“Good afternoon, Sir Clara.”
“Greetings, Young Duke. It’s nice to see you again.”
I greeted Ludger with formal politeness, like a veteran knight.
Although I hadn’t been briefed on the tea party’s guest list, it was expected that influential figures from the social world would attend since it was hosted by the Second Prince and Lady Elisa.
Given the rumors already swirling around, I couldn’t risk doing anything that might draw more attention.
However, Ludger spoke to me with surprising warmth, either unaware of the rumors or deliberately ignoring them.
“Today’s gathering is a bit formal. It’s a shame I won’t get to see you in a dress again.”
“I thought it is best to wear my formal knight attire, considering the occasion. And besides, I couldn’t possibly prepare a suitable dress for myself for such an event.”
“I would’ve been happy to assist if you’d mentioned it in your letter.”
“That’s not necessary! Even though last time was unavoidable, there’s no need to rely on your help again.”
After hearing my reply, Ludger’s expression darkened, as if I had said something hurtful. What… why?
“Well then, since we’re both attending, let’s go in together. It would be awkward since most of the attendees are strangers.”
“.…”
Wouldn’t that just fuel more speculation?
But who am I to say ‘no’ to the next Duke when he asks something so directly? Unfortunately, there was no choice but to comply.
‘I’ll deal with this later…’
I hadn’t seen Ludger all week, which was a relief. Between the endless tasks and stolen moments of sleep, I had no time for anything else.
It seemed like we wouldn’t have time to talk during the tea party either, but I resolved to discuss things with him afterward.
“…Alright. Please lead the way. By the way, did Your Highness have a reason for attending today?”
“Ah, to be honest, I hadn’t originally planned on coming, but I made time when I heard you were attending.”
“.…”
Just as we started walking, Ludger made a remark that would send anyone’s suspicions through the roof if they overheard.
“Does Your Highness want to discuss something with me?”
“No, not specifically. I was just concerned about your well-being since the last time I saw you, you were unwell.”
Ludger leaned closer and spoke in a quiet voice, just audible for my ears.
“I heard that His Highness, Prince Alphonse, called for you. I was worried you might find yourself in an awkward situation if you were alone, so I came.”
“…I see.”
Well, considering that Prince Alphonse had downplayed my role in saving his life, it wasn’t hard to believe he had ulterior motives for summoning me.
Ludger had advised me to avoid the Second Prince, but it seemed he thought it was better to intervene directly this time.
‘At least he’s being proactive.’
Given my lack of political savvy, there was always a risk I could be manipulated without realizing it. Having someone like Ludger nearby me was undoubtedly reassuring.
“Thank you for your concern. If Your Highness ever needs assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my utmost to help.”
“.…”
Ludger paused, looking at me with a sad, almost hurt expression.
“…Why are you being so formal today? Are you perhaps upset with me?”
No! Absolutely not!
I couldn’t help but feel that his expression would only deepen any misunderstandings surrounding us. I tried to clarify quickly while backing away from him.
“That’s not it at all! I’m always grateful for the cooperation of the Treasure and Relics Management Office.”
“….”
“I wasn’t trying to be impolite, rather, I was being the opposite.”
Ludger let out a deep sigh.
‘What… did I say something wrong?’
“Even though I know, I still can’t understand.”
“Understand what?”
“I thought we were becoming a bit closer.”
I blinked in surprise.
“.…”
“Weren’t we?”
That was not what I expected to hear.
We were superior and subordinate in our respective roles, burdened by shared secrets, each keeping an eye on the other. There didn’t seem to be any other way to define our relationship.
“Well… it’s just that I don’t feel like I can call Your Highness, a noble, my friend.”
“.…”
“But if you ever feel lonely, or if you don’t have anyone to talk to, I can always lend an ear.”
As I spoke, Ludger’s expression worsened. He looked visibly upset.
“That’s not what I meant at all… Haa, never mind. This isn’t the right place for this conversation.”
“.…?”
“After the tea party, I’ll escort you home. We can talk then.”
“You really don’t have to—”
“I’ll escort you.”
“…Fine.”
Well, I tried my best to dodge this, but it seemed I only dug myself a deeper grave. I could only imagine what rumors would spread after we left the tea party together.
Still, Ludger didn’t seem like the type to act carelessly. I guess it might be a good opportunity to clear things up with him.
“And for the record, I don’t lack friends.”
“Really?”
“…Maybe not many, but still.”
I had a feeling. Someone like him wouldn’t have a large circle of friends, but he cleared his throat, as if embarrassed, while changing the topic.
“Actually, I’d like to introduce you to one of my friends today.”
“A friend?”
Wait, if Ludger considers someone a friend… could it be…?
“His Highness, Prince Jacques, is also attending the tea party.”
“……!”
You don’t usually introduce the First Prince as casually as a drinking buddy! Or do you?
And wasn’t Prince Jacques supposed to be at odds with today’s host, the Second Prince? How was it possible for him to attend the tea party so casually?
Sensing my reaction, Ludger further added with a faint smile.
“Lady Serphenne invited him. Since he’s staying at the same palace, there was no reason for him to refuse.”
“Ah, I see.”
In the original story, the female protagonist had a sunny, almost flowery disposition. With that personality, she somehow managed to mend important relationships and help the Second Prince along the way…
I wouldn’t be surprised if she thought, ‘I hope the brothers can become friends!’ Truly, a sunshine-like character that saves the day.
“Ah, here he is. His Highness, Prince Jacques.”
I followed Ludger’s gaze and saw a man with dark hair, similar to Prince Alphonse’s, but his eyes were a piercing blue, like sapphires. Unlike his younger brother’s seductive and languid appearance, Jacques exuded a cool, dignified presence.
‘As expected of the male lead’s older brother. He’s handsome, but definitely not my type.’
With Ludger leading, we approached Prince Jacques.
He looked over, smiled, and started walking towards us.
“I thought Ludger has only been jesting when he said he’d be attending the tea party, but here you are.”
“I never jest.”
“Well, more to the point, is this the ‘reason’ for your presence today?”
“Please don’t refer to people as ‘reasons’… Let me introduce her to you. This is Sir Clara Weyburn, Captain of the Ruby Knights.”
I stiffened slightly, doing my best to offer a respectful bow.
“It’s an honor to meet such a distinguished figure of the Leuke Empire. I am Clara Weyburn.”
“It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Capital Clara. I’ve been curious to see the person Ludger is being so close to recently.”
“.….”
“I was really wondering what kind of person you would be.”
Prince Jacques smiled warmly, though there was a hint of amusement in his eyes. Not knowing how to respond, I could feel myself sweating.
Fortunately, Ludger intervened, speaking in a calm, measured tone.
“Your Highness, please be considerate. Sir Clara is not used to such situations.”
“Ah, yes, you’re right. I apologize if I came off too imposing, Sir Clara.”
“It’s not a trouble at all! The honor is mine.”
Jacques leaned in slightly, offering a friendly smile.
“If we get a chance, I’d like to chat more later—perhaps in a less formal setting.”
“Yes, yes?”
“…Your Highness.”
“Alright, alright. I’ll take my leave for now. Enjoy the tea party, Sir Clara.”
With a final smile, Jacques turned and walked away. Despite his cold appearance, his demeanor was surprisingly light-hearted.
Ludger sighed and spoke softly.
“… He may seem overly enthusiastic, but he’s not a bad person.”
“Yes… His Highness is very different from what I expected, based on what I’ve read in the newspapers.”
“Well, it’s all about managing your public image.”
His casual tone hinted at the close relationship between the two. Lowering my voice, I asked Ludger quietly.
“Does His Highness, Prince Jacques… know about it?”
