Part 1
Two days had passed since the incident at the Royal Palace, yet the heavy, suffocating atmosphere over the Duke's Mansion had not dissipated. Morning light gently hit the estate, and birds chirped throughout the surrounding gardens, but inside, the chill remained unchanged.
Inside Leo's study, an unusual silence prevailed. Sitting behind a massive oak desk was Leo Reinhardt, dressed in a simple white shirt and black trousers. Despite his relaxed attire, his face carried deep exhaustion and a storm of thoughts. Spread across the desk were several confidential security reports.
Since that fateful night, Leo had not slept a single moment. He repeatedly rehearsed the events in the secret passage of the Royal Palace.
The biggest question lingering in his mind was Elina.
Leo locked his fingers together and rested his elbows on the desk, his eyes fixed on a single point.
How did Elina handle that situation? he thought.
The Elina of the past was selfish, cowardly, arrogant, and prone to creating a scene at the slightest hint of danger. Yet, in that dark tunnel, she displayed courage and intelligence impossible for an ordinary noblewoman. Throwing her life on the line to strike a Dark Magician with a heavy iron torch to protect Maria was a scene no one could have anticipated.
Leo recalled the image clearly: Elina swinging the torch with all her might, immediately shielding Maria with her own body.
Can a person truly change overnight? doubt festered deep within him.
Is there an unknown magical ability or hidden power at play? Could she have awakened a dormant magic she kept hidden from everyone? But if so, why keep it secret from me and the Royal Family? Even without magic, how did she emerge from a dark magic attack without severe injuries? Where ordinary nobles would have panicked, she remained calm and calculating.
Hundreds of questions raced through Leo's mind, but none yielded a solid answer.
A soft double knock interrupted his thoughts.
"Come in," Leo called out coldly.
Robin, his trusted Knight Commander, stepped inside clad in silver armor and bowed respectfully.
"General, you called for me?"
"Yes, Robin." Leo stood up and walked toward the window, looking at the distant spires of the Royal Palace. "How is the investigation of the underground passage progressing? Have you uncovered the true motive of those Dark Magicians?"
Robin hesitated before answering. "Sir, the evidence from the tunnel confirms their primary targets were Princess Alina and Little Miss Maria. However... we found no suspicious clues regarding your wife."
Leo turned around sharply, his gaze piercing. "No clues?"
"I mean, General..." Robin explained, "we re-checked Madame Elina's background and recent activities. From the moment she left the mansion until she arrived at the party, nothing was out of the ordinary. Even her attack in the tunnel was situational self-defense, not a magical spell."
Leo let out a cold sigh. "Self-defense? Robin, are you telling me a noble lady who has never held a sword knocked out a trained Dark Knight in a split second with an iron torch, and you call that simple self-defense?"
Robin fell silent. The General's logic was undeniable.
"Don't play me for a fool," Leo continued. "There is something behind this change—black magic, a secret deal... I'm not sure yet. But I cannot take my eyes off her. Instruct all mansion servants to report her every move and conversation directly to me."
"Yes, General! I will arrange it immediately," Robin bowed and turned to leave.
"Wait," Leo stopped him. "How is Maria this morning?"
A soft smile touched Robin's face. "Little Miss is much calmer, Sir. She walked in the garden this morning. However..."
"However what?"
"She kept looking toward Madame Elina's room, though she didn't gather the courage to go inside," Robin replied.
Leo was surprised. For years, Maria had avoided Elina out of fear, yet today she was voluntarily looking toward her room.
"Very well. You may leave," Leo said quietly.
As Robin left, Leo stared out the window. Something inside this mansion was changing rapidly, drifting beyond his control.
Part 2
Morning sunlight spilled across the royal carpets of the second-floor corridor. Though the hallway was quiet, whispers floated among the staff.
In a corner, two senior servants stood holding cleaning supplies.
"Have you noticed?" the first maid whispered. "Little Miss Maria didn't cry at all this morning. Usually, she wouldn't even step out of her room out of fear."
The second servant looked up attentively. "Yes, I saw it myself! She picked flowers this morning and stood in the corridor looking toward Madame's room. I've never seen that before."
