My Contract Husband is Going Crazy Because of My Iron Wall - Chapter 53.1
Chapter 53.1
“Reinhardt.”
“Yes, wife.”
Just two extra words at the end, yet why did it feel so strangely ticklish? He was letting it slide because I was leaving soon; otherwise, he definitely would have stopped me.
“Let’s go back to the North. I promised the squishies I’d see them again. Will you come with me?”
“There’s no need to ask. If you wish to go, then of course, I will gladly accompany you. Arthur has been pestering me about when we’re returning.”
“We have stayed in the South too long.”
Because of me, he’d been caught up in various incidents and hadn’t been able to look after the North for a long time.
‘I need to send him back soon.’
‘After visiting the squishies in the North, I’ll return to the South alone.’
That was my plan—to stay away from him until the contract ended. Once Lucia appeared, the Emperor’s attention would shift, and I could finally divorce Reinhardt.
‘In the meantime, I’ll do my best to forget him.’
“Reinhardt, considering our contract revolves around painting my portrait, haven’t you been neglecting it? Wouldn’t a single new painting be far more effective than mass-producing copies?”
I asked, wanting to settle everything I could before leaving.
Reinhardt’s expression seemed strangely hesitant.
“How was it during the last battle with the Tartars? Did my painting help at all?”
“Ah… yes. It did help.”
‘Hmm? Why is he avoiding my gaze while answering? His tone has been odd since earlier…’
“If it was effective, shouldn’t we create more paintings before our contract ends?”
“….”
He met my gaze again, his expression hardening.
‘Now, what’s it this time? I can’t understand him at all.’
“Reinhardt, if you have any complaints, tell me.”
When I spoke directly, Reinhardt hesitated for a moment before revealing his true feelings.
“Irovel… No, wife, you always seem preoccupied with thoughts of leaving. Do you dislike our marriage that much?”
“It’s not that I dislike it. It’s just that I know I’ll eventually leave, so I want to fulfill the contract before then.”
“Can’t you… not think about it?”
Reinhardt asked, his voice laced with suppressed frustration.
‘This is the first time I’ve seen him like this. Does he hate the thought of me leaving so much?’
“Are you upset that I keep thinking about leaving you?”
“Yes.”
Reinhardt narrowed his eyes, answering immediately, then quickly added,
“I… I thought you at least saw me as someone you’re comfortable with. However, you constantly dwell on your future after our divorce, as if you’re just waiting for that moment.”
“Hmm… I see. I’m sorry for upsetting you. I’m not particularly waiting for our divorce, so please don’t misunderstand. I won’t bring up my post-divorce plans in front of you anymore.”
“Can’t you… not think about it at all?”
‘That’s difficult. The day I leave Reinhardt isn’t far off, so I need to make plans…’
“I’ll try.”
“…Ha.”
His sigh indicated my answer wasn’t satisfactory. However, since I hadn’t completely rejected his request and had promised to try, he couldn’t really complain.
He just continued to sigh deeply.
* * *
Camilla returned to the Count’s estate with Count Vrellod. After seeing them off, I was assisting Reinhardt with his work in his study when I spotted Jade pacing outside the window.
‘What are you doing?’
I mouthed. Jade, with an excited expression, held up a newspaper.
‘Oh? That’s me.’
Even from afar, I could see my photo in the newspaper. Although it was in black and white, judging from the courtroom background and my undeniable beauty, it was definitely me from a few days ago.
“Jade, come in!”
I opened the window and called out.
As Jade quickly entered and placed the newspaper down, the three of us sat around it and began to read the article.
“Grand Duchess Irovel Erestein brilliantly dominated the courtroom. The audience was not only impressed by her wit but also captivated by her beauty!”
Even though I was reading it myself, Jade insisted on reading it aloud.
‘Honestly, Jade. Why do such unnecessary things? It makes it hard to stop my lips from curling up…’
“Do you know? After this article, the invitations for the Grand Duchess have more than doubled compared to the last time!”
Jade spoke excitedly, but it wasn’t good news for me. It meant I’d have to write countless rejection letters, explaining that I couldn’t attend because I was going to the North!
“This is a problem…”
“Indeed, a problem…”
Reinhardt and I muttered simultaneously.
‘Huh? What’s the problem for Reinhardt?’
“What’s wrong, Reinhardt?”
“Among those who sent invitations, there must be some insane individuals trying to steal another man’s wife.”
‘I doubt that…’
Most of the people who attended my fan signings or concerts liked me as a fan, not as a potential marriage partner. I figured those who sent me invitations probably felt the same, considering they didn’t know me personally either.
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