You’ll Regret Stealing Him from Me — My Sister Who Took My Fiancé and Celebrated Was a Fool - Chapter 8

Father explained there was a pressing reason for hastily arranging my engagement.

“The pressure from the Vandering ducal house is far more severe than we anticipated.”

His expression grew graver as he continued.

“It’s likely to intensify further. The ducals are determined to utterly ruin your reputation. If that happens, our Altvier house alone may not be able to protect you.”

I could hear the frustration and urgency in Father’s voice.

“That’s why I want you to marry into the powerful Liebenfeld marquisate. As military nobility with strong royal favor and independent influence, even the Vandering wouldn’t dare act recklessly against them.”

Listening to Father’s explanation, I felt uneasy. It might indeed be the best strategy to protect me. But…

“Is this truly acceptable?”

I chose my words carefully.

“I’m concerned about the Altvier marquisate’s future. Originally, Isabella was to take a husband and inherit the house, but she’s marrying into the Vandering ducal family. If I also marry into the Liebenfeld marquisate, we’ll have no successor.”

The continuation of our house, a matter no noble could take lightly. Though Father was doing his utmost for me, if it endangered our house’s future, perhaps I shouldn’t accept.

“Seraphina.”

Father called my name gently yet firmly.

“Right now, I don’t want to lose you more than anything. The house’s continuation matters, but your happiness matters more. As your inadequate father who can only do this much, I simply want you to live happily. That’s my wish.”

Hearing those words warmed my chest.

“Father…”

“We’ll find another solution for succession. We could adopt from relatives. Even if the house name disappears, our bloodline will continue. But you’re irreplaceable. Protecting you is my top priority now.”

I understood. And I fully accepted Father’s love and determination.

Then I turned to Lord Maximilian. He understood our family’s circumstances. But what about his side? Why would he accept engagement to someone like me, shrouded in scandal?

“Are you truly certain about this, Lord Maximilian? You may well be dragged into troublesome disputes. I might become a burden.”

“No issue.”

Lord Maximilian answered decisively.

“After hearing Lord Edgar’s explanation, I judged this beneficial for the Liebenfeld marquisate too. Political marriages only work when mutually advantageous.”

I asked what benefits he meant.

“I’ve heard much about your social accomplishments. The Liebenfeld have high military esteem, but we’re lacking in society. People whisper behind our backs about being ‘culturally backward.'”

I’d heard those cruel rumors too “Those military men are barbarians who only know swords,” “Unfit for polite society.” Lord Maximilian continued seriously.

“I’ve long wanted to change that. To be recognized not just for military achievements, but in society too. To remind everyone we’re nobles as well. For that, we need someone with your knowledge and experience. That’s what I seek in this engagement.”

“But rumors claim I stole my sister’s accomplishments. Are you certain about someone like me?”

“So, it seems.”

Lord Maximilian paused thoughtfully before answering.

“But a friend who attended your parties several times tells me otherwise that he witnessed your capabilities firsthand. I trust his word.”

He looked directly into my eyes.

“Moreover, meeting you confirms it. The rumors are likely false. My battlefield experience judging subordinates tells me so.”

He believed in me. His words rang true. I felt genuinely trusted both by him and this friend he valued so deeply. It was truly reassuring.

An engagement seeking social expertise. At least he had clear objectives too. A union based on mutual understanding and benefit.

“Can I truly be of service?”

I voiced my honest concern. With my reputation in tatters, could I really achieve what he hoped?

“You’re uniquely qualified. I have expectations.”

His words were brief but powerful. That confident voice gave me courage.

I gladly accepted the engagement.

My engagement to Lord Roderick had been arranged since childhood. It was simply how things were, I’d never considered objecting. I’d strived to do my best, to make it work. To enhance his reputation by hosting perfect parties.

Yet everything was denied. Worse, the engagement was unilaterally canceled.

—I see. I was shocked after all.

It wasn’t that I’d loved Lord Roderick. But it hurt. Having all my sincere efforts denied, declared meaningless.

Hearing Lord Maximilian’s words made me realize it. His saying “I have expectations” let me finally examine my own heart calmly.

After the broken engagement, I’d buried myself in handling the aftermath. Apologies to guests, compensation arrangements, staff directions. It was my responsibility, truly. But perhaps…

Maybe I’d kept desperately busy to avoid deep thought. To leave no room for reflection. Because if I stopped, I didn’t know what might happen. I’d immersed myself in work to divert my mind.

I’d been shocked. Hurt. Only now did I recognize it.

Fortunately, a new engagement came quickly. This time with clear purpose and mutual respect. It might sound calculating, but that’s why it felt sincere.

With him, I might build a good relationship. This time, it might not fail. I could believe that.

“Understood. Though my abilities are modest, I’ll devote myself fully to supporting the Liebenfeld marquisate.”

I bowed deeply, with heartfelt sincerity.

“I’m counting on you, Seraphina.”

Lord Maximilian replied with military brevity.

Thus, my new engagement was decided. Entirely different from before—a hopeful, positive union. The beginning of an equal relationship based on mutual benefit and respect the first step of my new life.