.


    ¡°as you wish, teacher.¡±


    liv squeezed her eyes shut, barely suppressing a moan that rose to the top of her throat.


    god, she could not even imagine the end of this relationship now.

 Chapter 132

    if you truly don¡¯t want your nude paintings to be seen, the best place to keep them is in the basement of this mansion.


    he had intended to say that. however, he ended up getting rid of the finely hung paintings after listening to liv¡¯s words.


    demus found his actions somewhat amusing. strangely, he didn¡¯t carry any notable regrets about them. rather than becoming agitated by liv¡¯s noncompliance with his desires, he was captivated by it and, rather unexpectedly, felt a sense of renewal.


    now, she had become adept in speaking out the things she wanted. he didn¡¯t think she did it consciously, but the way she delivered her requests intrigued his lust.


    he was confident with his actions. all the maneuverings he had done to get that woman was not a futile and pointless endeavor. on the contrary, it was something that had to be done.


    he recalled how satisfying it was. furthermore, just before his climax, he even considered, for the briefest of moments, that he didn¡¯t want to let her out of this mansion.


    ¡°ha¡­¡±


    a laughter, painted with a sigh, flowed out. his lust for her grew intensely day by day. he had lived his life without realizing that he had such desires in him.


    demus stared at the bed sheet that was disheveled from the hot activity earlier, then silently raised his wine glass. when he had just taken a sip, liv opened the door to the inner bathroom and walked out there.


    she, wearing a bath gown and patting her hair dry with a towel, opened her eyes wide as she noticed demus.


    ¡°my lord?¡±


    the sight of her loose robe, wet hair, and fresh face aroused him. it had only been a moment ago that he had rocked his hips between her luscious thighs, and now all his senses were jolted back to life as if it had never happened.


    he gulped down his wine to calm down his searing thirst. his glass bottomed out in an instant.


    ¡°why are you so surprised?¡±


    at demus¡¯ question, liv lowered down her gaze.


    ¡°i assumed you would not be here, so¡­¡±


    so far, demus had always been the first to leave after sex. not because he had any particular agenda, but because he didn¡¯t like the traces of lovemaking left on the bedding or the strong odor that lingered in the air.


    now he no longer felt repulsed to connect his body to liv¡¯s, but he had no reason to spend a lot of time in space dirty with bodily fluids.


    in that regard, he had a clear purpose today. he had something to deliver to liv.


    he originally planned to give it before sex, but since he had been aroused all the way from the basement, he embraced her without time to spare. only after spraying his semen over and over and watching liv tattered away to the bathroom that he thought of the box he had prepared.


    as a result, he had no choice but to wait. but seeing the way liv was surprised, it felt awkward for some reason.


    he wondered if his action was that surprising.


    ¡°given that this is my mansion, it shouldn¡¯t exactly astound you to encounter me in any corner.¡±


    ¡°you are right, my lord.¡±


    carefully adjusting the front of her gown, liv carefully asked demus.


    ¡°is there anything you¡¯d like me to do?¡±


    ¡°do you think i only see you when i have something to order?¡±


    ¡°i don¡¯t mean it in that way. you also need to wash yourself, my lord, but because you¡¯ve been waiting for me, i think you must have some business with me.¡±


    her thoughts were perfectly valid. but for some reason, it made demus feel bitter.


    indeed, he usually had intentions when he called her, but sometimes it was for no reason at all. so what made her think that he would only see her when he had business with her?


    ¡°open the box over there.¡±


    demus gestured to the bedside table with his chin. on the table was a red velvet box.


    ¡°this is¡­¡±


    liv flinched. it seemed she had guessed the content from the box. there was already a precedent, so it could have been weirder not to know.


    ¡°open it.¡±


    spitting out the words in a low, casual voice, dimus filled his empty glass with wine. he raised his glass and swirled it, the red wine sparkling in the clear glass.


    liv watched demus, then quietly opened the box. her eyes opened wide as she saw the content.


    the things inside the box were jewelry. they were necklace and earrings more beautiful and fancier than the one she received before.


    liv, staring at them with a burdened look, spoke cautiously.


    ¡°it¡¯s already late, so may i postpone putting these on until later? coryda must be waiting for me.¡±


    ¡°it is surely a pleasure watching you wearing nothing but jewelry, but these aren¡¯t for that. i¡¯m giving them to you to keep.¡±

 Chapter 133

    liv¡¯s expression changed subtly at demus¡¯ words. liv stood there, peering into the box, and slowly parted her lips.


    ¡°¡­ i¡¯m not in a position to wear such valuable jewelry. i don¡¯t have the right clothes, and there is no place for me to wear these. so i¡¯ll just leave this here, and i¡¯ll wear it whene¡ª¡±


    ¡°in other words, you just need the right clothes and place.¡±


    ¡°pardon, sir?¡±


    setting down the wine glass he had been twirling playfully, demus pushed himself up and walked over to liv. he picked up the envelope she hadn¡¯t noticed, hidden beneath the box.


    what came out of the crisp envelope was a ticket to the opera.


    ¡°you¡¯ve already got the place, so you just need to match the clothes.¡±


    liv, who had been staring at the ticket with blank eyes, snapped her head up and looked at demus.


    ¡°are you going to take me along as your partner?¡±


    ¡°is that surprising to you?¡±


    ¡°i¡­¡±


    her green eyes were filled with mixed emotions. demus smiled faintly at her as she pursed her lips in speechlessness, then reached into the box and pulled out something.


    it was a sparkling diamond necklace. the necklace made of tiny diamond woven into a mesh of thin gold strings was designed to wrap around her collarbone. he hadn¡¯t picked it out himself, but the moment he saw it, he knew it would look great against liv¡¯s pale skin.


    and as expected, he was absolutely right.


    demus, who had dug into the tightly covered bath gown, put the necklace on her himself.


    ¡°since that brat of the eleanor family you¡¯re close with has been digging up about me, this will come to surface at some point.¡±


    ¡°isn¡¯t it something you can prevent?¡±


    ¡°it is, but i don¡¯t see why i have to.¡±


    a cold necklace landed on her skin, which was warm from the bath earlier. looking up close, the fine hair on the back of her neck was rising up. demus ran his thumb over there and whispered in liv¡¯s ear.


    ¡°do i have to hide it?¡±


    liv couldn¡¯t easily answer him. she apparently believed that her relationship with demus would continue in secret forever. as proof, her face seen at an angle was pale.


    ¡°i see you are not satisfied with our relationship, teacher.¡±


    ¡°no, it¡¯s not, but rather¡­¡±


    liv, hesitating, lowered down her gaze. liv fiddled with the necklace on her neck and then spoke as if lamenting.


    ¡°it¡¯s more than i deserve.¡±


    ¡°why don¡¯t you be honest, teacher?¡±


    demus removed his hand that had been playing with the necklace and her nape, and this time picked up an earring. it was an earring delicately crafted with a big and clear diamond.


    ¡°do you truly desire to keep this relationship hidden from the world?¡±


    demus touched liv¡¯s earlobe. the thick earlobe was clean, as if it had never been pierced. after staring down at it, demus checked the back of the earring.


    the tip of the straight gold pin was pointed. he figured a needle wouldn¡¯t be necessary.


    ¡°you don¡¯t want anyone to see you standing next to me?¡±


    no way. in essence, human desires are always destined to escalate. once they engage in what they deem improper, it¡¯s only a matter of time before they yearn for something greater, something far beyond their current limits.


    demus knew that liv was quite swayed by him, and she would no doubt be hungry for more.


    after a moment of hesitation, liv lifted her head slightly. he was expecting her to be at a loss from his favor, but she was surprisingly calm.


    ¡°if i stand by your side, my lord¡­¡±


    liv¡¯s eyes stared back at demus.


    ¡°how long will that last?¡±


    well, demus himself was curious about it. how long should he keep liv by his side?


    he was an avid collector. but then, a collector is not someone who sticks with a single object indefinitely. having never been this obsessed with a single thing before, demus wasn¡¯t sure how long his whims would last.


    one thing was for sure, at least for now, he was quite fond of liv. enough to be willing to make this relationship public and flatter her.


    ¡°you just need to make sure i don¡¯t get bored with you, teacher. and so far, you¡¯ve been very good at it. why don¡¯t you have a little more faith in yourself?¡±


    ¡°ugh!¡±


    liv crumpled her face and let out a short scream. demus, who had been playing with her earlobe, had pierced her flesh with an earring. liv¡¯s long lashes fluttered from the sudden pain.


    a sparkling diamond earring nestled in the red, swollen flesh.


    ¡°it looks good on you.¡±


    rubbing his index finger and thumb over and around the burning earlobe, demus narrowed his eyes.


    ¡°see me earlier next time. we have a few shops to stop by.¡±


    he muttered kindly, telling her to pierce the other one by looking at the mirror, and slipped the earring into liv¡¯s hand. after that, he turned to leave, but liv¡¯s clear question rang behind him.


    ¡°do you love me, my lord?¡±

 Chapter 134

    ¡°what?¡±


    ¡°or, do you like me?¡±


    her questions were beyond absurd; he found them to be bold, amusing.


    demus, looking back at liv with a raised eyebrow, gave her a sour look. liv stared at him, silently waiting for an answer. he wondered if she was trying to beg for affection, but the look in her eyes was rational and calm.


    that was new. it meant that she knew better than anyone else how ridiculous the questions she had uttered.


    ¡°i cherish you.¡±


    thus, demus decided to be generous and give his answer.


