Chapter 143

 

Marsha remained silent for a moment.

 

There were many stories she held inside, but whether she could convey them to Leroy was another matter entirely.

 

Most of Marsha’s resentment toward Hayden stemmed from the persecution Iona had suffered.

 

Talking about what kind of person Hayden was meant inevitably talking about how Iona had lived.

 

And naturally, Marsha had no intention of revealing someone’s past without their permission.

 

“It won’t be much different from what you’ve seen and felt, Your Grace.”

 

Marsha answered in a roundabout way.

 

Leroy stared intently at her and asked.

 

“The former count I know is trash who locked up his own daughter. Is that accurate?”

 

Marsha flinched at his blunt statement.

 

How did he find out that Iona was Hayden’s biological daughter?

 

Had Yvonne revealed the secret during the commotion last night?

 

Marsha felt she was starting to understand why Leroy was so angry.

 

She, too, felt her blood boil whenever she saw how the people of the Modrov family treated Iona.

 

“...Did Lady Yvonne say that?”

 

“I both heard it and experienced it firsthand.”

 

Leroy responded cynically.

 

In fact, he had once been locked up with Iona by Hayden for several days.

 

He couldn’t understand why they wanted to take Iona away despite offering money back then, but now he felt he was starting to get it.

 

Their goal had always been to reclaim Iona from the start.

 

The hostage situation with Leroy was merely a ploy to deceive him and his family; they never intended to actually receive the ransom.

 

‘No wonder they dragged out the negotiations unnecessarily.’

 

Even so, Leroy had never thought the kidnapping was a crime specifically targeting Iona until now.

 

After all, when they first met, Iona was just a little girl who didn’t even know how to write her own name.

 

At that time, she was rummaging through the trash because she couldn’t endure her hunger, and her appearance was a mess.

 

Her body was so thin you could see her bones, her hair was unkempt, her clothes were torn in places, and she was covered in various scratches.

 

No one would have thought she had a proper guardian.

 

In reality, she seemed unaware of who her parents even were.

 

‘They must have kept it a secret from her to completely hide the existence of the illegitimate child.’

 

Feeling a heat at the back of his head, Leroy clenched his teeth quietly.

 

Iona had asked him not to imagine her past life without permission, but Leroy couldn’t stop the scenes from replaying in his mind every time he thought about that time. It was irresistible.

 

Thinking of the girl who had been confined for so long without understanding why, Leroy slowly clenched his fist.

 

Veins stood out starkly on his pale knuckles.

 

He felt an impulse to strangle Hayden, but that was impossible.

 

The man was already a cold corpse buried beneath the earth.

 

“So, is that why her siblings treated Lady Iona like they wanted to kill her? Blaming her for ruining their family?”

 

“That is...”

 

“I knew about the sibling discord before I got close to her. It was notorious enough to reach my ears soon after I arrived in the capital. The incident where Nils broke his half-sister’s leg.”

 

Marsha realized there was no point in denying it any longer.

 

Leroy already knew so much, and this conversation was merely a confirmation.

 

Marsha swallowed a sigh and responded.

 

“...There are even more stories that didn’t become rumors.”

 

“Did the Modrov family abuse her?”

 

“Except for the late Countess, yes. The late Countess treated her as if she didn’t exist.”

 

“The former Count didn’t protect her from them, I suppose.”

 

“He always sided with Nils and Lady Yvonne, no matter what.”

 

Marsha spoke with a voice heavy with emotion.

 

Leroy fell silent, lost in thought.

 

After a moment, he began tapping rhythmically on the armrest, then suddenly spoke up.

 

“Should I let that trash’s children live and return to their territory?”

 

It was a chilling question, starkly contrasting with his monotone voice.

 

Marsha’s eyes widened momentarily.

 

She calmed her startled heart and tried to maintain her usual demeanor as she replied.

 

“The Countess plans to quietly deal with them after the situation calms down.”

 

“So, she means to keep them alive a little longer.”

 

“...”

 

“I don’t want to.”

 

Leroy added with regret.

 

Marsha now understood the real reason he had sought her out for this conversation.

 

Marsha was one of the few people Iona trusted.

 

If there was anyone in this mansion who Leroy could enlist to help with his plans for Iona, it would be Marsha.

 

Leroy looked at her as if silently urging her.

