Chapter 58

“Generally, it wouldn’t be strange at all… but we’re not exactly a normal couple. We married in such a rush without even knowing each other’s faces.”

He studied her green eyes for a long moment, then answered firmly.

“Let’s say I fell in love at first sight.”

If he insisted on that, what could she say? But somehow it felt like more than that, especially with that portrait. The unease gnawed at her.

“…And it’s been my dream for a long time.”

“Your dream?”

“To find a partner and build a happy home, together, forever. That’s what I’ve always dreamed of.”

This man had always teased and provoked her, but now his eyes held a rare seriousness.

So he had his own story.

But asking him here, now, felt too awkward, so Daisy swallowed her questions.

For him, a happy home was a dream, but for her, divorce was the plan.

Everything was just a hopeless mess.

“You’re not draining yourself dry to buy these, are you?”

“Whatever do you mean?”

“I don’t know the state of Waldeck’s finances, so I just wanted to ask. What if you’re overspending?”

She intended to leave him, but she didn’t want him ruined. Even a besotted fool didn’t deserve to be reduced to poverty.

Besides, Daisy still hoped to receive some alimony, so she had to keep his fortune intact.

“There are people who push themselves for pride’s sake, only to end up clinging to faded glory. Do you know how miserable it is to grow old and penniless?”

“…”

“I read in the paper: the money we earn today belongs also to our future selves. Since you never know what may happen, you should save it in case of emergencies.”

And by “emergencies,” that was her polite way of saying divorce. Or a crumbling marriage. Either one worked.

“Not at all. This is nothing but mere pocket change. I’m quite wealthy.”

“Do you mean that?”

“If you still don’t believe me, I’ll show you my bank statements.”

“No, that’s not necessary—”

“I don’t mind. In fact, once you see the amount, you might just love me even more.”

An amount that’ll make her love him even more? At this point, she’d seen enough to stop worrying about his bank account.

She had tried to talk him down and tried to be sensible, but if he insisted on being this stubborn, what could she really do?

He was determined to throw his money around, and Daisy decided she wouldn’t stop him.

“Fine. Then I’ll accept it, gratefully.”

“Think nothing of it.”

“…On one condition.”

He raised his brows slightly at her careful tone.

“Um… since you’re already buying so much, would you mind also getting something for your aunt?”

“My aunt?”

“Yes. I heard the staff say her clothes were out of date… They said the ladies in the capital might not even acknowledge her if she’s dressed like that.”

Her voice was hesitant. She glanced down, her lashes brushing her cheeks as she fiddled with her fingers and gathered the courage to speak.

“It wouldn’t feel right for me to be the only one in new clothes.”

After buying out the boutique, how cruel would it be to leave the former Grand Duchess with nothing? And besides, she was Daisy’s sole ally in this divorce.

To carry out their plan smoothly, his aunt needed the proper armor. Which meant an elegant dress.

Still, Maxim looked puzzled.

“You don’t resent her? That old woman’s awfully strict, always nagging about your manners or telling you to eat less.”

“She nags a lot, yes. But she also gives useful advice. I like her. She feels like… a mother. Or maybe a grandmother. I grew up without a family, so I used to envy people who had someone to scold them.”

“…”

“She’s part of Waldeck too. She’s family.”

…And the only one who supports my wish to divorce you.

They were in this together. Allies looked after each other.

Daisy smiled softly, leaving the rest unsaid.

Maxim thought long for a moment as he mulled over her words, then nodded.

“Very well. I’m not entirely keen on it, but they say compromise is vital in marriage. If it’s what you truly want…”

“You’ll really do that for me?”

“Pick out something suitable for her. We’ll have her outfit tailored as well.”

“Thank you for being so considerate, Max. That eases my mind.”

“But I have a condition of my own.”

Of course. She should’ve known he wouldn’t just say yes. Maxim smirked, holding her gaze.

“What is it?”

“That thing you did for… Rosine? Rosie? Whatever her name was, I’d like you to do that for me too.”

“What thing?”

He tapped his cheek with a fingertip and leaned in expectantly.