    ¡°if i had to define it, i¡¯d say i cherish you, teacher.¡±


    it was like choosing his favorite thing in his collection and giving it first place. not the only thing, but he didn¡¯t put it in the same place like his other collections. he only valued her that much.


    ¡°should there be more emotions?¡±


    ¡°surely not.¡±


    liv lowered her gaze and turned around. with the other earring in her hand, she walked over to the mirror. it looked like she was going to pierce her ear herself, just as demus had told her.


    no matter how many times he saw it, her movements were uncannily serene.


    standing in front of the mirror, silent as if she weren¡¯t there, liv touched her earlobe, then cautiously raised her hand. her shoulders heaved, as if she were nervous.


    before long, a crystal-clear diamond sparkled in her other earlobe as well.


    there was a little blood on the tip of the gold pin she had stabbed in without much thought, but it didn¡¯t matter because it couldn¡¯t be seen from the front.


    ***


    liv laughed mockingly at herself.


    the marquis didn¡¯t ask about her feelings. he was just taking care of her like he would a favorite pet dog.


    in retrospect, it had always been that way. from the beginning, it was clear that she was going to be the only one suffering.


    she had already known it well.


    dear me, this is why people need to know their places.


    liv stifled a sigh. the red velvet box she ended up bringing home entered her eyes. she thought the ruby necklace she rejected last time was very expensive, but when she put this diamond necklace in front of her, it made that necklace look bland and like something for a child¡¯s play. seeing the diamond necklace and earrings left her speechless, unable to dare herself to pick them up.


    nevertheless, liv accepted them. the marquis would be angry if she refused. she didn¡¯t want to incur his wrath.


    ¡°why don¡¯t you be honest, teacher?¡±


    no, actually,


    ¡°you don¡¯t want anyone to see you standing next to me?¡±


    for all her caution, her greed grew. that greed pushed her to accept the box.


    as the marquis had pointed out, liv didn¡¯t want her relationship with him to go on forever in secret. she knew that her relationship with the marquis would do her no good if it came to the surface, and that it would probably cause a huge storm that would sweep her life away.


    nevertheless, liv wanted to confirm that she was special to him. there existed no surer means of affirmation than the marquis publicly placing her at his side for all to see.


    he was a man who drew the public attention merely from visiting a mansion for a deal, so if she stood by his side as his partner, it would surely generate even more rumors. many would question his relationship with liv and scrutinize them. perhaps, someone would try to pry¡­


    whether it was the nude paintings acting as the catalyst for their involvement or his tendency to treat her as if she were a collectible¡­ the fact remained that without these elements, she wouldn¡¯t have encountered him or piqued his interest.


    the marquis was a man liv would never have dreamed of knowing if it weren¡¯t for these special circumstances.


    ¡°i cherish you, teacher.¡±


    the marquis didn¡¯t like gossip behind his back, so wouldn¡¯t he give her at least some protection? up until now, he had been benevolent to liv. wouldn¡¯t it be a waste of his devotion if he changed now?


    liv ran her fingers down the box. the texture felt soft on her fingertips.


    liv, who had been stroking the box lid as she couldn¡¯t bring herself to open it, averted her gaze. half of her face was reflected in the small mirror atop of the table. there was a red scab on the pale woman¡¯s ear.

 Chapter 135

    as she awoke one morning, she discovered blood in both openings of her earlobes. taking notice, she sanitized and gently wiped the area, only for it to scab anew. the timeline for complete healing was unclear, but meticulous attention was a must if she wished to prevent her pierced ears from closing. especially if she intended to adorn herself with earrings for the upcoming opera event.


    ¡°haah¡­¡±


    liv heaved a heavy sigh and raised herself. her conviction that he would shield her turned out to be no sturdier than a sandcastle without a solid base. a grain of sand so weak it could easily crumble under the froth of the wave. however, could it not also signify its resilience against crumbling?


    if the sand castle was going to crumble anyway, did she need to crumble it down herself?


    liv decided to accept her swelling greed.


    even if it would keep growing recklessly and ultimately explode, leaving only fragmented, tattered pieces, all she needed to do then was to gather those remains and throw it away.


    ***


    a report had been submitted that coryda¡¯s condition was improving faster than expected.


    it was in a separate report that demus received, in addition to the one for liv. without doubt, he wasn¡¯t checking on coryda¡¯s condition because he was worried about her condition. he was checking because he wanted to get coryda away from liv as soon as possible.


    since the incident that made him impulsively bring liv to the lanxess manor, demus had become more focused on her.


    he had never forgotten the moment he¡¯d seen liv in the basement, standing among his prized collections. she was a woman who fit right in with the lanxess manor.


    but as long as coryda was by her side, it would be difficult to get her to the manor. it might be easier if he were to welcome coryda as well, but all demus wanted was only liv rhodes.


    as her sick sister was a nuisance to him, demus was happy to help her get well. the cost for coryda was only a few pennies, and if it would earn him liv¡¯s favor, it was no different from an investment.


    thus, he readily decided to go out today.


    ¡°we¡¯re so honored that you made the trip down here, my lord!¡±


    demus, who had been looking at the bowing owner of hyslop, glanced around the room. as anticipated from a pharmacy, a hint of grassy fragrance lingered in the air. however, the scent leaned more towards the subtle end rather than overpowering, indicating meticulous care in maintaining the interior ambiance.


    ¡°i heard there¡¯s a new medicine.¡±


    ¡°yes, my lord. it came in at the crack of dawn today!¡±


    new medicines were distributed through official routes. no exception was made in buerno, and if demus wanted to obtain a new medicine, he would have to go through hyslop, which was authorized to handle new medicines.


    moreover, this was the first distribution. naturally, there were limited quantities. so it was better to move in person, as a warning not to think about buying the new medicine for a while, and a warning not to think about passing it on to someone else.


    the owner, realizing at once the implications of demus¡¯ visit, cleared his throat and spoke softly.


    ¡°but, my lord, as you know, the quantities are not large. if you could show a little mercy, more people would have a chance.¡±


    glancing at the door that led to the back of the pharmacy, demus asked in a cold voice.


    ¡°are any of these people waiting for this medicine going to die right now?¡±


    ¡°we don¡¯t know that either. our main duty is to provide the best possible medicine to those who need¡ª¡±


    ¡°in that case, you just need to stay true to your duty.¡±


    demus continued without giving the pharmacy owner a glance.


    ¡°why are you blabbering too much when the customer who needs the medicine is buying it?¡±


    he had managed to secure the list of individuals keen on procuring the new medicine. among them, not a single person suffered from a critical illness or had ties to such conditions. instead, they were individuals ready to lavish money for the allure of exclusivity and rarity that the ¡°new medicine¡± offered, rather than genuinely requiring it.


    how desperate his situation was compared to theirs. at the very least, it would have been much more meaningful in his hands than passing it on to others.


    the pharmacy owner broke into sweat as the marquis made no secret of his intention to buy the new medicine exclusively for a while. the owner was quite troubled with demus¡¯ attire as he had to deal with a variety of aristocratic clients. however, demus was not the kind of man to consider every detail of the pharmacy owner¡¯s dealings.


    the owner couldn¡¯t say a word, but just circled around like a dog with its tail on fire. demus, who was casually ignoring him, suddenly turned his attention. there was a commotion at the entrance of the store. the owner frowned and approached the entrance.

 Chapter 136

    ¡°what¡¯s going on? i told you not to take customers today!¡±


    the owner of the pharmacy cracked open the firmly shut doors and reprimanded the doorkeeper.


    ¡°actually, sir, this woman was continuously lying that she had an appointment, resulting in a slight commotion as i stepped in. i offer my apologies.¡±


    ¡°why is she lying when we have such an important¡ª oh my, please don¡¯t worry, my lord. we will take care of this quietly!¡±


    the pharmacy owner, who had been reprimanding the doorkeeper, was surprised to find demus approaching the door and immediately bowed down. demus ignored him and stared through the slightly ajar door.


    ¡°let her in.¡±


    ¡°yes, i will quickly kick her¡­ sorry?¡±


    ¡°she said she had an appointment. does this pharmacy keep someone deaf as the doorkeeper?¡±


    the pharmacy owner, who listened to the venomous words spoken in a calm tone, ended up opening the store door. as a result, the woman who had been hidden from the view was now visible.


    seeing the woman standing in an old attire, demus involuntarily clicked his tongue.


    he thought to himself that he should have brought her to the boutique first instead of the pharmacy. it was no wonder she was kicked out for trying to get in in that attire.


    ¡°do, do you really have an appointment¡­?¡±


    the pharmacy owner and the doorkeeper, both wearing disbelieving faces, looked back and forth between liv and demus. they seemed unable to understand this situation. all the more so since she appeared to be living in a different world. demus let out a cold sneer.


    ¡°it¡¯s a wonder you can run a business with such terrible eyes that don¡¯t even recognize your customers.¡±


    ¡°for-forgive me¡­ what are you doing? come on, apologize!¡±


    the pharmacy owner, reflexively apologizing, immediately yelled at the doorkeeper. the doorkeeper, who was still wearing a dumbfounded expression, looked back at the woman standing next to him.


    the woman looked calm as if she didn¡¯t care about all of this. however, when the door opened a moment ago, her neck and cheeks were clearly flushed. probably because she felt insulted.


    that woman, liv rhodes, had more pride than anyone would think, after all.