 

His eyes were filled with many emotions, but the most prominent was anger.

 

Beneath his well-groomed, noble facade lay a fierce and deadly intent.

 

Marsha swallowed dryly.

 

“Do you have an order for me?”

 

The words of agreement came without much thought.

 

Just as Leroy was furious upon learning Iona’s circumstances, Marsha had long harbored deep resentment towards Nils and Yvonne.

 

***

 

Iona waking up in the afternoon was a rare occurrence.

 

When she finally opened her eyes close to lunchtime, she immediately noticed Leroy sitting beside her bed.

 

He was reading a book, seemingly heeding her dawn request not to leave.

 

Noticing Iona was awake, Leroy, who had been playing with her hair, looked up and smiled warmly.

 

Seeing she was awake, Leroy said he would leave, and Iona, feeling embarrassed, told him he could go.

 

She felt quite self-conscious for having made a busy guest stay just to watch her sleep.

 

After having a brief lunch with Leroy, which they had postponed, she saw him off.

 

With her guest gone, Iona wanted nothing more than to return to bed and rest. Despite having slept deeply, she still felt unwell. Unfortunately, she had matters to attend to.

 

Heading to her office, Iona pushed aside the pile of documents on her desk and called someone in.

 

It was the maid who had nearly suffered at Yvonne’s hands the previous day.

 

“Countess, I heard you called for me.”

 

Reni walked in with a tense expression.

 

Noticing Iona’s discomfort as she constantly shifted in her seat, she finally stood up to greet her.

 

“Yes, are you feeling better?”

 

“Thanks to your concern, yes. I was quite scared, but I’m fine now.”

 

Reni answered sincerely.

 

Her injuries didn’t seem severe, as she had no bandages on her exposed wounds.

 

Iona, who had been staring at the red marks on Reni’s neck, soon looked away and spoke with a troubled expression.

 

“Yvonne lost control and did something unforgivable. I apologize on her behalf.”

 

“C-Countess, please don’t say that. You have nothing to apologize for.”

 

Reni waved her hands in shock.

 

Receiving an apology from Iona for such an incident seemed overwhelmingly gracious.

 

Iona shook her head firmly.

 

“No, this incident has made me realize my responsibility as the head of the family. I’ve tolerated Yvonne’s behavior because I considered her family... but I can’t overlook it any longer.”

 

‘Family,’ she thought.

 

Hearing Hayden’s old habit of speech coming from her own mouth still felt like nonsense.

 

Iona had to try hard to maintain a serious expression.

 

“I’ve decided to report this incident to the Imperial Court and expel Nils and Yvonne from the capital as soon as possible. It feels awkward to ask this of you, the victim... but when the investigation begins, can you testify about what happened yesterday?”

 

“Of course, Countess!”

 

Before Iona could finish speaking, Reni answered with a clenched fist.

 

Even though she was about to testify against nobles, there wasn’t a hint of hesitation in her.

 

Surprised by her resolute response, Iona paused briefly before speaking again.

 

“...I’m glad to see your spirit.”

 

“That’s my strength!”

 

“Yes... When the investigators arrive, just tell them the truth about how Yvonne overpowered you, took the knife, and threatened you. As for the things Yvonne said... it’s best to avoid mentioning them.”

 

Iona added the real request at the end, calming the overly enthusiastic maid.

--- End Of The Chapter ----

 

[ TN: Join Patreon to support the translation and to read 5 chapters ahead of the releasehttps://www.patreon.com/YourNoona

 

Join Our Discord for regular updates, and have fun with other community members: https://discord.com/invite/SqWtJpPtm9 ]

Support Us on Patreon

Join Patreon to support the translation and to read 5 chapters ahead of the release.

Join Now

Join Our Discord

Be part of our amazing community!

