56
Now, let’s go back to the original story.
The current missing heirloom of the Kalleid Duchy.
‘The Heart of Winter.’
It was a blue sapphire ring passed down through generations in the ducal family.
After the untimely death of the previous Duke and Duchess, the ring went missing when Lucian was still young.
…By the way, the ring was stolen and sold by Viscount Craig.
Anyway, returning to the original story.
There is a secret in that heirloom, and that secret is…
‘That ring was actually a magical device that helped stabilize the family’s abilities.’
However, even if you consider the entire Kalleid Duchy, there were hardly any individuals who manifested their abilities.
The fact that ‘The Heart of Winter’ was a magical device did not become known outside.
The flow of the original story is roughly as follows.
Dante discovers ‘The Heart of Winter’ being auctioned at his own auction house and presents it to the original female protagonist.
Later, when the female protagonist learns that it belongs to the Kalleid Duchy, she returns it to Lucian.
Upon discovering this fact, Dante becomes furious with Lucian.
Lucian, now able to control his powers properly, surprises everyone by confronting Dante using his abilities, unlike before.
‘Anyway, if Lucian could safely use his abilities through the heirloom.’
That heirloom could interfere with Lucian’s abilities.
…It now also means that it could awaken Lucian’s dormant abilities.
However, at that moment.
“Lady Lepherian?”
A deep voice called out to me.
“What are you thinking about so deeply with someone sitting in front of you?”
“Oh.”
Suddenly coming to my senses, I blinked my eyes.
“I apologize.”
“Well, never mind. Shall we proceed with the contract then?”
Benedict, nodding his head, seemed to have been waiting, as he pulled out a contract document.
He adds a few more details on top and presents it to me.
“Take a look once.”
I carefully examined the contents of the contract.
‘It’s not bad for now.’
Everything from the initial investment I made to the profit distribution was written down.
There didn’t seem to be any poisonous clauses either…
I signed the document, and Benedict put the document he provided into my handbag.
“Well then, it seems we can conclude our meeting for today at this point.”
“Oh, wait. Let’s go out together.”
Benedict, who answered so, skillfully gathered the mug and glass pot on the table onto a tray.
Meanwhile, I subtly narrowed my eyes.
‘That thing is slightly annoying.’
It’s that brown short hair that tickles Benedict’s shoulders.
Since the cleaning earlier, that short hair had been flowing down on its own over his face.
He casually brushed the hair behind his ear, seemingly annoyed, without bothering to tidy it up.
He really didn’t seem to have any intention of fixing his hair…
“Don’t you have a hair tie?”
I, unable to hold back, spoke.
“It would be more comfortable to tie up your hair.”
But Benedict shrugged his shoulders and shook his head.
“Well, if I had a hair tie, I would have tied it up already, right?”
“…”
As I stared at Benedict for a while, I rummaged through my handbag and pulled out a plain black hair tie.
“Here you go.”
Since I have long hair myself, I always carried a hair tie with me.
I placed the hair tie on the table.
“I’ll leave it here, so tie it later if you want.”
“Hmm.”
Benedict, who alternately looked at me and the hair tie, folded his eyebrows and lowered his eyes.
“Then, may I borrow Lady Lepherian’s hand for a moment?”
“My hand?”
“Yes. I currently have no hands…”
Benedict extended the tray he held in both hands as if presenting it to me.
“Now that we have a hair tie, I thought you might want to get rid of this inconvenience quickly.”
“…”
Seriously, he couldn’t even endure that short time?
Then, how has he been wandering around with that short hair from this morning until now?
…Such questions rose in my mind, but I firmly suppressed them.
‘Hold back.’
This man is one of the male protagonists in this world and a partner in cultivating Palazzo together.
Moreover, it’s not that difficult to tie his hair.
Instead of answering, I abruptly stood up from my seat.
Then, I glanced at Benedict with a scrutinizing look.
“I have a strong desire to tie your hair, but you’re too tall.”
“Oh, then.”
Approaching the table, Benedict briskly took a seat in the chair.
I narrowed my eyes.
“Since you’ve taken a seat, why don’t you put down the tray and tie your hair yourself?”
“Huh, really.”
Benedict lowered his head in an exaggerated manner, as if heaving a sigh.
“Is it that you’re unwilling even to extend such a small favor to me?”
“What?”
“I knew Lady is quite stern, but this is truly heartbreaking.”
Then he nonchalantly shrugged his shoulders.
“Due to the immense emotional distress, my enthusiasm for cultivating Palazzo might wane…”
“Okay.”
Instead of engaging in more arguments with this man, it might be better to grant his request and quickly wrap things up.
I swept Benedict’s hair away with my hand.
‘…It’s soft.’
The sensation of the hair slipping through my fingers was akin to silk.
Well, it’s a bit strange to make such a comparison with a male protagonist.
It reminded me of the softness of the fur of a yellow-spotted cat I had touched once…
A moment later.
