The Gilded Cage

Chapter Nine: Adele

Bonaparte Manor

The clergyman who came to see us was none other than one of the Bishops of Santnare. He was known as a radical within the church, a man who saw helping the poor and outcast as a divine mandate from the Sea Goddess, a living example of how humility and grace should be embodied. Unlike the other bishops who adorned themselves with fine fabrics and gold, this man arrived at the duke's sitting room dressed in a simple robe, devoid of any ostentatious jewelry. His modest appearance was striking in contrast to the grandeur of the manor, yet he wore a warm smile as he entered.

"May the Sea Goddess bless you," he greeted us, his voice calm and reassuring.

"And to you, Bishop," I replied politely as Cesare offered his best smile. We sat side by side, close enough to give the impression of affection, though the proximity only heightened my anxiety. The memory of crying in Cesare's arms after my nightmare was still fresh, and the strength he'd shown then lingered in my thoughts, reminding me of the power he held.

"You two make a lovely couple. I'm sure the child is a wonderful blend of you both," the Bishop remarked, his tone sincere.

I felt a flush rise to my cheeks. "Thank you, Bishop. You're too kind."

"May the Goddess bless you with more children to share in a child's joy," he added, his eyes twinkling with warmth.

I felt Cesare tense beside me, and my face grew even hotter with embarrassment.

"How about we get on with this?" Cesare interrupted, his tone sharp. I glanced at him in surprise, noticing the shift in his posture. The Bishop chuckled softly, seemingly unfazed.

"Very well, Your Grace. I am here to determine whether I can, in good conscience, perform the act of marriage between you two. I am aware of the situation, and I understand that this union may alleviate some of the scrutiny, but..."

"But?" Cesare prompted, his gaze hardening as he leaned forward slightly. I sat beside him, clenching my hands tightly in my lap.

"But your scheme—creating the lady as your sister to marry her off to another house, a house to which you were already bound, only to have it revealed that she is a commoner, and then to conceive a child with her—has fueled scandalous talk for these past three years. You must see how many of the faithful have, and will continue to, deny this union. The child, no doubt, is innocent in all this," the Bishop said, his voice heavy with concern.

"And yet, you are here, repeating what we already know," Cesare countered, his tone edged with impatience.

The Bishop's expression turned grave. "I am merely sharing what I've heard, what is being said both in the circles of the high class and among the common folk. I wish to give you a warning: if I am to perform this ceremony, you must be absolutely certain that this marriage will succeed—not just for the sake of the child, but for you, my lady."

The Bishop's words were directed at me, his gaze serious and unyielding. I knew exactly what he was trying to convey—a subtle warning wrapped in concern.

"Is this a threat?" Cesare's voice was low, a clear warning of his own.

The Bishop shook his head. "I am not threatening you. I am simply stating the reality of the situation. The people, both high and low, are watching closely. My intention is not to cause anxiety or fear."

"I understand," I said quietly, the weight of his words settling heavily on my shoulders. The whispers of being called a "whore" and worse echoed in my mind. "I understand that it is paramount we take responsibility for our actions and create a new chapter."

The Bishop nodded, his expression softening. "I couldn't agree more. So, what is the date?"

Cesare and I both straightened at his unexpected question.