Chapter 32: A Painful Farewell

Time passed, and nearly two years had elapsed since Fine married into Rosaider.

In that time, significant changes occurred: the long-ailing Duke of Diner passed away, and Banaji succeeded him.

Shortly after, Robert, the Diner Dukedom’s mine manager, resigned and joined Fine at the Rosaider Margravate.

Robert’s expertise in mining and ore distribution was invaluable.

His connections and know-how propelled Rosaider’s business, transforming it into one of Vittore’s wealthiest regions.

In the morning haze, Fine slowly opened her eyes.

Before her was Hawk’s chiseled, handsome sleeping face.

‘Such a beautiful face…’

Fine gazed, captivated.

Hawk, with his dangerous aura like a battle god’s statue in a museum, made her heart flutter whenever his stern features softened into a smile.

It felt uniquely special.

“You love staring at my sleeping face, don’t you?”

Hawk’s eyes opened, meeting hers directly.

He reached out, took a strand of her hair, and kissed it.

“How long have you been awake?”

“Long before you started staring at me.”

‘That’s before I even woke up!’

Realizing he’d seen her every move while she thought he was asleep, Fine’s face flushed.

“Pretending to sleep is cruel.”

“Forgive me.

You were so cute, I couldn’t help but watch.”

Hawk chuckled low in his throat, lifted her chin, and kissed her.

“By the way, Fine, do you know what today is?”

“Of course.

It’s the day I came to Rosaider.”

“Exactly.

I have something to discuss tonight, so keep your evening free.”

“…Yes.”

Fine smiled.

Hawk’s sharp eyes softened as he patted her head.

“I’d love to linger, but I should get up.

Meetings all morning.”

“Right.”

Fine nodded.

She knew Hawk’s schedule was packed with meetings—she’d checked.

Hawk shrugged, rose from bed, and swiftly prepared for the day.

“You take your time.

See you tonight.”

“Ah!”

Fine let out a small sound.

Hawk, about to leave, turned back.

“What’s wrong?”

“Well…”

Fine faltered.

Today marked two years since she arrived—the end of their vowed term.

This might be their last conversation.

She got out of bed, ran to him, and stood on tiptoe to give him a fleeting kiss.

“Have a good day.”

Hawk looked surprised but quickly placed a hand on the back of her head.

“Pretty passionate for the morning.”

“Once in a while, right?”

“Always welcome.”

Hawk chuckled.

Fine sent him off with a smile as he left the bedroom.

‘I did it.

I sent him off with a smile.’

She wanted Hawk’s final memory of her to be a smiling one.

Proud of not crying, Fine whispered to herself, “Well done.”

Hawk, who proposed out of concern after her scandal, had treated her with utmost care despite his lover, Sherry.

If she hadn’t overheard about Sherry on their wedding day, she might never have suspected.

But days ago, Fine learned a shocking truth.

Overhearing Hawk and Carl, she discovered Sherry was pregnant and due soon.

Despite suggesting “no children for two years,” the news hit Fine like a blow.

Their good relationship had lulled her into thinking these peaceful days would last.

‘Once I’m gone, will Hawk-sama marry Sherry?’

A sharp pain pierced her chest.

Even if Sherry’s child, born out of wedlock to a commoner, carried Rosaider blood, Hawk would likely adopt it.

‘Tonight’s discussion must be about adopting the child.’

If Hawk brought it up, Fine wasn’t confident she could stay composed.

She’d probably cry pathetically.

“Sigh.

I love Hawk-sama more than I realized.”

Fine let out a deep sigh.