Chapter 21

Part 03. The Graceful Uninvited Guest

The carriage with all the luggage left for the capital early in the morning.

After tossing and turning all night, Lia got out of bed to get ready but felt oddly lazier than usual. She slipped on her shirt, tucked it into her pants, and stood before the mirror to fix her cravat.

"My lord," Pipi said as she entered. "It is time to leave. The guests are leaving soon as well."

"Okay," Lia replied. She draped her jacket over her arm and exited the room, possibly for the last time. Several servants lined the hallway to say their goodbyes. One by one, they bowed and gave a sad smile as she walked past them. She was reminded of just how long her four years at the manor had been.

Lia walked out of the front door to be greeted by not only Kieran but also the rest of the staff, who were waiting in front of her carriage.

"Where's Mother?" Lia asked.

"She's not feeling well," Kieran replied. "She said not to worry about saying your goodbyes to her."