"I would like to hire an escort for my upcoming journey. But I would like someone in my age group to be my partner. Money is not an issue, but I would like to choose my companion, please."
Layla's smile was warm as she greeted the priestess, who had come to be her escort for the day.
As a noble's ward, Layla needed to give legal notice to the temple whenever she wanted to come. That was a hassle, but it made things easier for her…or should have.
But because Layla was from Duke Lockhart's house, the atmosphere was tense instead.
"I am sorry, but we cannot provide a young lady with an escort now. We have important guests staying at our temple for now, so we cannot afford to have our people go out.
I hope the young lady understands and allows us to disappoint her this time."
The priestess spoke politely.
Layla would have understood these conditions under normal circumstances and might have also accepted them.