"Everything changed after that night at the Royal Palace," the first maid sighed. "I could hardly believe it. Madame, who couldn't tolerate Little Miss, put her own life at risk to save her from terrorists!"
"Does this mean happy days are returning to the Duke's Mansion?" Hope shone in the second servant's eyes. "If the Duke and Madame get along, and Little Miss receives a mother's love, all our troubles will vanish."
Before they could continue, Mrs. Martha, the Head Maid, walked up the stairs. The elderly woman carried a strict yet kind demeanor. Hearing the whispering, she paused.
"Do you have no work to do?" Mrs. Martha said sternly. "Stop spreading useless rumors and get back to your duties. What happens in the mansion stays in the mansion."
"Sorry, Mrs. Martha! We're leaving right away," the two maids bowed hastily and hurried off.
Mrs. Martha stood by the staircase and looked toward the second floor, a strange feeling lingering in her heart. Having served the household for years, she knew how unpleasant the atmosphere had become after the real Elina arrived. Yet, Elina's recent behavior presented a stark contrast. Even if someone were acting, no one would risk their life for a child just for show.
Perhaps it is a divine blessing, Mrs. Martha prayed silently. If Little Miss receives the affection she deserves, there will be no happier place than this mansion.
She smoothed her hands over her apron and walked toward Elina's room to ensure she had everything she needed.
Part 3
At the same time, inside her grand bedroom, Elina lay on her soft bed as sunlight filtered through the curtains onto her face.
Elina opened her eyes slowly, her body feeling heavy and tired. The past two days felt like a blur.
Sitting up, she looked at her hands. Faint scratches still remained on her palms.
At least I saved her... Elina thought with a deep breath. In the original novel, Maria and Princess Alina were kidnapped, and Leo was severely injured rescuing them alone. My intervention changed the storyline. And most importantly, Maria called me 'Mother' that night!
A genuine smile touched Elina's lips.
Reborn into this novel world as Rina, she had never expected to feel such a deep connection to a fictional character. Yet seeing Maria's innocent eyes and frightened look awakened a protective, motherly instinct within her.
"Madame, are you awake?" Milli asked softly, knocking before entering with a tray of hot tea and fresh flowers.
"Yes, Milli. Come in," Elina said gently.
Milli set down the tea and arranged the flowers in a vase before looking at Elina with a bright smile. "You look much fresher today, Madame. Has the pain subsided?"
"Much better, Milli. Thank you," Elina took a sip of tea.
Milli hesitated, looking as if she wanted to say something.
Noticing this, Elina asked, "What is it, Milli? Is something on your mind?"
Milli looked around before lowering her voice. "Madame... Little Miss Maria came outside again this morning."
Elina paused with her teacup halfway to her lips. Her eyes widened. "Maria? She came outside?"
"Yes, Madame!" Milli said excitedly. "Just like yesterday, she stood outside your door in the hallway. She stared quietly at the door before returning to her room. It seemed like she wanted to come inside, but..."
"...she was afraid," Elina finished the sentence.
A wave of warmth washed over Elina, mixed with a gentle ache. The child wanted to approach her, but the trauma caused by the former Elina was holding her back.
I need to bridge this distance, Elina thought. If Maria cannot take the step herself, I must reach out to her.
Part 4
Finishing her tea, Elina stepped out of bed. Milli helped her dress in an elegant blue silk gown and styled her hair before Elina faced the mirror.
Looking at her reflection, she no longer saw the arrogant woman of the past, but someone carrying a clear sense of responsibility.
"Milli, where is Maria right now?" Elina asked.
"Little Miss is in her personal study studying with her Nanny, Madame," Milli answered.
"Alright. Stay here for a moment, I'm going out," Elina said.
Stepping into the corridor, Elina saw Leo standing further down the hall, dressed in formal attire as if preparing to leave for the Royal Palace.
Their eyes met, and a heavy silence fell between them.
Leo walked toward her slowly, his boots echoing in the quiet hallway.
Elina maintained a calm posture. "Good morning, Duke Leo."
Leo stopped in front of her, his eyes sharp and observant. "Good morning. How are you feeling today?"
"I am fine," Elina replied briefly.
Leo paused. "King Arthur praised your bravery after the incident. A formal token of appreciation will soon be sent from the Royal Palace."
