We’re in a Contract Marriage, But I’ve Imprinted - Chapter 104

Monica let out a sigh full of regret.

“Haa, right. After hearing your story, perhaps I was too sensitive. Our omega at home suddenly experienced bleeding once… It’s a tragic occurrence but something that could happen to anyone. I may have jumped to conclusions.”

“Um…”

Lilliana offered an indirect apology. Her pride wounded at having to apologize directly to a mere lady, especially considering her own status as the Marchioness.

Normally, Monica might have scoffed at Lilliana’s vague apology. But this time, Monica gracefully accepted it and changed the subject.

“The situation certainly seemed suspicious. Had I not read my grandfather’s diary, I might have misunderstood just like the Marchioness did.”

“….Your grandfather, as in the previous Count?”

“Yes. I know it’s wrong to touch into such personal belongings, but things have been hard. I missed my grandfather so much, I couldn’t resist opening it once I found it.”

“…..Understandable. But since it belongs to someone who’s passed away, forgiveness isn’t out of reach, right?”

“If so, I’d be deeply grateful.”

Monica calmly expressed her thanks before drinking her tea. Watching her taking a slow sip of her tea, Lilliana’s curiosity stirred.

“Why bring up that story all of a sudden?”

“Ah… I needed some time to gather my thoughts, sorry for making you wait.”

Lilliana speculated that Monica’s mention of the previous Count had something to do with the fact that he was an Alpha. Monica gazed intently at Lilliana with clear eyes shining.

“Marchioness, you know there’s something betas will never understand, right?”

“You’re talking about pheromones?”

“Yes, the only thing we briefly learn about alphas and omegas in etiquette classes is related to pheromones.”

“Right.”

“But what we learn from books barely scratches the surface. Pheromones have immense power, compelling alphas to be irresistibly drawn to omegas.”

The notion that alphas remain inseparably close and act more sensitively around their pregnant omegas, or the acceptance of omega concubines in families for the sole reason of bearing alpha offspring—concepts once taken for granted—seemed all the more clear with the mention of pheromones.

“And when I asked my brother, he mentioned that alphas emit pheromones to keep each other in check. Of course, it’s hearsay to him as well…”

Monica mused to herself, smirking inside at how easily Lilliana had taken the bait. She was openly wary of Melisa before and nearly ruined her family over it, so why confess now?

“So, if a pregnant omega were exposed to another alpha’s pheromones, it could lead to unfortunate incidents. This is something I read in my grandfather’s diary, so it carries some credibility, right? If you wish, I can show you that particular section. The rest are private matters of my grandfather, which I cannot share.”

“Oh my.”

Putting together Monica’s words meant the incident was ultimately caused by her husband. The thought of him scolding her without knowing it was his fault hurt her pride.

“….Ah, Monica. I should have trusted you.”

“Madam, I appreciate you believing in my innocence now. Whoo, it still feels unsettling. Had I not had my grandfather’s diary, I might have been equally alarmed and caused unnecessary misunderstandings.”

“I’m truly sorry for making such a mistake.”

Lilliana got up first to stand and approached Monica for a hug. Her sincere actions were met by Monica patting her back kindly.

“It’s okay, Lily. I’m sorry you had to go through this trouble.”

“No, Monica.”

Despite the warm words, Monica’s eyes were icy cold. The slightly lifted corners of her mouth betrayed her true feelings.

Naive Lilliana. I’m only sorry for using your magic ring and husband. But I trust you’d understand. You’ve had your alpha taken by an omega, haven’t you?

So, I hope you can understand me.

There was no diary left by the former Count in the first place. Even if it existed, it would be kept far from her reach. Therefore, she sought a forger who could mimic handwriting perfectly, to fabricate evidence of her innocence.

Ian, you won’t find any evidence this time, will you?

The hatred grew as much as the love had been, and it was natural for him to become the object of both love and hate.

* * *

“Thankfully, it seems the detoxification has been perfectly completed. And the fetus shows no unusual symptoms. You don’t need to worry anymore, Young Lord.”

After nearly a month of enduring the bitter detoxification concoction, the doctor’s words couldn’t have been more welcome. However, with Ian’s presence, still visibly concerned at my side, made it impossible for me to express my relief.

“Let’s do one final examination to be sure of the complete detoxification.”

“Yes, understood.”

Ian’s compulsive concern for my safety meant the doctor did another examination without a word.

He watched the doctor intently. He did not look away until the final confirmation that everything was indeed fine, then he dismissed the servants.

“…They said everything’s fine now.”

I spoke timidly to him. I want to tell him not only that there was no longer anything to worry about but I was also hoping the shackle could be removed.

If someone asked whether I disliked the situation, I’d likely answer ‘No’.

And that was precisely the problem. I was afraid of the reality of becoming accustomed to being restrained by him. The shackle felt like a bond connecting me to him, and there was a part of me that instinctively didn’t want to break free, even as my rational mind resisted.

When does this connection expire? After childbirth, or once the child becomes independent? What then? Does the contract simply expire? And if so, where does that leave me?