The room was stunned—everyone's mind raced to understand her calm acceptance, as all signs pointed to her being responsible for the child's death.
After the distressing events, I had no choice but to return to my duties—specifically, to sign the agreement paper. Though I was far from delighted by what had transpired, my sister was already married in their castle, and what else could I do? I entered a room on the top floor, tucked away in a dark corner, accompanied by Duke François since Sir Léon had already left. The room was filled with over twenty lamps, yet none of them were lit. I guessed the windows were open, allowing the darkness to seep in. As I turned to leave, I realized the Duke had silently exited, and the door clicked shut behind him. Panic surged as I ran to the door, desperately trying to open it, but it was as if it had been locked from the outside. "Anyone? Please, open the door!" I shouted, pounding my fists, but there was no response—only the oppressive silence to answer my desperate calls.
"Hello, my queen," a voice echoed from behind me. I froze, heart pounding, as he continued softly, "Don't be afraid, it's me. You didn't take the time to talk to me last time, so you might not recognize me. I am the Crown Prince of Den, Karl—your brother-in-law." He stepped forward as I turned to face him, my eyes narrowing. "How dare you commit such a disgraceful act," I shouted, voice trembling with anger and fear. "My queen," he asked gently, "what crime am I being accused of?" He then began walking closer, each step deliberate. "You," I exclaimed sharply, "don't come any nearer." His gaze softened as he pressed on, "My queen, we both know you are my rightful betrothed. Why was it not you in the Purity carriage? Why was it Eve? Is her value higher than yours, or is yours higher than hers? They've made your future hers, and her future yours," he said, his hand softly stroking my face, sending a shiver down my spine as I struggled to keep my composure.
"Since my future is now hers, take care of her as you would have done for me," I said coldly, moving his hand away before he could touch me further.