A long procession, starting with the carriage carrying Olivia and Edwin, left the gate of Grand Duke Vikander's residence.
Although the people waving in front of the Grand Duke's residence were no longer visible, I continued to look out the window with a face full of regret.
It was only when I passed the high, sturdy wall and entered the street that I let out a deep sigh.
It seems like I've become very attached to the Grand Duke's residence in just a few weeks.
If I'd known this would happen, I would've stayed a little longer before leaving.
My shoulders slumped at my belated remorse.
It was I myself who had set today as the day to leave for Vikander territory—to draw a new beginning over the memories I'd always waited for.
"Your eyes are red, Olivia. Are you that sad?"
Edwin, who was sitting right in front of me, spoke kindly.
I chuckled and shook my head at the playfulness hidden in his sweet voice.
"I'm not crying. If anyone hears it, they'll think I'm a real crybaby."
"You may not be a crybaby, but you cry a lot these days, don't you?"
"Of course. Actually, I'm not the type of person who cries easily. Edwin has seen something very, very precious."
"That's a good thing."
Edwin smiled contentedly like a well-fed cat.
It was a time when I thought the loosely curved corners of his mouth were somehow endearing.
"I don't cry often, but I'm very affectionate. I think you left cards for everyone but me."
My eyes widened at the voice full of mock regret.
When did Edwin—who was so busy preparing to go to Vikander territory that we could barely eat together—see that I'd left cards for the staff?
I smiled awkwardly.
"Ahaha. That's—I was grateful for that time. I'll continue to see Edwin later when you come to the noble meetings."
"I heard you wrote a letter to send outside?"
"How did you know?"
"I saw Hannah busy trying to send the Lady's letter. It must have been difficult preparing for your departure to Vikander territory. Everyone except me received cards and letters. Yes?"
I laughed a little at the sight of him turning his head as if pouting.
I waved my hand.
"It's true that I passed around cards, but the letter was for Ethella."
"To Princess Madeleine?"
"Yes. Well, it goes without saying. I also tried to contact Sally, who was my maid."
Ah.
Understanding appeared in Edwin's red eyes.
He seemed to remember a maid at the Duchy of Madeleine saying in passing that she wanted to see me.
I smiled slightly and thought of Sally.
I wish I'd seen her at least once before going to Vikander territory. It's a pity not to see her, but I'm relieved to know she'll be with Ethella.
"I think you were close friends. Shall we bring that maid to Vikander territory?"
"Are you serious?"
"Of course. If Olivia wants it."
It's already part of the duchy. Sally's opinion, and other practical issues—
Setting aside such concerns, Edwin nodded as if he were sincere.
I burst out laughing at that sight.
Edwin's expression softened as he heard the sweet laughter spreading throughout the carriage.
My laughter made my stomach clench, but I finally stopped and cleared my throat loudly.
"Thank you at least for the thought. But it's okay. I said goodbye to Sally. And..."
I trailed off.
Edwin was looking at me with a face that said he'd wait as long as I needed.
With that face that gave me stability, I spoke with sincerity.
"There are probably a lot of good people in Vikander territory."
As much as Edwin.
Edwin's eyes slowly widened, as if he understood what I'd left unsaid.
In my embarrassed mood, I avoided his gaze and looked outside.
Before I knew it, the carriage was passing through the crowded streets and approaching the capital's border.
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