Her Graceful War Song

Rosalind had learned these things quite by chance. And with that first sudden feeling of love, she grew to think even more highly of Thomas' noble character.

She was of age to marry, after all. How could she not have dreamed, now and then, of the kind of man she might one day wed? Yet, those dreams were often just illusions. But when a real man appeared alive in her thoughts and dreams, she knew he was the one she wanted to marry.

At first, her grandfather was against it. Besides the difference in their ages, Trevor thought about how Thomas had already been married before. Though Rosalind would be his lawful wife, she wouldn't be his first.

She was the granddaughter of the royal chancellor, famous throughout the land. Many noble families in the capital sought her hand. Why, then, would she choose Thomas? He was just a soldier returning from battle, with no certain future.

But Rosalind was determined, so Trevor had no choice but to yield. This was the only time in her life she acted on her own will.

Trevor sent matchmakers, yet Thomas refused the arrangement, shocking Rosalind's entire family. Some thought he was ungrateful; others thought it shameful that she pursued him only to be rejected.

Rosalind's nursemaid, who was especially angry, said, "A young lady from your family and with your character-anyone would be glad to accept your hand in marriage. The Farrell family truly does not know its own good fortune."

"Is that so? Anyone would be glad? Then, what do you think the others who came calling saw in me? My family? My looks? My talents? Or perhaps my grandfather's name?" Rosalind retorted.

The nursemaid said that noble marriages always considered family, looks, and talent.

However, those who sought Rosalind were only interested in her as the granddaughter of the royal chancellor. Though Trevor had retired, a civil official who earned his praise would surely rise in rank. Marrying into the royal chancellor's household brought many benefits; anyone with ambition would rush to accept.

But Thomas had refused. He felt sorry for Rosalind, and believed she was only caught up in a foolish fancy. He thought that once she truly married him, she would regret it, and by then, it would be too late.

In truth, Thomas later told her that at first, he didn't believe she truly loved him or wanted to marry him. Of course, he didn't feel the same for her either, for he had never thought of such things.

It was only after he refused the proposal that he began to think of her sometimes. When others spoke of her, he would pretend not to care and listen quietly. But the more he learned about the young lady, the more he doubted she could truly love him. noveldrama

She was beautiful, learned, kind, and understanding-far above his station. Elise rested her chin on her hand and interrupted, "Was Mr. Thomas really so lacking in confidence? Then, what changed, that he finally agreed?"

Rosalind smiled more warmly, her eyes soft and full of tenderness as she drifted into her memories.

What had happened at Gracewood Women's Academy was a shock for any unmarried young woman—a heavy blow, as if the world had fallen apart. But Rosalind never imagined that misfortune would turn to blessing, leading Thomas to ask for her hand.

She would never forget how she felt when she heard the news. After a

moment of wild joy, she thought he must feel sorry for her, so she refused him at first. It was his sincere confession that had truly brought them together, resulting in their marriage.

Those days felt like a dream. Her nursemaid said she never stopped smiling; she was so happy. How could she not be? She was to marry the man she loved and become his wife. She was truly joyous. Even on her wedding day, she was still in a dreamlike state.

When Thomas lifted her veil, their eyes met under the soft light.

"Are you hungry? I've had food prepared. Eat a little first; I must go greet the guests," he said gently.

At that moment, when her gaze met his, her heart beat fast-and it felt real.

Later, when he returned half-drunk, they shared a cup of wine together. Then, he took her hand and sat beside her to talk. He never spoke of the past. Instead, he said that as husband and wife, they must trust, support, and understand each other.