    ¡°forgive me, ma¡¯am.¡±


    liv¡¯s expression turned awkward as she listened to the doorkeeper¡¯s apology. she was likely thinking of the past event.


    demus had already heard the report of liv getting the door slammed in her face here. it had been a while since he put someone on her tail, and following a defenseless commoner woman was not a difficult task for a trained man.


    ¡°you¡¯d better manage your staff properly, or you¡¯re going to have customers who are offended by your arrogance and decide to go somewhere else they feel ¡®convenient to visit¡¯.¡±


    demus¡¯ scorn was loud enough to reach the doorkeeper and liv. the doorkeeper, bowing and rolling his eyes around, turned pale.


    ¡°i¡¯m really sorry, ma¡¯am. i will never commit such rudeness again, so please forgive me this once!¡±


    this time, it was liv who got flustered at the sight of the doorkeeper bowing, so deeply he almost reached the floor. she motioned for him to stop, telling that she would forgive him, and then reached out as if to help him to his feet. seeing that, demus frowned and said.


    ¡°how long are you going to stand at the entrance, teacher?¡±


    ¡°oh, yes.¡±


    liv pulled her hand back before it reached the doorkeeper. demus¡¯ deeply furrowed brows also eased at the sight.


    the owner of hyslop now led liv with great urgency as if he no longer cared about liv¡¯s appearance. uncomfortable with his demeanor, liv moved awkwardly and then cautiously stepped closer to demus. she had found someone to lean on subconsciously.


    he liked that. demus gladly caught her and pulled her closer to his side.


    ¡°hereafter, all future supplies of the new medicine shall be given to her.¡±


    the pharmacy owner immediately said yes. it was liv who was surprised. demus had merely sent her a message to come to hyslop without offering any explanations, and it was only now that he clarified the circumstances to her.


    ¡°it is the new medicine from dominian. i can¡¯t accompany you all the time, so you¡¯ll have to take it yourself.¡±


    ¡°the new medicine¡­¡±


    ¡°didn¡¯t you say you need it?¡±


    the color gradually returned to liv¡¯s blank face. her green eyes sparkled brighter than ever.


    ¡°¡­ i need it.¡±


    liv, having answered in a low yet clear voice, bit her shaking lip. this resulted in her lip losing its color, turning pale.


    i feel it will taste just right if i kiss her now.

 Chapter 137

    right at the moment demus thought that, the staff member who went inside to bring the medicine showed up. the staff member who showed up with the tightly sealed medicine gave liv, who stood by demus¡¯ side, a questioning look, but kept his questions to himself.


    ¡°this is the medicine. you should check with your doctor before taking it, and make sure you understand how to use it.¡±


    ¡°yes.¡±


    liv, receiving the medicine from the pharmacy owner, looked down at it with a strange expression. having done with his business, demus immediately turned around. his carriage was waiting just in front of the store.


    as they left the pharmacy with a grand sendoff, demus climbed into the carriage first, and then liv followed suit. he could feel a few gazes following them in that short moment.


    he could have avoided those gazes if he wanted to, but demus chose not to. liv also seemed to have noticed it, but she didn¡¯t say anything.


    sitting on the carriage, liv fiddled with the medicine bag on her lap.


    ¡°how did you know?¡±


    ¡°about what?¡±


    the carriage swayed as it set off. demus, leaning back comfortably, glanced over at liv.


    ¡°the treatment i got in hyslop back then.¡±


    ¡°i will be disappointed if you ask because you truly don¡¯t know.¡±


    liv was not a fool. he didn¡¯t hide that he knew about her daily life, so she would surely have guessed it to some extent.


    and as expected, liv didn¡¯t express any kind of questions at demus¡¯ words. she looked back down at the bag, her eyes deep in thought.


    ¡°my lord, if i may ask, when did this interest that you¡¯re currently displaying first arise?¡±


    ¡°is that important?¡±


    ¡°i think knowing that would help me decide how to behave in the future.¡±


    demus tilted his head at an angle.


    ¡°isn¡¯t it the present that matters, not the past? if you continue to keep your wit while you¡¯re by my side, you¡¯ll always get this kind of treatment.¡±


    ¡°keep my wit.¡±


    liv, who had been mulling over demus¡¯ words, suddenly put the medicine bag onto the empty seat next to her. then she sat down close by demus¡¯ side. demus watched her, wondering what she was trying to do, and liv, who hesitated for a second, gingerly placed her hands on demus¡¯ chest and looked up at him.


    liv¡¯s face as she looked up at demus from a close distance looked composed, but somehow stirred something inside him. in a subdued tone, she posed her question, her steady green eyes locked onto demus¡¯ visage.


    ¡°may i kiss you, my lord?¡±


    demus raised an eyebrow. perhaps she understood his reaction wrong, liv¡¯s shoulders slumped slightly. the way she got discouraged so quickly after approaching so boldly made her look like a mimosa.


    ¡°you looked like you wanted to kiss me earlier. did i guess wrong?¡±


    liv asked, her voice sounding much more less confident that she had been a moment ago, then she rolled her eyes and tried to pull herself away. but it was a futile endeavor as demus quickly wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her into his arms.


    ¡°ah!¡±


    liv fell forward as she lost her balance and leaned against demus¡¯ chest. demus ducked his head down toward her. their lips clashed, somewhat urgently.


    liv, leaning onto him in an uncomfortable position, clutched at demus¡¯ clothes for dear life. she squirmed, trying to regain her balance somehow, but was left helpless when demus plunged his tongue deep inside her. it didn¡¯t take long for the wet saliva to trickle from between her startled lips.


    ¡°mmph¡­¡±


    the wet sound of tongue sucking and faint moans filled the carriage. demus ran the tip of his tongue against liv¡¯s soft palate. each time he did it, her gasp displayed her heated senses.


    demus, who had been taking his time to invade her lips, let go of her lips slightly. as soon as he did that, liv panted and leaned her forehead against his shoulder. she was more breathless than usual from kissing in an uncomfortable position inside a moving carriage.


    demus looked down at liv, letting her use his shoulder so she could catch her breath. the white nape of her neck peeked through her neatly tied hair.


    ¡°if it weren¡¯t for the reserved boutique.¡±


    i would have ordered the carriage back to the mansion.


    demus murmured to himself, his gaze fixed on the tantalizing nape, causing liv to involuntarily tense.

 Chapter 138

    she appeared to have regained her breath somewhat, yet she refrained from lifting her head and instead leaned fully into demus. as if emphasizing the gravity of her decision, liv tightly grasped his clothes with remarkable strength.


    ¡°you¡¯re unaware of the determination i¡¯ve mustered, aren¡¯t you, my lord?¡±


    ¡°does it take a ¡®determination¡¯ to indulge my company?¡±


    demus retorted in a mocking voice. liv didn¡¯t offer a reply, merely holding onto his garments more tightly. in the past, he might have deemed the wrinkle an imperfection, but witnessing liv cling to him so fervently, the minor crease no longer seemed like a blemish.


    demus lifted his hand and stroked the back of liv¡¯s head. her soft hair got tangled between his fingers. it made her neat hair disheveled. watching her hair gradually turn messy with his touch, demus slid his hand down and wrapped it around liv¡¯s nape. he grabbed it with fervor, pulling her head up, and liv looked up to face him compliantly.


    ¡°if you want to tell me about that determination, i will listen.¡±


    maybe it was a consequence of the preceding kiss. the corners of liv¡¯s eyes took on a subtle rosy hue, hinting at the remnants of her arousal.


    ¡°it¡¯s fine. it¡¯s not some sort of a big deal to you, my lord. it¡¯s just¡­¡±


    her lips, slightly swollen from the short yet rough kiss, curled.


    ¡°i want to tell you that this time as well, i decided to accept it.¡±


    for the first time, demus felt that he couldn¡¯t read into liv. her straightforward gaze had always been an open book, unable to hide what was inside.


    however, he couldn¡¯t pay attention to her unfamiliar atmosphere, for liv raised her arms, twining them around demus¡¯ neck, and ardently pressed her lips against his.


    ***


    the reaction in the boutique was even worse than in hyslop.


    a woman whom the marquis of dietrion brought in person to have her dress tailored!


    it was natural that the boutique owner and her employees were unable to take their eyes off her. liv could feel envy, jealousy, and disbelief in those eyes. there was some genuine awe, but the negative sentiment was stronger.


    although she had anticipated it, she felt uncomfortable somewhere in her heart.


    in fact, those gazes would disappear with a word from the marquis. however, that would only for last a while. the marquis wouldn¡¯t be able to police her every move, and liv would have to deal with those hostility and unpleasant curiosity wherever she went from now on. if she couldn¡¯t get rid of them completely, she might as well get used to them. at least then she could ignore it.


    but if there was something unexpected, it was the marquis¡¯ demeanor.


    until now, liv had believed that the marquis desired to keep this relationship as discreet as she did. the marquis himself had articulated his distaste for ¡°leaving traces.¡± therefore, if he were to now appear with a woman at his side in full view of everyone, it was evident that the very ¡°tenacious individuals¡± he despised would soon be pursuing him.


    resting on the bed where the heated air had yet to dissipate, liv took measured breaths as she slowly turned her head. once more, today, the marquis didn¡¯t leave the room immediately after their lovemaking session. if last time he had stayed to bestow jewelry upon liv, today he seemed to have no such purpose.


    that small gesture now sparked anticipation within her.


    the subtle change in his demeanor flipped liv¡¯s emotions upside down. her feelings became a tangled mess, as though someone had reached in and stirred them with their hand.


