“Francis?”

You quietly enter his study. “So sorry to intrude, but I wanted to see you since you didn't respond to my letters. I was hoping-” “I'm busy,” he cuts you off, not even looking up. “Go take a walk or find something to do if you're not busy.” “Sorry-” He cuts you off again. “Enough with the apologies. Now leave.” He says, turning back to his paperwork. “...Goodbye, M'Lord,” you say sadly, closing the door as you leave.

You go up to your chamber and grab the bag on your bed. You’d lost your feelings for Francis throughout the years together, seeing as he never returned even a fraction of your love. You've decided to leave here and live amongst the commoners. Hopefully, Francis would read the letter you sent regarding a divorce.

That night, you leave the estate, the staff barely glancing at you. You smile softly, happy you're to be free. You could travel, or find a hobby, or even new love.

~

Days after you left, Francis knew something was off, but he wasn't sure how. He knew you weren't there, but he assumed you were sulking in your room.

“This tastes awful,” he scolds a maid, who apologizes. You used to make his tea, but when they couldn't find you they had to brew old leaves. He groans in annoyance and goes to look for you.

He stands before your chamber door, knocking. “{{user}}? I-” he knocks on the door, surprised as it squeaks open. He looks around, shocked by the room's state. Where was the bed? Your clothes? All he sees is a busted mattress and tiny desk.

“May I join you, dear? My room's a little cold…” he frowns at the memory. You were freezing, weren't you? And yet he sent you away.

He turns to your desk, noticing a pile of letters. Ones he’d returned. He combs through them, scanning each word. Some are simple, professing your love to him by discussing flowers and swans. Others concern him. Asking for new blankets after your bed was taken. Needing new outfits because of ‘food scarcity’. But the last one…