Abigail pov contd.

“Did something happen, my lady? Has Oliver disrespected you? I apologize for whatever he had done. I will go and ask him to apologize to you too.” she bowed her head trembling and i shook my head.

“No, it’s just the way he looks and walks and behaves. He did not look like a commoner at all. But at the same time, his face has that foreigner look in it.“ I was wondering why I always felt different when I looked at him, but looking at the students in the academy who have come from different provinces, I realized he had that resemblance.

“That is because of his father, I assure you my lady. He is my nephew and it has been years that he is living under my supervision. He is a nice person. It’s just he did not like to talk but he is very responsible man.” She continued to praise him as if he was the most loyal and trustworthy person around.

“Did he even have friends? He is a lonesome person. I sometimes wonder if he is suffering from some trauma.” she nodded her head so many times as if her life was depending on it.

“He has a friend who is also a knight. He works in the royal palace. I have seen him coming to meet him sometimes.”

“A knight! How could he have a knight as a friend?” I shook my head, “you do not need to lie. I will not dismiss him, it is just that he is different.” 

“No, my lady. I am telling the truth. I do not know his name but he had that honey eyes similar to Oliver yet his hair was golden just like yours. And he looks strong. Most importantly he had that shining broch and royal knights uniform.” the more she explained, the more image matches to Leo.

But did not they say that they just met in the eatery accidentally and they did not know each other.

“Alright, that is a relief to know. But do not tell Oliver about all this or he will feel burdened.” I added, though I didn’t mind him knowing that I was asking about him. I did not want him to know that I had suspicions that he had Leo hiding something.

“I understand, my lady. I request you to ask me anything when it comes to Oliver before taking any decision. He is a kind boy yet he is always mistreated.” there was something more than she was telling me as she was looking very worried. She was not even this worried when I asked about Stefan, her own child.

“I can see that you love Oliver a lot. If I didn’t know any better I would have thought that he is your son, instead of Stefan.” she smiled at my question instead of being angry.

“Stefan is expressible, he would ask me whenever he needed something. But Oliver, he would not even ask for food even when he was hungry for days. He had always been silent for his needs. So, I always pay attention to everything he does. I feel sorry for him.” 

“Alright, I will take good care of him. You do not need to worry. I want you to go to lady Amayra and then all the reporting houses and pass them these letters. I am inviting all of them for tomorrow’s event. 

Ask the coachman to prepare the carriage, I am going to the boutique to check everything by myself.” 

“Yes, my lady.”

After drinking tea, I went to Bella’s chamber to invite her too when I heard a voice and my steps halted.

“I am blessed to have you, Bella. You know that marchioness was too delighted to listen to your performance. She even added that you can earn a lot of name recognition if you continue to create your own melodies. She will even refer you to the empress.” Her words sound so sweet and proud. 

“I will be a mother, I will do my best. I will make you proud.” 

“Oh my darling, of course, I am proud of you. You are the only one I have in my life.“ I should have gone, since it was their private conversation. Yet it was so filled with love that my feet froze right there. 

If my mother would have been here, she would have been proud like that or she would have been disappointed as I have decided to be a knight but not a lady.

“Mother, why don’t you go and ask Abi how was her time in the academy too. And if possible take some cookies or pie with you. She would be really happy.” came the pleading voice of Bella. I held my breath to know the reply but nothing came out, only silence ensued.

“Mother.” she asked again and with some courage, i decided to peek and see her face. Bella’s face was pleading and her mother sighed.

“Do not forget Bella, that’s how she used to bully you. Maybe it is her new trick. You should not trust her too easily.” I sighed as I realized that our relationship was still at standstill. It was not like she had not played tricks with me. It was just that I was the initiator but then I was a kid too. How would I have known the truth!

“Mother, it is not like that. She is very sweet and caring and she has helped me a lot. Why would she need to act in front of us when father and brother Nickolas already love her that much?” she asked and then shook her mother when she did not reply.

“Fine, I will send some cake to her though Beth.” she replied with a sigh as if she was already tired with the discussion.

“But mother..”

“That is it, Bella. Since when have you been too stubborn? Now you should rest so that you will be fresh when we go out. I will take you to the town for a new dress and a gift for your good performance.” with that she stood up, ready to come out and i took hurried footsteps.