Chapter 54

"I wish to speak with Mrs.Belle", Carina looked the head maid right in the eyes. She held sheer confidence and determination.

"I'm afraid I can't let you in my lady. The mistress has strictly forbidden any outsiders."

Carina's eyes narrowed ,"I am not an outsider by any means. I am the daughter-in-law of this household. I don't have to inform you of my reasons to visit. Now let me in."

The maid gulped and stepped aside to make way. Carina took long strides over to the big expensive door. She knocked thrice before a subtle 'come in' reached her ears. With an inhale of anxiety, she stepped inside.

"Mother-in-law?" Lyanna whipped her head from her desk at the seemingly familiar voice. Carina was shocked to see how much the lady's appearance had changed. She looked... sick.

"You have the nerve to abruptly come here?" Her voice sounded surprised, not cold like Carina had expected. She curtly nodded.

Lyanna scanned her briefly before speaking, "I could have you killed this instant and not a soul would know." Carina's throat dried.

"For what reason? We both know I had nothing to do with the incident."

Lyanna scoffed, "When did you gain this much courage?" Carina fumbled with the fabric of her dress, her nerves suddenly getting to her.

Lyanna stood up from her seat, "There must be a reason you are here. Don't tell me it's to prove your 'innocence'." She sounded irritated.

"I have something to discuss."

"Go on."

"I wish to be sent away. I demand a house, cottage, doesn't matter, in the countryside. And I wish to spend the rest of my life there, in solitude, as your son's widow." Lyanna's eyes widened like saucers. She was NOT expecting such words from Carina.

"In return, I will not demand a single penny from this fortune. I just want to be left alone in peace. And none should know of my whereabouts." Her eyes glowed in such a manner that reminded Lyanna of Arya, the last Queen of the Capprells.

"Why are you doing this to yourself?"

"I'm done with my feelings overflowing. I just don't want to hurt anymore. I want to live by myself, away from all of this." Lyanna hummed in approval.

"So you want to get away from Thomas, is that it?" Carina stiffened.

"I can't deny that fully. But as long as I'm here, I'm out in the open for many vultures to claw at. I have to protect myself."

"I'm sure your mother would be heartbroken to hear that you're giving up all chances of being wealthy ?"

"I'm sure she will get a stroke but I don't care anymore." She shrugged as Lyanna chuckled.

"Considering your reasoning, I think I agree on your terms. Let us sign a contract." Carina gave a sigh of relief.