Reincarnated to Another World

reincarnated as a knight pt. 4

Over the course of two months, Elise and Simone have been closer than ever. Hence, Simone invited Elise to her home to reveal that she was a noble. 

As Elise sat in the grandeur of the castle, surrounded by opulence, Duchess Simone finally revealed her true identity as a noble and the Duchess of the Visconti Dukedom. Elise listened attentively, taking in the revelation with a calm and accepting demeanor. The surprise of the disclosure had faded into an understanding smile, appreciating Simone's choice to keep her true identity hidden for so long.

"Ma'am, you don't have to apologize. I understand why you kept your identity hidden, and I'm honored that you trusted me enough to share this with me," Elise replied, sincerity evident in her words.

Simone smiled gratefully, relieved by Elise's understanding. "Thank you for your understanding, Elise. I value our friendship deeply, and I didn't want my title to come between us."

Elise nodded, placing a reassuring hand on Simone's. "Our friendship means the world to me too, and your title doesn't change that."

Simone's smile widened, touched by Elise's unwavering acceptance. "I'm glad to hear that. Please, don't feel the need to address me with formalities. I much prefer to be called Simone when we're together as friends."

"Of course," Elise said, her voice warm and full of affection. "Formalities have no place between friends."

The Duchess's shoulders visibly relaxed, the weight of keeping her identity hidden now lifted. She appreciated Elise's genuine openness and the ease with which she embraced their friendship. It was a rare and precious connection that Simone treasured, one that transcended the boundaries of their respective social statuses.

After a moment of sipping their tea,  Duchess Simone looked at Elise with a gentle smile. "Elise, dear, I hope you don't mind me asking, but I couldn't help but wonder about the father of your child," she said delicately.

Elise's eyes flickered with a mix of sadness and uncertainty. She took a deep breath before responding, her voice subdued. "It's complicated," she replied, her gaze momentarily dropping to her tea.

Duchess Simone sensed Elise's unease and decided not to press further. "I understand if you're not ready to talk about it," she said compassionately. "You don't have to share anything you're not comfortable with."

Elise's shoulders relaxed slightly, appreciating the duchess's understanding. "Thank you," she said softly, her gratitude evident in her eyes. "It's just... there's a lot that happened, and it's a story I've been trying to come to terms with myself."

Duchess Simone reached across the table and placed her hand over Elise's, offering a comforting squeeze. "Whenever you're ready, I'll be here to listen," she said warmly. "But I want you to know that no matter the circumstances, you and your child are welcome here."

Elise's lips curved into a small, appreciative smile as she looked into the duchess's eyes. "Thank you, Duchess Simone," she said, her voice carrying a hint of emotion. "Your kindness means more than you know."

Simone knew that Elise's heart held a secret, one that weighed heavily on her. Instead of pressing further, she decided to change the subject, aiming to lift Elise's spirits. "You know, when I was your age, I faced my fair share of challenges too," she began, sharing a glimpse of her own past. "But life has a way of surprising us with unexpected joys as well. Perhaps this little one is a blessing in disguise, a source of love and light that will brighten your life in ways you never imagined."

Elise looked at Simone with gratitude, finding comfort in her wise and caring words. "I hope you're right," she replied softly, allowing herself to believe in the possibility of a brighter future.