Rebirth Of The Duke's Daughter

Chapter 81

"I'm fine. There was no need to worry," the woman said, her voice steady as she removed her hood, revealing her dark maroon hair. The guards relaxed slightly, recognizing her and understanding that the immediate danger had passed.

But their relief was short-lived as Prince Leroy arrived, his expression a mix of worry and frustration. "Lana, what have I told you about going outside on your own?" he asked, his tone stern, though his eyes softened as they took in her unharmed form.

Lana offered him a gentle smile, her calm demeanor easing some of his concern. "I'm fine, Leroy. There's no need to be alarmed," she reassured him, reaching out to touch his arm as if to anchor him. She turned and began walking back to her carriage, her movements graceful and unhurried, with Prince Leroy following close behind.

As they entered the carriage together, Leroy remained close to her, his presence both protective and attentive. Lana appreciated his concern and the way he stayed by her side, offering silent support. It was comforting to know that he cared for her and that he would rush to her aid without hesitation.

***

Mila remained perched on the rooftop, watching the scene below as she observed Prince Leroy's tender care for his wife, Lana. A soft smile played on her lips, though it was tinged with sadness. "Isn't that just nice?" she murmured to herself. The sight brought back memories of her past life, where love had once felt so pure. But she knew the truth—Leroy's love, while real now, would not last. Another would soon take Lana's place in his heart. Mila sighed, feeling a pang of sorrow for Lana, who reminded her so much of herself when she had been in love with her ex-husband. 'I hope Lana finds happiness that doesn't depend on her husband's fleeting affections,' she thought before deciding it was time to head home. She didn't want to risk being caught.

'Mama! Why do you keep putting me back?! Do you hate me?!' Kate's voice echoed in Mila's mind, sharp with frustration and a hint of hurt. Mila winced slightly, feeling the familiar tug of a headache as Kate's stubbornness flared up once more. 'Why don't you let me stay out?! Please! Can you let me stay out from now on?!'

Mila sighed inwardly, her heart softening at Kate's outburst. 'Silly, I don't hate you at all,' she thought, knowing how easily Kate's feelings could be bruised. 'But I can't let you stay out all the time. It's not safe. Only those I trust completely can know about you, Vivian, and Skye. If others saw you, they might try to hurt us.' Mila felt a wave of affection for her little fox, who, despite her childishness, had such a pure and protective heart.

'I won't let Mama get hurt!!!' Kate's voice was fierce, but there was also a hint of a whine that made Mila smile. The young fox's determination was endearing, and Mila knew Kate was starting to understand the dangers they faced, even if it made her sad.

After a long day, Mila finally returned home. She sank into the warm water of her bath, letting the day's tension melt away. As she dried her hair, now dressed in her nightgown, she couldn't shake the thoughts swirling in her mind. The looming war weighed heavily on her, and she couldn't help but feel a growing sense of frustration. 'What can I do?' she wondered, her thoughts drifting as she looked out into the night. 'I don't want to be useless... not again.'

Mila hated the feeling of helplessness that threatened to creep over her. She had promised herself she wouldn't cower away from challenges, but now, as the threat of war grew nearer, she felt the familiar claws of doubt scratching at her resolve. The frustration gnawed at her, making it difficult to sleep as her mind churned with endless worries.

The next few days passed in a blur as Mila was thrust back into her lessons with Lady Angela. The repetition of etiquette and noble duties felt monotonous, a stark contrast to the life she had lived for the past three years. She forced herself to stay awake during the lessons, though her mind often wandered. Lady Angela droned on, and Mila found herself growing increasingly restless.