MPO

CHAPTER XXVll-28

After hearing about the marriage proposal from Sarah, Leila spent the day feeling powerless. Yet, even during this time, she kept a document folded inside the pocket of her dress, planning to transfer the entrusted property to Anna whenever an opportunity arose.

She kept Anna close because she had to receive it in person. Unaware of her intentions, Anna worried about Leila every day.

“Miss, it’s a bit warm today, but would you like to have some tea on the balcony? I’ll bring some cool iced tea and fruit.”

“Anna, I’m fine. I’d rather you not bother and end up getting scolded by the head maid again.”

“Me? No! The head maid is rude, but she wouldn’t go that far, Miss.”

Anna was taken aback by Leila’s words. She had kept her mouth shut even when unjustly treated, so that Leila wouldn’t hear about it. How could she possibly know?

In fact, the count’s estate currently had neither the budget nor food allocated for Leila. Anna had been bribing the chef to secure what was needed. She cursed her nominal master, Benjamin, daily. How could a parent neglect and let their child starve?

She lived each day hoping that if the late lady knew of this, she would avenge them from the otherworld. Now that the miss knew, it was clear she would be distressed, so Anna felt compelled to lie desperately.

Meanwhile, Leila was aware of all Anna’s efforts. Amelie’s gossipy nature had been helpful. Amelie had made it a point to tell her in detail about the humiliations Anna was enduring.

It was almost as if she taunted, ‘What can you possibly do about it? You’re just a blind wench.’

Each time she heard this, Leila firmly resolved to transfer all her assets to Anna, ensure her safe escape, and then end her own life.

She did not want to help this despicable family in the slightest.

Knock, knock.

“…Uh, who is it?”

It was rare for anyone to seek out Leila’s room, which slightly startled Anna. But Leila immediately sensed an opportunity.

“Anna, help me up.”

“Ah, yes.”

As Anna was about to open the door at Leila’s request, she helped her up instead.

“Let’s go to the dressing room.”

“Yes, Miss.”

While they moved as Leila requested, the knocking continued, but the two paid it no heed. Anna found the pouch hidden in the back of the closet in the dressing room, as Leila wanted. Meanwhile, Leila felt the dresses hanging there and removed all the jewels attached to the decorations, storing them in the pouch.

“Anna, please get my violin.”

“Yes!”

“It’s warm, but it might be good to bring a cloak.”

“…Yes, Miss.”

Anna was doubtful but faithfully followed her instructions.

“Is there another one?”

“Yes, that’s right.”

“That one will be for you, so keep it separate.”

“…Yes?”

After gathering all the necessary items, Leila, leaning on her cane, shouted.

“Come in!”

As soon as her permission was given, a pale-faced butler entered and spoke.