Elina smiled softly, without a trace of pride. "I need no gifts. Knowing Maria is safe is the greatest gift for me."
Leo's eyes narrowed slightly. Her words only deepened his doubts. He couldn't tell if this woman was truly good or if a deeper plot lay beneath her actions.
"You care for Maria so deeply now, yet just a few days ago, things were entirely different," Leo's voice carried a sharp edge.
"Situations change, Leo," Elina said, looking directly into his eyes. "People change too. If you wish to judge me by my past, you may do so. But do not waste your time searching for hidden motives behind my actions."
Before Leo could reply, Elina gave a polite nod and walked past him.
Leo turned to watch her leave. It is this confidence that concerns me most, Elina. I will uncover the truth behind your actions soon enough.
Part 5
In the East Wing of the mansion lay Maria's bedroom and personal study. The area was bright and airy, yet perpetually quiet.
Maria sat at her small wooden desk, a large textbook open before her, but her mind was elsewhere. She idly turned a small wooden pencil in her hands.
Her Nanny stood nearby, asking softly, "Little Miss, you seem unfocused today. Is something troubling you?"
Maria shook her head. "No, Nanny... nothing is wrong."
"Are you still frightened by what happened that night?" the Nanny asked with concern.
Maria stayed silent for a moment before asking in a low voice, "Nanny... did the new Mother really get hurt trying to save me?"
The Nanny was taken aback. She gently stroked Maria's hair. "Yes, Miss. We all saw it. If Madame hadn't risked her life that night, those men would have hurt you terribly. She threw herself at them to protect you."
A strange warmth filled Maria's small chest.
She remembered the dark tunnel, the sound of blades, the sharp knife near her... and then Elina's brave face. Elina had held her close, shielding her from danger.
The new Mother really cares for me... Maria thought. Why was she so mean before? Has she truly changed?
Maria longed to visit Elina to see how her injuries were healing, but fear still built a barrier in her mind. What if she went in and Elina became angry again?
Maria stood up from her chair.
"Where are you going, Little Miss?" the Nanny asked.
"I'm... going to get some water," Maria lied softly.
Before the Nanny could speak, Maria hurried out of the room on quiet feet.
Part 6
Maria walked quietly to the main corridor on the second floor. Stopping near Elina's closed wooden door, she clutched the hem of her pink dress tightly.
Should I go in and tell her I came to see her? What if she's sleeping? What if she gets angry?
Gathering her courage, Maria took two steps forward and reached toward the door handle, but heard a sound from inside just in time.
Startled, she pulled her hand back, her heart racing.
Stepping back, she hid behind a nearby pillar, peering out cautiously at the door.
Unbeknownst to her, Knight Robin and a maid were watching the scene from down the hall.
"See, Sir?" the maid whispered to Robin. "She stood here yesterday at the same time too. She wants to go inside, but she's scared."
Robin watched attentively. "I must report this to the General. But Little Miss's change is truly remarkable."
Behind the pillar, Maria chided herself. You're so timid, Maria! The new Mother saved you, and you can't even say Thank You?
She built up her courage to approach the door once more, but just then, the latch turned!
Part 7
Hearing the latch turn, Maria's eyes widened in panic. Her hands and feet grew cold.
Without thinking twice, she turned around and ran!
The door opened, and Mrs. Martha stepped out carrying clean towels. She caught sight of little Maria disappearing around the corner.
A fond smile touched Mrs. Martha's face. "Poor innocent child... caught between fear and affection."
From inside the room, Elina's voice called out, "Mrs. Martha, is someone outside?"
Mrs. Martha stepped back inside. "It was nothing, Madame. Little Miss Maria was standing by your door."
Elina, who had been organizing books on her desk, turned around in surprise. "Maria was here? Where is she now?"
"She ran off the moment she heard the door handle turn," Mrs. Martha chuckled softly. "Madame, Little Miss feels drawn to you, but her past fear is holding her back. With a little patience, she will come to you on her own."
Elina looked out the window, a gentle warmth filling her heart.
How much longer should I let this sweet child feel afraid? Elina decided. I must tear down this wall of fear today.
