"Oh, really?" John said slowly as he pulled up his pants, a wicked smile curling at the corners of his mouth. His long fingers playfully traced the delicate line of Natasha's chin, his eyes glinting with mischief and challenge. "Are you sure about that?"
Natasha watched John's movements and expressions intently, her heart tightening involuntarily, yet her beautiful face betrayed no hint of panic. She gently raised her hand and firmly but softly moved John's fingers away, as if it were merely an accidental gesture.
"Otherwise? I just came to take a casual stroll and have some fun," Natasha replied, her voice calm as water, devoid of any emotional fluctuation. Yet deep down, she knew her heart was churning like a vast ocean.
John noticed her reaction and smiled slightly, seemingly pleased with Natasha's response. He leisurely picked up a nearby chair and sat down casually, crossing his legs. "I remember that your territory in Murtown isn't as easygoing as you claim! That so-called Viscountcy of yours may appear splendid on the surface, but it hides many dangers beneath. From what I know, your four vassal knights seem to harbor ambitions of their own, plotting to establish their own power. If that happens, the area you can truly control might only be a mere third of your entire domain."
At his words, Natasha felt a jolt of surprise within her. She never expected John to be so well-informed about the situation in her territory.
Just as she prepared to retort, John continued without giving her a chance. "And then there's your precious daughter—only ten years old this year, in that innocent and carefree age. Yet I've heard that many are already eager to propose to her! I know very well that once your daughter is married off, your situation will become increasingly difficult. After all, given the current circumstances, I don't believe your young daughter has the capability to become the head of the household and manage affairs!"
Across the world, whether in the East or West, the phenomenon of preying on widows or those left without support is common; however, the Western approach is often more elaborate and varied.
Take Natasha for example; countless eyes are on her little girl. Once she is married off and the territory is seized by others and reallocated, disaster will surely follow—either through suicide or mysteriously dying in some bizarre accident. After all, for those nobles, why would they forsake an entire vast forest for just two beautiful women?
Once they succeed in obtaining what they desire, Natasha and her family would lose their value.
As for Natasha's various actions today, John had already seen through them completely. Her eagerness was likely an attempt to climb onto John's high branch, using his false identity as a lover to protect her territory.
It wouldn't be difficult to label him as Natasha's lover; after all, they had already shared intimate moments—just a few whispered rumors would suffice to solidify that notion.
Unfortunately for Natasha, John was not so easily deceived; his intentions were not merely to play the fool. He aimed not only to possess Natasha but also had his eyes set on that enticing territory—he wanted both.
"Consider it carefully! Following me will definitely not lead you to any loss!" John suddenly stood up and strode over to Natasha's side. He placed a firm hand on her head while his eyes bore into hers like a hungry wolf.
"I'm quite irritable right now; you should help me out."
Half an hour later...
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