The day of the party had come. Clad in my gown, Mother looked at me with what I believe was her most genuine smile. I was kinda getting a bit squeamish under that stare.

“You look perfect, dear,” Mother said as she glided her hand above my gown’s frills. “Not to mention, that necklace…” She eyed the necklace with the blue gem as a pendant. “I didn’t know you had such a necklace in your collection.”

“I… bought it.”

Of course, that was a lie.

When I realized I needed to have an accessory to go along with my new gown, I realized that Carine didn’t have a simple necklace lying around. Sure, there were a few necklaces with simple cords, but the gems on them were so big they could actually be used as a portable hammer.

So, after thinking it through, I realized I had exactly what I was looking for, and it was my birthday gift. That’s right, I was wearing one of the necklaces that Fray had bought for Feyt. It didn’t make my neck itch, it didn’t weigh my head down, it was perfect.

As for how I got my hands on it, I simply just discreetly handed them over to myself after training. Father seemed to notice that I was storing something in my pockets when I approached him after training, but he didn’t question anything. Apparently, [Spatial Awareness] could be a good airport security tool.

Anyway, back to the present, I was now getting the final touch-ups from the two maids from before. They continued to do my hair and apply small makeup as Mother continued to circle around me, gazing at me like a statue.

“I have to say it looks rather simple, dare I say, cheap?” Mother said nonchalantly.

I knew Fray was the one who bought this, so while it might look like an expensive present from her side, this is a Duchess we’re talking about here. It looked rather simple, but that was what I liked about it. No pointy things jutting out of every rim, no sharp edges on every chain, just a simple, nice-looking gem on a silver cord.

I didn’t want Mother to pull out her recommendations, because who knows how long that will take, and she might even pull out something that would stab my neck every couple of steps. 

“I like it, Mother.” I decided to assure her that this necklace right here was my choice, and I ain’t changing it.

Mother looked on quietly, contemplating something. Then, she nodded. “Very well, if you like it that much, then so be it. It’s my first time ever seeing you have a preference for such things, dear.”

It’s not a preference, it was just my want for comfort and convenience.

“Now, remember,” Mother began, her tone shifting into her instructor’s voice. “Today is an opportunity, Carine. You must present yourself as you always are, perfect. The First Prince himself will be there, and it’s imperative you make a good impression.”

“Of course, Mother,” I said, keeping my expression neutral. Internally, I was screaming. I still didn’t know what to do on that front. I kept trying to think of a way out, but none seemed to pop out. 

Just as I was contemplating if I should focus on building up an apology to Mother instead, the maids finished their work. My hair was swept into an elegant updo, and the makeup was light enough to enhance my features without making my face look like a cake. I had to admit, they’d done a good job. If only I cared more about looking this fancy.

“It’s finished, Your Grace,” Ressa said to Mother.

“Good work you two. You’ve both done a great job. Head back to your rooms and have a quick rest.”

Ressa looked visibly relieved, with her hand on her chest as if she was grateful for the Lord’s blessing, while the other maid simply nodded with a smile and left.

That leaves me with Leila and Mother. I was still standing on a pedestal by the way.

“Now, all we need is for you to head there, Carine.” Mother turned slowly to Leila. “Leila, would you please help the coachman prep the carriage for Carine’s journey?”

“Of course, Your Grace.” Leila gave a deep bow. 

As Leila left, I asked a question. “Will Leila accompany me to the party?”

“Yes, the party allows for a servant to attend along with the invitee. If you need any help, Leila will take care of it.”

That was a huge relief. I didn’t know what I would actually do without Leila around. I know at the start I said I wanted to be a bit more self-reliant. But when life gives you lemons, you gotta make lemonade. 

As I waited for the carriage to be prepped, my other self was nearing its location.

…

I adjusted my shirt’s collar, giving it a sharp tug, before knocking gently on the large double doors.

“Come in,” a rough voice bellowed out from the door.

I pushed the door open and entered, ensuring it closed with a decisive click behind me. Father’s broad frame dominated the room, his shadow practically covering his whole desk. While it does look intimidating, won’t it hamper with paperwork?

“What is it, Instructor?”

“Morning, Feyt!” Father said with a booming voice, his smile as wide as ever. “It’s about your walk around the capital. You said you wanted to have it scheduled for today?”

I nodded. “That’s right, Instructor.”

Father stroked his chin thoughtfully, eyeing a piece of paper. “Very well. I’ll have Anton accompany you. He’s familiar with the area and should be a reliable escort.”

My stomach did a sick flip for a second there. “A-A-Anton?” I stuttered out. “W-Would it be possible if it was… Eliza?”

Father’s eyebrows shot up, his expression turning curious. “Eliza? Why not Anton? I thought you’d be more comfortable with a butler than a maid.”

A butler, a maid, that doesn’t matter. Just anyone besides Anton! Eliza was just the one I could name besides Ressa, and the latter was taking a break after dressing me—Carine—up, so I didn’t want to disturb her. Well, I already know many of the staff members here due to the constant rumors and my knowledge as Carine, but “Feyt” wasn’t supposed to know them yet.

The silence continued, then Father’s eyes narrowed further as he leaned forward. “Feyt, don’t tell me you’re interested in Eliza?”

I choked on air and my stomach did a full 720-degree front flip. I could feel my face flush hot enough to fry an egg. “Of course not!”

“Hahaha!” Father’s booming laughter filled the room, echoing off the walls like a drumbeat. “Relax, Feyt! I was only jesting.”

I let out a relieved sigh. I really didn’t want to deal with this kind of thing today. My composure was already shaky as it is.

“Alright, it would seem you’re in luck, Feyt. Eliza doesn’t seem to have anything important to do at the moment.” Father placed down the piece of paper and looked at me straight in the eye. “There are many things to enjoy around here. Restaurants, theaters, I’m sure you’ll find something. I’ll also give Eliza a few gold coins for you to use later, so just enjoy yourself, alright?”

He’s giving me free money?!

“I-I couldn’t possibly ask you for—”

“No, you didn’t ask for it,” Father shook his head. “I’m simply gifting them to you. You can’t enjoy the capital without spending a few coins here and there, Feyt.”

“I-If you say so… Ha, haha…” I felt a bit pampered. I tried to hide my grin by scratching the back of my ear.

“Now that’s all settled. I’ll have Eliza waiting for you at the entrance.” His eyes shifted to the grandfather clock ticking away at a nearby wall. “Please meet her there in half an hour, and make sure to make yourself look presentable.”

“U-Understood, thank you, Instructor,” I managed, bowing deeply before retreating from the room.

I hope I won’t bother Eliza too much.

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep