Judge of Cosmos

CHAPTER 7

Moraine's voice remained firm, her eyes locking onto Ajax's as she continued, "I want my fair share of the deal. In other words, I'll handle the internal affairs of the duchy. I refuse to be mocked, but most importantly, I will not allow the privileges that rightfully belong to me to be handed over to your lover. Those are mine by law and position."

Ajax raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "Hmm, what do you mean by that?"

"I'll manage the inner court, and you will not interfere—no matter what I do. We establish personal boundaries: you live your life, and I live mine. In short, we should just mind our own business."

Ajax blinked, momentarily caught off guard. Instead of fully processing her words, his gaze lingered on her face, noting the sharpness in her features. He sighed, tilting his head and resting his hand on his cheek. "Personal boundaries... do you have a lover?" he asked, half-jokingly, but with an undertone of curiosity.

Moraine clicked her tongue in annoyance. "Didn't I just tell you to mind your own business, Your Grace?"

Ajax chuckled lightly, leaning back in his chair. "Of course, if that's what you want. I oblige."

"Lastly," Moraine continued, her voice taking on a more serious tone, "I do not want to bear a child."

"What?" Ajax's relaxed demeanor quickly vanished, his eyes narrowing in surprise.

"If you want an heir, please don't look to me."

Ajax stared at her in disbelief, the weight of her words sinking in. "Did you even hear the words you just blurted out? Moraine, an heir is a very sensitive topic, and this is not something that should be discussed lightly. Can we talk about this another time?"

The silence that followed was thick and heavy, pressing on Moraine's ears like a tangible force. She knew she had been impulsive, that anyone else in her position might have been slapped back into reality by such a bold statement. But the resolve in her chest refused to waver.

'However, I cannot do it.'

Moraine clenched her fist under the table, her knuckles turning white. She had made her stance clear, even if it wasn't the most diplomatic approach.

"Alright," she finally said, her voice softer, almost resigned. "Is there anything you want?"

The man in front of her seemed locked in an internal struggle, his lips moving slightly as if he were debating whether to speak or remain silent. His hesitation was almost palpable, and it was clear he was searching for the right words—something that wouldn't embarrass him, though he was unsure how to express it.

Finally, he spoke. "Call me Ajax."

"Pardon?" Moraine's eyebrows arched in surprise.

"Since we're married, we can't afford for people to think that just because I have a lover, our relationship is poor. To avoid any unnecessary talk, we should at least address each other informally."