Just as Gerald had predicted, it was a busy morning. There were so many visitors coming to offer their condolences, most of the nobles and Serena had to welcome them all, being a good host like she was trained to be. The ballroom was filled with people dressed in dark clothing, standing and discussing with each other. On a first glance you might think there were talking about the deceased but it's actually about the host, Serena. While most of them said words of comfort and pity to her, behind her back they whispered words of scorn. Some didn't even try to hide their displeasure as they spoke about her openly. Their words were all the same, Serena wasn't fit to be a duchess. The words were like a knife to her already battered heart but she didn't give them the satisfaction of seeing her weak and crying. A small smile on her face, she greeted them all with respect. Glancing over to Gerald, she noticed how professionally he handled the guests, speaking to them with the au

The party soon ended and Scarlett was on her way home with Damien in the chariot with her. She was really pissed at him. " What kind of plan was that?" She asked, infuriated. " The only thing you did all night was talk and dance with Serena!" Damien glanced at her, fishing out a lighter from his pocket. The corners of his mouth turned up as he leaned on the chair, the chariot moving. " No, what I did was to be her knight, she was a damsel in distress. Besides, how could I refuse the chance to dance with that beautiful lady? You saw how everyone eyes were on us, no?" " How does that help anything?" Scarlett stated, glaring daggers at him. He chuckled, lighting up the tobacco between his lips. He waited for the red glow before drawing in a long puff. Releasing the smoke, he pinned his eyes on Scarlett. " I stay with Serena, you stay with Gerald. It's that simple. That way we can both get what we want." " Moreover, we need to break whatever ties th

(Two months later) Serena sat in front of the mirror, watching as Lana combed out her hair. She was getting ready to go the market to get a few dresses in preparation for the tea parties she would be hosting. " Lana, where is his grace?" She asked, breaking the silence. Lana paused on her hair, glancing at Serena through the mirror. She hesitated a bit before replying. " I'm not too sure, my lady. I overheard the maids saying he went out early this morning." " Oh...." She muttered, pursing her lips. It's been like this for the past two months now. They've been keeping away from each other at her request. They live in the same house but she rarely sees him. Only at dinner and that was once in a while. He's out before she wakes up and returns when she's sleeping. On days that he around, he's buried in his study. She's not complaining about it though. It was liberating in the least. Soon she was done dressing up and she left with Lana in a carriage. It was a sho

" It's about my marriage. " She began, her voice low and hesitant. An evil glint appeared in his eyes. Finally! He has her where what he wants her! A good feeling bubbled in his stomach, spreading all over him. To her, he said. " What about it?" " It's not exactly the greatest." She continued, walking ahead, Damien following close behind her. " Well, marriages aren't exactly bed of roses." He said "What troubles you, my lady? Is the Duke not treating you right?" He asked. " Well, he's quite alright." She opened her mouth to say something else but snapped it shut, walking ahead. " You know what? Nevermind what I said." She told him. Damien paused in displeasure but he didn't let it show in his face. Catching up to her, he glanced at her with a warm smile on her face. " If your marriage isn't favorable to you, you can always leave. No one wants to be unhappy forever." She turned to look at him, an half- smile on her face. " Thanks, I'll r

Serena stared at the bowl of soup in front of her, wondering what she was doing outside. She'd been staying in her room, reading a book when a maid had informed her that Mr Murphy was waiting for her. Wondering why he would see her without a request for invitation, she'd gone to see him and here she is. Although she was having fun, she couldn't help but feel uncomfortable. " Are you having fun, my lady?" Damien asked, a charming smile on his face. Serena glanced at him, nodding. She looked around, watching the crowd. Smiling back, she replied. " I can't say I'm not. I didn't realize there was a festival going on in town." " It's quite a popular one really, I'm surprised you didn't know about it." He said. Serena shrugged, taking a spoonful of the soup in front of her. Surely, it smelled delicious. Scooping into her mouth, she widened her eyes. It tasted great as well. She swallowed before replying. " I don't go out that often." " I can see that." Damien said, grinning. They co