“All right, it’s done.”
Stepping back, I observed Benedict’s hairstyle.
Well, it seems I tied it up quite well.
Benedict, now with a ponytail, smiled contentedly.
“Thank you.”
Then, as if something just crossed his mind, he added.
“Oh, right. Lady should be aware of this as well. Even if you decide to invest in the business, it will take quite some time to see actual profits.”
“It’s okay.”
I have no intention of running away immediately.
Swallowing that response internally, I grinned.
* * *
Later.
I carried the pie box Benedict had prepared in both hands and walked out of the store.
The quantity was absolutely impossible for me to consume alone.
This time, it seemed like Lucian and Bridgette would devour it…
During that moment.
‘Huh?’
I widened my eyes.
A man who shouldn’t be here was standing in front of me.
Silver-black hair that painted the night sky.
Glowing crimson eyes.
A carefree posture with hands casually tucked into pockets.
“Marquis?”
At my call, Dante playfully lowered his eyes.
“Hello, love.”
“…What brings you here?”
My heart sank.
Could it be that he figured out I traded information with Benedict?
But his expression seemed rather calm…
Simultaneously, Dante approached me.
Casually taking the pie boxes in my hands, he slightly lowered his head, looking straight into my eyes.
“I wanted to surprise you. How was it?”
A faint mischief played over his red eyes.
I instinctively flashed a smile.
“…I was surprised.”
Well, if he pulls off something like this again, my heart might actually fall out.
If he confirmed I wasn’t in the pie shop or saw me sneak out with Benedict…
“What, I thought you’d at least be a little glad to see me.”
Brushing the hair that flowed down onto my cheek behind my ear, Dante made a somewhat disappointed expression.
“Am I not at all welcome, my love?”
Excuse me, but didn’t we see each other just three days ago?
Although I felt a strong urge to retort like that…
“I can’t believe that.”
Instead, I tightly embraced Dante’s arm.
A faint glow shimmered over his red eyes.
“I’m really happy that Marquis came to see me. Is today a day for you to focus on me?”
Speaking with intentionally sweeter tones, I cooed, and Dante chuckled.
“Of course it is, my love. What do you want to do today?”
“I’m fine with anything as long as I can be with the Marquis.”
“Anything, huh? That’s the most challenging answer.”
Dante shrugged his shoulders.
His smile became a bit brighter.
“Still, for once, I’ll have to make an effort.”
Effort.
Effort?
I silently pondered that word.
It seemed too inappropriate to describe Dante’s emotions towards me.
* * *
Benedict didn’t immediately return to work. Instead, he leaned against the wall, his fists clenched, and gazed through the glass.
Through the glass, he saw Elzé being escorted by Dante, leaving the scene.
‘What is this feeling?’
Benedict felt strangely downcast.
His small hand carefully brushing through his hair.
Did that hand yearn to be embraced by the Marquis of Openheimer, as if waiting?
“Ah, I don’t like this.”
Benedict muttered quietly.
The inexplicable discomfort.
… It bothered him tremendously.
T/N: As I mentioned before, he changes how he calls Elze sometimes, sometimes it’s Dear/Darling/baby/my love because it would not be fun if I wrote one nickname. His changing nicknames indicate his growing love and obsession. I also like Benedict’s character. I don’t think he’s bad at all.
57
* * *
Dante flaunted his efforts with money.
Yes, out of the blue, there was talk of an extravagant tour of high-end shops on Antique Street.
“We need to attend the Diorance Club soon, right?”
With those words, he took me forcefully to Madame Tilda’s clothing store to start the day.
“It’s okay; I already have plenty of dresses.”
“Still, buy one.”
Dante responded without batting an eye.
“I can’t stand my lover wandering around looking shabby.”
“…”
For a moment, I was speechless.
I made the maximum effort to persuade Dante.
“It’s not shabby. The dress I wore for the debutante last time, I could wear it for at least another three years.”
“Hmm.”
“It’s a waste.”
“What’s wrong with a little waste?”
“By then, all the trends will have passed.”
“You’re pretty, so it’s okay. If you wear it, it will become trendy again, right?”
I looked at Dante with a dumbfounded expression.
“…”
Dante’s eyes slightly curved.
“Why?”
“…It’s nothing.”
Well, what can you do when the male protagonist wants to spend some money? Just stand by and applaud.
“Welcome!”
Madame Tilda rushed over as soon as Dante and I appeared, taking off her shoes and running out.
It seems she can conveniently ignore the ominous rumors that the Marquis of Offenheir usually carries around.
Indeed, capital is truly magnificent.
“Will you come this way? Some new lace just arrived.”
Madame Tilda warmly stuck close to me.
I looked around with a puzzled expression.
“Why is there no one here?”
Usually, at this time, the ladies should be bustling in the dressing room.
Then, Madame Tilda’s eyes widened, and she asked me with curiosity.