    ¡°i thought you didn¡¯t like being talked about, my lord.¡±


    ¡°i hate it.¡±


    the marquis, sitting on the bed with a cigar in his mouth, answered in a cold voice.


    ¡°is there even anyone who likes it?¡±


    as always, he was unruffled. it was always liv who became a bit of a mess and appeared disheveled when they engaged in sexual interactions.


    initially, she believed it wouldn¡¯t hold much significance due to the vertical, one-sided nature of their relationship. however, after she chose to covet him, the way he dressed began to unsettle her. particularly because it was him who brought her to the boutique so openly today; he was the one who showed her off in front of others without hesitation.


    ¡°today, you seemed to not care about it, my lord.¡±


    she wondered why he had decided to show this relationship to others. it was unlikely that he wanted to expose his ¡°uncanny hobby.¡±


    ¡°i just know that sometimes gossip can be quite useful.¡±


    the marquis replied in a nonchalant tone.


    ¡°i don¡¯t like people prying on me, not that i want to hide.¡±


    ¡°since nothing is known about you, my lord, i assumed you desired a quiet life.¡±


    ¡°there¡¯s someone who wants to keep me hidden.¡±


    letting out a mocking laugh, the marquis said,


    ¡°but i have no reason to oblige him.¡±


    at times, he would nonchalantly recount stories from his presumably distant past. whether this arose from his awareness that liv lacked the means to share these tales with others, or whether it stemmed from a fundamental trust in her remained a mystery to liv.

 Chapter 139

    regardless of the underlying reasons, liv found herself quite fond of these moments. although she couldn¡¯t urge him to open up about his own experience, every time the marquis shared one of these stories, she tucked it away as another exclusive fragment of his life that only she possessed.


    in that sense, today¡¯s information was intriguing. someone who wanted to hide the marquis. she wondered if it must have something to do with his family. camille previously told her that there was nothing known about the marquis¡¯ family.


    maybe, he was truly a blood relative of some royalty.


    imagining demus as royalty came effortlessly. draped in the finest fabrics and bedecked with the world¡¯s most exquisite jewelry, he presented a truly captivating sight.


    lost in her fantasies, liv snapped out of her reverie when she felt a hand on her bare skin. demus was running his fingers down her side. or, more precisely, the scar on her flank.


    ¡°i guess i hate you getting hurt more than i thought, teacher.¡±


    it was a long scratch from a sharp needle. a trainee had scratched her with a safety pin while taking her measurements in the boutique earlier. behind the sobbing trainee, who claimed it was a mistake, a few of the employees were stealing glances while barely hiding their satisfaction.


    perhaps the trainee was pressured into it by the other employees who were more senior to her. so that when liv called her out on it, the trainee would take the blame alone and face the consequences of being fired.


    liv didn¡¯t make a big deal of it. this resulted in the marquis knowing about the scar on her flank only when they got on the bed.


    ¡°it¡¯s not a deep cut, so it¡¯ll go away soon.¡±


    ¡°tsk.¡±


    although liv attempted to reassure him with her words, the marquis remained visibly displeased. liv eased into a more relaxed posture, allowing her body to yield to his touch.


    ¡°is there a reason why you like a clean body?¡±


    ¡°it is beautiful.¡±


    maybe it was due to his persistent prodding at her scar. the barely formed scab seemed to elicit an oddly ticklish sensation. or maybe, it could have been that the dissipated heat in her body had begun to rise up once again.


    ¡°isn¡¯t it as plain as day? something flawed is bound to lose its value.¡±


    liv¡¯s gaze shifted to her side. a scar destined to vanish shortly. if the manifestation of human jealousy were possible, it might take on this guise. red, stinging, and somewhat disconcerting.


    ¡°but don¡¯t flaws also serve as proof of having survived life?¡±


    the gaze that had been fixed on her scar now shifted to the man¡¯s hand. it remained concealed unless his fingers were spread wide, yet liv was familiar with the shape of the scar on that hand.


    ¡°a medal of victory, like the scar on your hand, my lord.¡±


    what kind of expression would he have if she said she liked it?


    the marquis seemed to hate the scar on his hand. but liv liked that scar.


    because it caused that man, who appeared to have lived without permitting even a trace of dust on him, to look human. because, in a way, it granted her the assurance that he, too, was a human being just like her.


    because it seemed to tell her that it was acceptable for her to pretend as though she had lost her sanity and to harbor feelings of greediness towards him.


    ¡°because just surviving through life is a victory.¡±


    the marquis narrowed his eyes at liv¡¯s words. the hand that had been practically tickling her now felt coercive. squeezing liv¡¯s flesh, the marquis curled up his lips at an angle.


    ¡°you have a quite unique perspective.¡±


    a slight wisp of cigar smoke emanated from the moving lips.


    ¡°interesting.¡±


    ¡°i don¡¯t think my perspective is right. but¡­ the way you express disdain for imperfections gives off a vibe that suggests you hold similar feelings towards the scar on your hand.¡±


    the marquis maintained his gaze on liv while he silently indulged in his cigar, the tip of his thick cigar aglow with a fiery red hue.


    ¡°while you¡¯re suggesting that it might be a good idea to think about it differently¡­¡±


    smoke filled the room, thicker than before. within the enveloping pungent smoke, the marquis¡¯ cold voice cut through the air.


    ¡°have you ever seen limbs torn off, severed, and sprawled everywhere?¡±


    his tone was dry.


    ¡°in a landscape stained by a dried mixture of blood and soil, where dust clouds loom, the loss of a lone limb can evoke a bitter irony. for those who defy the odds and survive, they¡¯ll spend the rest of their lives with a grotesquely twisted and disfigured body, robbed even of the mundane comfort of sleep¡­¡±


    she couldn¡¯t tell what he was describing. but it was clear that it was a description that couldn¡¯t be made without seeing it with his own eyes.


    ¡°you don¡¯t know how loud and ugly the screams and desperate cries they spit out are.¡±


    for the first time, an alien emotion flickered within the blue eyes that had long held only arrogance and cynicism. it bore an emptiness.


    however, that emotion had withdrawn before liv could even respond. she attempted to discern its trace, but with demus coldly averting his gaze, she was denied the chance to peer deeper into his eyes.


    demus rose to his feet and dropped his cigar into the ashtray. as he turned to leave, liv spoke up.


    ¡°even so, if they manage to survive, they can at least dream of hope.¡±


    demus, who seemed as if he would immediately open the door and leave, turned to glance at liv.

 Chapter 140

    ¡°hope?¡±


    ¡°a hope that a better tomorrow will arrive.¡±


    liv slowly raised herself.


    ¡°even if it¡¯s not such a grand fortune¡­ at the very least, tomorrow might be better than today.¡±


    ¡°have you always cared for your sick sister with that kind of mind?¡±


    his question sounded more like curiosity than mockery. tilting his head, the marquis stared hard at liv.


    ¡°believing she will get better someday?¡±


    ¡°yes. and in the end, i was given hope. it¡¯s thanks to you¡­¡±


    trailing off, liv hesitated for a moment before looking at the marquis with a calm gaze.


    ¡°because you listened to my prayer, my lord.¡±


    the marquis remained silent. he stood there, his expression shrouded in such ambiguity that she couldn¡¯t decipher his thoughts. she had always been aware of his talent for maintaining a poker face, but now it seemed he had honed that skill even further.


    it was reassuring, at the very least, that he didn¡¯t seem to mock or belittle her. this suggested that he was treating liv¡¯s sincerity seriously, genuinely listening to what she had to say.


    the silence lingered in the unusual ambiance. liv was the first to break eye contact. having shifted down her gaze, she began to move her body. with the marquis about to exit the room, she also needed to prepare herself to head home.


    she was about to make her way to the bathroom as she usually did when the marquis suddenly opened his lips.


    ¡°stay over.¡±


    it was all too apparent to liv that these were not the hollow words he had always given her.


    if he gave her an order disguised as a suggestion, liv had no means to refuse. it was unlikely that the marquis would take into account her personal distaste about being left alone in the cold room. despite this, liv responded on impulse.


    ¡°i can¡¯t sleep alone.¡±


    impossible. she wasn¡¯t a child, so how absurd it was if she couldn¡¯t sleep alone. alas, she had already spoken of it.


    seeing the marquis respond with a raised eyebrow and squinted eyes, liv quickly began to utter her excuse.


    ¡°¡­ well, it¡¯s become a habit since i¡¯ve been sleeping with coryda.¡±


    embarrassment washed over her a moment later. she awkwardly brushed her hand over her neck and slowly shifted her gaze away from the marquis.


    for a brief moment, she must have been going mad. her greed must have surged uncontrollably as she indulged in the marquis¡¯ benevolence. the more the marquis remained silent, the more her face turned a shade redder.


    it was when liv, who was unable to deal with her embarrassment any longer, decided to say she would just sleep alone.


    ¡°wash up and go outside.¡±


    oh, is he telling me to just go home?


    she interpreted it in that way, but then the marquis added with a distant tone.


    ¡°i don¡¯t sleep in verworth.¡±


    ¡°¡­ sorry?¡±


    liv looked at the marquis with puzzled eyes. the marquis wore an impassive face, but there was an inexplicable, subtle laugh in his voice.


