Chapter 5 - An Unexpected Visitor
Oh, I must have fallen asleep.
When I forced my heavy eyelids open, the sun was beginning to set. An orange-red glow spilled through the window beside my bed. It seemed my body had been cleaned and my clothes changed into fresh loungewear while I slept.
I'm thirsty.
I put strength into my hands to push myself up, reaching for the glass on the bedside table. But as I tried to lift it—
Wait, it's falling—
A sharp crash echoed through the room. In my weakened state, I had completely misjudged the strength needed to hold the glass. It shattered on the floor, leaving a puddle of water behind.
I've done it now.
As I reached for the bell to call for help, the door flew open.
"Ojou-sama! What happened?!"
Sarah must have been waiting nearby. She rushed into the room instantly.
"Ah, I just wanted some water."
"Are you hurt?"
"I'm fine, thank you."
"Let me get you a fresh glass. You're still recovering; it's only natural that you lack strength."
Sarah poured more water, then placed one arm behind my back to support me while she held the glass to my lips. The water felt like it was bringing me back to life—well, more so than I already had been. Once I finished, she carefully lowered me back onto the bed. She left briefly and returned with cleaning supplies, making the mess vanish in moments.
"Sarah, I'm sorry for the trouble. I've been a burden."
"What are you saying? You always push yourself too hard, Ojou-sama. You need to rest."
"...Sarah, thank you. For everything."
Sarah's eyes widened in shock. Then, a radiant smile broke across her face. Seeing that expression, I was struck by the realization that the old me had never once thanked her for her loyal service. Born as a Marquess's daughter, Rachel had always felt special, viewing servants as little more than part of the scenery. Sarah was the only one who had stayed by her side, yet Rachel had never offered her a single word of gratitude.
Servants, commoners—they all had families. They were precious to someone, and they had feelings just like her. I had failed to see something so obvious. Looking back, the noblewomen I called friends had abandoned me for the Saint the moment His Highness broke our engagement. They had whispered and laughed at me with contempt. I never had a true friend.
But Sarah was different. Even when I took my anger out on her, she stayed with me until the very end. I had failed to cherish the person who cherished me most. Status, mana... it all felt so trivial now.
I looked at Sarah's smile, my vision blurring with tears of regret and the joy of this second chance. However—
"Oh, Ojou-sama! I almost forgot to tell you."
"Yes?"
"While you were sleeping, the Master returned from the castle. He came by to see you. He also left a message... His Royal Highness the Crown Prince is on his way to visit you."
Sarah beamed, telling me how wonderful the news was. I felt my face go stiff as a cold sweat broke out down my spine.
I completely forgot. I am still His Royal Highness the Crown Prince's fiancée.