Father used to be so kind and thoughtful. He would use his wealth to provide for Perdita and sometimes help with building houses and preparing crops.

But ever since he fell into heavy debt and lost a huge portion of his money, he became a changed man.

It always felt good to just run around town hoop rolling, feeling the fresh wind pass through my face. Later, I would gaze at the pretty flowers at the outskirts of town.

He would mutter to himself and lock himself in his room for hours. Only mother could comfort him in these trying times.

Then one day, a bunch of nobles discussed something with father; I don't know what it was, but my sister and mother had to leave.

Olivia was crying, but mother had a stern, resolute look on her face, as if she was making a noble sacrifice.

I never saw mother again after that.

Father got his wealth back, but he was still somewhat cold and didn't help the villagers as much as he did before. Still, he was kind to me.

Then, one day, father was acting strange. His back was hunched and he was wheezing heavily. I tried to tend to him, but he ended up hitting me instead. He then said words that I wouldn't forget:

"You are such a pest!"

I couldn't believe it. Father became something unrecognizable. Unable to bear it, I fled from the castle.

Luckily, there was a small villa that our family used for special occasions. I have lived there ever since.

It was also thanks to its location that I got to know the terrible situation of the townsfolk. I then decided that I would devote myself to helping them in any way I can, using my connections as princess of Perdita. Of course, I concealed by presence by telling everyone I was an ex-maid. The villagers have grown to despise the royal family and I do not want to be on the receiving end of their ire.

However, I would often get nightmares of the day father hit me. It was difficult to calm down during those times. Still, whenever I sent a letter to Hector telling him to come visit, he would always oblige. We would always talk for hours about many things.

However, I would often get nightmares of the day father hit me. It was difficult to calm down during those times. Still, whenever I sent a letter to Hector telling him to come visit, he would always oblige. We would always talk for hours about many things.

Whenever he was around, the nightmares would stop.