    ¡°didn¡¯t you ask me to put you into sleep?¡±


    he regarded her as though she were a young child frightened of the darkness.


    she might be able to rectify the situation by confessing now that she hadn¡¯t meant it, that it was just a joke. however, liv couldn¡¯t bring herself to do that. there was no way to tell when the marquis, who had always left without even sparing her a glance after their sex, would be inclined toward such a caprice again.


    liv swallowed nervously and descended from the bed. all she could do was wish for her racing heart to eventually settle down.


    ***


    one of the prevalent misconceptions people held about demus was that he was entirely incapable of engaging with others.


    to clarify, demus wasn¡¯t ¡°incapable¡± of interacting with other people, but rather ¡°unwilling¡± to do so. however, the distinction remained obscured to most. his consistent avoidance of people had left no room for anyone to discern the difference.


    this apparently applied to liv as well. her eyes opened wide when she found out that demus could actually sleep with another person in the same bed all night. demus couldn¡¯t fathom the extent to which he seemed like an unapproachable beast in her mind.


    he was left utterly flabbergasted by it, but it didn¡¯t matter anyway. by now, she must have realized that her assumption was a misapprehension.


    ¡°i have clearly communicated the situation to miss coryda. additionally, we have dispatched some guards around your house to ensure her safety, so you can rest easy.¡±


    liv finally heaved a sigh of relief. even though she had made up her mind to stay overnight, she couldn¡¯t hide her concern for coryda who was alone at home. philip continued to give liv a few more pointers and then quietly retreated.


    the space they occupied was one of many rooms in the lanxess manor. it wasn¡¯t demus¡¯ private bedroom, but the room was too exquisite to be designated as a guest room.


    maybe it was because they had done it before in the lanxess manor. liv didn¡¯t look particularly awkward about sleeping in this room.


    this brought back the memory of how he had previously thought that he didn¡¯t want to let her leave this manor.

 Chapter 141

    ¡°is there anything you need before sleeping?¡±


    ¡°no, my lord. however, if i may inquire, are you planning to sleep in that attire?¡±


    liv¡¯s face was adorned with questions. demus¡¯ attire must have looked so uncomfortable for someone who was going to sleep.


    demus glanced down at his clothes. indeed, his current attire was slightly distinct from what he wore when sleeping alone. his shirt was fastened up to the neck, and his cotton pants were clearly intended for loungewear, yet some parts felt a bit constricting for use as pajamas.


    ¡°is there a problem?¡±


    ¡°you don¡¯t have to force yourself if you¡¯re reluctant to sleep in one bed, my lord.¡±


    ¡°i never have to force myself to do anything.¡±


    he was well aware of his capabilities. therefore, he handled everything to be within his grasp, no matter what he did.


    this woman in front of him was the proof. this woman, who walked in here on her own accord, had consistently stayed within the bounds of his predictions.


    liv closed her mouth at demus¡¯ words. she cast a glance down at her pajamas, loose and baggy compared to demus¡¯, and discreetly averted her gaze from him.


    ¡°you look uncomfortable.¡±


    she sounded like she was whining, making him wonder if something was wrong with the way he heard it.


    ¡°i heard that dressing light is¡­ good for sleeping.¡±


    ¡°teacher.¡±


    liv, who had been fidgeting, snapped up her head. demus stared hard at her, then spoke in a nonchalant tone.


    ¡°do you want to undress me?¡±


    wouldn¡¯t she shake her head with a flushed face, or perhaps appear startled while gesturing ¡°no¡± with her hands?


    liv appeared perfectly composed, almost as if she were laughing at demus for thinking that way. she even let out a small gasp as if she had realized something. blinking her eyes, she fiddled with the quilt and then slowly moved her lips.


    ¡°isn¡¯t it okay to be comfortable in front of me?¡±


    after saying that, liv hesitated as if reading into his response. but soon she acted indifferent, tuning her voice, and added.


    ¡°i¡¯m the only one who has been in your bed, my lord.¡±


    suddenly, he recollected the moment when she had undressed, awkwardly trying to seduce him. the current atmosphere seemed reminiscent of that time.


    liv was likely entirely oblivious to the implications behind him bringing her to lanxess manor, revealing the basement, and even allowing her to spend the night. she probably didn¡¯t realize that these actions served as undeniable evidence of the significant amount of attention he had bestowed upon her.


    she must have been asking for more attention because she didn¡¯t know about it.


    demus knew that if he showed any sign of reluctance, she would immediately take back her words. if he had been in a bad mood at this moment, he would have laughed at liv without a second thought, but for better or worse, at this moment, his curiosity triumphed over his irritation.


    ¡°if so, will you be my attendant, teacher?¡±


    she was the woman who called the scar between his fingers a medal of victory.


    ¡°me?¡±


    ¡°yes. considering how eager you seem to be to undress me, i¡¯m offering you the opportunity.¡±


    demus was curious if she would still claim it once she got to see his body.


    a medal? medal; what an irresponsible and cute expression it was.


    ¡°what do you think?¡±


    ¡°i will do it.¡±


    seeing liv nod so innocently, demus let out a somewhat irritated laugh. liv appeared not to notice demus¡¯ sharp demeanor as she approached him, defenselessly extending her hands.


    the first button, which was tight around his neck, was undone by liv¡¯s hand.


    demus looked down at liv¡¯s face as she stood close to him and carefully unbuttoned his shirt.


    he pondered how long it had been since someone last assisted him in dressing. the sight of his shirt, which he usually took off and tossed around roughly, being removed by another¡¯s hands was fascinating and novel.


    he was a man well-versed in self-reliance, whether during his military academy years or on the battlefield. especially in his personal life. this aspect had no connection to the emotional reluctance of baring his scarred body.


    he might be fine now, but when he was on the battlefield, the threat of death was always on his mind. those were days when even the most trivial assistance had to be doubted and validated.


    while demus was reminiscing of his past, his shirt had been unbuttoned more than halfway, gradually exposing his bare flesh beneath.  it was precisely at that moment that the hands, which had been unbuttoning at a steady pace, began to slow down.


    ¡°disgusting, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    what he had spoken was a question, yet the tone he employed carried a confidence that she would interpret it as such. for truthfully, demus himself considered his body to be objectively disgusting.


    ¡°it looks like insects crawling around.¡±


    in fact, he often felt it that way. the sealed scars would occasionally itch, and there was an illusion of their size increasing. additionally, the sensation of imaginary maggots crawling over him would occasionally persist throughout the night.


    despite tightly wrapping his body to avoid seeing it, his efforts were in vain. his memory was haunted by images of shattered, torn, and mangled limbs. this recollection was unrelenting, resurfacing from time to time. accompanying it were the acrid stench and the scent of blood, along with the piercing cries.


    he didn¡¯t want to recognize that they, who looked more like lumps of meat, were once people.


    in that sense, nude artworks were so peaceful and beautiful. perfect and pristine, lasting forever.


    demus gazed at liv. he couldn¡¯t observe her expression because she was looking down.


    ¡°tell me, teacher. do you still see scars as medals of victory?¡±

 Chapter 142

    his demand for her answer and her hands, which had been hesitating for a moment, to move again were practically simultaneous. slowly unbuttoning, liv answered.


    ¡°whatever these scars are from, you are alive, my lord, and everyone looks up to you with envy.¡±


    finally, all the buttons of his shirt had been unfastened. a muscled body was revealed under then loosely hanging fabric. his flesh was covered in colored scars, testament to the time he¡¯d been through. aside from a few large scars, he couldn¡¯t remember where he had gotten the minor marks.


    liv touched her fingertips to the scar seen on his abdomen. her hand was warmer than he had expected.


    ¡°so, is there any reason to not think of these scars as medals of victory?¡±


    demus squinted his eyes as he saw the scar liv touched. he wasn¡¯t exactly sure, but it was probably a trace of injury from mine shrapnel. he couldn¡¯t remember what kind of battle it was.


    at the sight of his scars, images of the unpleasant past began to creep into his mind. demus frowned and muttered.


    ¡°you¡¯re trying hard to please me.¡±


    liv eventually looked up as she listened to his sarcastic remark. her face, looking up at him, was too clear from up close. there was no reflection of a cunning scheme nor clever means for profit in her green eyes.


    ¡°do you think i¡¯m lying to please you, my lord?¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s fine. i don¡¯t feel offended by it.¡±


    as he intentionally showed that he didn¡¯t believe her at all, liv curled up her lips awkwardly. the slight frown on her forehead seemed to reveal her embarrassment and complicated thoughts.


    she didn¡¯t coquettishly praise him, asking him to believe her words. instead, she moved her hands as if intending to completely remove demus¡¯ shirt.


    demus compliantly left his clothes to her. once his upper body was completely exposed, other hidden scars were on full display; arms, chest, shoulder blades, abdomen, everywhere. scars that looked like worms crawling on the skin were everywhere as far as the eye could see.


    liv¡¯s eyes widened as she faced them. this time, demus thought he might find some kind of disgust or fear on her face.


    alas, what she uttered was something he didn¡¯t expect at all.


    ¡°¡­ would you hate it if i said i like these scars?¡±


    her voice was pure, without any tint of anything else. somehow, it even sounded like she was in awe.


    ¡°my lord, would you be displeased if i told you that i¡¯m relieved your body is not as smooth as sculpture?¡±


    suddenly, demus felt that he was speechless in front of her for the first time. as though she had interpreted his silence negatively, liv, who had been touching the scars, hesitated and slowly withdrew her hand.


    she, who seemed to have been engrossed in admiring his body, cleared her throat and looked for a nightgown as if she had finally come to her senses. as liv scanned the room loudly, demus watched her for quite a while.


    eventually liv found a spare nightgown. demus calmly opened his arms, and liv carefully put the nightgown on him.


