Episode 3

With firm yet delicate steps, I walk over and take a seat next to the handsome man who, upon closer inspection, is even more beautiful.

“I’m not hungry anymore, Father. May I be excused?”

I hear a tiny, delicate voice and turn my gaze toward four eyes glaring at me. Then, the girl smiles mischievously, making me raise an eyebrow.

She is beautiful, but at first glance, she looks spoiled. The boy, on the other hand, shows no change in expression and simply looks at me with distaste.

“You may leave after dinner.”

I hold my breath upon hearing that husky voice, which stirs some rather improper thoughts in me.

As expected, the girl throws a tantrum fit for a spanking, but she doesn’t leave her chair, merely crossing her arms in anger.

My hands itch to correct her, but I maintain my composure while taking a deep breath I desperately need.

Several servants arrive with numerous dishes, arranging everything with great delicacy and care—it’s almost too beautiful to touch.

The servants give an exaggerated bow and then withdraw.

The handsome man beside me begins to serve himself, and the children and I follow suit.

I savor the delicious food with pleasure. Everything is truly tasty, perfectly cooked.

I glance up at the children, and one of my eyes begins to twitch when I see them pushing the vegetables aside.

“No, no… You must eat your vegetables as well.”

I speak in a serious tone, but my voice comes out soft and delicate.

“We don’t eat that, and you can’t make us,” the girl says haughtily.

I furrow my brow, looking at her sternly. “You will not leave this table until you finish all your vegetables.”

My tone is slow and measured.

“Father!”

She calls to him in a shrill voice. He merely glances at his food.

“You heard her. That is enough.”

Both children glare at me angrily, but I simply give a wry smile as I bring a piece of roasted chicken to my mouth… Mmm, delicious.

Out of the corner of my eye, I watch them hastily eat all their vegetables until their plates are clean.

“We’re done. Happy?” the girl asks.

I smile and nod, setting my utensils down delicately. “Quite.”

The girl just frowns, and the boy stares intently at his father.

“My sister and I have finished. May we be excused?” The way the boy speaks surprises me; he sounds like an adult.

“You may leave.”

At his word, both children depart quickly without a backward glance.

I try to rise, but his voice stops me. I look at him.

“We depart for the capital tomorrow. The Emperor’s birthday is in three days, and I must arrive with time to spare.”

“Mmm. Understood.”

“I will tolerate no tantrums or childishness. I have had my fill these past two years. Conduct yourself as a duchess worthy of my station.”

His expression is severe. I watch as he rises from his seat. Before leaving, he adds, “We leave after breakfast. I expect no… inconveniences.”

I merely watch his broad back as he leaves me seated in solitude at the enormous table.

“This dream is getting rather complicated,” I whisper, getting up to leave as well. I’ve no intention of staying alone in this desolate place.

“You did very well, my lady. Simply do not anger His Lordship, and all will be well,” the maid says. I merely nod as we walk back down the hall.

Upon reaching the room, the maid helps me undress and into a strange, unattractive nightgown. I pay it little mind, throwing myself onto the bed and falling asleep immediately.

(…)

I open my eyes abruptly, my heart pounding in my chest… All the memories of this body came to me as I slept, and the truth is, I am not in a dream.

I am inside the story of the last novel I read…

“Damn. My luck is truly terrible,” I murmur, getting out of bed and beginning to pace the immense, luxurious room.

“My name is Laura Petro, wife to a powerful vampire named Victor Cortes, and stepmother to twin children—half vampire, half human…”

My gaze falls on the bottom drawer of the nightstand. I walk over and find several letters that this body’s previous owner kept from her beloved, Richard Harrison… Was she mad? Having such a stunning husband… and pining for a good-for-nothing? Unbelievable.

I jump in fright as the door is knocked on, shutting the drawer immediately.

“Come in.”

The same woman from yesterday enters. According to this body’s memories, she is Laura Petro’s personal maid, Lidia.

“You are awake, my lady,” she says. I nod without a word.

She approaches and stealthily hands me a letter. “The Baron says he will be waiting for you after breakfast, my lady.”

I furrow my brow and narrow my eyes. “Burn it.”

“Pardon?” she asks, surprised.

“Burn the letter, Lidia. From now on, we accept no more letters from Lord Harrison.”

Lidia looks at me in astonishment but gives a small bow. “As you command, my lady.”

She walks toward the fireplace.

“Lidia.”

“Yes, my lady?”