The Sub Male Lead is Burning with Jealousy - Chapter 1 Part 9
Sion felt it, but he had no intention of telling Rahil. Given Rahil’s nature, he might waver on the marriage with Lady Ruol. Rahil was the type to first deny his feelings, you see.
He would dig his own grave, make every possible mistake, and once Lady Ruol was taken by another man, he’d regret it with tears of blood.
‘It’s better to finalize the marriage while he’s unaware of his feelings!’
This was not only Sion’s conclusion but that of all the aides. Hence, they hinted subtly and none dared confront Rahil with the truth.
Though the beginning might be botched, perhaps once they’re married, things will get better. After all, it’s easier to accept advances from a husband than a stranger.
Of course, this would only be the case if Rahil slowly dug his own grave.
“If you plan to make her the empress, it’s best to avoid drastic measures.”
“I know that. Do you think I’d be harsh with a woman?”
Is forcing a marriage through threats not harsh?
No matter how he framed it or used more subtle methods, Rahil’s approach was still that. It was a tactic he could employ given he wanted her and was unaware of his interest in her.
But stating that wouldn’t sway the Emperor.
“Your Majesty is, of course, a gentleman. But the one on the receiving end might not feel the same. It’s not easy to discern Your Majesty’s deep intentions.”
Sion explained in his usual calm tone. The aides, from behind, clenched their fists in an ‘As expected of Sion!’ sentiment. Sion proved competent again today.
* * *
Anais was suspicious. Her father, who had visited the royal palace, said little. He simply told her they discussed military matters and asked her not to inquire further.
‘Is everything… alright?’
Even after expressing her strong disapproval, if he still brought up marriage, he must be out of his mind. Even in a strategic marriage, it’s natural to do it with someone of mutual consent. Nobody would willingly bring an enemy into their home.
‘Or maybe he’s after my father or brother?’
It was clear that the Marquis of Ruol was one of the most renowned generals in the empire. Yet, even now, he operated under the emperor’s orders. There was no need to take his daughter as collateral.
Her brother, though outstanding, followed in their father’s footsteps, so there was no need to doubt his loyalty.
‘There may be a reason before a power struggle, but now there’s none. Marriage is the easiest way to form an alliance.’
If it’s a marriage solely for benefits and not for love, there would be countless options better than Anais. Of course, the choices narrow down significantly if it’s a marriage intended for the safety of Angelica Calix.
‘What a foolish man.’
She knew that emotions weren’t something that could be easily dismissed. But it was naive to go to such lengths for someone already married. There was no need to criticize it separately.
“I won’t get entangled in that.”
If he wanted to act foolish, he could do it alone. She wouldn’t join the clownish dance. This was Anais’s firm resolve.
“Miss.”
The maid Mary approached with a slightly tense expression. The door was open, so there was no need to seek permission to enter.
“This arrived from the royal palace…”
The envelope she held out was ornate with gold embossing. Upon seeing the graceful handwriting on it, Anais’s face hardened.
Why? What business does he have contacting me?
Anais, revealing her evident displeasure, opened the envelope. Inside was a fairly long, detailed letter.
He probably didn’t even write this himself.
Reading to the end with certainty, Anais trembled. Her father had entered the palace yesterday and left early this morning. And now, this letter arrived…
“Mary, prepare for me to go out. I need to leave.”
“What? Where will you go?”
“To the royal palace.”
If her intuition was right, the emperor would be leisurely waiting for her visit to the royal palace after sending such a letter. She’d love to make him wait for a long time, but the longer she delayed, the more disadvantageous the situation became for Anais.
And if he actually started taking the actions mentioned in the letter, it would become irreversible.
“I’ll prepare right away!”
Watching Mary hurry off, Anais glanced over the letter again. Truly, Rahil was a man she wanted to kick.
* * *
Entering the royal palace was a process that involved a tedious protocol. Without an invitation from the royal family, ordinary nobles often had to wait for a month or even two.
Yet, without any particular notice, Anais was able to smoothly pass through the main gate towards the palace. Moreover? The royal servants guided her to the main palace with extreme caution and respect.
‘I really want to hit him!’
A man who shamelessly says he wants to marry me for another woman. She felt like grinding him slowly with a millstone wouldn’t be enough.
Unable to maintain her composure, Anais’ visit was met with a playful lift of Rahil’s eyebrows. He seemed to enjoy her visibly flustered expression.
“I am honored to meet Your Majesty, the Sun of the Empire.”
“Ah… isn’t this Lady Ruol, who greatly yearns for me? Come, sit here.”
“I told you it’s not ‘yearning’.”
The Emperor was already seated, and beside him stood Sion, his assistant and secretary. Sion bowed to Anais and stepped back, standing behind in a position that even some servants took, despite his noble title of a Count.
‘It would’ve been great if Sion had taken a liking to me.’
He was known to frequently change his romantic partners, earning the reputation of a playboy. However, he never caused trouble with any of the women he dated. He never two-timed, and the women he broke up with often said they’d be willing to date him again.
Amongst the noble ladies, there was a saying: “If you’re going to date a playboy, date Sion.” It was evident how these women viewed him.
