If You're Being Held Hostage, Wiggle the Carrot! - Chapter 34
Meanwhile, Ivan quickly rose from his seat as soon as it was time for lunch.
“I should get up first.”
“Yes, my Lord.”
Leaving the aides behind, he exited the office and met Ruby as she was about to ascend the stairs.
“I was just about to go look for you.”
“Me too.”
“…So you did.”
There was definitely something about her aura that kept him from feeling stern. It was a relief, but he felt a bit empty without her by his side. At least we’ll still have lunch and tea together.
“Let’s head down to the dining hall today.”
He couldn’t keep eating in his room. If he was going to help her in earnest, he might as well introduce himself to the others.
“Yes, of course.”
Ruby nodded sagely, her expression inscrutable. She was indeed an intriguing woman. It wasn’t just because of her rare psychic abilities; the stark contrast in her demeanor when speaking and when silent was strikingly remarkable.
“Liam gave you a good introduction of the estate, I hope.”
“My Lord, Miss Ruby is undeniably a wise person.”
He directed the question at Ruby, but surprisingly, Liam responded.
“Is that…so?”
“Yes!”
Liam was quite fastidious. Whether it was due to his meticulous nature that got him the position of a steward or he was meticulous because he was a steward, it was evident that he wasn’t someone who easily praised others.
Nevertheless, it might be worthwhile to know what makes her so wise.
He attempted a subtle gesture, yet Liam confidently led the way to the dining hall without paying heed. Ivan’s curiosity was piqued, but he decided to inquire more during the meal.
As Ivan and Ruby entered the dining hall, the staff, who had been preparing the meal, abruptly stopped in their tracks. They turned their heads, blatantly staring at Ruby, prompting Ivan to click his tongue softly. It seemed like he needed to remind them of their manners.
“What are you all doing?”
Startled by Ivan’s stern tone, the maids swiftly resumed their tasks. Meanwhile, Liam went into the kitchen, giving instructions.
Before Ivan took his seat, he pulled out the chair to the right of his designated spot.
“Please, sit here.”
Ruby silently observed Ivan, who always pulled out the chair for her. It always amazed her how effortlessly he acted, as if the manners were second nature to him. It was something she didn’t often see in her own clan.
After she took her seat and Ivan promptly sat down, he wasted no time in asking, “How much have you explored?”
“I’ve visited the main residence, the gardens, and the grounds at the back before coming here.”
“Since you’re staying, you’d better look around. You might get lost later.”
“Well, then I’ll just ask anyone if I get lost.”
“But there are many remote areas even the staff doesn’t frequent. It’s better to familiarize yourself with the paths.”
“Don’t worry about it.”
“Why not?” Ivan inwardly clicked his tongue at Ruby’s disregard for his advice. She’s quite stubborn.
But Ivan’s expression stiffened at her following words.
“Because the more remote the place, the more people I have to ask for help.”
The flick of her bunny ears and her fleeting glance made Ivan’s heart pounding. He couldn’t tell if it was out of fear or if he found her slightly cute.
“…More people?”
“Oh, loads.”
“Did you explore the mansion?”
“Of course, I toured the mansion. Also took a look at how many spirits reside here.”
Ruby willingly followed Liam for a reason. One was to feel more active, and the other was to satisfy her curiosity about the number of spirits present in this place.