Turning to Mrs. Martha, Elina said, "Mrs. Martha, please arrange Maria's lunch in my room today. I will eat with her."
Mrs. Martha was surprised, but pleased. "Right away, Madame. I will have everything prepared."
Part 8
By noon, the atmosphere in the Duke's Mansion was quiet.
Leo had returned from his security meeting at the Royal Palace and sat in his study reviewing paperwork.
Mrs. Martha knocked and entered.
"General, your lunch is ready," she announced.
Without looking up from his files, Leo replied, "I'll eat later. Serve Maria and Elina."
Mrs. Martha smiled softly. "Sir, Madame Elina requested that Little Miss Maria have lunch with her in her room today."
Leo's hand paused. He set his pen down and looked up. "Elina invited Maria herself?"
"Yes, General. Madame requested it herself, and Little Miss agreed calmly," Mrs. Martha replied.
Doubts flooded Leo's mind once more.
Why is Elina trying so hard to get close to Maria? Is this part of a plot? Is she trying to win Maria's trust to manipulate me?
Leo stood up. "I will go see for myself."
"Sir, will you stop them?" Mrs. Martha asked, concerned.
"No, but I will observe from a distance," Leo said firmly. "I do not fully trust Elina yet."
He left the study and made his way toward the second floor.
Part 9
Inside Elina's spacious room, a grand lunch had been arranged. The table was set with roasted chicken, light soup, fresh fruits, and desserts.
Maria walked in hesitantly, her Nanny following behind. The little girl looked nervous, her eyes scanning the room.
Elina, who was seated by the table, stood up and offered a warm smile.
"Come in, Maria," Elina said softly.
Maria froze, gripping her Nanny's dress tightly.
Noticing her fear, Elina signaled the Nanny to step outside. The Nanny bowed politely and pulled the door partially shut behind her.
Only Elina and Maria remained in the room.
Elina stepped toward Maria slowly, stopping at a comfortable distance so as not to startle her. She knelt down to match Maria's height.
"Maria, are you afraid of me?" Elina asked gently.
Maria kept her head down, fidgeting with her fingers.
"I'm... I'm not afraid," Maria murmured softly.
Elina chuckled softly. "Liar! I know you've been standing outside my door for the past two days before running away, haven't you?"
Maria looked up in shock, her eyes wide. How did she know?!
Elina smiled warmly. "I notice these things. If you want to talk to me, there's no need to be afraid. Have I been mean to you since that night?"
Maria slowly shook her head—no, she hadn't.
"Then why hide?" Elina held her hands out toward Maria. "Did you come to see my injury?"
Unable to hold back any longer, Maria took a step forward and looked at Elina.
Part 10
Maria looked at Elina's outstretched hands, noticing the white bandage wrapped around her palm—a lingering mark from that night.
Tears welled up in Maria's small eyes and spilled over.
"Did it... did it hurt very much?" Maria asked, her voice trembling.
Elina felt a pang in her chest. She reached out and gently wiped Maria's tears.
"Just a little, sweetheart. But knowing you are safe, it doesn't hurt at all," Elina said with deep affection.
Maria couldn't resist any longer. She threw her arms around Elina's neck!
Elina froze for a brief second before a tender smile broke across her face. She wrapped her arms securely around Maria, holding her close.
The warmth of the little girl's embrace washed away all of Elina's fatigue.
"Thank you... new Mother... for saving me," Maria sobbed softly into Elina's shoulder.
"I will always protect you, Maria. I won't let any danger come near you," Elina whispered, kissing Maria's hair.
Outside the room, looking through the slight crack in the door, stood Leo Reinhardt.
Leo froze at the sight, standing motionless in the hallway.
The mountain of doubt he had built inside his mind began to crumble. Maria, who used to tremble at the mere sight of Elina, was now voluntarily hugging her and crying in her arms. And Elina's expression held no trace of deception—only genuine, maternal love.
A strange conflict stirred within Leo's chest.
Am I truly mistaken? Leo questioned himself. Has Elina really changed? Or am I simply afraid to accept her change?
Without stepping inside, Leo quietly backed away and walked down the corridor, lost in thought.
Part 11
After lunch, Maria sat happily on a small sofa in Elina's room, drawing pictures while Elina read a book nearby. The room felt warm and peaceful.
