Chapter 8 Duke-008

Rainhard stepped out of the cathedral's administration room with a firm stride. After the meeting with Archbishop Gregory regarding the grand charity event organized by the Kingsley Group, he felt a calmness that contrasted sharply with the hustle and bustle of the outside world within the cool confines of the cathedral.

As Rainhard walked down the cathedral aisle, his attention was drawn to a sight that made him pause. At the end of the aisle, he saw a young woman who appeared weak and struggled to walk, assisted by a devoted servant. Her hair fell loosely around her pale face, reflecting just how fragile her condition was. Rainhard immediately recognized her as Hazel Ellsworth, the daughter of Count Ellsworth and his fiancée.

"Lady Hazel came to receive a blessing from the Archbishop for a swift recovery from her illness," said one of the nuns accompanying Rainhard, as if reading his thoughts. "This order came directly from Count Ellsworth."

Rainhard didn't ask further questions, but the nun felt the need to explain. With a firm yet gentle tone, Rainhard thanked her.

"Thank you, Sister. Please return to your duties," Rainhard said in a tone that radiated authority.

The nun bowed respectfully before returning to her duties, leaving Rainhard to observe Hazel as she approached. Seeing how weak Hazel looked, his heart was moved. Memories of their encounters at the Marquess Margaux's party and the bakery resurfaced in his mind.

Rainhard stood at the end of the cathedral aisle, watching Hazel, who was accompanied by her servant. Archbishop Gregory was giving the blessing, his hand raised over Hazel's bowed head. Rainhard chose to stay in place, contemplating various aspects related to the situation.

Rainhard's decision to marry Hazel was actually based on practical reasons. He sought a wife who could give him heirs without adding to his burdens. Hazel, known as a frail girl requiring special attention, was deemed to fit that criterion. Many noble daughters or other business families who carefully calculated everything could pose problems in the event of a divorce, especially concerning custody of minor children.

However, Hazel Ellsworth differed in her outlook. Rainhard felt that this girl would not add complications. Even managing herself seemed difficult. Hazel would surely have no time to plan mischief or take over his wealth as a healthy woman might.

Yet, when Rainhard saw Hazel in person, he felt something different. Hazel's frailty and innocence emitted a charm he had never anticipated. Each time they happened to meet, like now, there was something that made his heart race faster. Was this merely coincidence or fate bringing them together?

As his thoughts wandered, the blessing and healing prayers concluded. Hazel appeared slightly more at ease, though still pale. Rainhard decided to approach, stepping firmly toward the weakened Hazel.

Rainhard looked at Hazel gently, his blue eyes fixed on the pale face of the girl. "Lady, it seems your health is not well."

Hazel gave a weak smile. To Hazel, the handsome man with black hair standing before her was a mysterious figure she had met twice-at the Marquess Margaux's family party and at the bakery. She did not realize that this man was Duke Rainhard Kingsley, her fiancé. "Did you come to pray, sir?" she asked in a weak voice.

Rainhard wisely concealed his identity. He gave a brief nod. "Yes, I came to pray. And this is the third time we've met by chance."

Hazel merely nodded slightly.

Rainhard continued, "There is a saying that if two people meet by chance three times in a row, it means fate. Do you believe in that?"

Hazel smiled faintly, her face tired but her smile warm. "Sir, to me, fate is something I cannot determine."

Rainhard was increasingly fascinated by Hazel's innocence and fortitude. He looked at Hazel's servant and instructed, "I will take the Lady for a walk in the cathedral garden. Wait here." His voice was firm and authoritative, leaving the servant with no choice but to step aside.

Rainhard moved closer and gently but firmly wrapped his arm around Hazel's waist to support her. "Come on, Lady, let's go for a short walk."

Hazel felt a bit surprised but did not refuse. Rainhard's support made her weak body feel more stable. They walked slowly toward the garden behind St. Patrick's Cathedral. During the walk, Hazel felt slightly better with the fresh air around her, though her head still felt heavy.

"Do you often feel unwell, Lady?" Rainhard asked cautiously.

Hazel sighed softly. "Yes, my health is weak. That's why I rarely attend social events."

Rainhard nodded, recalling the information he had gathered. "So, you stay home more often?"

Hazel smiled wryly. "Yes. But it's not a choice; it's a necessity."

They reached a bench hidden among the tall trees. Rainhard helped Hazel sit down, then sat beside her. "Do you feel better now?"

Hazel looked at him gently. "A little better. Thank you for accompanying me, sir."

The fresh air and the scent of spring flowers surrounded them, bringing tranquility to Hazel. Rainhard felt Hazel's warmth under his arm, and a protective feeling arose within him.

Rainhard looked at Hazel attentively. "If you stay home more because of your condition, why did you invite me to an affair during our first meeting, Lady?"

Hazel felt embarrassed, her cheeks flushing as she recalled that incident. Rainhard, with a mischievous tone, continued, "And also yesterday, oddly enough, when we met at the bakery, you avoided when I offered a one-night affair."

Hazel was silent, unsure how to respond. After a moment of silence, she finally spoke with a soft yet firm voice. "It's because I'm getting married soon, sir. Only four days remain until my wedding."

Rainhard thought it was common for a noble daughter or a business daughter in Arcanis to marry through arrangements. However, his curiosity led him to ask further. "There is nothing of my desire, sir. I don't even know what my husband looks like. I just want to do something I want. But it seems that's impossible."

Rainhard pretended to be concerned, though there was a mischievous glint in his eyes. "If that's the case, I could sleep with you if you wish."

Hazel blushed at the offer, feeling trapped in an awkward situation. Rainhard, who had never met Hazel officially and maintained the secrecy of his identity, found something intriguing about this situation. He had never imagined that his fiancée would seek another man for a one-night affair just because she hadn't seen his face.

Rainhard simply smiled mysteriously. "The wind is starting to get cold. Lady, we should go back."

***