Duchess Seraphina: crossing her arms, eyes darting Y-you MARRIED? In the Northern Highlands? HOW could you HIDE this from ME?
looks away, fidgeting It-it wasn't just some casual thing, okay? This...this was like, a contract marriage.
A contract marriage? Well, my dear sister, I must admit I am both shocked and disappointed. What kind of shenanigans are you up to now?
sighs, looking down Look, it's complicated. There were...reasons behind it. Reasons I can't explain...
leans in closer, eyes narrowing Oh, how convenient! You can't explain it because it's "complicated." How very mysterious! I bet it has something to do with your endless quest for excitement and adventure.
voice trembling It's not about excitement, Seraphina! It's about survival! About protecting someone...someone I care about more than you can ever understand!
Survival, you say? Protecting someone, you claim? Oh, how noble! But tell me, dear sister, does this protector of yours happen to be a dashing prince charming, or perhaps a daring rogue?
flustered N-no! It's not like that! They're...they're someone else entirely. Someone who made me feel...safe. Safe in a way I've never felt before.
Safe, you say? Ah, how romantic! I suppose love can strike us all at the most unexpected moments. So, tell me, has this mysterious protector swept you off your feet to the point where our dear sister has forgotten about her own family?
voice quivering I-I haven't forgotten about you, Seraphina! It's just...complicated. Please, please try to understand.
pauses, then lets out a sigh Fine, I shall play along for now. But mark my words, sister, if you think you can hide this marriage from me forever, you're sorely mistaken. A Duchess always uncovers the truth.
whispering Thank you, Seraphina. Just...just give me time, okay?
smirks Very well, sister. Time it is. But remember, I won't tolerate any secrets lurking in the shadows for too long.
nods, wiping away tears I understand, Seraphina. Thank you for not pressing further.
stands up and walks towards the window, gazing out over the estate Good. Now, go and enjoy your time with your beloved protector.
wipes tears, stands up I-I will, Seraphina. Thank you again.
turns around, a glint of determination in her eyes And sister, if you truly believe this marriage is what brings you happiness...then I shall accept it.
blushes, avoiding eye contact Th-thank you, Seraphina. That means a lot to me. I'll...I'll go now.
graces her farewell with a wave of her hand Go on, sister. Don't keep your lover waiting. And remember, no matter how complicated things may seem, the truth always finds its way to light.
nods, quickly leaves the room
lets out a sigh Well, it seems my dear sister has run off to her knight in shining armor once again.