A knock sounded at the door.
"Come in," Elina called out.
The door opened, and Leo stepped inside.
Seeing him, Maria hopped off the sofa excitedly. "Father!"
Leo's stern expression softened slightly as he approached and placed a hand on Maria's head. "Maria, did you enjoy lunch?"
"Yes, Father! New Mother gave me so many delicious things, and I drew a picture!" Maria shared enthusiastically.
Leo glanced at Elina, who had stood up from the sofa and was watching him calmly.
"Maria, why don't you go play outside with your Nanny for a while? I need to speak with your mother," Leo said softly.
"Alright, Father!" Maria left her drawing on the table and ran out of the room.
The heavy silence returned once the door closed.
Elina met Leo's gaze. "What is it you wished to say, Duke Leo?"
Leo remained silent for a moment before stepping closer. "Elina... I reviewed some security reports after returning from the Royal Palace today."
"I know," Elina said calmly. "You're probably wondering how I survived that night, and why I saved Maria."
Surprised by her directness, Leo looked into her eyes. "Yes. It's difficult to believe, Elina. A woman who only cared about her self-interest risking her life for another... it's hard to accept."
Part 12
Elina sighed softly and walked over to the window, looking out into the garden.
"Leo, do you truly believe a person can never change?" she asked quietly.
"People change, but a sudden shift like this... it raises suspicions," Leo said, standing behind her. "My knights found unusual marks in the tunnel. The attackers weren't common bandits; they were practitioners of Dark Magic. The way you protected yourself makes me wonder if you used an unknown power or spell."
Elina turned around, annoyance flickering in her eyes.
"A spell?!" Elina let out a humorless laugh. "You think I know Dark Magic? You think I made a pact with a demon?!"
"I only want the truth, Elina!" Leo's voice carried authority.
"The truth is—I wanted to be a mother, Leo!" Elina stated firmly. "The day I faced death, I realized that hatred and pride yield nothing. Maria is just a child; she did nothing wrong. I simply wanted to save her. In that moment, there was no secret plan or magic—only the desire to protect a human life!"
Her eyes held absolute honesty.
Leo stared at her, unable to spot a single trace of a lie. Yet, his logical mind struggled to process this sudden shift.
"If what you say is true, then why do you still insist on a divorce?" Leo asked suddenly.
Elina paused.
"If you truly care for this family, why hold onto the three-month condition and demand a divorce?" Leo's question was sharp.
Regaining her composure, Elina replied, "Because I know you will never trust me, Leo. Standing here questioning my motives proves our relationship can never be normal. I am giving you your freedom after three months so you can live the life you desire."
She turned back toward the desk, signaling the end of the conversation.
Leo stood frozen. Elina's final words struck an unexpected chord within his heart.
Part 13
Dusk settled over the Duke's Estate, and the sound of crickets echoed through the garden as the lamps were lit.
Leo sat alone in his study, holding a glass of wine he hadn't touched.
Robin knocked and entered. "General, an urgent dispatch arrived from the Royal Palace."
He placed the letter on the desk. Leo opened it and quickly scanned the contents. King Arthur noted that several attackers had been captured, admitting their goal was to cause chaos in the Capital. None had any connection to any noble family.
There was no link to Elina.
Leo set the letter down. "Robin," he said quietly.
"Yes, General?"
"Do you believe Elina has truly changed?" Leo asked, posing a personal question Robin hadn't anticipated.
Robin paused, considering his answer carefully. "Sir... as a knight, I judge by actions. What Madame Elina did that night to save Little Miss was not the act of an enemy or a selfish person. I believe she has genuinely changed."
Leo set his glass down. "Everyone says she has changed... Maria trusts her... but why am I still afraid, Robin?" He let out a heavy sigh. "What if I trust her, only to be betrayed again?"
"Trusting carries risk, Sir. But sometimes, giving a chance requires courage," Robin bowed respectfully.
Leo remained silent.
Part 14
At nine in the evening, dinner was served in the main dining hall.
An unusual scene unfolded around the dining table. Leo sat at the head of the table, with Elina to his right, and little Maria sitting beside Elina in a smaller chair.