Join Now

Comments

Cover
Chapter 1
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 2
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 3
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 4
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 5
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 6
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 7
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 8
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 9
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 10
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 11
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 12
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 13
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 14
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 15
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 16
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 17
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 18
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 19
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 20
2 years ago
Cover
Chapter 21
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 22
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 23
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 24
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 25
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 26
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 27
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 28
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 29
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 30
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 31
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 32
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 33
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 34
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 35
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 36
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 37
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 38
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 39
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 40
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 41
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 42
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 43
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 44
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 45
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 46
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 47
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 48
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 49
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 50
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 51
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 52
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 53
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 54
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 55
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 56
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 57
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 58
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 59
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 60
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 61
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 62
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 63
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 64
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 65
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 66
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 67
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 68
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 69
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 70
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 71
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 72
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 73
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 74
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 75
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 76
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 77
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 78
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 79
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 80
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 81
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 82
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 83
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 84
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 85
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 86
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 87
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 88
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 89
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 90
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 91
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 92
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 93
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 94
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 95
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 96
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 97
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 98
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 99
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 100
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 101
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 102
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 103
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 104
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 105
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 106
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 107
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 108
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 109
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 110
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 111
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 112
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 113
1 year ago
Cover
Chapter 114
11 months ago
Cover
Chapter 115
11 months ago
Cover
Chapter 116
11 months ago
Cover
Chapter 117
11 months ago
Cover
Chapter 118
11 months ago
Cover
Chapter 119
11 months ago
Cover
Chapter 120
11 months ago
Cover
Chapter 121
11 months ago
Cover
Chapter 122
11 months ago
Cover
Chapter 123
10 months ago
Cover
Chapter 124
10 months ago
Cover
Chapter 125
10 months ago
Cover
Chapter 126
10 months ago
Cover
Chapter 127
10 months ago
Cover
Chapter 128
10 months ago
Cover
Chapter 129
9 months ago
Cover
Chapter 130
9 months ago
Cover
Chapter 131
9 months ago
Cover
Chapter 132
9 months ago
Cover
Chapter 133
9 months ago
Cover
Chapter 134
9 months ago
Cover
Chapter 135
9 months ago
Cover
Chapter 136
8 months ago
Cover
Chapter 137
8 months ago
Cover
Chapter 138
8 months ago
Cover
Chapter 139
8 months ago
Cover
Chapter 140
8 months ago
Cover
Chapter 141
8 months ago
Cover
Chapter 142
8 months ago
Cover
Chapter 143
8 months ago
Cover
Chapter 144
8 months ago
Cover
Chapter 145
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 146
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 147
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 148
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 149
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 150
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 151
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 152
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 153
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 154
7 months ago
Cover
Chapter 155
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 156
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 157
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 158
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 159
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 160
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 161
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 162
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 163
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 164
6 months ago
Cover
Chapter 165
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 166
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 167
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 168
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 169
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 170
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 171
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 172
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 173
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 174
5 months ago
Cover
Chapter 175
4 months ago
Cover
Chapter 177
4 months ago
Cover
Chapter 178
4 months ago
Cover
Chapter 178
4 months ago
Cover
Chapter 179
4 months ago
Cover
Chapter 180
4 months ago
Cover
Chapter 181
4 months ago
Cover
Chapter 182
4 months ago
Cover
Chapter 183
3 months ago
Cover
Chapter 184
3 months ago
Cover
Chapter 185
3 months ago
Cover
Chapter 186
3 months ago
Cover
Chapter 187
3 months ago
Cover
Chapter 188
3 months ago
Cover
Chapter 189
3 months ago
Cover
Chapter 190
3 months ago
Cover
Chapter 191
3 months ago
Cover
Chapter 192
2 months ago
Cover
Chapter 193
2 months ago
Cover
Chapter 194
2 months ago
Cover
Chapter 195
2 months ago
Cover
Chapter 196
2 months ago
Cover
Chapter 197
2 months ago
Cover
Chapter 198
2 months ago
Cover
Chapter 199
1 month ago
Cover
Chapter 200
1 month ago
Cover
Chapter 201
1 month ago
Cover
Chapter 202
1 month ago
Cover
Chapter 203
1 month ago
Cover
Chapter 204
1 month ago
Cover
Chapter 205
1 month ago
Cover
Chapter 206
1 month ago
Cover
Chapter 207
4 weeks ago
Cover
Chapter 208
3 weeks ago
Cover
Chapter 209
3 weeks ago
Cover
Chapter 210
2 weeks ago
Cover
Chapter 211
2 weeks ago
Cover
Chapter 212
1 week ago
Cover
Chapter 213
1 week ago
Cover
Chapter 214
5 days ago

Typography

Theme

Default
Night
Onyx
Dusk
Sepia
Silver
Frost

Font

Line Height

1.5

Font Size

16

Paragraph Margin

0

Alignment

Text Indent