Love's Unexpected Awakening Elowen's Choice novel Chapter 78

Chapter 78 Memories and Promises ·

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For a moment, Cassian was taken aback. He had nearly forgotten-the Elowen of her early teens had been the brightest, most radiant, and happiest girl in all of Vanelle.

With so many wonders filling her world, Alaric hadn’t even ranked in her heart.

And neither, for that matter, had he, Cassian.

No wonder she didn’t remember him.

“I’m sorry, my lord,” Elowen said sincerely.

“There’s no need to apologize.” He paused, then added, a faint smile touching his lips, “But if you insist on making amends, then be sure to enjoy yourself on the boat ride today.”

Elowen let out a soft, genuine laugh.

As she did, she realized it had been a long time since she’d felt so light and carefree.

If Cassian didn’t have someone else in his heart, spending her life as his Duchess, peaceful and content, wouldn’t be a bad fate at all.

But there was no “if” in this world.

For the rest of the journey, Cassian told her about Aldric.

Elowen already knew of him, of course; her father and brothers had been military men, and among their circle, everyone knew everyone else.

Aldric had been famously kind-hearted and honorable, fiercely loyal to his comrades.

He’d often said that if he fell in battle, he wished to be buried with his fellow soldiers, so they wouldn’t be alone.

The only regret in his life, it was said, was his marriage to Marwen.

It had been arranged by their parents, devoid of affection.

At the time, Cassian’s mother, Selene, had just entered the palace as an obscure concubine, and Aldric held no high rank. Marwen had never let him forget it, constantly complaining and belittling him.

Elowen was puzzled. “But later, Her Majesty gave birth to the current King. Having a royal

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12:56 Thu, Feb 12

Chapter 78 Memories and Promises

child should have elevated the Ashcroft family’s status.”.

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“In theory, yes,” Cassian conceded. “But back then, the palace was full of children, many princes among them. Theodric was a difficult birth, sickly as a child, and never a favorite of the late King.”

“Ah, I see.” Elowen nodded.

“So Marwen continued to look down on my uncle. Theodric knew it; he witnessed it firsthand,” Cassian said, his voice cooling. “He once told me that as a boy, he overheard Marwen whispering to her maid during a palace visit. She said he looked like a ‘sickly runt’ who’d never amount to anything, and wondered why Mother bothered risking her life for such a son.”

The final piece of the puzzle clicked into place for Elowen. “So that’s why. General Ashcroft was your uncle, and the King’s uncle. But Marwen never seems to leverage that connection. It’s because she already offended him.”

“Exactly.” Cassian’s gaze darkened. “I never cared for her either. But my uncle died for me, leaving behind three children. I couldn’t bring myself to abandon them.”

“It’s alright,” Elowen said gently. “Vivian is married. Once Sylvia is settled and we find a suitable wife for Lucien, he can establish his own household. As his mother, Marwen should live with him; it would be scandalous otherwise. If she truly has the gall to insist on staying at the manor, we can let her keep Rose Hall. It’s just a bit of coin each month. The manor is vast; we won’t have to see her often.”

Cassian listened, his gaze resting on her. A soft warmth spread through his chest. He remained silent.

Elowen grew self-conscious under his stare. “Is… is there something on my face?”

“No…” Cassian began.

He wanted to say, “It’s just that you’re so gentle and kind. It’s very endearing.”

But before he could speak, the carriage came to a halt..

Elowen took a deep breath. “We’re here!”

She stood and stepped out before he could finish his thought.

Cassian paused, then swallowed the unspoken words.

Before Aldric’s grave, offerings were laid out. Cassian and Elowen took turns to pay respect, followed by Sylvia.

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Chapter 78 Memories and Promises

As they finished, Cassian suggested, “Shall we go to the lakeside for a meal?”

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