Chapter 536
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The caution of the lady solely proved to the man how the scars obtained were not to fade easily from her being, which appeared zealous a moment ago in unique conversations.
Clemente’s understanding of her inquires was instant as he well comprehended the livings she had endured... about the abduction she experienced by a sibling she should have been safe with, and although he had no detail about how the days she was missing were lived at his grasp... Clemente’s imagination was able to guess even if mistaken why a blindfold and an unknown place could make the Ninth anxious and unsettled by this task he was mandated to follow.
Their talk throughout the journey to this arranged meeting almost appeared like a lie once her demeanour turned lightly pale at the fabric on his hand. For the energy she demonstrated at times with intriguing sayings was also diminished with the caution presented before a seemingly meaningless item that to her was abhorred.
’Asking further about this would be unpleasant without a doubt.’ — He considered. Bothered by what it could be that she had gone through, that eventually, once found her family had been torn apart and fell into the current circumstances they faced.
"Then, if I have your agreement, may I?" — Clemente requested permission, placing aside the complex sensations curiosity provoked, extending the blindfold to help the cover of her eyes.
She nodded, slightly unconvinced in her expression, moving a tad to the side so he could come closer, wrap the cloth around her crown with careful movement and take her sight away as announced.
"Excuse me."
"Go ahead."
It was an odd offer for himself to provide. Touch was something that if Clemente was able, the young Duke of Noverrne would avoid at all costs... Nevertheless, Marianne’s figure appeared to be an exception he could accept, for she was the cleanest he had ever seen and so... Clemente could ignore his complex... noticing how as the blindfold accomplished its purpose, the little graze his finger covered by gloves felt of her strands felt as a pity... yet forgetting immediately the sensation as his eye caught a glimpse of the anxiety her hands showcased discreetly, grasping each other to cope with the sickening consciousness of being deprived of sight.
"... I will take your hand to lead your steps." — He said after a moment of consideration. Thoughtfully touching lightly her arm with a finger he now had impulsively uncovered from its glove, taking the hand she lifted appreciative of his aid.
"Thank you..." — Marianne said, this time with a smaller sound than before as confidence faded from her with one of her senses restricted.