3
Two months later, on the day the examination results were posted, a runner from the city sprinted back to the Duke’s estate, brea-
thless with excitement.
“Congratulations, Lady Isabelle! That scholar you helped–he passed!”
My stepsister grabbed my arm, shaking it with glee. “Eleonora, Josh’s scholarship is truly remarkable! Do you think he has a chance to be named among the top three Royal Scholars?”
I met her bright, shining eyes and nodded. “He should.”
In my past life, Josh’s powerful, elegant calligraphy and his uniquely insightful essays on statecraft had caught the King’s eye, and he had been named the Third Royal Scholar. To repay my kindness, he had come to our home on the day of the scholars‘ parade to formally propose.
I was the Duke’s high–born daughter, and a scholar of his rank was a rare prize. My parents were not keen on his humble origins, but
I had already given him my heart and begged them to approve the match.
After our marriage, I used my family’s influence and wealth to pave his way at court, helping him rise through the ranks. I managed
our household flawlessly, ensuring he had no worldly concerns.
But no matter how much I did for him, it could never compare to the stepsister he loved but could not have.
I was known as the most talented lady in the capital. Seeing that even I held Josh in high regard, Isabelle became even more deli-
ghted with herself.
“Sister, on the day I met Josh, it was supposed to be you who went out first. But it was me who helped him in the end. Don’t you
think our connection is destined by the heavens?”
She blushed at her own speculation. “What if he comes to propose to me to repay my kindness? Should I accept?” The crimson
blossom in her hair made her look all the more vibrant and alive.
