Chapter 59 - Sincere Apology Chapter 58 - Hostage Queen Chapter 57 - Affectionate King Chapter 56 - Igor’s Wish Chapter 55 - He Cares For You Chapter 54 - Basil Chapter 53 - Garden Check (19) Chapter 52 - Maidenhood Gone (19) Chapter 51 - Taste of Wine (19) Chapter 50 - Tradition Annulled Chapter 49 - Yearning Kiss Chapter 48 - You’re Beautiful Chapter 47 - Dimi Over You Chapter 46 - I’m Sorry, Rihannan Chapter 45 - The Truth Chapter 44 - Anastasia’s Daughter Chapter 43 - I Owe It to Her Chapter 42 - Igor’s Clumsiest Best Chapter 41 - Queen’s Palace Chapter 40 - Human Nature Chapter 39 - Igor’s Debt Chapter 38 - The Medicine Chapter 37 - Women Love Flowers Chapter 36 - Public Disgrace Chapter 35 - A Wife Who Does Not Love Chapter 34 - He Liked Her, After All Chapter 33 - Are You Crying? Chapter 32 - You’re My Wife, I’ll Protect You Chapter 31 - Mother's Grave Chapter 30 - Rihannan and Arundell Chapter 29 - Your Majesty, Please Get Out Chapter 28 - Suicidal Impulse Chapter 27 - Igor’s Regret Chapter 26 - But Divorce Me a Year Later Chapter 25 - Long Time No See Chapter 24 - I’ll Kill You Myself Chapter 23 - I’ll Be Alright Chapter 22 - A Favor Chapter 21 - Danil Lyurik Chapter 20 - A Future Worse Chapter 19 - Suffer the Same Fate Chapter 18 - New Man Chapter 17 - The Dream Chapter 16 - There Was a Time... Chapter 15 - Young King Chapter 14 - Years Later Chapter 13 - If She Did Her Job Properly… Chapter 12 - Of Chrichton Blood Chapter 11 - I Don’t Want To Marry Chapter 10 - Life In Her Belly Chapter 9 - Dimitri Priebius Chapter 8 - The First and Last Chapter 7 - Feared Queen Chapter 6 - Send Them Out Chapter 5 - Wanting His Love Chapter 4 - Get Out Chapter 3 - Hertia Cesca Chapter 2 - Loveless Marriage Chapter 1 - Golden Bird’s Feather
Written in the letter was a simple message, a heartfelt welcome back to Arundell for Rihannan, with the hope of seeing her soon. It was signed with a unique flourish: From Mother Hertia Cesca.
Rihannan was overcome with a profound anguish. Igor had advised her not to care about her, but their shared history was something she couldn’t simply disregard.
For now, the promised dinner was approaching. A maid, sent by His Majesty, informed her of their scheduled meeting and came to escort her. Rihannan nodded, tucking the letter away.
“Are we heading to his office?” she inquired.
“No, Your Majesty. Somewhere else,” the maid replied.
“…..Oh?”
Taken aback, she arched her brows. She hadn’t anticipated anything grand, merely a simple dinner either at his office or the main palace. Clearly, she had guessed wrong.
Well, that’s fine too.
She released a shallow sigh, just out of earshot of the maid. The office was the last place she desired to… the very place where she had witnessed Igor and Leticia entangled in carnal pleasure. Though it had happened long ago, she couldn’t summon enthusiasm at the prospect of dining in that space.
A thought crossed her mind. Should she engage in pleasant conversation? What about the queen’s letter she had received? Was it something she needed to discuss? She was torn, clueless about the right course of action. It was only when she lifted her gaze that she realized they were heading in an entirely different direction.
“I don’t think this is the way to the main palace,” Rihannan remarked, her brow raised.
“Yes, Your Majesty. We won’t be heading to the palace,” the maid replied, her smile polite.
“Then…”
Astonishing wonder swirled within her as she caught on. She sealed her lips and recollected that this was the true Queen’s Palace, not the mini-palace where she had spent the previous night.
“We have arrived, Your Majesty.”
Rihannan gazed upon the grand structure standing before her. The exterior had undergone a complete transformation. The once shallow grasses and uneven garden trees had been replaced by a smooth landscape adorned with countless newly planted trees and flowers.