Where dinner used to be filled with tension, the atmosphere was now serene.
Maria used a small spoon to eat her soup while Elina gently placed small pieces of vegetables on her plate.
"Eat your vegetables, Maria. They'll help you grow strong," Elina said with a smile.
Maria made a slight face, but looking at Elina, she obediently ate them like a good girl.
Leo observed everything silently, feeling the barriers in his heart slowly beginning to dissolve.
After finishing her meal, Maria looked at Elina. "New Mother, will you tell me a story tonight?"
Elina looked surprised before a bright smile lit up her face. "Of course, sweetheart! Go ahead to your room, I'll join you shortly."
Maria happily ran off toward her bedroom.
Elina stood up and offered Leo a polite smile. "I'll go attend to Maria."
Leo nodded. "Very well."
As Elina left the hall, Leo remained at the table alone. For the first time in years, a sense of genuine warmth seemed to settle over the quiet mansion—brought about by the woman he had once resented the most.
Part 15
Inside Maria's pink and white bedroom, the little girl sat on her large bed holding her favorite doll.
Elina stepped inside, softly closing the door behind her, and sat beside Maria.
"What story would you like to hear tonight, Maria?" Elina asked.
Maria reached out and held Elina's hands. "Tell me about a brave Princess!"
Elina smiled softly. "Alright. Once upon a time, in a distant kingdom, there lived a little Princess..."
Elina narrated the story in a soothing voice. Maria gradually rested her head on Elina's lap as Elina gently ran her fingers through Maria's hair.
Within ten minutes, Maria fell into a deep sleep, a serene smile on her face.
Carefully placing Maria's head on the pillow, Elina pulled the blanket over her and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead.
"Good night, little fairy," Elina whispered softly.
Stepping out into the hallway, where the lights were dimmed, Elina began walking toward her room. Suddenly, she caught sight of a movement in the shadows.
Part 16
Elina stopped and turned around, but the corridor appeared empty.
Must have been my imagination, she thought.
As she took another step, a figure emerged from the shadows.
It was Leo Reinhardt.
Leo walked toward her with a quiet composure, his expression unreadable.
Elina placed a hand over her heart. "Leo! You startled me standing there!"
Leo stopped close to her. "Is Maria asleep?" his voice was unusually soft.
"Yes, she fell asleep," Elina replied. "Did you need something?"
Leo looked at her quietly. The warm glow of the wall lamps illuminated her features softly.
"I came to apologize, Elina," Leo said in a low tone.
Elina looked at him in surprise. "Apologize? Duke Leo is apologizing?"
"Yes," Leo met her eyes. "I doubted you this morning. I misinterpreted your sacrifice. The security reports confirmed you had no connection to the attackers. You truly saved Maria."
Elina stood stunned for a moment before letting out a quiet breath. "You don't need to apologize, Leo. Anyone in your position would have doubts given my past."
"The past is behind us," Leo took a step closer, leaving only inches between them. "I can see that you've changed. And I... I misjudged you."
Part 17
Elina's heart rate quickened. Leo's proximity and the gentleness in his voice stirred unfamiliar feelings inside her.
Control yourself, Rina! she warned herself internally. You're not the main heroine of this story. You're only here for three months. Leo and Princess Alina are meant to be together!
She took a step back to maintain distance.
"Duke Leo, it's late. We should both rest," Elina said, keeping her voice steady.
Leo noticed her retreat, a flicker of disappointment crossing his face, though he quickly masked it.
"Yes, you're right," Leo nodded. "Before you go... I have something for you."
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box, opening it to reveal an exquisite necklace featuring a radiant blue diamond.
"What... is this?" Elina asked, startled.
"It's an heirloom of the Reinhardt family," Leo explained. "My mother gave it to me to pass on to my wife. It has remained in my safe until now. Today, I want you to have it."
Elina stepped back. "No, Leo! I cannot accept this. It's far too valuable!"
"You saved my daughter's life, Elina," Leo said firmly. "Nothing is more valuable than that. You deserve this."
Part 18
Without waiting for her reply, Leo stepped behind Elina and lifted the necklace from its box.
"Leo, please..." Elina protested softly.
"Stay still," Leo whispered near her ear.
