Chapter 1919

chapter1919

News of Manfred's engagement spread swiftly, leaving many women who had hoped to connect with him in shock. Their curiosity about his fiancée grew, fueled by rumors claiming she was exceptionally beautiful and a mentee of Alger. That alone was enough to ignite widespread intrigue.

Vivian, however, remained oblivious to these whispers. She only noticed the sudden surge of people eager to meet Manfred.

Naturally aloof, Manfred rarely entertained visitors unless absolutely necessary, turning away anyone attempting to approach under false pretenses.

With Joe and Skylar in Graystone, Vivian felt no urgency to seek them out or retrieve the copper mirror. After another day at the Atkinson residence, she and Manfred set out for Hubril, planning to stop at inns along the way.

Once they left Vlario, Vivian grew restless in the carriage. The road, though paved, was far from smooth, nothing like the comfort of modern highways.

Fortunately, Manfred had anticipated this and thoughtfully provided cushions, making the ride a little more comfortable. Vivian occasionally lifted the carriage curtains to look outside.

Before long, the landscape around them was filled with mountains and forests. The trip to Hubril would take around three days, with a few small towns along the way. They planned to rest in an inn, depending on the time.

"If you're uncomfortable, we can stop for a while," Manfred said, noticing Vivian shifting in her seat, clearly not at ease.

Though he had made preparations, they weren't quite enough.

Vivian shook her head. "I'm fine. It's just a little uncomfortable at first, but I'll get used to it. The scenery is beautiful, and the mountain air is fresh."

Manfred smiled warmly, his expression slightly indulgent. "I'll have them slow down."

There was no need to hurry. Since she enjoyed the view, he would enjoy it with her.

"Will this delay our arrival in Hubril?" Vivian asked.

Manfred chuckled. "A day or two doesn't matter."

After two hours, Vivian adjusted to the carriage's rhythm. The bumps felt less jarring, and drowsiness creptin. Before she knew it, she had fallen asleep.

She felt someone drape a light blanket over her in a half-awake state.

Manfred's gaze softened with affection as he looked at Vivian. Her breathing was barely noticeable, and the long, curled lashes under her eyes cast delicate shadows. Her skin was fair, and her lips were naturally tinted red.

She was captivating, and the longer he looked, the harder it was to turn away.

As dusk settled, they entered a small town with only two inns. Kemp had already scouted them, choosing the better one. The carriage stopped, but Manfred lingered, still watching Vivian.

She had been asleep for nearly four hours, undisturbed even by the halt. His eyes flickered with concern as he gently called, "Vivian, we've arrived."

But Vivian didn't respond.

Concerned, he moved to check her pulse, but just as he was about to touch her wrist, Vivian suddenly opened her eyes.

Seeing Manfred's face so close to hers, she froze, her mind momentarily blank. Their eyes met, and for a heartbeat, both were equally stunned.