Chapter 56

It was a cool day, yet Lia's palms were sweating. Anghar had visited early in the morning to inform her that the marchioness expected to see her.

A sudden summons.

She probably heard I told Father that I want to live as a woman now.

Lady Bale's carriage arrived in front of the house thirty minutes past the promised time. The door opened, and her guard stepped out.

"Sir," he said gruffly, moving aside to let Lia board.

Lady Bale lifted her head to lock eyes with Lia through the open door. Lia swallowed, bracing herself for whatever emotional outburst the marchioness was managing to suppress.

"Hello, Mother," Lia said, taking a seat across from her.

"Camellius."

The guard took the seat next to Lia, effectively blocking the door.

"You've grown taller," Anastasia commented.

"Pardon? Oh. Yes, a bit."

"Your hair's gotten long, too. I'll send a hairdresser soon."