“What? The Marquis of Offenheir informed us in advance that he would visit today, so we canceled all reservations… Is there a problem?”
“The Marquis?”
Surprised, I turned to Dante.
Dante, meeting my gaze, shrugged casually.
“You said you would try, right?”
“…”
I simply understood the dilemma.
Dante’s affection, lighter than a single sheet of stationery and more delicate than a feather, could easily be overturned at any moment.
And so, the person that man could truly love was only one in this world.
I know well that it’s the original female protagonist.
Nevertheless, my heart resents running without hesitation.
Because the irrational affection Elsie, the original character, held for Dante was too burdensome for me.
I bit my lip firmly.
* * *
After that, a situation similar to when preparing for the debutante party unfolded.
I, like a luxurious villainess, changed into several expensive dresses.
Dante, with an inscrutable expression, chin in hand, watched me change into multiple outfits.
Even so, the way he never took his eyes off me was fascinating.
I couldn’t have imagined that this man could display such patience…
“Just wait a moment! We have new fabric samples; I’ll bring them to you!”
Madame Tilda, fueled by enthusiasm for sales, hastily rushed into the fitting room.
Seizing this opportunity, I playfully threw a joke at Dante.
“Are you faithfully following Liam’s advice again this time?”
However,
“Well, not really.”
Unexpectedly, Dante shook his head.
“At first, I thought I wasn’t interested in women’s clothes, but it’s not that simple.”
“What do you mean?”
“So.”
Dante, who had been staring at me intently, replied casually.
“It’s somewhat enjoyable to watch oneself adorned.”
“…”
A seemingly trivial statement, yet it made my heart flutter.
It wasn’t my emotion but that of the ‘original Elsie.’
…It had to be that way.
“Oh, by the way.”
At that moment, Dante changed the subject.
“I’m thinking of moving the dresses you store in the clothing store warehouse to my townhouse. Is that okay?”
“What?”
I doubted my ears.
Then Dante squinted his eyes and asked me.
“Why that expression? Don’t you like it?”
“No, it’s not that… I’m just worried that it might be troublesome for the Marquis.”
“Troublesome. It’s not like I’m the one doing it; the servants will take care of it.”
Dante shrugged and added.
“When we had the debutante party before, you went back to the dormitory late at night, right?”
“Yes, that’s right.”
Staying at the townhouse would only lead to strange rumors.
Dante didn’t take our relationship seriously.
And someday, I would have to escape from Dante.
For the sake of each other, we thought it would be best if our relationship didn’t progress beyond a game of deception.
“Come to think of it, it seems like you don’t have anything in the townhouse.”
Tilting his head, Dante scrutinizes my expression.
“So, on that day, did you just go straight back to the dormitory without staying at the townhouse, thinking there might be some trouble?”
It was a pointed remark.
‘I wonder if I felt bad and went back to the dormitory right away.’
I reflexively became a bit tense.
But Dante didn’t seem to ask to interrogate me.
Dante shrugged and continued.
“Ladies usually have a lot of things they need, right? While moving the dresses, might as well get some suitable loungewear for yourself.”
“Well, I don’t necessarily need to go that far…”
“Why? Are you refusing again?”
Dante, all at once, interrupted me with an arrogant gaze.
“As you well know.”
Then he lowered his eyelids smoothly.
“I hate repeating myself.”
“Well…”
“I’m sure I mentioned it before.”
Dante spoke lazily.
“I said I would try.”
“Why?”
Why are you doing this?
Since when did you start paying attention to me?
Wasn’t our relationship some kind of game?
Why do you keep trying to include me in your daily life?
I feel…
‘Uncomfortable.’
Numerous words circled around inside my mouth.
But…
“…”
I only bit my lip, unable to utter any words.
At the same time, Madame Tilda returned.
“Take a look at this fabric sample! We managed to get this luxurious purple fabric; isn’t it beautiful?”
…Luckily, Madame Tilda was oblivious.
I quickly turned my attention to the fabric sample.
“I like this fabric. Are there other colors?”
“Of course! We have pink and green…”
Madame Tilda enthusiastically continued talking about the fabric samples.
“…”
I felt Dante’s gaze fixed on me.
Although a twinge ran down my spine, I steadfastly avoided Dante’s eyes.
But at that moment…
“If you’re going to get a new dress, wouldn’t it be nice to pick out some matching shoes as well?” Dante suddenly interjected into the conversation.
Madam Tilda also seized the opportunity to showcase her new merchandise.
“You’re absolutely right, Marquis!”
Madam Tilda beamed, her eyes sparkling like jewels.
“Indeed, in our store, we not only sell dresses but also various accessories that ladies wear. Would you like to take a look?”
“Sure.”
Dante responded with a cheerful expression.
Madam Tilda, in high spirits, signaled to her employees.
“Hey, all of you! Bring some shoes here.”
