hanagaki_ryuka

Synopsis:
In my first life, I was a broke background character who died after slipping on a banana peel (tragic).

In my second life, I reincarnated into a fantasy novel… as the villain’s wife?! The cold, cruel villain everyone fears — Theodore Hellgrave aka “The Blood Tyrant.”

But plot twist: the villain isn’t just obsessed with world domination.
He’s obsessed with me.

All I want is a peaceful life, maybe open a bakery or something, but this psycho villain keeps spoiling me to death — buying me castles, putting flowers in my hair, threatening anyone who looks at me (even the dog).

Every time I try to divorce him, the entire empire trembles. And the worst part?

… I think I’m falling for him...

Villain husband, please sign the divorce papers

Later that night, after excusing themselves from the banquet, Theodore led Verbena to the palace gardens — a quiet place lit only by soft moonlight and the faint hum of distant music.

"Are you worried about what they said?" Theodore's voice was low, but the edge in it was unmistakable.

Verbena, still new to the art of noblewoman deception, didn't bother denying it. "Estella, huh? That name keeps following you around like a bad rumor."

Theodore's brow furrowed, and for a moment, it looked like he wanted to crush something in his bare hands. "I never gave her reason to hope. She's just... persistent."

As if on cue, the rustling of bushes drew both their attention. Verbena's eyes narrowed when a slim figure stepped into view. A woman in a cream-colored gown, her auburn curls pinned artfully to one side — Estella.

"Ah, Your Grace," Estella's voice was sweet, but her eyes flickered with desperation. "I didn't expect to see you here. What a lovely coincidence."

Verbena's nails dug into her palm, but she smiled — the practiced smile of a duchess who would not let anyone steal her spotlight. "A coincidence indeed, Lady Estella. How fortunate for you to bump into a married man during a romantic stroll with his wife."

Estella's smile faltered, but her gaze flickered toward Theodore, practically drinking him in. "I only wished to offer my congratulations... and my apologies, of course. I had no idea you were out here."

Verbena stepped closer to Theodore, claiming her territory. "Thank you for your well wishes. I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening — far from us."

Estella's polite smile didn't reach her eyes, but she curtsied and retreated into the shadows.

Theodore sighed, rubbing his temple. "I'm sorry you had to deal with that."

Verbena shrugged, though her heart still hammered against her ribs. "It's fine. But if she pulls this stunt again, I might 'accidentally' spill my wine on her dress."

Theodore chuckled, his hand slipping into hers. "I'll pretend not to see."

Chapter 44 - A Shadow in the Garden