My Ruin to You - Chapter 174

He, who had been scrutinizing Roseline, tossed a gold coin high into the air. By the time the coin floating in the air landed in his large hand, Roseline had begun walking toward him. Watching her approach, he tossed the coin high once more.

“I am honored to see you, Your Highness the Grand Duke.”

Roseline, stopping before him, lifted her old skirt slightly and offered a proper greeting. His intention to never utter a word of blessing, even on her deathbed, was so obvious that he smiled faintly. Then, rolling the gold coin in his hand, he slowly looked Roseline’s attire up and down.

Shadows fell over his distinct eyes.

“Right. Good to see you, Young Lady.”

“Yes.”

“Then, explain yourself now.”

“Excuse me, is there something I need to explain to Your Highness?”

“If one sneaks out early in the morning, even borrowing a maid’s clothes to wear, wouldn’t anyone be suspicious? Wondering if they’ve run away, perhaps.”

He arrogantly jerked his chin as if telling her to look at herself. Roseline lowered her head to examine her attire. The problem was this man who had so boldly followed and surveilled her, not Lina’s dress, which was perfectly fine.

Didn’t we agree to stop this?

The desire to argue back was overwhelming, but there were too many ears around. If she got into a pointless squabble and a priest came out of the chapel, it would be a disaster.

“My apologies for causing concern, Your Highness. I only intended to attend service quietly and return.”

“How devout.”

He let out a short laugh. It was infuriating enough to have to explain herself when she’d done nothing wrong, and he didn’t even seem convinced. He made no effort to hide his suspicion. His piercing gaze was full of distrust. It was utterly absurd. What fool in the world would try to escape in such a sloppy manner?

“Then, I shall take my leave first.”

But whatever he thought was irrelevant. She didn’t want to be entangled further. Roseline forced a smile and gently bent her knee.

“No. We’ll go together.”

“Your offer is appreciated, but I am quite alright, Your Highness.”

“It’s an order, Young Lady.”

Follow me.

He added, flicking the coin with his finger. The coin, gleaming with sunlight, floated up and then fell into the fountain. Gentle ripples spread across the clear water’s surface. It was the only gold coin among the piled-up copper ones.

She stared at the submerged gold coin for only a moment before reluctantly following him. A carriage was parked on the roadside near the chapel. As the coachman opened the door, he naturally extended his hand. If there had been no one watching, she would never have taken his hand—what did status and power even matter?

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

Feeling pity for her own situation, having to offer insincere thanks, Roseline boarded the carriage. A trunk was placed on one side of the seat, but it wasn’t uncomfortable to sit on.

Soon, he sat opposite her, and the carriage door closed. Given the carriage’s lack of soundproofing, Roseline kept her mouth firmly shut, waiting calmly until it started moving. Shortly after, the carriage began to move with a gentle sway. The moment it started, Roseline lifted her head and met Valen’s eyes across from her.

“What are you doing right now?”

“What do you think I’m doing?”

“You were surveilling me.”

“I only controlled access to the estate; I wasn’t surveilling you. If you hadn’t left, I wouldn’t have had to come.”

She was resentful but had no retort. Irritated, Roseline swept her hair back and sharply turned her head away. Valen’s gaze followed the curve of her sulky, puffed cheek. She glared out the window for a moment before turning back to him, her thoughts sorted.

“Ah, fine. Let’s say you’re right about everything, Your Highness. But is there any reason for you and me to return together? Why are you doing this? Aren’t you thinking about me at all? What will everyone say if we go back like this together?”

The longer Roseline’s outburst went on, the deeper his smile became. As if aware he shouldn’t laugh, he fiddled with the corner of his mouth with his bandaged hand, but the lifted corners of his mouth refused to come down. His composure only angered Roseline more. Just as her glare was sharpening to a point, Valen stopped the carriage.

“If you’re confident you won’t hear a word of criticism returning looking like that, I’ll let you get out. Go on.”