TSNM 07

“What do you think you’re doing? Let go of me!”

Eva shouted as she tried to shake his grip off, but there was no way she could break free from his large, powerful hold. Even as she clawed at the back of Todd’s hand, he showed no reaction and pulled her even harder. Her wrist felt like it might snap. But what she couldn’t endure even more was the fear and disgust.

“What do you think you’re doing, Todd?”

Just as tears welled up in her eyes, Pamela appeared, shouting. Still half-dressed, she saw Eva and Todd together and glared sharply.

“The Count of Holland is visiting today, so I told you to stay out. Do you have any idea how important this is?”

Furious, Pamela shoved Todd’s chest. As he stepped back and let go of Eva, she quickly pulled away, gasping. She didn’t even feel relief—only humiliation that made her feel sick.

Although Pamela’s arrival was fortunate, Eva didn’t feel grateful. Pamela wasn’t angry because Todd threatened Eva, but because she didn’t want her disgraceful brother to be seen by guests.

Disgust filled Eva—toward Todd, toward her own helpless situation, and toward Pamela.

“Hmph. You think you can look down on me? Just wait. Once I win big, I won’t even look at this house.”

“Shut up and stay out. Only if I become the Countess can you and our family survive.”

“What a joke. You becoming a Countess? A wild dog would suit that role better.”

Todd glared angrily, then turned to leave. Before going, he warned Eva.

“If you try to flirt with those nobles, I’ll tie you and Cecil together and throw you into the water.”

He left angrily.

“That crazy man… Eva, come help me get dressed.”

Pamela acted like nothing had happened and left.

Left alone, Eva looked at her trembling hands. Her wrist was red. Remembering what just happened, her body shook in fear.

She sat on the bed, hugging herself. She wanted to run to Cecil and cry, but she couldn’t. All she could do was hold back her tears.

It’s okay. Just endure a little longer.

Five months until adulthood would pass quickly. All she could do was endure and wait.

“Tighter, Eva. Make my waist look slimmer.”

Pamela complained while Eva tightened the corset.

“The Count is really charming. At first, he seemed cold, but later he smiled and said he’s looking forward to tonight.”

“Really?”

Eva replied absentmindedly.

“Oh right. What about that man?”

“…Who?”

“Sir Rus. He seemed very kind to you.”

“…I think he’s a good person.”

Eva remembered his actions.

“But now it feels strange… Was he helping her because he knew her identity? Was he really the Crown Prince?”

She didn’t know.

“If he is, she shouldn’t get involved. If not, he will leave soon.”

“Right? And he’s very handsome.”

“…Yeah.”

“I can’t give up. I’ll have both.”

“What do you mean?”

“I’ll seduce Sir Rus too. After marrying the Count, I’ll keep him as a lover.”

Eva couldn’t breathe.

“So after dinner, keep him busy outside. Then bring him to my room.”

“For what?”

“To seduce him, of course.”

Pamela smiled innocently.