I Became the Black Swan Mother of the White Swan Princess - Chapter 199

“Who would have thought that being talkative would be so helpful?”

Seeing how they described the noisy sound as ‘chirping,’ despite the obvious ear-splitting noise, it seemed that the bond of blood was an undeniable trait.

Suddenly, Catherine thought about the time when Rashid had leaped into the lake to rescue Haniel when they first met…

‘Never mind. I shouldn’t paint him in a rosy light.’

Rashid was the one who had no reason behind his instinct and primal nature. He couldn’t possibly drop a bombshell and disappear for just a day or two. As soon as that thought crossed her mind, she quickly averted her gaze, trying to suppress the rising sense of nausea. They embraced each other, trembled all over their bodies, and swallowed their sobs. It was a rare and dreamlike time spent with family-like companions at the lake.

“To be honest, I had only heard stories about Lake Perdium’s beauty being part of the late Duke’s estate and a royal retreat but I never imagined I would have the chance to come here.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes. I wonder if it’s appropriate to pay respects if the princess finds out…”

The Countess, who was caressing her niece, belatedly glanced at Catherine with a worried expression. No matter how well she took on the role of the late Duke’s representative, it was Princess Lania who had ruled the North for years. She was ruthless when it came to those who couldn’t help her, so it was inevitable that she would worry about the aftermath.

“Come to think of it, Lady Rebecca isn’t here either.”

“The second daughter, right?” She’s not the type to do that. She used to roam the entire city, focusing her energy on shopping for clothes and bullying others. The only other thing she did was secretly monitor her every night. Come to think of it. It had been a few days since she had seen her do that too. Of course, Catherine had a good idea of what she was up to.

“My nephew told me that she hadn’t been seen at the wardrobe or jewelry shops either. She was excited, saying that as soon as Lord Everton returns, he will hold an engagement ceremony.”

“That’s right. But considering the false accusations she made to the Duchess, she should naturally confine herself.”

“…”

It wouldn’t just be confinement. Pretending not to hear them, Catherine managed to pass the time. The old ladies, too, seemed preoccupied with taking care of the affectionate animals that they lost track of time. But no matter how much she wanted to give them ample time, the hour of sunset was approaching, and there was nothing she could do about it. Countess Venia reluctantly released her youngest son from her embrace.

“Thanks to the Countess, I’ve spent such a peaceful time, I can’t believe how time has flown.”

“In the future, please feel free to visit without hesitation. If you give me a heads-up, I can arrange it anytime.”

Why was Catherine struggling to reclaim the position of the late Duke’s representative? If she couldn’t freely see the family she wanted, no grand declaration would hold any significant meaning. That’s why, as the acting Duchess, she was the first to compile a list of the lake residents. There were many cases where they had no family at all, but whether they were relatives by blood or loved ones who left a lasting impression on their hearts, she wanted to help them meet in any way possible. Today would be the beginning. Lania was not the type to sit still, so she had to gradually assert her rights. Only then could she——-

[Madam, what are you doing here now?]

“Selene.”

As soon as the ladies disappeared with regretful expressions, Selene tugged at her toe. Her inflated chest was almost laughable, but today, she had to give her praise. If it wasn’t for Celene, it would have been impossible to search the entire lake so quickly.

[Madam, you must give me the dried filefish you promised. Did you know?」

“What two jobs are you running? I know you go to work at the Winter Palace and get everything.]

At this point, there was no reward left to receive from Rashid, so she stuck her tongue out at the plump, tightly-ribboned neck of the duckling.

“Isn’t that heavy for you? You might break your neck. What on earth did you do with His Majesty———”

“Ahh, shall I tell you? Well, His Majesty leans by the window every day…”

“Don’t.”

She didn’t want to hear it. Catherine promised not to listen. She covered her ears and shook her head. Her head was already filled with thoughts of that man, and it was getting more and more difficult. Now was the time to consider someone else’s thoughts rather than his.

“Selene, who was the one who complained that I didn’t confirm her identity until the end?”

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