His warm breath brushed against her skin, sending a subtle shiver through her. She stood still as Leo carefully fastened the blue diamond necklace around her neck.
His fingers lightly brushed against her skin as he secured the clasp.
Elina closed her eyes briefly at the touch.
Once the necklace was secured, Leo stepped back in front of her, admiring the jewel against her gown.
"It suits you beautifully, Elina," Leo said sincerely.
Elina touched the cool diamond resting at her collarbone, a subtle warmth spreading through her chest.
"Thank you, Leo..." she murmured softly.
"Get some rest now. We may need to visit the Royal Palace tomorrow morning," Leo instructed gently.
Elina gave a brief nod and walked back to her room.
Closing the door behind her, she leaned against it, her hand still resting on the necklace.
What is happening? Elina thought, her mind racing. The story is veering off course! Why is Leo growing soft toward me? I'm supposed to leave in three months... but will it really be that simple now?
Part 19
The next morning, a carriage bearing the royal crest pulled up at the main gate of the Duke's Estate. A formal summons had arrived from the Royal Palace.
Leo and Elina descended the stairs dressed in formal royal attire. Elina wore a striking red and gold gown, complemented by the blue diamond necklace from the night before.
Maria stood on the balcony above as Elina approached her before leaving.
"Maria, we're heading to the Royal Palace. Stay with Mrs. Martha while we're away, alright?" Elina said gently.
Maria tugged at Elina's dress. "New Mother, you'll come back quickly, right?"
Elina smiled softly and kissed Maria's forehead. "Yes, sweetheart. I'll be back before you know it."
Standing nearby, Leo observed the interaction with a subtle smile.
They boarded the carriage, which set off toward the Royal Palace.
As they rode side by side, Leo spoke up. "You will meet Princess Alina at the palace today. She personally requested to see you."
Elina's heart skipped a beat. Princess Alina?! The female lead of the novel!
"Why does Her Highness wish to see me?" Elina asked.
"Because you protected her that night as well," Leo explained. "Princess Alina feels very grateful to you."
Elina grew thoughtful. In the original novel, Princess Alina and Leo were meant to fall in love. But her presence was reshaping the narrative.
What will happen at the Royal Palace today? Elina wondered nervously.
Part 20
Upon their arrival at the Royal Palace, a grand reception awaited them.
King Arthur welcomed Duke Leo and Duchess Elina personally. The assembled nobles greeted Elina with respect—the woman they once viewed as cold and arrogant was now hailed as a savior of the Royal Family.
After brief formal greetings, a royal maid approached Elina. "Madame Elina, Her Highness Princess Alina invites you to join her in the private garden."
Elina looked toward Leo.
Leo gave a supportive nod. "Go ahead. I will finish the security briefing with the King."
Elina followed the maid to the garden, where pink roses bloomed in abundance. Seated at a marble table was Princess Alina, dressed in a pristine white gown.
Elina bowed politely. "Greetings, Your Highness."
Princess Alina stood up, a graceful smile on her face.
"Welcome, Madame Elina," Princess Alina said, taking Elina's hands. "I cannot express enough gratitude for your actions that night. Had you not intervened, neither Maria nor I might have survived."
"I simply did what was necessary, Your Highness," Elina replied humbly.
Princess Alina's gaze shifted to the blue diamond necklace resting at Elina's neck.
Her smile faltered for a fraction of a second before she regained her composure.
"Ah, the 'Heart of the Ocean'... a legendary heirloom of the Reinhardt family," Princess Alina remarked softly. "Did Duke Leo present this to you?"
"Yes, Your Highness," Elina answered.
Princess Alina met Elina's eyes directly. Beyond her expression of gratitude lay a subtle hint of rivalry.
"You are quite fortunate, Elina," Princess Alina said quietly. "I had heard rumors that Duke Leo intended to seek a divorce. But it seems... the situation has taken an unexpected turn."
Elina's heart tightened.
Princess Alina's subtle shift made one thing clear—the novel's main heroine now viewed Elina as a rival.
In the distance, Leo could be seen walking toward them.
Princess Alina restored her sweet smile seamlessly. "Let us see where Duke Leo's heart truly lies in the end."
See you in next chapter....