Devising a Trap
Henry’s Point of View
It was some time after my Father-in-law was granted a title.
I had been quietly investigating the Ranford family.
I didn’t think things would be resolved this easily.
That foolish mother and son don’t understand their position.
I wonder how would they react if the seat of the head of the Ranford family didn’t end up with their own hands?
According to rumors, they tried to commit marriage fraud after breaking off the engagement with the Felt family, attempting to take away their wealth.
The other side was now seeking compensation.
However, those two wouldn’t pay.
They will refuse and deny the truth, even hire an attorney saying they would pay, but won’t.
“Foolish move.”
“If they refuse to pay the reparations, they’ll face even greater troubles.”
If it’s Shepherd’s fault, then payment is obligatory.
It’s unlikely that they can just evade it.
“Either their property will be seized, or their relatives will be made to pay.”
“Yes… and then bad rumors will circulate in society.”
Even if it’s a substantial amount, it would be better to pay the reparations.
However, those two don’t know the law or common sense.
While the current era can still be considered one of gender inequality, laws are changing on a daily basis, yet they still cling to the outdated notion of male supremacy.
That being said…
“They were quite prepared.”
“You think so?”
“Indeed…”
It’s understandable that Shepherd deceived and tried to connect himself to the Count’s daughter.
It was probably a matter of appearances, just like driving us and Father-in-law out, however, their timing was just too premature.
Suing for marriage fraud right after breaking off the engagement is quite speedy.
“Miss Mirial Felt, the second daughter of Count Felt.”
I had heard about her during my academy days.
We’ve never met, but could there be some sort of connection?
“The Felt family’s business is being run by the third daughter.”
“Yes, they don’t have bad relations as a family. Not privately, at least.”
It’s well-known that noble families at court often have strained family relationships.
They might appear harmonious on the surface, but there’s fierce competition among relatives.
Even if you don’t want to hear it, you can’t help but overhear.
But the Felt family has a tradition of women being the family heads, and the eldest doesn’t necessarily become the heir.
“I haven’t heard any bad rumors either. Something about the eldest daughter being frail.”
“I see.”
It’s unusual for the third daughter to be the heir, but apparently, they uphold a meritocracy.
“Could it be…”
“I also somewhat suspected.”
It’s as if someone anticipated that the timing was just too convenient.
If she wasn’t deceived by Shepherd but instead approached him from the start to set him up, then all questions would be answered.
Was someone instructing her?
I thought that perhaps a noble with high enough status to command the Count’s daughter might be involved.