(Chapter 8)
News of Lorcan Frostborne, the Duke of the North's victory over the barbarians finally reached the Faeloria family's domain. Clarisse let out a relieved sigh, grateful that Lorcan had not encountered any harm and had successfully won the battle.
"Are you thinking about the Duke?" Eleanor Faeloria asked gently, observing her daughter's anxious expression. They were enjoying tea in their garden, surrounded by the beauty of blooming flowers.
Clarisse shifted her gaze to the teacup in her hands, hesitating to answer. "I'm just thinking about the impact it will have on the empire, Mother. If the barbarians had won, the empire would have been in danger."
Eleanor smiled softly, her eyes radiating warmth and understanding. "Is that truly all that's on your mind, Clarisse? Don't hide your heart from me. Even though you've just met, he is still your future husband."
Clarisse lowered her face, her cheeks flushing. She stared at the white roses growing nearby, trying to conceal the uncertain feelings in her heart.
Eleanor continued, her tone wise. "When I was your age, I too doubted arranged marriages. But look at me now, life is full of unexpected surprises. What I once doubted has brought me happiness beyond what I ever imagined."
Clarisse raised her head slightly, looking at her mother with curiosity. "Mother, you didn't like your arranged marriage either?"
Eleanor chuckled softly. "Of course not. No girl likes the idea of being married off, especially when we don't even know our future spouse. But as nobility, our choices are often limited. We have to think about family, responsibility, and the empire."
Clarisse sighed quietly. "Commoners at least have the freedom to love whoever they want."
Eleanor smiled faintly, recalling her younger years. "True, but their freedom often comes with a different set of challenges. We have a greater responsibility, and that includes supporting our husbands, no matter what."
Their conversation shifted to Eleanor's advice on Clarisse's role as the wife of a duke.
"You need to prepare yourself, not just in politics and household management, but also in understanding your husband as a man," Eleanor said, her tone serious yet gentle.
Clarisse blushed hearing her mother's words. "Mother, this is getting too detailed..." she murmured, embarrassed.
Eleanor smiled wisely. "This is an unavoidable part of life, my dear. As the wife of a duke, you will face challenges, both in public and in your personal relationship. Don't be afraid, experience will teach you everything."
Despite her embarrassment, Clarisse listened attentively. Her mother's words reminded her of the future that was drawing near, and though doubts lingered in her heart, she knew that the responsibility of being the wife of a duke was something she could not ignore.
The image of Lorcan's cold yet charismatic face flashed in her mind. Would she be able to fulfill this role? The question circled in her thoughts, but Clarisse knew she would need to find the strength within herself to face whatever would come.
'What if it's all just a mask? Will he treat his wife with the same coldness he shows his enemies? If he changes... will I have enough courage to face him? I just hope my strength is enough to live by his side, even with the fear that always looms over me.'
That thought made her stomach feel like it was being squeezed. Clarisse bit her lip gently, trying to hide her anxiety from Eleanor, who seemed still absorbed in discussing the responsibilities of being a wife.