    ¡°teacher, you should never invest in artworks.¡±


    liv, who was adjusting the belt of the loose gown, looked up at demus questioningly. demus took the belt from her hands, threw it roughly onto the floor, and then strode to the bed.


    ¡°you have bad eyes. you will lose all of your capital in no time.¡±


    ¡°your pants¡­¡±


    ¡°if you take off my pants, i will take it as you have no intention to sleep.¡±


    liv immediately gave up on taking off demus¡¯ pants without a word. it seemed like she found it burdensome to stay awake all night while having a sleepover.


    demus was relieved. in this situation, he felt like he would embrace her rougher than usual if they were to do it.


    ¡°do you want me to sing you a lullaby?¡±


    ¡°no, i¡¯m¡­ just having you sleep with me is enough.¡±


    they had fooled around many times, and she had shown every nook and cranny of her body, but she unexpectedly looked shy. liv barely managed to lie down at the end of the wide bed, pulling up the quilt to her neck with a distracted face. demus ignored liv, who was restless, and closed his eyes.

 Chapter 143

    his retained sex drive overran as he sensed liv¡¯s scent and breath from close proximity. nevertheless, he didn¡¯t bother to address it. his whole body had sensed danger, putting him on edge.


    his survival instinct suppressed his sex drive and ran amok. he knew in his mind that nothing could put him in danger here, but the instinct that had been keeping him alive continued to warn him.


    so, he didn¡¯t want to touch her now. he felt like she was the source of this danger signal.


    strange, it was.


    ***


    when she opened her eyes in the morning, liv was alone in bed.


    she had expected she wouldn¡¯t be able to sleep because she was so nervous, but once she lay down, she slept soundly, not realizing that the man next to her had left.


    liv sat up, looking somewhat gloomily at the seat next to her, which had long since gone cold and hardly looked like someone had laid down in the first place.


    still, this was lanxess manor, so she expected she would be able to have breakfast with the marquis. however, all she heard was that the marquis had gone out early in the morning.


    in the end, she turned down philip¡¯s invitation to have breakfast, citing that coryda would be worried, and returned home.


    and as soon as liv opened the door, she faced an unexpected guest.


    ¡°teacher!¡±


    ¡°liv!¡±


    sitting alongside coryda, teacup in hand, was millian. as liv paused in the doorway, both girls rushed in, took her by the arms and pulled her into a chair at the table. they then sat down across from her, their faces as solemn as if they were officers about to interrogate her.


    there was no time for her to ask why millian was here, and why she was so in sync with coryda.


    ¡°dear~ tea~cher~, i heard ve~ry strange news.¡±


    millian, cupping her face with both hands like a flower, narrowed her eyes as she faced liv. next to her, coryda also narrowed her eyes and spoke in a mischievous voice.


    ¡°dear~ sister~, i heard a ve~ry strange word from millian.¡±


    since when did you get to call millian by name?


    speechless, liv looked back and forth between millian and coryda, then sighed in frustration. she could easily see what the two girls were trying to say, even if she didn¡¯t want to. there was no point in trying to look away and pretend she didn¡¯t know.


    liv decided to face millian calmly first. no matter how urgent millian had been, liv had to point things out before moving on.


    ¡°didn¡¯t i tell you it¡¯s not polite to visit people in their homes unannounced, millian?¡±


    there was no use in teaching her fervently. she had to practice it in life for her to learn it properly.


    at the sight of liv looking at her like she was ready to open up the etiquette textbook right then and there, millian wore a frustrated look.


    ¡°i know! but how could i wait for that?¡±


    ¡°how urgent is it that you can¡¯t even wait to send an errand boy?¡±


    ¡°are you asking how urgent it is? is there anything more urgent than this?¡±


    ¡°what could be more urgent than the fact i have realized my lessons didn¡¯t work at all?¡±


    hearing that, millian, sitting, hit her chest and stomped her foot.


    ¡°argh, teacher! are you really going to act like this? this is about marquis dietrion!¡±


    she had suspected it, but the word had indeed spread wide overnight. she was scared to hear about how far it must have spread.


    as liv showed signs of hesitation, millian had her eyes gleam and leaned her upper body forward.


    ¡°is it true?¡±


    ¡°i don¡¯t know of what you¡¯ve heard¡ª¡±


    ¡°i heard that marquis dietrion is experiencing the love of the century!¡±


    oh dear, would it even be possible to correct that nonsense? feeling at a loss, liv replied in a composed tone.


    ¡°¡­ i owe him a favor.¡±


    ¡°kyaa, are you really in love?¡±


    ¡°millian, it¡¯s not love, but favor.¡±


    fortunately, millian didn¡¯t seem to be jealous of liv¡¯s involvement with the marquis. instead, she was too busy squealing that the love story she¡¯d only read about in books was unfolding before her eyes.


    liv tried her best to bring millian¡¯s pink fantasies down to earth, but millian wasn¡¯t listening at all.


    and millian wasn¡¯t the sole person swept up in this excitement.


    ¡°liv, are you really in that kind of relationship with such a big person? oh my god!¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s a bit complicated, coryda. it¡¯s¡ª¡±


    ¡°kyaa! what should i do!¡±


    ¡°liv, that¡¯s cool! how did you two meet? did you fall for him at first glance?¡±


    ¡°no, that¡¯s¡ª¡±


    ¡°we don¡¯t have time to do this. you should be getting a writer! you should leave it in a novel!¡±


    ¡°how romantic!¡±


    ¡°¡­ you two, please, can¡¯t you give me time to speak?¡±

 Chapter 144

    it took another hour of one-sided exchanges before millian and coryda finally calmed down.


    then, liv realized that millian, who had heard the news that spread overnight from the maids, had fled her home without asking her parents for permission.


    it was irresponsible of millian to go out recklessly, but what were the maids thinking, not stopping her?


    after delivering a letter to the vendons barony through the maids, liv decided to find out the details of the circulating news outside.


    ¡°so, the only facts that are mentioned with certainty are eyewitness accounts from the pharmacy and the boutique.¡±


    this made sense, as no one would have known about liv¡¯s way of contact with the marquis.


    the only objectively verified truth was that the marquis had visited the pharmacy and boutique with liv. everything else was speculation and imagination, not fact.


    this was likely within the grasp she could handle. even if she couldn¡¯t expose the other things, there was one fact she could reveal.


    ¡°i told you before that i owe the marquis, right? actually, he¡¯s been supporting coryda¡¯s treatment.¡±


    coryda interjected, her eyes widened at liv¡¯s words.


    ¡°liv! you never told me that the one who¡¯s been helping us is marquis dietrion!¡±


    ¡°he¡¯s not someone i can easily expose.¡±


    liv¡¯s excuse was simple, but it also sounded like something anyone could easily believe.


    ¡°that is also the reason i went to hyslop. the marquis has graciously arranged for us to purchase the new medicine.¡±


    it was a good thing that the first place the marquis had taken liv to was hyslop. she happened to have had a quarrel with the doorkeeper of hyslop, allowing her to easily make up the next excuse.


    ¡°and about the boutique¡­ actually, there was no plan to visit the boutique. hyslop treated me brusquely because of my outfit, and the marquis saw it and took pity on me.¡±


    she didn¡¯t like bringing up the issue of receiving bad treatment at hyslop to the young girls, but she felt it was better than feeding up their absurd fantasies.


    ¡°i can guess what kind of words are spreading out there, but it¡¯s not true. sometimes high-profile people make anonymous donations privately, and we were lucky enough to be chosen.¡±


    her excuse was more plausible and realistic than a vague love story. millian seemed to have lost some of her enthusiasm as though she also found the explanation reasonable. liv felt inwardly relieved by her response and continued smoothly.


    ¡°so, millian, if this topic comes up when you¡¯re with your friends, can you please correct them?¡±


    liv clearly remembered how the marquis¡¯ visit at millian¡¯s birthday party had caused a commotion. it was obvious that those young aristocratic girls would become agitated and start probing into it. since liv was millian¡¯s tutor, they would certainly direct their questions to millian.


    the decision to use millian to set the rumor straight was somewhat off, but it was a far more effective way to get millian talking than if liv did it herself. at least this way, no one would treat millian badly.


    of course, this excuse wouldn¡¯t last long. if the marquis were to act bolder, disregarding public scrutiny, whatever their relationship might be, everything would fall into a ridiculous excuse.


    nonetheless, there was no way to explain her encounters with the marquis except to make it up like this. whatever the rumored relationship between them might develop into later, it was better to start with the notion of sponsorship.


    ¡°i didn¡¯t know that the marquis was interested in being a sponsor.¡±


    ¡°yeah, i was surprised to find out about this too.¡±


    millian, her lips pouting, looked back at coryda.


    ¡°if you didn¡¯t know about the marquis at all, does that mean you¡¯ve never met him?¡±


    ¡°mhm, i always come for therapy¡­¡±


    coryda nodded with an embarrassed look on her face, then suddenly looked up.


    ¡°by the way, liv, what made you stay over yesterday? i¡­ thought it was because of your new love.¡±


    ¡°well, that¡¯s¡­¡±


    liv paused at the unexpected question. just as she was about to struggle to respond, coryda clapped her hands and spoke as if she had unraveled the mystery.


