Chapter 155:
Please, go on.
Does Juliet know about that terrible curse passed down in your family?
Lionel Lebatan asked as casually as if he was discussing the weather.
Lennox had a gut feeling that this moment would come when he heard that the Red King had hurriedly returned to the east.
Lionel Lebatan seemed to think Lennoxs silence was answer enough.
Its a well-known tale among the elders. I wonder why it didnt cross my mind sooner.
The cunning king, who effectively ruled the east, knew where to seek the answer.
The Carlyle Duchy was always plagued by ominous rumors.
There were absurd stories like they drank human blood or that if the heir was deemed unworthy, they would be abandoned.
But Lionel Lebatan was a wise old man who sensed the truth hidden among those rumors.
Last time, Juliet suddenly mentioned something about a demon. It made me remember that there has never been a smooth succession in the Dukedom.
Lionel Lebatan seemed to have already figured everything out.
And that, is it related to the curse that is said to be attached to your family? Isnt it?
I wont put Juliet in danger.
That was the only answer Lennox could give.
No, thats not the answer I want to hear.
Lionel Lebatan shook his head.
Look, Duke Carlyle, what could this powerless old man desire? I just wish she could live a carefree and happy life.
Though Lionel Lebatan was a tall figure, his voice sounded lonely.
Not being ignored or despised, without having to worry about what others think. It might be nothing to you, but its important to me.
It was important to Lennox too.
He had vowed to ensure that undeserving individuals wouldnt underestimate Juliet.
However, in front of Lionel Lebatan, who expressed his feelings with such sorrow, Lennox wasnt sure if he had the right to say such things.
And I dont like the guy who can only keep her close for seven years without even marrying her.Ne/w novel chapters are published at novelhall.com
It would be a waste to see my precious granddaughter, somewhere in someone elses home while crawling on the floor.
With raised eyebrows, Lionel Lebatan openly showed his genuine concerns.
Perhaps shes taken by that northern bloodline. What is she lacking that she must endure such a cold and harsh place?
Lionel Lebatan no longer feigned pity.
Indeed, when it comes to granddaughters suitors, a considerate and obedient man is the best
Lennox calmly interrupted his blatant complaints.
Then you might know.
Know what?
That I have proposed to Juliet.
What did you say?
For a brief moment, Lennox saw it clearly. The veins on the always-composed Lionel Lebatans forehead bulged.
Lennox smirked and added:
Yes, I proposed twice.
No, on whose authority!
Lionel Lebatan jumped up from his seat.
It was a markedly different reaction from his earlier words.
Lennox observed Lionel Lebatans changing complexion and then replied leisurely.
And I was rejected.
Rejected?
Is it something you did?
Lennox then realized.
The honor of the granddaughter that Lionel Lebatan mentioned seemed to refer to this matter.
Lennox realized that the hefty donation made under Juliets name was Lionels doing.
However, remembering Lionels request to keep his visit a secret, he chose not to disclose it.
Are you listening?
Yes.
Lennox Carlyle was pondering something he had never been curious about in his life.
Proposing to a woman meant accepting her family and the world.
Families and relatives. Even their passionate but loving worries and interventions.
Suddenly, he thought that Juliets rejection of his proposal was justified.
And at the same time, he thought that Lionel Lebatans point was valid.
Dont you have anything to say to me?
Juliet asked suspiciously.
I do.
With that reply, Lennox leaned his forehead on Juliets shoulder as he approached her.
Juliet flinched but didnt push him away.
!
The baby dragon, awoken from its sleep, let out an irritated cry and jumped to the floor.
Juliet.
Yes.
When I first saw you.
The time in this life when they first met.
He would never forget Juliet, who wore a black robe and had an expressionless face, emanating a pale venomous aura.
He didnt know then, but he understands now.
The reason he reached out to Juliet then was because he was drawn to her loneliness, with no one to lean on or trust.
Lennox realized what he had wanted.
He wanted to give Juliet a family.
But that was impossible from the start.
You cant explain the colors of a rainbow to someone whos blind.
He never knew parental love or what a normal family and boundary were. How could he offer her such things?
Moreover, Juliet no longer had any expectations of him. Now that she has a proper family, its only natural that she wouldnt cling to what he can offer.
Looking back, his love was always superficial and pathetic.
He always hovered around her, fretting over whether giving her expensive gifts or assets would finally win her smile.
But those things paled in comparison to Juliets laughter.
Why?
Nothing.
He always had so much to say.
Dont leave.
Stay by my side forever.
But they were words he could never vocalize.
Within him still existed a cunning child, greedily craving affection.
Though he clung to her with greed and stubbornness, Juliet would leave him once the promised time passed.
Juliet was always too good for him, and he was always the one greedily clinging and not letting go.