Chapter 11
Back in Verdantia, Reynard petitioned the Crown to raise Lysette to Countess-
-a bold request for a stepdaughter.
But he stipulated her stipend would come from his own coffers. The King consented.
When I next heard news of the family, Cedric had been imprisoned, and I was in the royal manor awaiting the birth of my child.
I was not surprised by this turn of events.
Most likely, Rosamund had played a part in it.
Though she seemed devoted to Cedric, she was constantly undermining him.
Her devotion had been a ruse- -she’d corrupted his children, nearly branded him a bigamist, and insinuated I was an imposter.
Her schemes were subtle, but I could sense something deeper at play.
That evening, Reynard returned home.
When I inquired about the matter, he explained, “It’s complicated. I’ll explain it later.”
“As Lord Treasurer, Cedric promoted his kinsmen. One proved incompetent, so he was charged with nepotism—a minor offense. But investigators found evidence of selling titles. The appointments were legitimate,” Reynard added. “The bribes were Rosamund’s doing. She claimed Cedric knew. He lost his rank, and now depends on her. The King, mercifully, still allows Edric to sit for exams.”
Three days later, I received the pendant I had once given to Edric.
He probably didn’t know what to do with it and made no further requests.
I couldn’t return to the capital at will, so I sent a letter to Beaufort Keep, asking my parents to look after Edric, ensuring that he would be fed and clothed until he came of age.
No need to worry too much—just ensure he does not go hungry or homeless.
I would handle more when I returned to the capital.
I gave birth to a daughter in the tenth month, naming her Aurelia. Not long after her birth, she was granted the title of Duchess.
The Dowager Duchess had written to inquire about Aurelia frequently, urging Reynard to bring us back to the capital. But Aurelia was still an infant, and the journey would be too taxing for her. We delayed until she was a year old before returning.
Upon arriving in the capital, I first took Aurelia to meet the Dowager Duchess, before going to visit Edric.
He had been sent to a private school. Though he excelled in his studies, he was often ostracized by his peers because of his father’s reputation.
He had grown thinner, and the baby fat on his face was gone. His expression was weary.
When he saw me, he managed a faint smile and bowed. “Your Grace.”
I said, “I’ve arranged for a tutor for you. You may study under him from now on. I’ve also left enough funds for you to live comfortably until you come of age. The funds are with the tutor, and you cannot access them ahead of time.”
His eyes brightened, but he quickly lowered his head again.
“What was the condition you set all those years ago?”
Once, I’d wanted him repudiated. Now, I said simply, “Do not forgive Cedric lightly.”
As his father, Cedric should have taken responsibility for his upbringing, but he had abandoned him.
Edric had become what he was because of Cedric’s neglect.
He performed a deep bow. “As you wish.”
He kept his head lowered, and I couldn’t read him I didn’t know if he would keep his promise.
I didn’t matter
A scholar who did not respect his birth mother would find his reputation damaged beyond repair, and with Cedric’s influence, his future would always be
troubled
I was certain we wouldn’t meet again.
