"It's both," she admitted finally. "Dimitri has worked so hard to become the person he is. He doesn't have a noble title, but he acts nobler than most of the people I've met. I just… I want people like him to have a chance."
Would it be wrong of her to wish this? Should she just conform to the role thrust upon her? No, she was brought here for a reason. And although she still didn't know why, she would carve a place for herself in this world.
Only a few get the power to implement change, she will prove herself worthy of being a noble.
The Duchess's gaze softened, and for a moment, Adeline thought she saw a flicker of approval. "You have a good heart, Adeline. But remember, nobility is not about bestowing titles. It is about earning respect and trust. Dimitri does not need my title to prove his worth. He is already noble in his own right."