Chapter 40

Just as Gerald had predicted, it was a busy morning. There were so many visitors coming to offer their condolences, most of the nobles and Serena had to welcome them all, being a good host like she was trained to be.

The ballroom was filled with people dressed in dark clothing, standing and discussing with each other. On a first glance you might think there were talking about the deceased but it's actually about the host, Serena. While most of them said words of comfort and pity to her, behind her back they whispered words of scorn. Some didn't even try to hide their displeasure as they spoke about her openly. Their words were all the same, Serena wasn't fit to be a duchess.

The words were like a knife to her already battered heart but she didn't give them the satisfaction of seeing her weak and crying. A small smile on her face, she greeted them all with respect. Glancing over to Gerald, she noticed how professionally he handled the guests, speaking to them with the au