The Rise Of The Unwanted Girl (Athena) novel Chapter 3

Chapter 3 Oversized Clothes

Eloise led Athena through the gates of the estate, turning to the servants as they entered. “Take Lady Athena to wash up first. After that, she’ll go pay her respects to Lady Margaret.”

Then she looked at Athena with a gentle smile. “Your grandmother’s getting on in years. Her health hasn’t been great—she’s been relying on herbal tonics these past few years. When you see her, be sweet and respectful, and don’t bring up anything about the last three years. It’ll only upset her.”

Athena nodded quietly.

Margaret had always been the most fair-minded person in the family—but she was too old now to involve herself in household affairs.

Seeing Athena accept her words without protest, Eloise finally relaxed a little.

She continued, testing the waters, “You’re eighteen now—of marriageable age. What happened in the camp… let’s not mention it again. If word gets out that you spent the last three years living among soldiers, day and night, people will start talking.

“That kind of gossip could ruin your chances of a good match. I’ve already come up with an explanation. We’ll say you were away recuperating, and now you’ve just returned.”

Athena’s face remained calm. She gave a soft “Yes,” then followed the maid assigned to her.

But after a few turns, she realized something was wrong. This wasn’t the way to her old courtyard.

She asked, and the maid smiled brightly as she explained, “Lady Willow has been in poor health for years. The doctor said the trees in your courtyard were too damp and affected her health. So they were all cut down.

“To help her recover, they leveled your courtyard and merged it with hers. They even diverted hot spring water to the new space for her treatment. But don’t worry, Lady Eloise had this new courtyard cleaned and prepared for you before your return.”

The maid said it as if it were completely normal, perfectly reasonable.

As if everyone had conveniently forgotten that Athena was the true daughter of the house—while Willow was merely adopted.

The maid led Athena to a small, modest courtyard and pushed the door open. “You’ll be staying here from now on, Lady Athena.”

The space was much smaller than her original quarters, and with no greenery in sight, it looked bare and lifeless.

Two unfamiliar maids stepped forward and bowed. “Lady Athena.”

Athena didn’t recognize either of them. After three years away, most of the household staff had changed.

One had a round face, the other an oval one. Both were attractive and sharp-eyed—clearly selected for looks and cleverness.

“I’m Siena Hotham.”

“I’m Aliza Crofton.”

Together, they echoed, “Hi, Lady Athena.”

Athena gave a small nod and motioned for them to rise.

Then she asked, “Where are Thalia and Macy?”

Those had been her personal maids before she was sent away. But once she entered the military camp, all news of them vanished.

The maid smiled and replied, “Not long after you left, they both got married. I imagine they’re living quiet, peaceful lives now—looking after their husbands and raising children.”

Athena nodded. A peaceful life sounded good. Far better than serving others for the rest of your days.

The thought brought a faint sense of ease. She stepped inside.

The table was already set. The meal was generous—four dishes and a soup—but the plates were no bigger than a clenched fist.

She began to eat. One plate of pasta disappeared in just a few bites.

Her brows knit slightly. “Is there more?”

Siena looked momentarily stunned, then quickly nodded. “Yes, of course, I’ll get it right away.”

Watching her eat so fast, Aliza spoke up gently, “Lady Athena, please slow down. You’ll upset your stomach if you rush like that.”

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