    ¡°oh, you were at the ven¡ª¡±


    liv realized that she had previously used the excuse of being with ¡°baroness vendons¡± to explain her late arrivals to coryda after confirming her additional work. it was the excuse she always fell back on when coming home late.


    conscious of millian¡¯s round-eyed glances shifting between her and coryda, liv hurriedly interjected, stumbling over her words.


    ¡°um, but how did you two get close? didn¡¯t you just meet today?¡±


    as she intentionally raised her voice inquisitively, the attention of the two girls swiftly shifted. it was millian who took the initiative to answer liv¡¯s question.


    ¡°oh, i came to meet you, teacher, but because you weren¡¯t here, i waited for a while. while waiting, we started chatting and getting to know each other!¡±


    it seemed that the naturally cheerful millian and the sociable coryda had no trouble getting along.

 Chapter 145

    coryda was becoming more sociable these days, perhaps due to the increased number of people she was interacting with. and for millian, she would have looked favorably on coryda simply because she was liv¡¯s sister.


    ¡°why didn¡¯t you ever bring coryda along before? if i had met her earlier, we could have gotten to know each other and had fun together.¡±


    throughout her time in the vendons barony, liv had mentioned having a sick sister but had refrained from divulging further details. revisiting her family¡¯s unfortunate history would serve no purpose, and she knew it would only bring her discomfort and sadness.


    but now that circumstances were looking up and coryda¡¯s health was improving, liv felt a sense of joy seeing millian and coryda getting along.


    ¡°i¡¯m glad to hear you two hit it off.¡±


    ¡°millian invited me to hang out.¡±


    ¡°i heard a festival is going to be held by the lake to celebrate the peace pilgrimage¡¯s visit! can¡¯t i go with coryda?¡±


    liv, initially prepared to brush off the comment as inconsequential, paused as she heard millian¡¯s specific suggestion.


    ¡°a festival?¡±


    you two just met today and you¡¯ve already made plans to go out?


    observing liv¡¯s hesitancy to give an immediate response, coryda swiftly chimed in to support millian¡¯s proposition.


    ¡°the doctor told me that i could go out last time! she said i¡¯ve gotten a lot better!¡±


    coryda was well aware of her sister¡¯s excessive concern about her wellbeing, even when it came to spending time in the yard. so, instead of relying on her own subjective feelings of improvement, she cited thierry¡¯s professional assessment to gain permission.


    liv furrowed her brows, thinking about it for a moment. although thierry¡¯s evaluation of coryda¡¯s condition had been positive, liv¡¯s years of being overly cautious and protective made her feel reluctant at the prospect of going out.


    yet, witnessing coryda¡¯s eager anticipation¡ªthe look of someone who had never truly enjoyed a festival¡ªmade it difficult for liv to decline.


    moreover, considering the security and escorts that accompanied millian whenever she ventured out, this might be a rare chance for coryda to experience the outside world safely.


    ¡°we still have a few days left, so let¡¯s talk to your doctor again and decide.¡±


    liv decided to leave it at that, and that answer alone made coryda¡¯s face light up. millian, too, sounded excited at the possibility of playing with a new friend.


    ¡°you mentioned that the marquis had arranged for you to purchase the new medicine! i¡¯m sure coryda will be well enough to go out in no time!¡±


    that¡¯s right, new medicine. not only coryda had access to a good doctor, but she now had access to the new medicine.


    the thought of it had caused the worry in liv¡¯s mind slowly dissipating.


    ¡°yeah.¡±


    the change had been so miraculous that it seemed trivial to grumble about such minor concerns. her life had improved dramatically, so why should she let external perceptions bother her?


    as liv observed millian and coryda, she made a decision. she would face envy and jealousy with resilience. after all, there was no need to be well-regarded by everyone. as long as those closest to her remained unchanged, misunderstandings from others could be endured.


    if she could have this much peace and the marquis¡¯ side, she could handle whatever rumor it might be.


    ***


    ever since the marquis and liv¡¯s visit to the pharmacy and boutique, rumors had been swirling in buerno for some time.


    however, the rumors were contained to some extent due to liv¡¯s undisclosed identity and the absence of subsequent sightings. the descriptions available were insufficient to pinpoint a specific individual based solely on hair or eye color.


    while liv¡¯s identity might have been revealed to certain influential figures in buerno like millian, they appeared to be observing the situation rather than approaching her immediately.


    the situation was less tumultuous than liv had anticipated. she even wondered if the rumors might fade away entirely if they continued to lose steam. nonetheless, complete disappearance seemed unlikely due to liv¡¯s upcoming visits to acquire the new medicine and the tailored dress.


    people at hyslop recognized liv at once. the doorkeeper who had been rude to liv twice was nowhere to see, and liv was led to the inner lounge with a warm welcome. the owner had apparently heard about how the doorkeeper had kicked her out on her first visit to hyslop.


    all the new medicine hyslop had acquired was provided to liv. having already received assurances from thierry that the new medicine could accelerate coryda¡¯s recovery twice as fast, liv felt like she had the world at her fingertips.


    ¡°we can send this item to your home if you provide us with your address.¡±


    ¡°no, it¡¯s fine. i¡¯ll still come and pick this up myself.¡±


    given that she was now the center of attention, it would be wise not to leave an address. besides, if the medicine was meant to be delivered, the marquis would have sent an errand boy in the first place.


    liv rejected the kind offer from the owner of hyslop and rose to her feet. she had to move efficiently if she were to visit the boutique as well.


    the boutique she had visited with the marquis was the largest in buerno. she expected there would be a lot of customers there. however, upon her arrival, the boutique was unexpectedly vacant.


    this came as a surprise to liv, who knew the popularity of the bustling boutique from afar.


    she briefly wondered if the boutique was closed for the day.


    pausing at the boutique entrance, liv was about to push the door open when someone emerged from inside.

 Chapter 146

    ¡°i¡¯ve heard about your visit and have been waiting for you.¡±


    ¡°oh¡­ yes.¡±


    liv had to stare at her for quite a while before she recognized her as the owner of the boutique.


    it wasn¡¯t that she couldn¡¯t recognize the face of someone she had only met once. it was that the boutique owner¡¯s complexion had clearly deteriorated over the past few days.


    ¡°this way, please.¡±


    not even at hyslop had the owner hurried to welcome her.


    liv couldn¡¯t help but wonder, remembering the envy and jealousy she¡¯d received the day she had visited the boutique. liv had been prepared for the furtive glances she would receive today, but no one was able to look at her properly, let alone steal a glance.


    ¡°you may sit here. we will quickly prepare the refreshment.¡±


    ¡°no, it¡¯s fine. i just need to pick up the clothes i ordered.¡±


    as soon as liv shook her head, the owner¡¯s face turned pale white.


    ¡°please give us a chance to treat you to a cup of tea, lady.¡±


    for a moment, liv wondered if she had strangled the boutique owner with her hands.


    of course, she hadn¡¯t laid a finger on her. however, she couldn¡¯t turn her down anymore when she saw the owner looking like she was going to pass out on the spot if she shook her head one more time.


    as she finally took her seat, the owner gestured urgently. a staff member with hunched shoulders set up a table full of refreshments. there were rows of colorful teacups that were hard on the eyes.


    by now, liv had noticed that something was off.


    and, in all honesty, she could think of only one reason for this.


    ¡°i didn¡¯t ask the marquis to do something.¡±


    ¡°sorry?¡±


    ¡°i didn¡¯t ask him anything, so i can¡¯t change his will.¡±


    the boutique owner stiffened and fell silent at liv¡¯s words.


    swallowing hard, the owner gestured toward the doorway, and the staff members of the boutique entered the lounge. liv stared in silence as they bowed their heads in despair.


    the face of the trainee, standing in the most visible spot, was like that of a corpse.


    ¡°lady, i made a big mistake the other day.¡±


    ¡°she was still learning, so there were many things she couldn¡¯t do right. i will ensure she doesn¡¯t make that mistake.¡±


    the owner added as she stood next to the trainee. she mentioned that she had fired her, and that she was present today to apologize.


    liv, who had been observing the scene in silence, shifted her attention to the other staff members standing behind the trainee. they, too, had their heads bowed, making it impossible to see their expressions. however, they didn¡¯t seem inclined to step forward and apologize or make excuses like the trainee.


    a little scratch from a safety pin¡­ in truth, it was nothing big to liv. it was the sort of thing that could indeed happen due to a ¡°mistake.¡±


    perhaps the glances she had interpreted as animosity that day were also simply a result of her own insecurity.


    ¡°are you confessing that you treated me badly by assigning the task to a trainee?¡±


    nevertheless, liv understood that this was not a moment to let things slide.


    ¡°sorry? n-no, it¡¯s not that!¡±


    ¡°lord dietrion instructed you to make my dress personally, but you delegated the task to a trainee. how surprising.¡±


    the boutique owner looked at liv with a puzzled expression. liv thought of the marquis¡¯ impassive expression she¡¯d always seen, and tried to emulate it. it was quite challenging for her.


    ¡°if that¡¯s not the case, is it your inability to have a seasoned full-time employee to step up to the plate and take over for an inexperienced trainee?¡±


    ¡°lady.¡±


    ¡°are you going to tell me that your staff has been shirking their responsibilities onto the trainee? if you can¡¯t enforce proper leadership to rein in their indulgence, that¡¯s also an issue.¡±


    the owner, her face red, fell into silence, rendered speechless. the lounge was enveloped in stillness, so tense that even breathing seemed difficult.


    this atmosphere was uncomfortable. liv disliked the notion of cornering someone in this manner. it didn¡¯t offer catharsis or satisfaction.


    however, since the marquis had already expressed his displeasure with this boutique for her in some way, for his own good, liv shouldn¡¯t forgive them so easily.


