I wish Jacob was on my side.

Merha and the eldest grandson, Jacob, were on bad terms. So for a long time ago, Gunner aimed for his support.

But Jacob wasnt interested in the temple. He already had established himself with business alone, and he was afraid to lose the attention of the Lord if he was distracted by the temple.

In addition, Merha was Cartiers deficit, and Gunner was a collateral relative. Jacob didnt want to pay for something when the odds werent in his favor.

But to think Lucerne wants to join hands with me!

There was a third power. A man of great military power, though it was still uncertain to say that he was a Cartier man of great power, he couldnt compete as a successor. He was neither a full-fledged Cartier nor a full-fledged enemy: Lucerne.

Lucerne may not be able to be the head of the ducal household, but he was the most cherished genius grandson of the family, who earned his position in the Cartier family.

Besides, Lucerne is rich.

So when he sent a note to meet through his confidant, he came running without shame.

I asked my husband to meet you, Gunner.

Madam? Is there anything I can do for you?

Elisha raised the corners of her mouth. The faint expression was almost a derisive smirk.

I wasnt feeling well, so Lucerne called for a healing priest from the temple. Gunner purposely sent someone who was his hands and feet. I presumed that it meant you wanted to meet my husband and I, but did I misunderstand?

Gunners hand on the teacup halted. His head was spinning.

Shes asking if I am looking for her? Unfortunately, this woman has no taste for subtlety. I thought youd be coy since they said youre a femme fatale, but youre rather frigid.

But Gunner was a master of managing his expressions. He just grinned without showing a thing. The smile of the handsome priest would tempt any goddess.

No, the High General is a military official. Do you mean that I, as a priest, aspired to meet him with an ulterior motive?

.

The general and I did not become succession competitors in the same family. Yet, I came here to meet my distant relatives without prejudice. Im sad that youve harbored such suspicions.

Gunner decided to go out hard. It was true that he desperately needed Lucernes help, but he had no intention of being dragged around by the two.

Seeing that he sent his wife like this, it seems that Lucerne is also willing to eat with me. So, Ill have to cook for his wife first.

He chose to push and pull*. If Lucerne were in front of him, he wouldnt have known what to do, so comparatively, Elisha would be an easy opponent. [*t1v: means playing hard to get]

Really?

Elisha did not even raise an eyebrow at those words. However, her subsequent words would stun Gunner frozen.

Then why are you here?

Yes?

Visiting a relative? Have you ever sent a letter to the general, or a message for him on New Years Day or his birthday?

The corners of Gunners lips, who had been smiling cheerfully, stiffened.

thats.

Elisha calmly brought the teacup to her mouth. There was a subtle facet of leisure in her movements.

Did you happen to believe that the General wanted to see the High Priest for an insignificant chat today?

.

If you are someone that cant even discern that much, I have nothing more to say to you.

Gunner had been sure that Elisha would make an effort to appease him in the ensuing uncomfortable silence. But she didnt say a word. At this rate, he would be pushed out that door,

No, Lady Elisha. Dont be so extreme.

Theres no extremes. Simplicity is a way of life for busy people. Mr. Gunner, please go back. Im afraid Ill indulge my anger by explaining the situation to my husband.

A cold sweat ran down Gunners back.

Thatuh, huh.

Elisha unhurriedly raised her head. She spoke with a soft, pretty, but vacant countenance.

Oh, are you still there?

.

***

Therefore, when Lucerne finished training and arrived at the entryway to the tearoom, Gunner stood up like a well-trained dog.

General!

Gunner was delighted to see him. Lucerne greeted him lightly with a blink.

Long time no see.

Gunner coughed.

Why are you standing here?

Well, Lady Elisha kicked me out. Now that the High General is here, we can go in together!

Gunner hoped that he would apologize, but he quickly gave up that hope. Because Lucernes temperament was already too infamous, but he at least knew that he would take him to the tearoom and tell Elisha to apologize to him. [t1v: HA] He stood next to Lucerne, who naturally opened the door. He stood so close that he could feel his displeased breath as his expression wrinkled wildly.

What are you doing?

He flinched and stepped back.

Yes?

If my wife tells you to go, you have to go.

General, really . Are you telling me to go back?

Although the middle-aged man was flabbergasted in front of him, Lucerne didnt even spare him a look.

Youre not even a child, its up to you to decide whether to return or wait.

.

Bang. The door closed in front of his eyes. Gunners jaw fell. The butler, who came to see the situation, shook his head to himself. [t1v: HA i <3 the butler] Gunner pointed to the door and then to himself, his mouth open and trembling like a goldfish.