Chapter 370: The Widow’s Adjustment (1) Waking Up
Clarisse blinked as she slowly opened her eyes, the soft rustle of curtains drawing her attention. The first thing she noticed was the brightness—golden sunlight pouring in through the large windows, illuminating the lavish bedroom. She rubbed her eyes, still groggy from sleep, her mind struggling to process her surroundings. This wasn’t the inn. The bed beneath her was too soft, the sheets too fine, the room too grand.
Her heart skipped a beat, and she turned her head quickly to check. There, nestled beside her, was her baby, sleeping soundly. A sigh of relief escaped her lips. He was alright, unharmed, his tiny chest rising and falling with every breath. Clarisse smiled faintly, reaching over to brush her fingers gently across his cheek. He looked so peaceful. She couldn’t help but feel a surge of warmth at the sight of him.
Sitting up, Clarisse took in her surroundings. The room was massive, far bigger than any place she’d stayed in since leaving Lucan’s home. The bed she lay on was covered in plush, embroidered blankets, and thick velvet curtains framed the tall windows. She could see the intricate carvings on the walls and the opulent chandelier that hung from the ceiling, reflecting the morning light like a thousand tiny stars.
"This is... incredible," she murmured to herself, her eyes wide as she looked around. She had heard rumors about Lyan’s castle, but she hadn’t imagined anything like this. The inn she had lived in, despite being one of the better ones in Grafen, seemed almost like a peasant’s shack compared to this place. Even Hektor’s mansion seemed lacking compared to the grandeur that surrounded her now.
Her gaze drifted to the side of the room, where a soft knock drew her attention. The door creaked open, and a maid stepped inside—a young woman with neat braids and a gentle smile.
"Good morning, Lady Clarisse," the maid greeted her, bowing slightly. "I hope you slept well. Lord Lyan has instructed us to provide anything you need. I’ve brought some clothes for you."
Clarisse watched in mild amazement as the maid walked over to a grand wardrobe and opened it, revealing rows of elegant dresses and fine gowns. Each piece looked like it could belong to royalty, their fabrics shimmering in the morning light.
Clarisse blinked, momentarily speechless. "This... for me?" she asked, her voice laced with disbelief.
The maid smiled again, nodding. "Yes, my lady. Lord Lyan insisted that you are to be treated with the utmost care. Please choose whatever you like."