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On the way back, my mind was filled with the image of myself being tied up in my previous
I couldn’t understand why, despite being cautious and well–read since childhood, proficient in various skills, and groomed as a lady of high status, I would be confined in that courtyard, unable to fulfill my potential.
Before I could break free from that prison, I was stabbed to death with a single blade.
My heart felt as if it were being squeezed in someone’s hand, making it hard for me to
breathe.
Suddenly, the carriage jolted.
I held onto the sides to steady myself.
“My lord, my lady, some small stones are blocking the way. Are you all right?”
Lambert responded, “Yeah.”
I, however, frowned.
Why would there be small stones blocking the way at the entrance of the Lowell Manor? Suppressing my doubts, I felt that I couldn’t just wait for my fate. I needed to make plans for
myself sooner.
So I turned to Lambert. “Lord Lowell, could you introduce me to your cousin? I have something
to discuss with her.”
He looked hesitant.
I didn’t want to play guessing games and said firmly, “Lord Lowell, do you know that those barbarians from the north have been causing trouble at the border for days? Soon, they will cross the border river and head straight for Dansto. I need to see your cousin for this matter. If you trust me, I promise what I said before was not just empty talk.”
The fact that Esther was being raised in the Lowell family was not known to many in the
capital.
He was protecting her, and their affection was deep. I could understand that.
“Lord Lowell, when I was young, I accompanied my father to read some military books and understand some military affairs. This time, the barbarians are well–prepared and it will surely be a fierce battle. But for you, my lord, this is also a good opportunity.”
In my previous life, Prince Edward personally led the troops against the barbarian invasion,
with Charles in tow.
But Charles took me along.
The war lasted for a year before the barbarians were repelled.
Because of this war, Prince Edward’s supporters gained the upper hand over the third prince
and became the top candidate for the throne.
The Lowell family had always remained neutral in the struggle for the throne.
But, everything required taking risks.
I was gambling, wondering if Lambert dared to take the risk for Esther.
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I was gambling, wondering if Lambert dared to take the risk for Esther.
Later that day, I met Esther.
She truly had a beautiful appearance, with a gentle demeanor and a soft voice, like a spring breeze blowing into my heart.
No wonder Lambert was so deeply in love with her.
I didn’t want to make too many enemies, so I came straight to the point, “Esther, you don’t need to see me as an enemy. I have no romantic feelings for Lord Lowell and never will. And, I will help you both.”
Esther’s eyes brightened; she then immediately showed a look of shame. “I’m sorry. I…”
We were both intelligent, and she understood immediately.
I didn’t want to dwell on it, interrupting her, “It’s over. Esther, do you want to become Lambert’s legal wife?”
Esther looked up in surprise, staring at me in disbelief.
I chuckled, “I told Lord Lowell that I would help him marry you. It’s not a joke, but it comes with a price. Do you want to hear it?”
She straightened up and nodded. “I’m all ears.”
In my previous life, I actually met Esther once.
It was at that banquet where Lambert brought Gloria and Esther together.
Gloria was furious about it.
At the banquet, a young master suddenly had an epileptic seizure and was convulsing on the ground. Then, Esther stepped forward, pushed aside the crowd, disregarding the danger and filth, and cleared his mouth and nose, loosening his clothes.
She then picked him up from behind, held his stomach, and began to rock him up and down. Finally, a small bone stuck in his throat was spat out.
Later, I learned that she knew medicine.
And I realized that no one was perfect. Esther was jealous to harm me, but she also had a kind and upright side. So I gently took her hand. “It’s a risky move, but the chances of success are high. I haven’t told Lord Lowell about this plan. You two are close, so I think it’s better for you to discuss it with him.”
Esther seemed to be considering it, but I saw the glimmer in her eyes.
I told her the plan in detail. When she was about to leave, she asked me, “Even so, Lady
Regina, is it worth it?”
I smiled, “Compared to love, I want freedom more.”
“I will talk to Lambert about it.”
She looked at me steadily, no longer as vigilant as when she came.
I nodded. “Then let’s wish that we can both get what we want.”
“Sure.”
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