Upon entering, she noted that the interior was simply stunning. The stone-cold marble floor, refined decor, plush carpets, and furniture arranged against the walls exuded a sense of warmth and familiarity. It was different, a departure from the memories she held dear.
She had been aware that the true Queen’s Palace was undergoing minor repairs, but this… this surpassed her wildest imagination. She now understood why the duchess had been gleefully excited earlier.
“Welcome, Queen,” Basil greeted her this time. “How are you, My Queen? Do you find the palace suitable for your stay?” he inquired.
Rihannan nodded. “Yes, I like it very much.”
Her words held genuine meaning. The Queen’s Palace exuded warmth and coziness.
“You must have faced numerous challenges,” she remarked.
“Nonsense,” Basil laughed, dismissing her comment. “I was not alone in this endeavor. The interior design, My Queen, has been completely revamped.”
He turned his head slightly, emitting a soft sigh. All because of that damn black-haired beast, I had to run around like a madman…!
Rihannan stared blankly, wondering what Basil was alluding to.But her musings were short-lived.
Basil faced her again, his face beaming with a wide smile. “But, if you truly enjoy this palace, please be sure to speak highly of me in front of His Majesty, My Queen.”
A light bulb flickered in his mind, causing his mouth to form an ‘o’ shape.
“Oh! My Queen, you may not know this, but some nobles disdainfully questioned my actions. Pfft. Don’t they understand that the queen’s comfort takes precedence! Although I apologize for the lack of extravagance… you know, budget constraints and all,” he rubbed his head and continued, “I made it a priority to ensure the utmost quality of comfort.”
Rihannan chuckled lightly and walked alongside him, listening to his amusing anecdotes along the way.
Soon, they reached the drawing room. Everything was meticulously prepared. Rihannan had been informed that the palace was still under construction and would take some time, but looking at the garden and interior, it seemed that all the refurbishments had already been completed.
Observing her perplexed expression, Basil explained, “My Queen, the roof is still being worked on and will be finished before the wedding. His Majesty had anticipated that everything would be completed by the time we returned to the royal palace. He was brimming with pride, eager to showcase the new Queen’s Palace to you, but it seems that fate had other plans. He’s a bit upset, probably sulking in a corner. Please offer him some comfort.”
Rihannan burst into laughter.
Basil wore a smug expression, pleased to have brought a smile to her face. “It’s as if I’m seeing your younger self, My Queen. You used to laugh so freely as a child. Of course, you were too young to remember me.”
“I remember. You used to give me candy.”
Basil’s jaw dropped to the floor, his eyes brimming with shock. “My Lord! My God, you remember all that?!”
Rihannan giggled softly, her hand covering her mouth. “Yes, I remember. I would secretly hide it and savor it away from my mother’s prying eyes. She never indulged me with treats, fearing they would ruin my teeth.”
“You were just a child. I didn’t expect you to remember, Your Majesty.”
“Basil, I was only ten years old back then. Naturally, I have countless memories. Hehe…”
“No, no. Most people have hazy recollections of their childhood. You’re quite sharp…”
“How much longer will you loiter there?”
Igor’s voice echoed from behind. Rihannan and Igor stiffened at his sudden appearance. They had reached the entrance to the drawing room but hadn’t entered yet, engaging in casual conversation amongst themselves.
Basil coughed and bowed politely. “I shall take my leave, My Queen.”
As Basil’s figure receded into the background, the laughter vanished from Rihannan’s face, replaced by nervousness. “I was talking to Basil. I didn’t mean to be disrespectful. I apologize.”
Rihnannan bowed. Igor opened his mouth, raising his hand, but quickly withdrew it and averted his gaze.
“Come inside.”
Entering the drawing room, she noticed several changes. The interior decorations, unseen from the outside, were particularly striking. Instead of mere paintings adorning the walls, tapestries and mosaics hinted at the distinctive Crichton style rather than that of Arundell.
It felt as if she had been transported back to her room in Crichton.
Igor gazed at her, his eyes gentle. “Rihannan… I thought you would feel more at ease in a familiar environment, to aid in your adaptation.”
Rihannan nodded in response. “You have truly prepared for the princess. I have no doubt that Princess Helena will be deeply impressed by your dedication.”