“Yes, understood!”
The employees quickly entered the clothing store.
A moment later, numerous shoes were laid out in front of me.
There were glossy shoes adorned with extravagant jewel decorations, boldly ankle-wrapped shoes with ribbons, and shoes with open toes…
In terms of color and material, these shoes were all different, but they had one common feature—they all had high heels that looked dizzyingly tall.
Amidst all these options, there was one pair of shoes that caught my eye.
‘Those.’
They were more like sandals than shoes.
There were no sparkling jewel decorations, but the material looked luxurious and elegant.
And the most appealing part was…
‘The heel is low.’
The sandal’s heel was surprisingly low.
It was just the right height for walking around comfortably.
At that moment,
“This one’s pretty.”
A hand reached out next to me and picked up one of the shoes.
Dante had chosen the Sakaman shoes, which had a thin and dangerously high heel.
There were no decorations, but the smooth curves of the slender body were graceful.
A faint smile played on Dante’s lips.
“I heard that high heels suit you well.”
Then, he handed me the shoe.
“Want to try it on?”
“…”
Glancing at the shoe with an indifferent gaze, I soon found myself smiling brightly.
“Of course. You personally chose this shoe for me. I’m really happy.”
“Good.”
Dante nodded, gracefully kneeling in front of me like a knight paying homage to a queen. I looked down at him with a delicate expression on my face.
58
“Marquis, you don’t need to do this.”
I tried to hastily dissuade Dante, but he responded nonchalantly, “No, I want to.”
I gazed at Dante with a delicate look.
Even if it was to put on my shoes, I never expected to witness that arrogant man kneeling in front of someone.
Moreover,
‘…I never thought he would personally put shoes on me.’
But rather than excitement, I felt more fear.
If his actions were as described in novels, it would have been easier to predict what he might do in the future.
Every time Dante treated me affectionately,
So every time he exceeded my expectations…
I felt terrified.
Meanwhile, Dante, who had satisfactorily looked down at my feet in the shoes, gently swept my ankles.
“It suits you well.”
Truly a sweet gesture like a prince from a fairy tale.
But I knew that hand could twist my ankle in an instant.
“Thank you, Marquis.”
So, I smiled even more gently.
Because the moment I revealed fear, Dante would devour me, metaphorically.
“May I choose a gift for you too?”
For a moment, anticipation flickered on Dante’s face.
“What, a gift?”
“Well, since you’re buying it with the Marquis’s money anyway. It’s not exactly a gift, but…”
As I hesitated for a moment, I continued speaking.
“Considering that you’ll be attending the Diorlance Club, how about a cravat?”
“Not a bad idea.”
Dante nodded approvingly.
I turned to Madam Tilda.
“Madam Tilda, could you show us some cravats?”
Even though it was a women’s clothing store, I knew they sold small accessories that ladies sometimes gift to gentlemen.
My expectations were not wrong; Madam Tilda responded with a bright smile.
“Of course! Just wait a moment, please.”
After a short while,
Employees brought a large box.
Inside the box, luxurious cravats were neatly arranged.
As I carefully examined them, I picked up one.
It was an elaborate item with delicate embroidery in gold thread.
Although a common person might bury their face in this cravat…
“How about this one?”
With a bit of mischief, I showed the cravat to Dante.
Honestly, it was such a noticeable item that the person wearing it might feel a bit burdened.
However,
“If you chose it, then anything is fine.”
Dante just shrugged his shoulders.
“Would you like to try it on?”
“If you’re the one putting it on.”
I tied the cravat around Dante’s neck.
After adjusting it nicely, I stepped back a few paces to observe.
“It suits you well.”
Dante, the male protagonist of this world, boasted a dazzling charm like a venomous rose.
This man, who possessed an overwhelming presence, was not overshadowed by the ornate cravat at all.
Instead, it seemed like the cravat was made just for him.
‘You will wear that cravat without feeling any discomfort.’
Every time I put on the shoes you gave me, even though my breath was stifling.
Dante, who happened to glance at himself in the mirror with a casual gaze, turned to me briefly.
“Untie the cravat.”
“Yes.”
I approached Dante again.
Dante willingly entrusted his neck to my hands, his face showing a relaxed expression, not even suspecting that I might play a prank on him.
And me,
‘I want to mess up that face.’
As I untied the cravat, a strong grip tightened around my hand.
If only I could.
…I wanted to strangle Dante’s neck right then and there.
* * *
After giving Madam Tilda a tremendous boost in sales,
As Dante and I stepped outside, we unexpectedly encountered someone.
“Marquis.”
It was Liam, unable to hide his perplexed expression.
“You promised to be back two hours ago!”
By the way, it’s well past three now…
Dante responded cheekily, “Why are you so worked up, like a colt with a fire on its tail?”
“What? No, what are you talking about!”
“When important matters come up, you might be a little late. Isn’t that right, My love?”
