When My Contract with the Misanthropic Duke Ended, I Filed For Divorce, But My Husband's Obsession and Doting Became Unbearable - Chapter 27

Although I don’t really remember much, they told me that if nothing was wrong the day I first woke up after losing consciousness, I could start moving again. But since I hadn’t moved for a while, my body had grown stiff, and I had to go through rehabilitation for some time.

Lately, I’ve even been taking walks as part of that rehab. I didn’t have much stamina to begin with, and after everything, it’s gotten even worse—so I can’t walk for very long.

A butler or maid always comes along with me, but since I’m not used to that kind of treatment, I sometimes wish they’d let me walk alone. Still, since it’s an order from Reed, I can’t really complain, even if it feels a bit overprotective. At least the servants he chose don’t show any annoyance or discomfort, which helps a lot.

Then again, maybe that’s just how royal castle servants are supposed to behave. But because of that, it’s hard to tell what they’re really thinking, and that makes me feel kind of guilty too.

“Lady Sharon, it’s already been ten minutes. Are you feeling tired?”

“I think I’m fine today, so I’ll walk a little longer.”

“Understood. And I must apologize for repeating myself, but please remember—regardless of rank, you don’t need to use polite speech with us. It would be wise to correct that now, for the sake of the future.”

“Ugh… right… you’re right.”

They’re always considerate, and since everyone around me knows the truth about the fake divorce, the servants have all been carefully selected. Lately, they’ve also been helping me train—just in case I ever have to act as a duchess again. Reed told me I didn’t have to push myself, but I convinced him that doing this might help me gain confidence.

Still, they’ve said that aside from manners and etiquette, I’m too humble toward the servants.
So now they’re teaching me to act more like someone of higher status. I did wonder if it’s okay to practice that when I’m supposedly divorced, but they told me it’s fine—I can just say it’s because my next fiancé will likely be someone of high rank. So… I’m doing my best.

Though really, it feels strange to train for something like that when I’m still technically married. But knowing Reed, I’m afraid he might actually bring someone in who knows the full truth—probably someone outrageous, too.

“What do you mean by ‘for the future’?”

While I was lost in thought, somehow the Duke had overheard the butler’s warning. With a somewhat frightening expression, he turned to question the butler.

“W-well, Your Grace, I only meant that I was told by Prince Reed that Lady Sharon’s next fiancé would be carefully chosen from among high-ranking nobles…”

The butler’s face paled as he answered, and the Duke’s expression grew even darker. His eyes looked sharp enough to kill the man in front of him.

“Oh…? Even though I’m right here, they’re already selecting candidates? I suppose it can’t be helped that earning their trust will take time—but to think there are already so many candidates to ‘carefully choose’ from. No matter how adorable Sharon is, surely they wouldn’t throw her into a pack of wolves.”

He said it with a smile, but with that expression, it only made him look even scarier.

“D-Duke…”

“Ah, Sharon. I heard you were walking alone with the butler, so I hurried over. I’m glad I did. I know he wouldn’t put you in danger, but there’s always a chance. Don’t worry—no one will take you from me. For now, that butler can leave. I’ll accompany Sharon on her walk instead.”

When I gathered my courage to call out to him, the killing intent in his eyes faded instantly, which was a relief—at least for a moment. But then, out of nowhere, he insisted on taking the butler’s place and joining my walk. He even emphasized the words “alone with the butler,” making it very clear he didn’t like the man.

Maybe he’s become overly wary of the servants because of me? He was already not fond of people, so it wouldn’t be surprising if I made that worse…

Thinking about it like that, I can’t help but feel guilty, as if I’ve made his dislike of others even stronger.

“I am under the orders of Prince Reed to accompany Lady Sharon, so even for you, Duke, I cannot disobey.”

While I was thinking that, the butler actually talked back. I stared in disbelief—he really said that to this Duke? Maybe his heart is made of steel or something.