Chapter 3 What a drama!

I observed that the carpet was embroidered with a silver sword as I opened the white drapes on my bed. I also saw a full-length mirror with the same symbol engraved in silver around the edge.

Despite the fact that I have previously confirmed it. It seemed odd, yet somewhat comfortable. After getting out of bed, I surveyed my surroundings.

I walked up to the window and drew the white curtains. When I gazed out of the window at the individual, I stiffened.

'How did this happen?' I'm not even sure why he's still here. Didn't I tell him I wouldn't meet him? Why doesn't he go to his garden if he wants to go for a walk? After all, his garden is twice as big as mine. '

Then, as if feeling my sight on him, he looked at where I was standing. 'How could I forget his keen perceptions?' I chided myself as I closed my eyes and leaned against the wall.

I took a deep breath and moved closer to the silver mirror that glistened in the sunlight. My dark hair was curled behind my ears, and my green eyes returned my stare.

It was, without a doubt, me. Though I no longer have photographic images of myself from when I was younger, my eyes, facial emotions, and physical appearance are slightly different from what I remember about myself in my recollection. It appears like I am as young as I was when I was 25 or 26.

"Good Morning, My Lady. You called me? "

"Lina?"

I was broken out of my reverie as Lina called out for me. I continued to stare at the brown-haired girl. It was wonderful to see her again. When I was arrested and transported to prison. She was also arrested and executed at the time.

She was held responsible for assisting me in my scams. I tried to persuade them that she was innocent, but who would believe a prisoner?

I couldn't say anything as I stared at her with teary eyes.

"I understand that getting up early in the morning is difficult for you, my lady. But I couldn't say no to the Archduke's lady in waiting. I apologise for my mistake. You may punish me as you see fit. " Lina spoke and bowed herself more.

Her shivering was palpable. She must have been startled by my silence. Have I started punishing her as well?

In the past, I used to vent my frustrations on the maids. Lina has been my maid since I was a child and even when my status was elevated to the Frostmourne Empire's duchess.

In my first year of service, I spent all of my time whining about the things I had to put up with.

Their actions and attire reflect my harsh treatment of my serving crew. She must be certain, based on her shivering, that I will punish her severely.

I truly lived up to my reputation as a villain. Everyone on staff expects to be chastised right away if they make a tiny error. I even chastised the employees for appearing to be a little too attractive. I think they will attract Bennard's attention.

I was filled with envy and jealousy. Now that I think about it, It's all his fault. It would have been much better if I had never loved him. I would never have turned into a villain.

I hereby pledge in this lifetime that I will never associate with him again.

"Your highness," she said, her voice quivering.

I sighed; it appears like I'll have to put in more effort than I anticipated.

"Yes. I'd like to take a bath, Lina. Make preparations for it. " I responded as softly as I could.

I believe I will need to practise it as well.

I saw her there, still trembling like a leaf in a storm. 'Did I ask for something wrong?' I wondered, tilting my head in bewilderment.

"Please accept my apologies, my lady." My brows wrinkled as she responded once again. 'Which of my words made it appear like I needed an apology?'

"It's all right. You may now depart. " I tried to be gentle once more. She was, however, suspicious. It appears that she believes I am putting her to the test and thinks I'll punish her much more if she does go. In defeat, I closed my eyes. Is there truly such a thing as a second chance or is God punishing me? "Lina," I cried, "I'm taking a bath"

"Ah, sure, your highness, please accept my apology for my indolence." She bowed and scurried away with that.

I thought to myself as I watched her go, "Would she be more suspicious if I behaved kindly to her now?"

When I was alone, I returned to the mirror and noticed that my skin had returned to its former state of fairness and softness. But I could still sense the filth all around me.

My final days were spent in an underground prison. Nothing except darkness and grime could be seen.

Despite being clean, I still feel unclean after thinking about the place. I need a long, wonderful bath to restore my spirits. I touched my ear, as though to make sure it was still there.

'I'd want to stay in the garden longer to feel the sun on my skin again,' I decided.

As I made the decision and was humming slowly, I heard the door being opened.

When I turned around, I found Norma, my other maid, standing on the floor, looking wide-eyed at me. Our gazes met and at that instant, she rapidly bent her head. It's as though my sight will set fire to her.

To be honest, it's starting to irritate me. It's more difficult to be decent when everyone around you is so skeptical about your every move.

See, she is as motionless as a statue kneeling on the chilly ground. Her memory has clearly failed her where she is.

"Norma"

She flinched and stammered when she heard my voice. "Yes, your highness, please accept my apologies."

See, she's still sitting there, as if she hadn't noticed. My youngest maid is Norma. When I first arrived, she was quite active and chirpy.

But my mockery and harsh remarks had an effect on her. She is now the most terrified of them all. Lina must have informed her of my behavior, since she seemed to be in a stupor.

But if I offered assistance, she would be even more terrified.

For God's sake! " How complicated things have become.