Turning away from Liam, who seemed almost ready to topple backward, Dante glanced at me with a fleeting gaze.
‘Important matters?’
I felt a bit puzzled.
So far, all Dante has done is buy various dresses, shoes, and accessories with me at the clothing store.
How is that considered an important matter?
“We don’t have time for this; there’s only an hour left until the appointment with the business partner! You need to leave immediately!”
Liam, who belatedly noticed my presence beside Dante, raised his voice unintentionally.
With a deep sigh, Liam politely greeted me.
“Nice to see you again, Miss Elze.”
“Liam, you’ve worked hard too.”
Liam and I exchanged a knowing look.
You could say it was the camaraderie between colleagues who share the burden of an annoying boss?
Then, with a troubled expression, Dante muttered to me.
“What’s up with you two exchanging those looks? I feel left out.”
“…”
Liam sighed deeply.
I looked at Liam with a somewhat sympathetic gaze.
‘If I leave Liam like this, he might end up with a hole in his head and be taken to the hospital.’
When suffering from the same ailment, they understand each other’s hardships.
I decided to help Liam a little.
“Hurry inside. If Liam is saying this much, it must be a really important business deal.”
“Well, it is an important deal.”
Dante, hands in his pockets, shrugged his shoulders.
“Among important things, there are varying degrees of importance, right?”
“What?”
“I mean, he’s more important than the deal.”
“…”
I bit my lip tightly.
It was nothing but sweet words, with no sincerity mixed in.
Even knowing that, I couldn’t help but waver, feeling so pathetic…
‘I have to get rid of that man from my sight as soon as possible.’
That way, I might be able to momentarily escape from this irrational emotion.
With that judgment, I lifted my heels.
Wrapping Dante’s neck with both arms, Dante, always relaxed, widened his eyes.
“…My love?”
I pressed my lips against his, seemingly surprising Dante a bit. Nevertheless, his hand pulling me close showed no hesitation.
In an instant, the kiss became intense.
“Marquis.”
After a long while of engulfing Dante’s lips,
I whispered, staring straight into his red eyes.
“When bidding farewell with a kiss.”
My voice, muffled and crushed, flowed out.
“You said, ‘Think of lips as a must.'”
“…”
“So.”
I gestured with my eyes, pointing at Liam, who was staring at us with an astonished expression.
“Don’t make it difficult for the loyal assistant, and go back for today.”
Well, I feel a bit sorry for Liam.
Suddenly witnessing the scene of the owner and his lover kissing, how embarrassing must it be?
Upon hearing those words, Liam suddenly snapped out of it and looked down at his wristwatch.
Then, with a distressed expression, he pleaded with Dante.
“Miss Elze is right. There really isn’t much time left!”
“…Alright.”
Dante responded slowly.
Perhaps because the lingering feeling of pleasure remained faintly,
his voice was somewhat hoarse.
“You’re saying it that much, I might as well comply.”
I smiled and replied, “I really enjoyed spending time with you today. Will you come and visit again next time?”
“Well, don’t complain if I come too often, okay?”
Dante playfully retorted and kissed my forehead loud enough for Liam to hear.
Then he turned to Liam.
“Still, you should at least drive her to the carriage waiting area.”
“Oh, of course! Your words make perfect sense!”
Liam answered, now with a flushed face.
It seemed that seeing Dante and his lover suddenly kissing had left him quite embarrassed.
* * *
So, after confirming my boarding into the carriage,
Dante finally left.
Inside the carriage, I reflected on the events that had taken place today.
The deal with Benedict.
Dante coming to me out of the blue.
The shoes he gave me that wrapped around my feet like chains.
“…”
I bit my lip until it bled.
Did I kiss Dante because I really wanted to send him away?
Or was it a result of the affection that the ‘original Elze’ had, swayed by the desire to touch him even a little?
What on earth was the nature of these emotions I harbored towards Dante?
…I just couldn’t figure it out.
59
* * *
Lucian had a dream from a long time ago.
However, it wasn’t a nightmare of a winter day with drizzling rain.
Rather, it was from a slightly earlier period.
A time when his parents were still alive, and Lucian was the happiest boy in the world.
[Dad!]
Lucian ran towards his parents standing in the distance.
His father, turning around, warmly smiled and patted young Lucian’s head.
[Our son. Did you go for a walk?]
[Did you finish all your homework?]
Meanwhile, his mother standing by his father’s side looked at Lucian with a suspicious glance.
Lucian puffed up his cheeks.
[Sigh, Mom always talks about studying.]
[If our son does his homework properly, then Mom shouldn’t worry about Lucian like this, right?]
His mother, placing her hand on her hip, scolded Lucian.
‘No.’
Lucian swallowed a dry gulp.
If he stayed like this, he might have to listen to his mother’s nagging all day.
He had to somehow change the topic.
[Ah, Dad!]
