"What a pitiful life, having to have a man you despise as your husband for the rest of your life."

Francis's gentle fingers, which had been wiping her father's face, were now clutching his daughter's delicate cheek.

"No, sob..."

Barbiena lowered her head, covering her face as she sobbed sadly.

"Please let me go, Your Grace..."

Although her trembling was merely an act to hide the joy seeping through her teeth.