Igor sighed, his lip trembling. He pulled the chair at the table, calling her name. “Come. Sit down, Rihannan.”
Rihannan nodded and took a seat opposite him. They didn’t wait long. The servants efficiently served the dishes, and their quiet meal began. The silence felt somewhat familiar to Rihannan. Igor had never spoken to her in the past.
“You don’t look well. Is something bothering you?” Igor asked out of the blue.
Rihannan touched her face. The duchess and Basil had never mentioned her pale complexion. She believed she appeared fine, but it seemed that was not the case.
“I suppose it may be due to not sleeping well last night. The change in environment has taken its toll.”
Yes, that was true. In a familiar setting, she felt secure. Dining here, having breakfast… it wouldn’t be surprising if she fooled herself into thinking she had returned to the past.
“I understand. Don’t worry. It will improve with time,” Igor said softly.
Rihannan nodded quickly. She realized that Igor had misunderstood her, assuming that she found the palace uncomfortable.
Igor studied her intently. He sliced a piece of meat and placed it on her plate.
She stared at him wide-eyed.
“Don’t just eat vegetables. Have some meat as well,” Igor urged.
Igor’s behavior surprised Rihannan. It was something he had never done before, something that went against his usual demeanor.
Rihannan glanced down at her plate. She enjoyed fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and bread more than meat.
“Oh… I don’t particularly enjoy meat.”
“You’ll end up with a weak constitution,” Igor replied.
Rihannan bit her tongue, refraining from retorting, “Are you suggesting that I’m a picky eater?”
“…..That’s not what I meant…”
“I don’t understand why I’m hearing this from you, when my uncle and cousin never bothered me about it,” Rihannan said coolly.
“….I just wanted to ensure you eat well,” Igor murmured, his voice barely audible.
Rihannan said nothing more, her gaze fixed on Igor with a neutral expression.
Igor appeared lost in thought, his face slightly flushed. He retrieved the meat from her plate soon after.
“I… I’m not forcing you to eat it. I just wanted to express that I would like you to have a balanced diet. If you’re unable to eat it, that’s fine too.”
Chapter 59 - Sincere Apology Chapter 58 - Hostage Queen Chapter 57 - Affectionate King Chapter 56 - Igor’s Wish Chapter 55 - He Cares For You Chapter 54 - Basil Chapter 53 - Garden Check (19) Chapter 52 - Maidenhood Gone (19) Chapter 51 - Taste of Wine (19) Chapter 50 - Tradition Annulled Chapter 49 - Yearning Kiss Chapter 48 - You’re Beautiful Chapter 47 - Dimi Over You Chapter 46 - I’m Sorry, Rihannan Chapter 45 - The Truth Chapter 44 - Anastasia’s Daughter Chapter 43 - I Owe It to Her Chapter 42 - Igor’s Clumsiest Best Chapter 41 - Queen’s Palace Chapter 40 - Human Nature Chapter 39 - Igor’s Debt Chapter 38 - The Medicine Chapter 37 - Women Love Flowers Chapter 36 - Public Disgrace Chapter 35 - A Wife Who Does Not Love Chapter 34 - He Liked Her, After All Chapter 33 - Are You Crying? Chapter 32 - You’re My Wife, I’ll Protect You Chapter 31 - Mother's Grave Chapter 30 - Rihannan and Arundell Chapter 29 - Your Majesty, Please Get Out Chapter 28 - Suicidal Impulse Chapter 27 - Igor’s Regret Chapter 26 - But Divorce Me a Year Later Chapter 25 - Long Time No See Chapter 24 - I’ll Kill You Myself Chapter 23 - I’ll Be Alright Chapter 22 - A Favor Chapter 21 - Danil Lyurik Chapter 20 - A Future Worse Chapter 19 - Suffer the Same Fate Chapter 18 - New Man Chapter 17 - The Dream Chapter 16 - There Was a Time... Chapter 15 - Young King Chapter 14 - Years Later Chapter 13 - If She Did Her Job Properly… Chapter 12 - Of Chrichton Blood Chapter 11 - I Don’t Want To Marry Chapter 10 - Life In Her Belly Chapter 9 - Dimitri Priebius Chapter 8 - The First and Last Chapter 7 - Feared Queen Chapter 6 - Send Them Out Chapter 5 - Wanting His Love Chapter 4 - Get Out Chapter 3 - Hertia Cesca Chapter 2 - Loveless Marriage Chapter 1 - Golden Bird’s Feather
Written in the letter was a simple message, a heartfelt welcome back to Arundell for Rihannan, with the hope of seeing her soon. It was signed with a unique flourish: From Mother Hertia Cesca.