So, he managed to open his mouth, but… he didn’t really have anything to say.
As Lucian, with rolling eyes, tried to find something to say, he suddenly noticed a large sapphire ring on his father’s finger.
Come to think of it, his father never took off that ring even for a moment.
[Dad, why do you always wear this ring?]
[Ah, this?]
At Lucian’s question, his father grinned and winked.
[It’s a tradition passed down in the Kaleid family from generation to generation.]
[A tradition?]
[Yes. It’s called the ‘Heart of Winter’…]
His father gently patted Lucian’s shoulder.
[Someday, it will be yours.]
[Really?]
[Yes. The only person who can succeed as the head of the Kaleid family is you.]
…There was a time like that.
Under the shadow of his parents, he believed without a doubt that he could live a peaceful life.
A very brief peace granted to Lucian.
If only his parents hadn’t left so miserably, he would have spent time together with them no matter what…
‘Ah.’
Simultaneously, Lucian slowly lifted his eyelids.
The gray ceiling came into view.
A ceiling that he never wanted to get used to.
…But it was already a ceiling he had become accustomed to.
Clack! Creak…
Right then, the sound of a key turning in the lock echoed beyond the door.
Lucian abruptly turned to look at the door.
“Lady L…”
Lucian reflexively tried to call Elze.
He closed his mouth when he saw a stranger carrying a morning meal tray entering the room.
The man bowed his head towards Lucian.
“Nice to meet you. In Lady Elze’s absence, I will be attending to Lucian for a while.”
“…”
Lucian stared at the man with a blank expression.
“Yes.”
Elze had mentioned it before.
Since the incident with the genuine perfume, all the original servants in the annex had been replaced, the news went.
‘Then, is this man a newly assigned servant?’
Moreover, considering that Liam himself was a person who served as the personal secretary to the Marquis of Offenheir, it was clear that he couldn’t just keep an eye on Lucian alone.
Anyway, if it was a day when Elze couldn’t come to see Lucian in person…
“Is today June 25th by any chance?”
In response to Lucian’s question, the man, who was just putting the meal tray down on the table, nodded.
“Yes, that’s correct.”
“…”
In that case, today, Elze would become the partner of the Marquis of Offenheir and attend the Diorlance Club.
At that moment, Lucian’s mood became very low.
The man discreetly gauged Lucian’s reaction.
“If you don’t have an appetite today either…”
“No, I’ll eat.”
Honestly, he didn’t have much of an appetite. However, because of the recent side effects of the genuine perfume, he had been grumbling with discomfort in his throat, causing concern for Elze.
‘I can’t make him worry again this time.’
Quietly lifting his utensils, Lucian suddenly looked through the iron bars to the scenery of the garden.
The seasons had ripened even more, and the word “early summer” now seemed pale.
The roses that unfolded beyond the window were now at their end. The red petals had almost all fallen, and only the green leaves sparkled in the sunlight.
‘…I can’t stay here forever.’
That was the promise with Elze.
To escape from this dreadful boarding school together.
For that to happen…
‘At the very least, I shouldn’t mess things up due to lack of stamina.’
Lucian tore a piece of bread and put it in his mouth. The piece of bread felt like sand as it crunched inside his mouth, but he persistently chewed and swallowed.
He was determined to keep his promise with Elze, no matter what.
* * *
Diorance Club was located on Brandt Street.
Brandt Street was the heart of the empire, densely populated with major government offices and residences of the nobility. Simply entering Brandt Street itself symbolized a kind of social success.
The area in front of the building owned by the Second Prince, where the club was held, was already crowded with carriages.
By the way, Viscount Craig couldn’t attend. The viscount was just a substitute for Duke Kalleid, not officially ennobled as a duke.
‘The former Duke Kalleid was known to be a member of the club.’
Imagining the viscount’s face turning red and blue, it was a bit amusing. I hid a small smile.
“Anything good happen, my lord?”
At that moment, Dante asked me a question.
“Your expression is bright.”
“Well, I’m happy to attend an event like this with the lord.”
Well, it might be too much of a schedule to indulge an lover to be used and discarded like a mere toy.
Hiding cynical thoughts, I looked at Dante with a sweet gaze.
“A bit… it feels like getting closer to the lord. So, I like it.”
“…”
Maybe it was an illusion, but Dante’s expression seemed to soften a bit.
Seizing the moment, I added a few more words.
“I don’t mean to insist on attending external events together. I just… spending time with the lord is enjoyable in itself.”
I concluded my words like a girl in love, blushing both cheeks and pretending to shyly avert my gaze.
“…”
Then, after a moment of silence.
A soft voice echoed.
“In the future.”
Huh?
I lifted my head slightly.
Unnoticed, Dante was now looking out the window, resting his chin on his hand. His ears were slightly red.
“…I’ll try to make time for you.”
What’s going on?
I became a bit puzzled.
Lately, Dante has been acting strangely.
