Chapter 31

Chapter 31

Translator: Eonnicorn / Editor: Scarlet

“Enough.”

The one who silenced Count Holland with a single word and had been listening to the whole commotion in quietness was Ruth, no, the Crown Prince Edward. His deep voice had a distinctly different pressure than before. It held power and dignity that made everyone obey him. It didn’t just affect Count Holland, every person in this room also kept their mouth shut.

Eva’s eyelids, which were closed, slowly fluttered open.

“You don’t have to answer, Eva. Because I’m not that curious.”

Edward stopped Eva while giving reassuring eyes. Perhaps he didn’t like dirty water splashed on him after having a good time. Or perhaps he didn’t feel inclined to get the bottom of his former fiance’s truth. Either way, he was trying to end the ruckus using his authority.

“It’s alright, Your Highness.”

Even from Eva’s lips, the honorific to address the Crown Prince flowed out from her, an acknowledgement of his status. She smiled sadly as she made eye contact with Edward.

Hearing his voice calmed her somber heart and sorted out her mind. If she didn’t respond like what he instructed, this situation would be over like this. It was a better option for her. Truth to be told, she faltered for a moment.

However, if the matter was buried without conclusion, she’d be eaten by a shadow that would be unpleasant for the rest of her life. She didn’t want to be remembered by Edward as a stealthy woman. Also, she didn’t want to end this while being trampled by them like this.

“I’ll confess everything. Please listen.”

“Then, let’s hear your side.”

A slight disapproval look crossed Edward’s face briefly, but soon respected Eva’s decision and empowered her. The people around her also held their breath with a nervous look on their faces at the sudden change of air from Eva.

‘I’ve made up my mind, so let’s get started. Don’t be shy, don’t hesitate.’

She took a deep breath, controlling her breath, and lowered her gaze as she opened her mouth.

“Through my time living here, I didn’t like the lifestyle of the boring countryside and my scruffy circumstances. When I heard that Lord Holland and his friend had visited Bale Castle, I decided to try to seduce him. I thought that if I did well, I could go to the capital and live extravagantly.”

As she confessed her wrongdoings, her gaze lifted. Anger and sorrow was no longer detected on her face. It was just a stoic and calm look that seemed to transcend everything. The look left a rather strong impression on people around her.

“And so I had Paul, the horseman, figure out where Lord Holland took a stroll. When I found out that you were resting on the riverside, I took Pamela and waited for you both. Isn’t that right, Pamela?”

“Huh? Y-yes. Yes. What Eva said is true.” Eva called out Pamela as if she was asking for confirmation, making her fumble with her words out of fluster.

Of course it would catch Pamela off guard. Eva confessed too easily, even seeking Pamela’s validation to prove it. Since it wouldn’t look strange to the others, it also bothered Pamela.

Just as she expected. Everyone seemed taken aback. Because for a woman who made a cunning plan, Eva was changing too drastically.

Her eyes swept from a person to another person until it stopped on Pamela. The corners of her lips tugged upwards ever slightly.

‘This is all about you, Pamela. So listen carefully. Listen while having to doubt and shudder in fear. Because after this, the stage will be over and only the truth will remain.’

“I fell into the water on purpose to attract your attention, and the friend of Lord Holland saved me as planned. After that, you know the rest.”

Her confession was getting more dragged endlessly. There was only one thought in her head, she only needed to convince one person, Edward.

The Baronet and his wife might be aware of their daughter’s lies. Even if they didn’t know, Pamela’s words were true in their eyes.

As for Count Holland, he was someone who judged based on what he saw and heard, so it was impossible to persuade him. However, if Edward figured it out, Count Holland would also know the truth. Hence Eva only needed Edward to know the facts.

“Is everything you just said true?”

Edward’s voice was cold when he asked Eva after she finished her narrative. Some disappointment and stubborn doubts swirled within his eyes. Because it was highly possible it was true as she was talking so smoothly in an unexpected event. However, the small amount of faith he had in Eva kept trying to analyze behind her confession.

“It is, Your Highness. Everything I’ve said right now is true…” Feeling grateful enough, Eva stared right into his eyes. “I swear by the kiss you mentioned a moment ago.” A dejected smile spread across her face.

***