Rihannan was overcome with a profound anguish. Igor had advised her not to care about her, but their shared history was something she couldn’t simply disregard.
For now, the promised dinner was approaching. A maid, sent by His Majesty, informed her of their scheduled meeting and came to escort her. Rihannan nodded, tucking the letter away.
“Are we heading to his office?” she inquired.
“No, Your Majesty. Somewhere else,” the maid replied.
“…..Oh?”
Taken aback, she arched her brows. She hadn’t anticipated anything grand, merely a simple dinner either at his office or the main palace. Clearly, she had guessed wrong.
Well, that’s fine too.
She released a shallow sigh, just out of earshot of the maid. The office was the last place she desired to… the very place where she had witnessed Igor and Leticia entangled in carnal pleasure. Though it had happened long ago, she couldn’t summon enthusiasm at the prospect of dining in that space.
A thought crossed her mind. Should she engage in pleasant conversation? What about the queen’s letter she had received? Was it something she needed to discuss? She was torn, clueless about the right course of action. It was only when she lifted her gaze that she realized they were heading in an entirely different direction.
“I don’t think this is the way to the main palace,” Rihannan remarked, her brow raised.
“Yes, Your Majesty. We won’t be heading to the palace,” the maid replied, her smile polite.
“Then…”
Astonishing wonder swirled within her as she caught on. She sealed her lips and recollected that this was the true Queen’s Palace, not the mini-palace where she had spent the previous night.
“We have arrived, Your Majesty.”
Rihannan gazed upon the grand structure standing before her. The exterior had undergone a complete transformation. The once shallow grasses and uneven garden trees had been replaced by a smooth landscape adorned with countless newly planted trees and flowers.
Upon entering, she noted that the interior was simply stunning. The stone-cold marble floor, refined decor, plush carpets, and furniture arranged against the walls exuded a sense of warmth and familiarity. It was different, a departure from the memories she held dear.
She had been aware that the true Queen’s Palace was undergoing minor repairs, but this… this surpassed her wildest imagination. She now understood why the duchess had been gleefully excited earlier.
“Welcome, Queen,” Basil greeted her this time. “How are you, My Queen? Do you find the palace suitable for your stay?” he inquired.
Rihannan nodded. “Yes, I like it very much.”
Her words held genuine meaning. The Queen’s Palace exuded warmth and coziness.
“You must have faced numerous challenges,” she remarked.
“Nonsense,” Basil laughed, dismissing her comment. “I was not alone in this endeavor. The interior design, My Queen, has been completely revamped.”
He turned his head slightly, emitting a soft sigh. All because of that damn black-haired beast, I had to run around like a madman…!
Rihannan stared blankly, wondering what Basil was alluding to.But her musings were short-lived.
Basil faced her again, his face beaming with a wide smile. “But, if you truly enjoy this palace, please be sure to speak highly of me in front of His Majesty, My Queen.”
A light bulb flickered in his mind, causing his mouth to form an ‘o’ shape.
“Oh! My Queen, you may not know this, but some nobles disdainfully questioned my actions. Pfft. Don’t they understand that the queen’s comfort takes precedence! Although I apologize for the lack of extravagance… you know, budget constraints and all,” he rubbed his head and continued, “I made it a priority to ensure the utmost quality of comfort.”
Rihannan chuckled lightly and walked alongside him, listening to his amusing anecdotes along the way.
Soon, they reached the drawing room. Everything was meticulously prepared. Rihannan had been informed that the palace was still under construction and would take some time, but looking at the garden and interior, it seemed that all the refurbishments had already been completed.
Observing her perplexed expression, Basil explained, “My Queen, the roof is still being worked on and will be finished before the wedding. His Majesty had anticipated that everything would be completed by the time we returned to the royal palace. He was brimming with pride, eager to showcase the new Queen’s Palace to you, but it seems that fate had other plans. He’s a bit upset, probably sulking in a corner. Please offer him some comfort.”
