The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 43

hapter 43

‘Do they think I was still the same person from three years ago, someone they could push around and manipulate?‘

Athena’s lips curved into a cold smile, but the frost in her eyes deepened.

Eloise looked into her eyes, the icy stare sending a chill down her spine and making her heart sink.

Athena said, “Since this is my marriage to the Osborne family, it’s up to me to settle it. Whether we call it off, and how we do it–no one but me can decide that.”

On this matter, she would not compromise.

Eloise’s smile froze on her face. “You’re talking nonsense, child. How can a young lady be the one to handle such matters? Naturally, it’s up to the elders to step in. We need to consider our position and leave some room for negotiation.”

“For the sake of the Monson family, and the Osborne family as well, your brother and father will still need to maintain their relationships with them without losing face.”

Athena had long since given up, but hearing Eloise’s self–important words still stung.

She had once offered Eloise her whole, sincere heart. But while Eloise had thought of everything else, she never once considered her. In fact, Eloise was clearly worried she would ruin the marriage or jeopardize Willow’s future.

Athena pushed down the bitterness in her chest and spoke firmly, “I want to meet with Lady Kelsey in person to discuss this.”

Athena didn’t raise her voice or cause a scene, but for some reason, Eloise felt guilty.

She awkwardly avoided Athena’s gaze and forced a smile. “Since you’re determined, then I’ll respect your wishes.”

After spending a few days with Athena, Eloise had realized that while Athena appeared calm and unambitious, she was actually someone with a strong sense of independence. Now that she was standing her ground, Eloise didn’t feel disappointed–just resigned.

Eloise took another sip of coffee before rising to leave.

Athena made no move to see her off.

Eloise glanced back at her twice before leaving, a look of quiet defeat in her eyes.

Outside, Willow hurried to meet her. “Mother.”

Her voice was soft and concerned. “You look unwell. Are you feeling sick?”

Seeing Willow’s worried face, Eloise felt a sense of comfort.

She patted Willow’s hand and smiled. “It’s nothing. I’m just a little tired.”

“Let me help you,” Willow said, offering her arm to support Eloise. Eloise allowed Willow to guide her back toward her quarters.

The two exchanged a smile, sharing a warmth between them that needed no words.

Eloise spoke gently, “You don’t need to worry about the Osborne family’s marriage. I’ll make sure to get the token back. Once Athena is married to Ray, you two sisters will need to support each other.”

1/2

Willow’s hand faltered for a momeny marry him even if you paid me.‘

Three days later, just as dawn was breaking, Athena was startled awake by the sounds of hurried footsteps outside her window.

The mansion was alive with activity, preparing for Willow’s birthday party. The air was filled with a festive mood.

Athena had just finished washing up when Dorothea Taylor arrived with clothes, instructed to make sure Athena dressed appropriately.

There would be many influential guests attending today, people of high status. As the eldest daughter of the duke’s estate, she couldn’t afford to make a misstep.

Athena glanced at the dress. The fabric was made from intricate silk, a type of weaving so complex that even the most skilled embroiderers could only produce an inch a day. A single dress could take months–or even a year–to complete.

Such extravagance made Athena think of her own marriage to Ray.

Eloise was clearly going all out to make her stand out. But by doing so, she had overshadowed Willow. She wondered, ‘Could Willow accept this?‘ Even if Willow could, Athena knew there was something more to it.

Athena shifted her gaze from the dress and said, “Go to the wardrobe and bring me another outfit.”

Siena and Aliza exchanged glances, surprised. “My lady, why not wear this dress? It’s so beautiful.”

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