We’re in a Contract Marriage, But I’ve Imprinted - Chapter 200

Monica, who had always valued her pride and dignity as a noble, decided not to chase after Ian anymore. However, she couldn’t help but wish that he would regret letting her go, and that he would regret it deeply.

The suitors she had met all praised her. To those seeking a marriage of convenience, Monica’s beauty and background were incredibly appealing. The only reason they hadn’t approached her was because everyone had assumed that Ian and she were already a pair and had a future together.

Alex, who had a keen insight into the situation, made sure that Monica was only meeting with sons of wealthy families, lower-ranked noble houses, or those of equal status—rather than those from high-ranking houses.

As she began to regain some of her confidence, Ian appeared. Though he looked a little thinner than before, he was still as handsome as ever, and Monica couldn’t help but be drawn to him immediately.

“…What brings you here?”

She watched Ian with suspicion, but was unable to look away from his warm smile. It was a rare sight, and just the sight of it made her throat tighten.

Her heart pounded wildly, and all the efforts of meeting suitors seemed meaningless in comparison. She felt ridiculous for being so easily charmed by Ian’s simple smile, but she couldn’t help it when her long-held desires resurfaced.

“I was just curious about you.”

His voice was rough but somehow it didn’t diminish his charm but deepened it. Monica listened closely, her eyes widening.

“It’s been a while, hasn’t it? I’ve been thinking. I might have been a bit harsh on you.”

Monica found it difficult to fully trust his words, but she desperately wanted to. She found herself pushing aside the doubt that tried to rise within her.

“…No, you were in pain. It was me who lacked consideration, Ian.”

“Thank you for saying that. I guess we’ve been through a lot, haven’t we?”

“Well, how much time have we spent together?”

“So, about that. I’ve prepared something as an apology. Would you come with me?”

“Where to?”

“I thought I could take a short break. I’ve been working hard, and I think I’m really tired.”

“…What about Dia?”

“Hm, my father has agreed to look after him for a while. It wouldn’t be good to travel by carriage just yet.”

“I see…”

Monica put her hand down out of Ian’s view as she subtly pinched her thigh. Was this really happening? It was hard to believe.

But as she watched Ian smile at her, she found herself not caring whether it was real or not.

Perhaps the claim about him having imprinted had been intentionally spread. After all, there could have been some reason behind it, something she didn’t know.

“Where are we going?”

Ian, looking at her whose eyes were filled with curiosity and greed, thought to himself. The world is truly unfair.

The one who caused so much damage was living freely, while Melissa, the victim, was broken and suffering.

Monica’s annoying bright smile contrasted Melissa’s weathered, dry smile. Ian couldn’t help but smile back at her.

While repeating the plan to make everything fair

* * *

The Duchy’s magnificent carriage arrived at the Count Rosewood’s mansion. Monica couldn’t hide her excitement as she stood in front of the mansion. Beside her stood Alex, who was looking visibly irritated.

“Do you know the rumors? The ones about you and Ian meeting again? All the marriage proposals have stopped because of it.”

“I can’t help that. Who would dare challenge Duchy Bryant?”

“I just don’t get you. Don’t you see what kind of bastard Ian is?”

“Brother, as angry as you may be, calling Ian ‘bastard’ isn’t respectful, don’t you think? Are you trying to show disrespect to the Duke?”

“No matter how, I still don’t trust him, and you’re an idiot for following him on his travels.”

“You wouldn’t understand, Brother. Love is like that.”

“Well, I don’t think you love Ian.”

“What did you say?”

The two bickered as the Duchy’s carriage arrived, and Ian stepped down, dressed impeccably. Monica wasted no time and had the servants load the luggage.

“Did you wait long?”

“No! I just came out early.”

Monica quickly answered with a smile, not able to wipe it off her face. Ian’s gaze shifted to Alex, who was standing in front of the mansion.

“…It’s been a while, Duke.”

“Indeed. You look well, Alex.”

“Don’t pretend we’re close and call me by name.”

“Well, I don’t know what feelings you harbor for me, but I’d appreciate it if you didn’t spread rumors so much.”

Alex, who had been spreading malicious rumors about Ian behind his back, now had no choice but to remain silent. Despite being careful not to let his suspicions be discovered, he was shaken by Ian’s words but didn’t let it show.

Ian, looking down at Alex, smirked, lifting only one corner of his mouth.

“As expected. You’re more suited to politics or business than being a knight.”

“…What do you mean by that?”

“Do I really need to explain? It’s important for you to understand yourself better.”

“What do you—”

Before Alex could retort, Monica interjected and spoke to Ian.

“Let’s get going, Ian.”

“Of course, excuse me.”

With a sneer at Alex, Ian turned and escorted Monica into the carriage. He treated her with great care, knowing that she would help him gain a chance with his Omega.

Monica’s heart fluttered at his tender gestures, and she couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with emotion, thinking that Ian had finally understood her feelings.

But as she climbed into the carriage, she didn’t realize someone was already inside, and only noticed once the door was shut.

“Miss, Miss Monica, it’s been a long time.”

“Ah, you startled me!”

For a moment, she didn’t recognize the person who spoke. The head maid, whose appearance had changed so much, sat in the corner of the carriage, greeting her with a smile.