The Dante I know wasn’t a man who behaved so affectionately towards Elze.
Wouldn’t it be more natural for him to coldly push me away, complaining about my clinginess, rather than being this affectionate?
Why did he change so much?
At the same time, the carriage stopped.
Dante, who got off the carriage first, reached out his hand to me.
“Let’s go, darling.”
“…”
I silently stared at the hand extended to me.
Even being escorted by him in such a natural manner felt unfamiliar.
If it were the old Dante, he would have jumped off the carriage alone, whether I got off or not, walked ahead with both hands in his pockets, leaving me behind.
…But there’s no need to dwell on that issue now.
“Thank you.”
I clasped my hand in Dante’s.
Dante skillfully escorted me towards the club building.
Meanwhile, a crimson gaze touched the new suede shoes peeking beneath the dress.
He whispered teasingly.
“I gave you those shoes, right?”
“Yes.”
Since the shoes were personally chosen by the male protagonist, I should wear them consistently and leave an impression.
I nodded, concealing my mixed feelings.
At the same time, Dante faintly smiled.
“They look pretty. They suit you well.”
“…”
In that moment, I felt my heart sink.
‘Why is that guy smiling at me like that?’
It wasn’t his usual sharp smile.
Just a satisfied, gentle smile.
In an instant, the emotions of the ‘original Elze’ surged wildly.
‘No.’
I took a short deep breath.
Being swayed by that guy will only make my escape more difficult.
What I need now is clear-headed rationality and a cold judgment.
So, emotions like affection…
‘I don’t need them.’
60
Coincidentally, the gatekeeper at the entrance of the club noticed us.
“Excuse me, could you please state your name?”
It was a procedure to confirm club membership.
Dante, who cast a sidelong glance at the gatekeeper, responded in a nonchalant tone.
“Dante Dessaby Offenheir.”
For a moment, a slight surprise and fear flickered in the gatekeeper’s eyes.
After all, it was surprising that ‘that’ Marquis Offenheire attended.
Dante had been a long-time member of the Diorlance Club, but in reality, he rarely showed up at the club.
Partly because he was so busy and partly due to the longstanding ill-fated relationship between him and the imperial family.
For someone like Dante to visit the Diorlance Club…
‘Probably to thoroughly investigate the Second Prince’s affairs.’
Though I, as this man’s lover, shouldn’t be saying such things, I honestly don’t think he has refined tastes.
Dante pointed to me with a tilt of his chin.
“And this is my partner, Elze Lepherian.”
“Ah…”
The gatekeeper showed a momentary expression of understanding.
Well, the gatekeeper probably gathered various rumors while serving esteemed guests.
Among them, there might be rumors of a luxurious villainess always following behind Dante like a shadow.
But that’s just for a moment.
“Welcome, both of you. Please come inside.”
The well-trained gatekeeper quickly concealed his emotions and politely bowed.
So, as soon as we stepped inside the club.
I felt it.
The moment Dante and I appeared, the atmosphere of the club seemed to tense up.
Dozens of pairs of eyes instantly focused on us.
“…”
“…”
It was a gaze mixed with fear, disdain, and unavoidable admiration.
However, Dante paid no attention to whether others stared or not.
As if he were the organizer of this club, he displayed an incredibly composed attitude.
“Darling, sit here.”
Dante, without any hesitation, walked into the center of the club and offered me a seat.
A comfortable-looking sofa in a position overlooking the entire club.
It seemed to be the most prestigious seat.
Usually, such a seat would be reserved for the organizer of the club…
‘If I’m asked to sit, then I’ll sit.’
The person currently holding my leash is not the Second Prince but Dante.
I casually sat on the sofa, feigning nonchalance.
Dante took the seat beside me, casually pulling me close and wrapping his arm around my shoulders.
“How’s that? Not uncomfortable, is it?”
Wouldn’t you find it uncomfortable?
Suppressing the desire to retort, I lowered my eyelashes with a casual smile.
“It’s very comfortable.”
“Then I’m glad.”
Dante chuckled as if he heard what I said.
At that moment, people glared at us with wide-open eyes.
The intensity of their gazes was almost palpable…
Nevertheless.
‘Dante seems… perfectly fine.’
Observing Dante’s indifferent appearance, it seemed like he had a knack for maintaining a poker face.
To avoid the gazes of the onlookers, I subtly turned my head and glanced at the club’s surroundings.
The overall atmosphere resembled a large reception room.
Dim crimson lights created a cozy ambiance.
Luxurious mahogany tables and sofas, seemingly crafted as a set, were placed throughout, and gentlemen and ladies occupied various tables, engaged in conversations.
In a corner, a noticeable stage for theatrical performances caught my eye…
‘Come to think of it, is theater trending in society these days?’
However, the current trend in society involves members of clubs and salons participating directly in the plays, rather than hiring actors.
‘They say the Second Prince has a considerable interest in poetry and the arts.’
