"I intend to become Ulrich's Countess."
For several seconds, none of the sisters spoke.
Hermione stared at Louise as though the marquis's daughter had calmly announced her intention to claim the throne. Esther's lips parted, her hands clasped before her dress. Even Airam's expression shifted slightly, though the change vanished before anyone could see it.
Louise merely smiled.
"R-Really?" Esther asked at last.
"I do." Louise nodded. "I have asked Ulrich many times already."
Hermione looked alarmed but tried to look calm.
"What did he say?"
"Well, surprisingly, he said he would think about it." Louise's smile turned bright with satisfaction. "That is enormous progress. I am quite confident he will eventually accept."
Airam stared at her.
"How do you know that?"
"Because Ulrich is practical." Louise replied. "He does not make decisions lightly, especially decisions involving marriage. If he had no intention of considering it, he would have dismissed me immediately."
