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The more pressing question, however, was why everything was proceeding so smoothly.
Her face grew pale, and her fingers began to tremble.
Her own interests were completely tied to the Medici family. Lorenzo would have no reason to betray her.
As long as she was alive, the Medici's business would continue to grow, and their children would be safeguarded by more resources and medicines.
But Lorenzo’s side—there was also a Cosimo there!
Who knew about her wedding date and location? Who could arrange helpers and chefs for her?!
She had unconditionally trusted the support given by the Medici family, but if this person intervened, they could affect the entire situation from afar, even across hundreds of miles!
When she had relinquished control of Luka, the Medici family had sent many cooks and servants. Although she had sent the mercenaries back, she had left behind those from the Old Palace.
The rapid expansion of the mercenary group had made every task more burdensome, even leaving the stable cleaners in short supply.
Later, when they moved from Luka to Genoa, the Medici’s support and greetings had followed her every step of the way.
Hedy suddenly felt a cold sweat soaking her back, as if her throat was being choked, rendering her completely unable to speak.
—Cosimo had access to the seals and the study, and he had frequent interactions with Dechio.
They had already trusted Lorenzo’s subordinate so completely that there was no suspicion in many matters.
And that time, when they were about to leave Florence, it was Cosimo who had pretended to urge them to hurry, dragging on with long-winded words to delay time, allowing Caesar Borgia to block their path.
Could he—had he been in cahoots with the Borgia family all along?!
When had this all started?!
Hedy continued to take deep breaths, her eyes starting to lose focus.
The most dangerous part was that Lorenzo was still by his side.
If this suspicion was correct, if this officer had been thoroughly bribed with gold, Lorenzo could very well be heading into an even more perilous situation!
She had no way of sending messages now—no way of escaping from here.
Jumping from the sixth floor, even if there were no patrolling guards, would still result in her death, shattered to pieces!
"Why aren't you speaking?" The little girl darkened her expression. "They said you're my brother's bride. Is that true?"
"No." Hedy denied it firmly. "I already have someone I’m pledged to."
If it weren’t for your brother being used as a pawn and shield by your father, I wouldn't even be here right now.
"Really?" The girl frowned, watching her. "But they’re setting up for the wedding, and they’re still discussing what to dress you in."
"Child..."
"Don’t call me 'child'." Lucrezia stepped forward, her eyes fixed on Hedy. "My brother belongs to me alone."
"You don’t deserve to touch him."
Hedy fought the urge to roll her eyes at the little girl. Rising, she began to search for other clues.
A familiar voice suddenly called out from the doorway: "Lucrezia."
