Chapter 42

It stands for “a key that can open anything.”

Apparently, she hated that code name and always insisted on being called by her alias, “Rose.”

Yeah, looking back, that was where her stubbornness began.

Her specialties were infiltration and theft.

Rose was a prodigy when it came to picking locks and cracking safes.

She was quick, inconspicuous, and had a knack for blending in wherever she went, often infiltrating places as a maid, just as she claimed.

Though, of course, she considers herself to be uniquely gifted.

Daisy had picked up some basic pickpocketing skills herself, mostly because Rose had arrogantly played the teacher, forcing her to learn.

Anyway, Daisy didn’t have the energy to continue this argument with Rose.

Every second was precious, and all she wanted was a bit of peace to herself.

“Why’s your name Daisy, anyway? Did you copy me or something?”

“What kind of bullshi— haah, nonsense is that?”

“Your name’s a flower too. Rose, Daisy. Don’t play dumb, you despicable thing. You chose it on purpose, didn’t you?”

Here we go again, picking a fight over nothing. Why did the boss have to send someone so exhausting? Is he trying to drive me nuts?

Life was already hard enough, with a “potential sex addict” lurking in her bedroom. Daisy heaved a deep sigh.

“Fine, whatever floats your boat… but since you’re my maid now, I’m ordering you to leave. Your master needs to rest now, so get out.”

“You know, now that I’m really looking… you two really do look alike.”

“Care to explain what you mean in a more clearer manner?”

“You, obviously. You’re the spitting image of Therese. No wonder he goes to such lengths to defend you. You’re his reflection.”

“Son of a fucking—”

Daisy’s glare sharpened as she spat out a string of curses.

“I dare you to say that again. Who do I look like, huh?”

“Just take a good look in the mirror. People would believe you if you said you were his real daughter. Your eye color, even your features are similar. It’s uncanny.”

Daisy glanced sideways at the mirror.

Staring back at her was a stunning beauty, weary from the long journey and visibly annoyed from dealing with Rose.

Psh. Resemble him, my ass. Like someone as beautiful as me could ever come from Therese?

Pointlessly checking the mirror had only served to foul her mood further.

“Take that back. Right now.”

“And if I don’t?”

In an instant, Daisy had Rose shoved up against the wall, the pointed tip of her hairpin aiming at her neck.

“Apologize, and maybe I’ll spare your life. You know, for old time’s sake.”

“I thought you said you gave up killing? Aren’t you worried the Lord is watching?”

“Killing. I never said anything about violence.”

“What?”

Daisy’s eyes flashed with murderous intent.

“I’m great at killing, but I’m even better at hurting someone just short of death. And well, if I accidently kill you… I guess I’ll see you in hell.”

“You bitch. Watch your mouth.”

“So what’ll it be? Shall I give you a one-way ticket to hell? Or should I let you bleed out and enjoy the show before you die of anemia?”

Daisy pressed harder against Rose’s throat, her voice dripping with menace. Rose flinched, holding her breath.

Knock, knock—.

The knock at the door broke the tension, and Daisy’s eyes darted toward it.

Knock, knock—.

“It’s your lucky day, Rose. Pull that stunt again, and you’re dead.”

With a reluctant sigh, Daisy reined in her bloodlust and took a step back.

“Come in.”

With permission granted, Daisy’s husband, Maxim von Waldeck, entered. Tall and composed, his presence made Rose freeze. Her wide gaze alternated between Daisy and Maxim before she hastily lowered her head.

‘Great. Now she’s definitely thinking “lucky bitch got herself a handsome husband.”’

If only she knew. A small sigh escaped her lips.

“You’ve arrived, Izzy? Was the journey difficult? Are you feeling alright?”

Maxim asked, his tone laced with tender concern.

The journey was fine, but something tells me the real trouble starts now.

“…Yes, I feel fine.”

“Let me take a look.”

He stepped forward, pulling Daisy in by her waist as he brushed his hand across her forehead, moving gently back and forth.

“No fever. You’re sweating, though. Are you sure nothing’s wrong?”

“Oh, no. I just got hot after we arrived.”

Daisy forced a strained smile under the jealous gaze from a specific someone behind her.

“I see. Then you should hurry and undress… so you can freshen up. Hmm?”

His soft, teasing whisper in her ear made Daisy’s body tense up on instinct.

She found his words downright horrifying.

“Just imagining you undressing to take a shower right now…”

“…”

“…is enough to make me cum.”

The chill down her spine was immediate. He’d said something similar in her bedroom not too long ago. How could she not tense up?

And they weren’t even alone this time. Someone else was present. It was maddening.

But the unsettling comments didn’t end there.

“Izzy, I have an urgent question to ask.”

“…What is it?”

“Are you self-conscious about your tits being so big?”