If You’re Being Held Hostage, Wiggle the Carrot! - Chapter 119 - Home for a Moment

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He had already concluded that Lady Rosa would never become the Duchess. She was only staying here to save her clan, and once that task was accomplished, he didn’t think she would remain in this place.

In that case, his plan was simple. He would help her to gain information on his son’s health, and after she disappeared, he would assist Isabelle in taking her place as the Duchess.

Of course, he didn’t believe everything Lady Rosa had said. As she had mentioned, there were things they couldn’t see, and doubts about such things were unavoidable.

However, having seen Alex running about the estate once more, full of life as he used to be, the Count had no choice but to make this decision.

“She’s quite the remarkable woman, isn’t she?” said Ivan.

“Yes, indeed.”

“She always solves her own problems.”

“…Is that so?”

“Yes. Look at this. Who would have known that those who opposed my proposal would be swayed by a drunken spiel? I want to help, but she’s already doing so well on her own, it’s a bit frustrating.”

With those words, Ivan resumed walking. In truth, he had planned to settle everything today.

If there were still those who opposed, he had even considered changing the composition of the vassals attending the meetings through this opportunity.

But instead, they changed their minds first — all with a few words from her. Her words held power. Even the invisible can be believed if she said so.

After parting with Count Morado, Ivan hurried back to his room, only to be stopped by Isabelle.

“Brother.”

“Isabelle, what’s the matter?”

“I have a request.”

“Very well, tell me.”

His willingness to oblige her only made her feel more downcast. Until now, she had believed that she was the only one who could ask Ivan for such things and receive permission.

But after seeing how he treated Lady Rosa yesterday, she realized the truth. To him, she was no more than a younger sibling he had grown up with — nothing more, nothing less.

It was just a sibling’s request. It wasn’t an unreasonable one, so of course, he could grant it. Without understanding that, she had deluded herself into thinking she was different from others — caught up in a sense of superiority.

“Lex is adjusting so well here, so lively and all.”

“I bet he is.”

How can he be so sure? For a moment, his eyes lit up with faith. Isabelle, now realizing that he trusted Lady Rosa as well, felt even more disheartened.

“So, I was wondering if Lex and I could stay at the ducal house for the time being. It’s a request from my brother, who up until now has always been in poor health, so I’m asking despite my reservations.”

“Of course, I grant you my permission.”

“…Thank you, brother.”

Despite the immediate approval, Isabelle’s spirits remained unchanged. She hid her slightly trembling hand beneath the hem of her dress.

She repeated her father’s words from this morning. Before coming here, her father had promised that he would secure her position, but after the banquet last night, his stance had changed.

He had told her that if she desired to be duchess so much, she had to earn it for herself. Isabelle felt a moment of despair upon hearing his words, but she couldn’t give up.

She had grown up only looking at this man. She had never considered a position other than that of the duchess.

So, she had no choice but to struggle with all her might.

“I’ll tell Liam,” said Ivan. ”If you don’t like the room you’re in, ask him to move you.”

“Yes, I’ll do that.”

“Good.”

Ivan finished speaking and hurriedly ascended the stairs. Had the little rabbit woken up? He hoped she wouldn’t wake up before he arrived.

Watching her sleep was quite enjoyable.

With a soft click, the door to his room closed behind him, and a thrill ran through him just from entering. He quietly approached the rabbit, who was still breathing steadily beside him in bed.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, he gently massaged the bunny ears that were sticking out from the blankets. The soft fur that brushed his fingers felt almost addictive.

In the dimly lit room, only his silvery eyes gleamed persistently in the darkness.