Chapter 100

Liv, who had accepted the pouch without much thought, froze. Adolf arched an eyebrow and spoke in a serious voice.

“Well, I never thought this would happen. It was obviously my fault for laughing off your question the other day, Ms. Rhodes. I apologize. I’ve put in as much as I can get for now, so when you run out of it, feel free to ask for more. These are the most harmless ones in circulation. Should you require any additional assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask.”

Liv looked down at the pouch in her hand with an unusual expression.

That’s right, I should take it.

Birth control pills weren’t actually commercially available. However, she heard that they were in high demand and came in many varieties. From the cheap ones used by prostitutes in brothels to the expensive ones used by the nobles’ paramours.

These were likely… the latter.

“Dr. Gertrude will now check your health every month. It’s a simple procedure, so don’t feel pressured.”

It was fitting to call it a favor. If what happened today was a start, she might have more of this sort of time with the Marquis in the future.

However, it was clear that he had no intention to get a child from her, and even if she became pregnant, she would have to have an abortion. Therefore, it was a hundred times better to prevent it.

Liv understood it all in her head, but it made her down for some reason.

In fact, she had felt that way since she had washed herself; when she saw the marks he had ruthlessly left on her body. She felt strange when she recalled him leaving first once it ended, like the extra work session.

Despite the fact that it was her who provoked him in the first place.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Adolf, who knew everything about the situation, would provide her with birth control pills, but still, it sent a chill down her spine.

She felt like a whore, fresh from the bath, accepting the birth control pill from the Marquis’ subordinate.

… It’s hard to argue with that.

“Thank you for your thoughtfulness.”

Liv lowered her gaze, trying to hide the bitterness that flooded one side of her chest. Adolf told her to rest comfortably and to call him if she wanted to go back, then turned away.

The door closed, and she was left alone again. However, she had no desire to stay in the chilly room for long.

She crudely tied up her less dry hair and left the mansion.

***

Liv was concerned about Brad, but the warning from the Marquis echoed in her ears, making her afraid to visit his studio. Cowardly, indeed.

Camille, who had said something vague to Liv, now frequented the Barony from time to time, regardless of class, and often ran into Liv when she came to teach Millian. On each occasion, he would greet her in a friendly manner, and she would smile faintly and keep her distance from him.

Coryda’s treatment also had started. In place of the suspended painting work, Liv began to make regular visits to Verworth Manor for Coryda’s treatment. Coryda was nervous about starting her treatment, but as time went on, she gradually loosened her guard.

Furthermore, Coryda was allowed to enter the study at Verworth Manor. It was a favor from the Marquis.

Liv, who had been inwardly concerned about Coryda’s education, was grateful for the favor. In addition, Adolf, who had gotten close to Coryda, helped her by spending time with her in the study. It was barely enough for a lesson, but it was enough for them to talk about books that Coryda was interested in.

Seeing that, Liv joined in, hoping to teach what she knew, but for some reason, Coryda seemed to prefer to be alone with Adolf. Eventually, Liv, who noticed it, had to move out of the way, half-heartedly.

Today was no different. Coryda, who was talking about a topic Liv didn’t know much about, pushed Liv’s back, telling her to do her business if she got bored.

What was there for Liv to do at the Verworth manor?

Inwardly, she felt sad, but she couldn’t complain because she knew how much this time would mean to Coryda, who had always been home alone.

“Looks like you got kicked out again today.”

Liv, who had been standing staring at the study door with a sour look on her face, turned around. It was Philip, pushing a mobile tray. He always brought snacks to Coryda himself when she stayed in the study. Even though Liv had stopped him, telling him it was okay, he only laughed heartily, but he had no intention of stopping.

Moreover, the ingredients of the snacks that Philip brought were carefully selected based on Thierry’s advice. It felt embarrassing to say no to such a thoughtful gesture.

“Since you’re already kicked out, could you please wait a minute?”

He hurried into the study after telling that to Liv. She could hear a noise from inside, but it wasn’t long before Philip exited the study. He came out empty handed, apparently having left the tray in the study.

“This way, please.”

Philip gave Liv a smile and led her away. Liv couldn’t tell his intentions, but she followed him anyway.