    ¡°i apologize. it¡¯s entirely my fault, as employee mistakes are the responsibility of the boss.¡±


    the boutique owner bowed at the waist. liv looked away, trying to hide her discomfort.


    ¡°i¡¯m not saying you shouldn¡¯t feel jealous. it¡¯s just there¡¯s a difference between experiencing that emotion and actively expressing it. i even noticed your attempt to downplay the situation without clarifying who was at fault. how can your apology come across as sincere in this case?¡±


    the shoulders of the staff members standing there, almost like they were in a state of punishment, sagged. on the surface, they appeared remorseful.

 Chapter 147

    however, liv believed that their jealousy hadn¡¯t dissipated. if anything, this incident would likely transform their one-dimensional jealousy into a deep-seated animosity.


    they would likely feel frustrated, angry, and resentful. they would likely complain about what they had done wrong and how she was disrupting the shop over a mere scratch from a safety pin.


    bitter laughter escaped liv¡¯s lips. she could envision exactly how they were viewing her.


    a cranky, arrogant mistress who happened to enjoy significant backing.


    ¡°i will collect my order, but i¡¯d rather not continue to be associated with an unprofessional establishment.¡±


    being ambiguously polite would only fuel their grievances. if she was going to be criticized behind her back regardless, she might as well ensure that they¡ªespecially people like them¡ªcouldn¡¯t voice their complaints to her face.


    by turning the tables in this manner, at the very least, they wouldn¡¯t resort to the same underhanded tactics as before.


    ¡°lady!¡±


    ¡°bring me the finished clothes.¡±


    liv realized that she would be going through something like this many times in the future.


    she didn¡¯t like it, but she recognized that she would have to become accustomed to it.


    ¡­


    liv thought of heading straight home, conscious of what had happened in the boutique, but changed her destination.


    she didn¡¯t want to step foot on this street as much as possible, so she opted to take care of all her business while she was out.


    after loading her belongings into the rented carriage and keeping her hat on as tightly as she could, she made her way to a shop that sold a variety of clothing-related goods. she had been considering what she might buy for philip, adolf, and the others, and had settled on buying something simple, handkerchiefs.


    it was a fancy shop that she wouldn¡¯t have looked at in the past, but the expense wasn¡¯t really a burden to liv now.


    ¡°if it¡¯s a handkerchief, you¡¯ll find it here.¡±


    guided by a staff member, liv suddenly glanced at something. the staff member looked to see where she was looking.


    ¡°these are the high-end products that we handle exclusively in our store. they are delivered to aristocratic families, so the prices are quite high.¡±


    the staff explained allusively. there was a hint of caution in his voice, suggesting that he might have gathered something about liv¡¯s situation from her attire.


    liv walked over to the display cases, leaving the staff behind. the first thing she saw were sparkly cuffs. silver, shimmering boutonnieres, elegant cravats, and more adorned the display. they seemed to be on showcase rather than for sale, revealing the range of products they had in stock.


    slowly scanning them, liv¡¯s eyes lingered on the last display case.


    ¡°do you have a pair of gloves for a noble person?¡±


    ¡°by a noble person¡­ do you mean to give it to a lady?¡±


    ¡°no, a gentleman.¡±


    ¡°of course, we have.¡±


    the staff member asked her to wait for a moment and hurriedly departed. while she waited, liv continued to peer into the display cases.


    she recalled the marquis, who invariably wore gloves except during their intimate moments. he would likely have his gloves custom-made, of the highest quality and price, but¡­


    if she gave him a present, she would likely never see him wear it, but¡­


    ¡°ma¡¯am, do you happen to know the size?¡±


    the staff member who had gone inside to retrieve the gloves peeked out and inquired. liv responded in an offhand manner.


    ¡°i know.¡±


    she vividly remembered the size of the hands that had touched her.


    ***


    it was the greatest splurge of her life.


    even when she totaled the cost of all the handkerchiefs she had bought for others, it paled in comparison to the price of the gloves for the marquis.


    she wondered if her hands trembled as she paid for them.


    ¡°thank you. you can place them over there.¡±


    having moved more things than she had expected to the front door with the help of the coachman, she felt like she had solved a big problem. she figured she¡¯d spend less time out and more time with coryda.


    after paying the coachman a small fee for his services, liv turned and headed back into her home.


    ¡°liv!¡±


    a familiar voice made her turn around, and she saw brad in shabby clothes.


    upon locking eyes with liv, his face lit up, and he rushed toward her. yet, his advance was quickly halted by another group of men who seemed to appear out of thin air. they were the guards the marquis had stationed to safeguard liv¡¯s residence while she stayed overnight, and they were still present, maintaining security in the vicinity.


    ¡°wait, i know liv! liv! give me a minute!¡±


    ¡°¡­ i know him. it¡¯s okay, you can let him go.¡±


    following liv¡¯s directive, the guards released their grip. brad made a slight pained noise and rubbed his arms as if they were sore from the brief hold. he cast a wary glance at the guards, concerned that he might be intercepted again, before hastening his steps to reach liv.

 Chapter 148

    ¡°liv! i¡¯m glad to meet you. i searched everywhere for you. can you imagine how surprised i was to hear that you had suddenly moved?¡±


    brad¡¯s face, which she hadn¡¯t seen for quite a while, looked haggard. looking at him with indescribable eyes, asked calmly.


    ¡°how did you find out about this place?¡±


    ¡°that¡¯s not the point, liv. we need to talk. it¡¯s very urgent. it¡¯s about our work.¡±


    at the mention of work, liv flinched and stiffened. she realized that at some point, she had completely put her work with brad out of her mind.


    technically, brad¡¯s nude painting contract was still in effect. it was just being suspended.


    ¡°let¡¯s move things around first.¡±


    ¡°yeah, yeah!¡±


    even as he nodded with a cheerful face, brad couldn¡¯t hide his anxious glances from time to time.


    had he somehow become involved badly with the con artist?


    a grim feeling of unease crept into liv¡¯s mind as well. she couldn¡¯t tell if it was for brad¡¯s sake or for her own, as she was his nude model.


    the two decided to walk to a nearby coffee house but quickly turned back. given the sensitive nature of the topic, they realized that discussing it in public would be risky. after much deliberation, they concluded that brad¡¯s studio was the best place to talk.


    brad¡¯s studio, which she visited after a long time, was still cold and musty.


    liv, who had grown accustomed to the marquis¡¯ immaculate mansion, frowned as she entered his studio. the foul odor of cheap paints hit her at once and made her head pound.


    ¡°oh, i should have prepared you tea¡­¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s fine.what do you want to discuss about our work?¡±


    ¡°it¡¯s obvious! we need to get back on the nude painting for the marquis!¡±


    brad glared and immediately raised his voice. but when liv gave him no answer, he quickly grew uneasy.


    ¡°i-i was feeling unwell, so i haven¡¯t been able to work. but now that i¡¯m better, i¡¯m going to start again.¡±


    ¡°¡­ brad, do you truly believe the marquis would have bought that excuse?¡±


    ¡°excuse? what are you talking about, liv?¡±


    ¡°weren¡¯t you about to hold an exhibition in the capital?¡±


    upon hearing liv¡¯s composed words, brad¡¯s face turned pale and rigid.


    ¡°did you have a successful visit to the venue?¡±


    brad¡¯s face slowly contorted as he stared at liv¡¯s face.


    while he had mentioned it briefly to liv, he had never informed her about his trip to the capital to inspect the venue. he seemed to realize whom liv had been talking to.


    ¡°¡­ don¡¯t tell me you were the one who informed my wife about the venus rental fee?¡±


    ¡°is that important?¡±


    ¡°it is! because of that, do you know what that woman¡­ how could you do this to me? you¡¯ve just destroyed a family!¡±


    growing increasingly agitated, brad stumbled through a string of disparaging words. listening to him, liv could easily comprehend the turmoil he must have been undergoing.


    liv rested her forehead on her hand, took a deep breath, and spoke in a composed tone.


    ¡°your wife didn¡¯t know anything about the venue rental fee. were you planning on revealing to her that you hadn¡¯t foreseen the problems it would cause?¡±


    ¡°liv!¡±


    ¡°i clearly told you back then. it is weird. i clearly told you to take care of it before it got out of hand.¡±


    ¡°ha! how clever of you!¡±


    brad, seething with frustration, ran his hands over his face. losing control of his temper, he mumbled a stream of profanities under his breath. soon after, he began to ramble.


    ¡°fine, liv. i was foolish. i guess i was momentarily blinded by the hope of opening an exhibition. i admit it, i should have taken your advice.¡±


    brad, his face flushed, looked even more withered. he slumped his shoulders and paced the room restlessly.


    ¡°and that¡¯s why i came to you. because you gave me true advice! you¡¯re the only one who can help me now. please, help me.¡±


    ¡°i don¡¯t know what i can do to help.¡±


    liv shook her head, and brad lurched forward, his eyes flashing. his hands gripped liv¡¯s arms tightly, full of strength.


    ¡°no, you can help me! you¡¯re the woman that marquis dietrion suddenly showed up with, right? auburn hair, green eyes, that¡¯s you, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    brad¡¯s voice trembled with excitement as he mentioned having heard the rumor, firmly convinced that it was her.