29. Worried
After the lunch banquet hosted by Duke Ashford with his relatives, Ellie met Duke Ashford in his office.
"Father, why did you have to include that woman?"
Duke Ashford knew exactly who Eleanor was referring to.
"Because I am her guardian, Ellie. And also, I didn't know she would speak so inappropriately. Forgive me."
"Do you not want to stop the sponsorship you provide her?"
Duke Ashford was actually the first one who wanted to withdraw his sponsorship from Ava when he learned about her relationship with the Crown Prince, the man who had discarded his daughter.
However, doing so would damage his integrity, and the nobles would criticize him for mixing personal matters with Duchy's affairs. This would ultimately affect Eleanor.
"Father can't do that without a reason, Eleanor," Duke Ashford replied, shaking his head.
Ellie took a deep breath and reassured her tired father.
"I'm sorry, Father. I said it without thinking."