Chapter 103: Managing the household

Chapter 103: Managing the household Abrielle listened to Cedric’s suggestion and stayed indoors, not that she really did have anywhere to go. While she was staying indoors Evelyn took her around the castle while introducing her to house staff. She was the lady of the house so it was her duty to manage the household. Luckily, the original Abrielle, being a noble daughter, was taught the affairs of a household as it was her duty. She was introduced to the head maid, the butler and the house accountant. The house accountant was from a lower noble family. Lucas Ross was a character frequently mentioned in the book because he controlled the finances, which, of course, Abrielle wanted. Unlike the original Abrielle, who had no interest in working, she just wanted to leave life and chase after Cedric. The current one has other plans for a simple reason: either she plans to run away when things get difficult or to kill her husband as originally planned. Because of the current state of things, she was getting doubtful. One thing was for sure: Abrielle needed funding; even her dowry was now under Cedric’s control. "Lucas Ross at your service your highness." Lucas introduced himself. He was actually the son of Baron, how he got the job. It lies on the fact he was among the few people Cedric actually trusted. "The honour is mine," Abrielle chimed as her eyes darted around the room which was Cedric’s study. It was like a mini Library with a large working desk made from hardwood; there was a small lounge area and surprisingly, flowers were kept close to the window. She never imagined Cedric to be the time to admire flowers. Since it was winter, there were wintermoore flowers. "I heard you handle all the finances," she mentioned as her eyes darted around the room. "Yes, every fund that comes in and out, I am aware of, and if your Highness is interested in taking on her duty as the lady of the house. I will be more than willing to teach you everything you need to know about the household." Lucas suggested. Abrielle smiled at him. That made things easier for her. "Of course, I would love to look into all previous financial records for the past two years," Abrielle mentioned; luckily for her, in her past life, as she would describe it, Abrielle was an accounting student. Even if things might be different here, it would not be completely different. "I will arrange them, hoping by tomorrow or a later date it will be available," Lucas replied with a friendly smile. Lucas, being a significant character in the book, had distinctive features that were considered attractive. He has ash-blonde hair and Hazel eyes. He was tall, around 189 cm, with a rigid personality. He always had his glasses on the bridge of her nose and an expression that hardly ever changed. "That will be perfect, I will also love it if you teach me everything I need to know." She chimed. The first person in this world Abrielle needed to win over was the accountant who held the key to her plans, money. Unfortunately, Lucas was loyal to Cedric; there was even a point in the novel, due to his behaviour, Cedric was able to deduce a failed assassination attempt on Callista was related to Abrielle. "Do you usually work here, or do you have your office?" She enquired from Lucas drawing the conversation and trying to get familiar with him. She was aware of the fact that the records she asked for were available and organized but Lucas would have to seek Cedric’s permission. In the end, Cedric was the one who ran the home. "No, I have an office close by on the same floor. This is his highness private space. I am sure he would not have any issues sharing it with you but if you don’t like it here. A new place can be arranged for you, but it will cost more," Lucas explained, to which Abrielle nodded. "Is the Castle facing a funding issue?" She inquires because of his response about saving costs. "Not at all, your husband is very wealthy. He won several wars and runs a couple of businesses in the capital, not to forget the budget we received from the palace, but it’s never wise to spend without consideration." A soft smile crossed her lips. At least Cedric was still wealthy. "I will leave you to do your job now." She mentioned then walked out of the study. On her way out, her eyes spotted an old portrait of Cedric, but he still had his mask on. A lot of people in the palace would probably not recognize him if he were to pull off the mask. "Is there any other place you want to visit?" Evelyn asked her while diligently following her with Zoltana trailing behind. "I think that’s enough for now, I will want to visit the library." She answered with the intention of learning more. "I will arrange for you to have your afternoon tea there," Evelyn answered, leading her to the library that was on the first floor, not too far from the study. They arrived at the library, which was well-maintained because Cedric spent a lot of time there. Something popped into her mind, "Evelyn before I forget. How is Jubilee doing?" She was curious about the girl she wanted from the slave auction. "She is being taken care of, and we await your instructions. The girl suffered from malnutrition so we have to make sure she is in sound health." Evelyn replied; she was so co-ordinated that it was impossible to guess she had a double identity as an assassin. Evelyn left the library leaving just Zoltana and Abrielle in there. She found a seat while waiting for Zoltana. "I guess you are ready," Zoltana mentioned and Abrielle eagerly agreed. "First, we would have to completely unseal your abilities, which will not be hard since the seal has already been compromised," Zoltana explained; they were about to start Abrielle’s training, although Zoltana was a bit nervous, remembering what happened last time. Abrielle was about to explain her concerns when there was a light knock on the door. "Sorry to inconvenience you, Princess Abrielle, but there is a message from the queen I thought I should inform you immediately." The servant mentioned. Abrielle’s hands clenched. Why did the queen send her a message? Was it because of Callista?