Chapter 1235:
A small, bittersweet smile tugged at her lips. “Edward,” she began, her voice soft yet exasperated, “you always treat me like a child. It’s frustrating. Can’t you see me differently?”
Edward blinked, surprised, his expression clouding. “Differently? How exactly do you want me treated?”
Her eyes sparkled mischievously as she leaned in, whispering, “Treat me like a woman.”
A hint of a smile played on her lips, tinged with a childlike charm that seemed to contradict her words.
Edward paused, his eyes narrowing slightly as he noted her flushed cheeks and playful smile. Realization dawned—she was drunk.
Edward grabbed Louise’s collar, his tone laced with frustration. “Stop being so headstrong. This is important.”
Louise jerked away, her words thick with frustration. “Is that what you think? Do you all think you can dictate the terms of my marriage on a whim?”
A crease formed on Edward’s forehead. “Then what’s your plan? As a princess, there are sacrifices you must accept.”
Pain flickered across Louise’s face, quickly concealed. She remained silent before speaking softly. “Help me.”
With a resigned breath, Edward shook his head. “I’m stuck, same as you. I can’t change a thing.”
“But if you assist me, I might be able to do the same for you.”
Louise’s fingers clenched around Edward’s collar, jerking him closer. Her gaze was sharp, unwavering.
In a hushed, calculating tone, she said, “If I take the throne, we could both be freed from these arranged marriages.”
Edward’s eyes widened. “You?”
Louise had always been the youngest of the three, forever in the shadows of Chesney and Garret. She was lively, undeniably attractive, sometimes seeming a bit conceited. Yet, beneath it all, her intentions were as pure as gold.
But here she stood, the usually compliant Louise, boldly staking her claim to the throne.
Edward was taken aback, too stunned to respond.
Undeterred, Louise pressed on, “Elyse made me see that I’m as wise as Garret, more courageous than Chesney, and my skills are on par with yours. You’re celebrated for your violin skills, while I excel at the harp. If you can support Garret and Chesney, why not me?”