Freedom's Heart

Chapter 31

Ellis's POV

Is it true? Running through the halls of the school, I couldn't care less about the looks people gave me. I hope it is true. It would be the best news ever if it is! I practically flew down the stairs and nearly crashed into the notice board as I struggled to stop on time. I eagerly scan through the news bulletins praying the rumour is true.

"Latest News From the Palace,"

This is it. I hold my breath as I read the news. I almost cheer halfway through. It is true! This is the best news ever!!!

"The marriage between Lady Angelina Lamonia and the first prince Marshall Malone has been annulled,"

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Angelina's POV

"So it's true," I sigh, looking down into my tea cup.

"Yeah, I just received a letter from the capital," Marshal replies, crunching up the letter in his hand. "It seems your grandfather's rivals banded together and used recent events to get our marriage annulled."

We didn't have much love for each other romantically, but Marshal is like a brother to me, a dear friend who has always been there for me. He helped me in many ways, and I was ready to repay him. Marshal's personal maid Arial gently places a hand on his shoulder. Our plan for them to be together is falling apart.

We will figure something out. It isn't unnatural for nobles to have mistresses on the side in this world, so it isn't over for them. We just need to get Marshal's new fiancée to accept Arial. I hope this doesn't put Marshal on a dark path. Arial managed to calm him down there, but I saw hints of his in-game character returning.

"Have they decided on who your new bride will be?" I finally ask.

"No, I think that will be decided at the next party in the castle," Marshal shakes his head. "My parents have already made it clear that I have to attend. Will you be okay? I'm sure your grandfather isn't handling the news well."

I have already received letters from my parents and grandfather. At least my grandfather made his intentions clear in his letter blaming everything on me. On the other hand, my parents just ordered me to return home without indicating their feelings on the matter. If worse comes, I can always leave with my money stash and live as an adventurer.

"My parent's are a bigger problem," I answer. "I have to return home tomorrow and see them."

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"So you are finally mine,"

I should have expected this. I had only just entered the dining hall. Zeno swept me off my feet, causing several nearby female students to squeal and coo. He never misses his chances, but I free myself from his grip as his hand slides down my back. He really never misses a chance to be perverted. And Marshal isn't here to stop him. A messenger from the palace dropped by, forcing him to stay behind.

"Still playing hard to get," He smirks. "Well, you are already mine, so I can play along."

I just ignore her. It's impressive how I have become used to Zeno's perverted nature. It doesn't nearly bother me as much as it once had. I hope he isn't infecting me with some kind of perverted curse.

"Sister," At least Noah gives me a proper greeting. "I'm sorry about what happened." Noah gives me a quick hug. "I'll go with you when you go home."

"Thanks,"

This room is too noisy. Everyone is staring and gossiping about us. We head to my spot under the tree to eat in peace at my suggestion. Of course, it didn't last long, as groups of students walking by soon continued what we tried to escape from in the dining hall. It will be a long time before I can eat in peace again.