A Cruel Beast’s Leash

things that she said she liked,” she answered smartly.
“Irvan just so happens to be away.”

“Yes,” she nodded.
“ It is a really good chance.
The annex is vacant, so we can even become acquainted.”

“But Miss Herman, you are a guest in Van Wert Castle.”

Indeed, Baron Berne was skilled.
After gazing in the air for a moment, Emma immediately found the answer that the baron wanted.

“…that’s right.
That’s why I need permission from the countess.”

“Indeed.
Then, I will wait here.”

Baron Berne nodded with a faint smile on his face.
Contrary to what he’d said openly, however, he called the horseman over to order something in secret.
It seemed to be a message saying to rush over to the mansion and to bring Evelyn.

“I will go get the countess’s permission now, Lord Berne.
Please wait for a bit.”

“Please take your time.
Don’t run.
Since there is plenty of time to save face.”

While Baron Berne waited in front of the door with his cane in his hand, Emma hurried back to the dining room, lifting her dress with her fingers.
Thankfully she was still in the same spot from earlier.
She noticed Emma appear through the doorway and quickly threw her a glance and turned away while she was surrounded by her close aides.

After taking a deep, slow breath, Emma moved towards the countess, deliberately making a desperate expression.

“What is it, Miss Herman?” the countess asked with a raise of her eyebrow.

Emma asked the countess for permission, then whispered briefly in her ear.
“I have something I’ve been wanting to say, Countess Karina.
I…”

Countess Karina looked grim after hearing Emma’s story.
“Is there a proper reason why today has to be the day you invite a guest?”

Her intense glare was fixed at Emma.
At that, Emma made the most pitiful and embarrassing face.

“I kept this a secret from Irvan.
And the stuff arrived yesterday, and I was out of my mind, so happy to open them,” she began.
“It wasn’t until today that I started to worry.
And tomorrow is too late! The stuff arrived yesterday, and since I recklessly opened them, they won’t be new tomorrow… If I want to get the right price, I’d better deal with them by the end of the day.
Lady Evelyn may change her mind.”

“How much was it again?”

Nodding, Emma replied, holding her breath.
“I am ashamed to say this, but it all cost 50,000 teaks.”

“Ohh…” Karina hummed curiously, demanding Emma’s caution.
“So generous for such a young girl.”

“Yes, Lady Karina.
About that, I heard something from Baron Berne on the first day.
What happened that time was called a ‘reimbursement’.
Thinking about it again… I was very foolish.
I guess I was caught up in the moment of extravagance and splurged on luxurious items…”