The Power That Can't Be Ignored (1)

"Countess Seaton… Thank you for accepting my proposal," Arianell greeted the old madame sitting in the drawing room alone. She hadn't seen any servants around, but two cups of fresh tea were already prepared on the table.

The royal aunt wordlessly nodded and signalled to her to sit down.

"I was surprised when I received your message… I thought you would prefer our relationship to stay hidden for a while," the countess commented.

"Since we agreed to work together, it would be rude of me to act as if we don't know each other," Arianell responded awkwardly. The older woman said nothing and slowly drank her tea. To break the uncomfortable silence, she decided to speak about trivial things first.

"If you don't mind me asking… I just saw Lady Riverty left your mansion… She was in a hurry…"