It seemed that the rumors were true.
But at that moment…
“I appreciate everyone coming here.”
A middle-aged man with a benevolent smile extended his greetings while sweeping his gaze around.
Dressed in a perfectly fitted suit with meticulously combed hair, he exuded an air of sophistication.
Deep wrinkles around his eyes gave him a dignified appearance.
‘Ah, that person must be the Second Prince.’
I quietly observed the Second Prince.
In the current imperial family, there are two princes.
Both born to the Empress as legitimate sons, the eldest prince assumed the role of Crown Prince early on, assisting the aging Emperor in state affairs.
The man standing before me is the Second Prince…
‘In truth, he doesn’t have a particularly noticeable presence.’
From the beginning, the Second Prince never became a significant figure, even failing to be a suitable comparison to the current Crown Prince.
He had no interest in the state affairs education that an heir to the throne should receive and only sought to enjoy the privileges of being a prince.
During the time Dante’s mother was alive, he was notorious for being a wastrel.
In the end, the imperial family supported the Second Prince with a certain amount of money, urging him not to cause trouble.
As a result, the Second Prince was practically enjoying a carefree life.
“I’m delighted to see such familiar faces. Moreover…”
The expression of the Second Prince, who seemed to be about to say more, suddenly crumpled.
He had noticed Dante and me sitting in the prominent seats.
Seeing his uncle’s presence, Dante brazenly lifted his chin, as if challenging him.
“Marquis Offenheir.”
The Second Prince, approaching us, stared at Dante with a stern gaze.
“What on earth is this behavior?”
“What do you mean?”
Dante replied cheekily.
Then the Second Prince’s face stiffened slightly.
“Owners have their own rules, and guests have theirs.”
“So?”
“Keeping those boundaries is a shortcut to maintaining a long-lasting friendship.”
Although he said this, it was clear that he wanted Dante to immediately vacate the seat and withdraw as a guest.
Dante, who had been glaring at the Second Prince, promptly echoed his words with exaggerated emphasis.
“Oh, I see. We must adhere to the rules… Yes, you’re absolutely right.”
But that was only for a moment.
Dante tilted his head slyly.
“However, it’s a bit fascinating to hear the Second Prince preaching about rules.”
The Second Prince furrowed his brow.
“What do you mean?”
“Right in front of Your Highness, there stands the result of Your Highness turning away from the rules.”
“…”
The Second Prince’s face stiffened for a moment.
Dante was now narrating the story of my birth.
“As there are rules for owners and guests, wouldn’t there also be rules to be upheld within a family?”
“What nonsense…!”
“Those who know about these fancy rules, why did Your Highness turn away from your only sister?”
Dante retorted with a mischievous smile.
A sharp tension gripped the Second Prince’s jaw.
It was due to the difficulty of suppressing his anger, evident in his tightly clenched teeth.
“…”
“…”
A silence as sharp as a blade descended upon the scene.
No one dared to speak easily.
This was because the tragedy of the imperial princess, hidden and hushed up by the imperial family, was a well-known public scandal.
Among them, the only person free from the constraints was Dante.
“As a brother, it is only natural to protect and cherish your younger sister, isn’t it?”
“Marquis, be careful with your words!”
The Second Prince growled and glared at Dante.
However, Dante paid no attention to it.
“When your one and only sister conceived a child of unknown origin, shouldn’t you have naturally tried to find out the mastermind behind it?”
“Look here!”
“Moreover, considering that your sister took her own life, you seemed ignorant of the law…”
Dante shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.
“Now I see, it’s not that you don’t know, but that you deliberately turned a blind eye, Your Highness?”
“…”
The Second Prince’s anger made his shoulders tremble, but he couldn’t retort.
The reason he couldn’t argue back was…
‘He must have hit a nerve.’
The story about Dante’s mother was a long-standing sore spot in the imperial family.
Even though she was a legitimate imperial princess born of the emperor’s blood, she was ignored by the imperial family due to the troublesome nature of the imperial household.
Even the coldest-hearted person wouldn’t treat their own child like that…
‘No, maybe our father would have done the same?’
In that moment of reflection, where I recalled my biological father, whom I had long forgotten…
“…”
The Second Prince, who had been glaring at us with a resentful face, abruptly turned away.
Perhaps he judged that further confrontation would yield nothing.
Dante seized the opportunity to grab the Second Prince.
“Moreover, Your Highness.”
Dante raised an eyebrow and deliberately put on a hurt expression.
“You haven’t given my partner a single glance since earlier. It’s quite upsetting.”
‘Why is this guy suddenly acting like this?’
I looked at Dante’s profile with a cold, indifferent gaze.
At the same time, Dante tightened his arm around me.
“Elze is someone I value in my own way.”
“…”
“At the very least, I wish you would have given her a chance for a proper greeting.”
Ah, for heaven’s sake.