Rihannan burst into laughter.
Basil wore a smug expression, pleased to have brought a smile to her face. “It’s as if I’m seeing your younger self, My Queen. You used to laugh so freely as a child. Of course, you were too young to remember me.”
“I remember. You used to give me candy.”
Basil’s jaw dropped to the floor, his eyes brimming with shock. “My Lord! My God, you remember all that?!”
Rihannan giggled softly, her hand covering her mouth. “Yes, I remember. I would secretly hide it and savor it away from my mother’s prying eyes. She never indulged me with treats, fearing they would ruin my teeth.”
“You were just a child. I didn’t expect you to remember, Your Majesty.”
“Basil, I was only ten years old back then. Naturally, I have countless memories. Hehe…”
“No, no. Most people have hazy recollections of their childhood. You’re quite sharp…”
“How much longer will you loiter there?”
Igor’s voice echoed from behind. Rihannan and Igor stiffened at his sudden appearance. They had reached the entrance to the drawing room but hadn’t entered yet, engaging in casual conversation amongst themselves.
Basil coughed and bowed politely. “I shall take my leave, My Queen.”
As Basil’s figure receded into the background, the laughter vanished from Rihannan’s face, replaced by nervousness. “I was talking to Basil. I didn’t mean to be disrespectful. I apologize.”
Rihnannan bowed. Igor opened his mouth, raising his hand, but quickly withdrew it and averted his gaze.
“Come inside.”
Entering the drawing room, she noticed several changes. The interior decorations, unseen from the outside, were particularly striking. Instead of mere paintings adorning the walls, tapestries and mosaics hinted at the distinctive Crichton style rather than that of Arundell.
It felt as if she had been transported back to her room in Crichton.
Igor gazed at her, his eyes gentle. “Rihannan… I thought you would feel more at ease in a familiar environment, to aid in your adaptation.”
Rihannan nodded in response. “You have truly prepared for the princess. I have no doubt that Princess Helena will be deeply impressed by your dedication.”
Igor sighed, his lip trembling. He pulled the chair at the table, calling her name. “Come. Sit down, Rihannan.”
Rihannan nodded and took a seat opposite him. They didn’t wait long. The servants efficiently served the dishes, and their quiet meal began. The silence felt somewhat familiar to Rihannan. Igor had never spoken to her in the past.
“You don’t look well. Is something bothering you?” Igor asked out of the blue.
Rihannan touched her face. The duchess and Basil had never mentioned her pale complexion. She believed she appeared fine, but it seemed that was not the case.
“I suppose it may be due to not sleeping well last night. The change in environment has taken its toll.”
Yes, that was true. In a familiar setting, she felt secure. Dining here, having breakfast… it wouldn’t be surprising if she fooled herself into thinking she had returned to the past.
“I understand. Don’t worry. It will improve with time,” Igor said softly.
Rihannan nodded quickly. She realized that Igor had misunderstood her, assuming that she found the palace uncomfortable.
Igor studied her intently. He sliced a piece of meat and placed it on her plate.
She stared at him wide-eyed.
“Don’t just eat vegetables. Have some meat as well,” Igor urged.
Igor’s behavior surprised Rihannan. It was something he had never done before, something that went against his usual demeanor.
Rihannan glanced down at her plate. She enjoyed fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and bread more than meat.
“Oh… I don’t particularly enjoy meat.”
“You’ll end up with a weak constitution,” Igor replied.
Rihannan bit her tongue, refraining from retorting, “Are you suggesting that I’m a picky eater?”
“…..That’s not what I meant…”
“I don’t understand why I’m hearing this from you, when my uncle and cousin never bothered me about it,” Rihannan said coolly.
“….I just wanted to ensure you eat well,” Igor murmured, his voice barely audible.
Rihannan said nothing more, her gaze fixed on Igor with a neutral expression.
Igor appeared lost in thought, his face slightly flushed. He retrieved the meat from her plate soon after.
“I… I’m not forcing you to eat it. I just wanted to express that I would like you to have a balanced diet. If you’re unable to eat it, that’s fine too.”
