Chapter 239: Shoe that fits
Emily continued to stroll through the town’s streets in the company of her mother. Despite the arrival of winter, it didn’t deter people from venturing out and going about their day. She glanced back behind her and noticed Westley following them at a good five-step distance.
"I must say, I find the clothing in this place to be far more comfortable than what we have in Versailles," Lady Sophia said, adjusting the ends of her sleeves before holding the shawl tightly.
"It is indeed warm and nice," Emily agreed. Since her mother had arrived in the Storm Kingdom, their family in Versailles had made no effort to contact them, as if they were already aware of her whereabouts.
"Where is Mr. Ardolf? It looks like he is running late," Lady Sophia inquired, looking around the street.
Emily discerned a noticeable trace of wariness in her mother’s eyes, likely a result of what had transpired during her mother’s first visit to this place. No matter how prideful and confident her mother appeared, she could tell that she was worried about the possibility of someone pointing a finger at her.
"Or perhaps we simply completed our errand sooner than we expected," Emily replied, her gaze shifting to the town’s tower clock. "Mother, may I ask you something?"
Lady Sophia turned to her daughter and inquired, "Hm? What is it?"
"How do you find Mr. Ardolf?" Emily was more than curious about her mother’s willingness to let a man of his status interact with her.
"His manners and personality are quite pleasant, and he’s a good-looking man," Lady Sophia replied diplomatically. After a moment’s pause, she continued, "After what I’ve been through, I have decided to rethink some things. Before I married your father, Lily, I looked for a man of status and wealth. Someone with perceived power, with position. Of course, I want all of those things for you as well. You are my daughter. I didn’t raise you to have a difficult life. However, I am willing to... overlook certain aspects if you have made your choice."
"Made my choice?" Emily questioned, observing her mother give a short nod.
"Yes," Lady Sophia affirmed. She cast a glance at the overcast sky as they continued to walk down the street. "I’ve heard that you have only danced with a handful of suitors, and the majority of those dances were with Mr. Ardolf. He’s the only one who has been visiting you, so it’s understandable that you have already made your decision. He’s also openly expressed his intention of marrying you. Furthermore, the two of you have been spending time together—exclusively with each other and no one else."