Chapter 11 - -11 : Deep water
The annex, which had large windows attached in all directions, provided a panoramic view of the forest and the river. It was also a place where the wind could freely flow in and out.
The weather today was hotter than ever, so it was hard to feel any chills.
But Leyla felt shivers go down her spine. She was determined to quickly eat and leave, but the food in front of her didn't seem to reduce in amount.
Leyla didn't think she could swallow anything. She already had lunch and even ate a snack. And to count it off, she ran an errand under the sultry heat so she had lost her appetite. Matthias concentrated on his work with his head tilted, but Leyla still found it hard to breathe properly.
Is this like a punishment for my poor errand and flower arrangement?
Leyla pondered as she swallowed another bite of the sandwich. If so, Duke Herhardt had accomplished his goal. Leyla felt like she was being punished.
Leyla hurriedly drank the lemonade to beat the urge to spit out her sandwich. After she wiped the water droplets off her hands with her apron, she picked up the sandwich again. Leyla then lowered the hem of her hat to cover her face that filled with dread. It was at that moment when a long finger suddenly touched the tip of her chin.
"If you're a lady, Leyla."
His hand untied the ribbon knot that was tied under her chin.
"You're supposed to take off this hat when you're inside."
Before Leyla could even reply, Matthias took off her straw hat. Surprised, Leyla reflexively leaped from the sofa. The sandwich fell because of her sudden movement and rolled over the floor. The corner of Matthias's eyes slanted, but Leyla's attention was only focused on her hat.