Awakening Love Reborn to Be His Duchess (Elowen Hale) novel Chapter 16

Perhaps she had truly liked him once. Or maybe… he had been her only way to escape the grief.

Flowen swallowed the sob that tried to rise. Her voice grew quieter. “Now, I’m only waiting for His Grace to wake. No matter how long it takes, I’ll wait.“

She set the candle back into its holder, then lowered herself to her knees and bent forward, bowing so deeply that her forehead struck the cold stone floor with a dull, muffled sound.

When she finally stepped outside, she was surprised to find that Alaric and Leonhart were still there. Which meant… they must have heard everything she just said inside.

“Would you like to join us at the House of Hundred Flavors?” Leonhart asked eagerly. “We are going there for breakfast. It’s been ages since the three of us shared a meal.”

Elower shook her head without hesitation. “No. I’m returning to the manor.”

Leonhart tried again. “Come on. Back then, the three of us would often eat there. It was always such fun…”

“It’s different now.” Elowen said. “We were young then, unmarried. We could do as we pleased. That’s no longer the case.”

Leonhart opened his mouth to argue again, but Alaric interrupted him. “Maerwyn’s birthday celebration is in a few days.” he said abruptly. “You’ll attend, won’t you?”

He emphasized that last part, speaking slowly and deliberately. Elowen remembered that gathering. In her previous life, she and Alaric had just gotten engaged. Naturally, she attended the princess’s birthday banquet.

Even though she knew Maerwyn didn’t like her, Elowen had carefully prepared a gift. After all, she was going to be her sister–in–law.

But something unexpected had happened that day. Her relationship with Alaric grew worse, and she became the laughingstock of all Vanelle.

“You don’t need to be nervous,” Alarie said, eyes fixed on her. “It’s only a small event. Just family, really. My mother has invited a few noble daughters from the capital, nothing more.”

He made sure to stress that last part. The implication was obvious.

The birthday banquer would double as a matchmaking event–his mother’s effort to choose him a bride.

Why say that to her? Did he think she’d be upset?

Elowen smiled faintly. “You’re of age, and it’s only right that you marry soon. If you happen to find someone you like at your sister’s celebration, have your mother arrange it. I’ll be sure to prepare a generous gift for your wedding.”

Alaric’s jaw clenched. Ever since the banquet–ever since she volunteered to marry Cassian–he hadn’t known peace of mind.

:00 pm

The uses to hate it when she chased after him. But now that she didn’t, he felt even more wotable

To make sense of 1, he’d found a reason to come here today.

He wanted to see her. And this… this was how she spoke to him?

That calm, patronizing tone was like a proper noble lady lecturing a junior. It grated on his nerves. Elöwen burned and walked away,

Leonhan watched her go, then muttered under his breath. “She really has turned into an elder. The way she talks… just like my grandmother back home.”

Alaric let out a cold laugh. “Elowen? Don’t call her that. She’s your elder now. remember. You should say my lady.”

Leonhart blinked. Alaric’s tone was so bitter, so sharp. He glanced at him and asked, “Are you upsetTM

“Why would I be upset? Alaric snapped. “I’m thrilled. Just wait till I pick a bride–someone beautiful with a good temperament. Once she becomes Crown Princess, I’ll be overjoyed!”

Leonhart wanted to say something more, but held back. A worried look flickered in his eyes. If only that’s

Elowen returned to Duskmoor Manor.

As soon as she stepped down from the carriage, Gerda hurried to meet her. “My lady, thank heavens you’re back.

Flowen tensed. “What happened? Is it His Grace?”

“No, no,” Gerda said quickly, trying to ease her concern. “His Grace is fine.”

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