Chapter 122
“No matter how esteemed you are as a Duke, please refrain from making disrespectful comments about them.”
“Ha, I really am an unfortunate alpha. Even though I’m living with my omega, I can’t call her my wife.”
“You’re quite a fortunate alpha, actually. Did you know the gender ratio gap between omegas and alphas has worsened recently?”
“What do you mean?”
Philip had recently met a friend who worked at the imperial palace. While having a drink together and complaining about their superiors, the friend had told him.
“Currently, if there are ten alphas needing to get married, there are only five omegas available to propose to.”
“I heard there are unavoidable periods like this throughout history. His Majesty the Emperor often laments the declining number of dominant alphas and omegas whenever we meet.”
“So shouldn’t you, Your Grace, strive to contribute?”
“…I suppose.”
“The wedding date chosen by His Majesty the Emperor and His Holiness the Pope is said to be a propitious day for prosperity.”
“Hmph, that’s treating me like a breeding horse.”
Lucas couldn’t shake off that sentiment. It was naturally displeasing that others, even the Emperor and the Pope, would discuss Lucas and Leila’s offspring before they had even started their life together.
Though he couldn’t express his discontent since those discussing it were the Emperor and the Pope, especially as they had helped bring Leila safely to his side, Lucas instead unfolded the documents. Seeing this, Philip inwardly cheered and promptly handed over a new set of documents.
“Since you’re going to work properly today, please don’t look at me with such insolent eyes.”
“Yes, please return to your old self, Your Grace.”
“I got it!”
Philip felt gratitude for Leila surviving and staying by the Duke’s side, but on days Lucas neglected his work because of her, he couldn’t help but resent it. Not that he showed any displeasure towards Leila—he just had to coax the Duke well.
“Get rid of your cheeky attitude quickly.”
“Yes, sir…”
The Duke, who could sometimes be quite cute, even read Philip’s thoughts.
***
Leila boarded the carriage with Anna. Recently, there had been so many gatherings that she didn’t even know how her days were passing.
“My lady, are you tired?”
“Yes, a little.”
“It’s not easy meeting people when you’ve always lived at home.”
“But as the future duchess, I’ll need connections, and I’ve never experienced high society before…”
Anna couldn’t help but laugh at Leila’s words.
“Just say you want to help His Grace. Why go into such detail?”
“Hmm.”
She was happy to marry him but also had many worries. Even though the Count Este family was destroyed for treason, the surrounding gossip still troubled her.
Her life had always been like this, but now she feared that Lucas might also be subject to scorn because of her.
“Why don’t you talk to His Grace about it? He’s experienced with high society and could introduce you to good people.”
Admiring Leila’s efforts but also concerned, Anna suggested. However, Leila shook her head firmly.
“I’ve only received help until now. I need to stand on equal footing and assist him. I can’t depend on others to handle my affairs.”
“My lady…”
Anna was moved by Leila’s words. Seeing her grow day by day, despite being around the same age, Anna couldn’t help but feel proud.
“You’re attending a concert today, right?”
“Yes, that’s right.”
“Then I’ll wait outside.”
“Alright.”
As their conversation ended, the carriage stopped. Leila alighted gracefully in front of the concert hall, where large and small performances were held. The moment she stepped down, all the eyes of the alphas around were drawn to her.
Discussion
0 CommentsNo comments yet.