Rejected by the Demon: Anna's Endless Refusals

Chapter 17: New Rumors Arise

Anna knew it would take a year at the manor to save a gold coin, while a commoner might not save a single silver coin after a year of living expenses. Demanding a gold coin was blatant extortion. In this world without law enforcement, disputes could be settled by the lord for three silver coins—a sum beyond the reach of most commoners. For most, the rule was survival of the fittest, with the strong or numerous ensuring their own interests.

In areas like Pomegranate Alley, conflicts were often resolved by respected elders known as "Lao Ye" in the East, who mediated disputes. Here, Abbas, the tavern owner, was such a figure.

While tending to Evan's injuries, Anna pondered. Bobby had been scared off, but likely sought Lily and her mother. Compared to Lily's naivety, her mother, Rene, was more cunning. Bobby's actions at the tavern hinted at Rene's influence. If the rumor about Parich's intention to marry her were true, Parich would handle the situation, either by paying the gold coin or intimidating the extortionist with his noble status.

If Anna's family couldn't afford the extortion, it would prove the rumor false, emboldening Bobby.

Even Anna's sharp mind was helpless against "lack of money." The only way to address this tavern incident was by getting Parich involved to confirm the rumor. Yet, if she asked for Parich's help, and he found out about the rumor, his reaction was unpredictable. Despite his friendly demeanor, Parich refused to teach her to read, probably because he saw her as unworthy. She could be an object of affection but not an equal deserving knowledge.

Anna's thoughts were interrupted by Evan, who said, "I'll ask Abbas to mediate. The injury can be treated for three silver coins, which we can afford."

Guy agreed, "I'll go with you."

Anna washed a linen cloth, listening silently. Nearby, Jem watched Evan intently, while Adele clutched little Evan's hand, her eyes red with unshed tears. Little Evan, tired and sleepy, leaned against Adele.

Anna picked up little Evan and told Adele, "It's time for you and Evan to sleep." Little Evan clung to her neck, and Adele quickly grabbed Anna's skirt, following her to the bedroom. Jem stood up, dusting himself off, and followed.

Once the children were settled, Anna returned to find Evan and Guy discussing the situation. She sat down and said, "I'm sorry for causing you trouble."

Guy hugged her, speaking gently, "You're our daughter. Don't say such silly things."

Evan patted her head, an unusually affectionate gesture for him, and reassured her, "I'll protect you, Anna."

Fighting the demon had been a solitary battle for Anna, but now, comforted by her family, she felt tears well up. She was grateful to have them as her support. Though she believed the original Anna had swapped bodies with her, she trusted the original would adjust to modern life and care for her family. Here, Anna resolved to make the best of her situation and care for this body's loved ones.

The next day, Anna went to work while Evan and Guy sought Abbas for mediation.

Delivering Parich's meal, Anna stood quietly, puzzling over the demon's recent inactivity. Had he found a new target, perhaps Parich? How would a male demon seduce a straight man like Parich? She dismissed the thought—there were other ways to steal souls.

Her musings were interrupted by Parich. "Dear Anna, I've heard an interesting rumor."

Anna's heart skipped a beat. The rumor had reached him sooner than expected. She decided to use it to her advantage.

"What rumor?" she asked, feigning confusion.

"About you and me," Parich laughed. "It says I'm teaching you to read because I want to marry you."

Anna appeared shocked, then angry. "Who would spread such a lie to tarnish your name, my lord?"

Parich chuckled. "Only a few people knew you asked me to teach you."

Anna's expression turned sheepish. "I might have mentioned it to others, but I never said anything like that!"

"Don't worry, dear. I believe you. But my father hearing this would be problematic," Parich said kindly.

Anna nodded vigorously. "I'll clear it up immediately!"

"Good," Parich said, resuming his meal cheerfully.

Rotgar, observing Anna's performance, silently mocked her. She might fool Parich, but not him. He was growing impatient with her resistance.

After clearing Parich's meal, Anna quickly left. When Abigail and the others saw her dejected face, they hurried over, concerned.

Anna looked at them, angry. "Did you tell anyone what I told you?"

The three looked guilty. Chatting was their pastime, and they couldn't help but share interesting tidbits.

Abigail asked cautiously, "What are you talking about, Anna?"

Anna replied, "Did you tell others that Parich is teaching me to read because he wants to marry me?"

Abigail quickly said, "No! We only mentioned he was teaching you. We wouldn't dare spread rumors about a marriage proposal."

"The problem is, he isn't teaching me!" Anna said, pretending to be upset. "I only asked him."

The three recalled her words and realized she hadn't said Parich had agreed.

Fiona shivered at the memory of Parich's stern demeanor. "Has Parich heard the rumor?"

Anna nodded. "He was very upset. He told me to clear it up. Since you spread it, you must help me."

Her words were truthful but carried a different implication for the trio. They believed Parich was concerned the rumor would harm Anna and wanted it quashed to protect her. They quickly agreed to help.

Anna was confident the issue was resolved. Parich's mild reaction and her careful words would foster a new, more advantageous rumor. If Parich questioned them, they couldn't accuse her of leading them astray—she hadn't lied, only used the art of language.

Anna awaited the rumor's spread, which would justify her family's handling of the tavern incident. Parich would logically stay out of it for now, but if things escalated, he wouldn't let his "beloved" be harmed.

That evening, Anna asked her parents about their visit to Abbas. Guy frowned, "It's not going well. Abbas didn't give a verdict today. We'll try again in a few days."

Though her parents were disheartened, Anna felt relieved. She needed time for the rumor to spread and deter their adversaries.

A knock at the door revealed another bouquet. Anna had continued receiving flowers from little Tim, even after deducing they were from him. This time, she saw him retreating and chased after him.

"Little Tim!" she called, stopping him.

He turned reluctantly. Under the moonlight, Anna could see his shy expression. "How did you know it was me?"

"At first, I thought it was Mark. When he said it wasn't, I guessed it was you," Anna said. "Thank you for the flowers, but you don't need to send them anymore."

Tim's face paled. "It's just flowers. They don't cost much. Won't you accept them?"

Anna sighed. "Tim, you've seen my family's situation. I'm sorry, but I'm not thinking about marriage right now."

Tim hesitated, then said, "But if you marry me, Bobby can't force you anymore!"

Anna was surprised by his suggestion. He had a point. Marriage, witnessed by the church, was sacred and inviolable. If she married Tim, Bobby couldn't claim her, and Tim's family could help fend off Bobby.

Logically, it was a good solution, but Anna had never considered it. She had worked so hard, only to rely on marriage to solve her problems? Though she liked Tim, she didn't want to accept his proposal.

Before she could refuse, Mark stepped from the shadows. "Anna, if you're thinking about marriage, don't just consider Tim. I'm here too! I'll treat you well and beat up Bobby if he bothers you."

Tim looked at Mark's strong build, feeling inadequate. Maybe Anna marrying Mark would be better.

Unseen by the trio, Rotgar watched from the shadows, furious. He had been patient, letting others push Anna, but she had outsmarted them and gotten two fools to propose. Was she planning to marry anyone to escape her troubles?

Rotgar's eyes narrowed, a murderous intent brewing.