The imperial palace on a dark evening. The carriage halted before the banquet hall.
I drew in a breath, held it, then exhaled quietly. When I had first arrived in the capital, I had been strangely nervous—but not like this.
"Are you very nervous?"
I had hoped to keep it less obvious. Edwin's eyes met mine as I tried to deny his tender concern. As was my habit, I stopped myself before saying no.
Those eyes, watching me as though waiting.
He was dressed in a brilliant uniform today. His hair, swept to one side, was gorgeous—and my heart fluttered with excitement. I found myself unable to look away, gazing at him blankly.
Then I heard a faint sound from somewhere.
Rattle.
It felt as though a bell had rung. I suddenly came to my senses and laughed, lowering my hands.
"I think it would be a lie to say I am not nervous at all."
Edwin, who had been watching me quietly, let out a low hum. He stroked his jawline with his index finger and cast an indifferent glance toward the banquet hall.
Then he looked at me and made a playful suggestion.
"I heard the Heferti delegation will attend the banquet starting tomorrow. What do you think? Shall we slip away for a date somewhere else right now?"
It was a sweet invitation—so sweet that it was almost vexing.
"Hmm... I am quite tempted, but I cannot."
But alas, I caught my reflection in the glass.
"As you can see, I put considerable effort into my appearance today to attend this banquet."
My image was reflected in the clean window. Though it might have seemed proud, Edwin nodded in agreement with a serious expression. It was a little embarrassing, but I did not hold back my words.
"My Lady, you truly look like a fairy. No—the Queen of the fairies."
Hannah's admiration suddenly echoed in my mind. I was the pride of everyone who had done their utmost to adorn me—from yesterday, or rather, from the moment I arrived in the capital from Vikander.
Therefore, it was forbidden to say anything that denied myself.
"And Edwin must attend the banquet. Even if the delegation begins tomorrow, it would be wise to become acquainted with the nobles who will be present at the council meetings."
Of course, I quickly changed the subject because I was a little embarrassed. Edwin, noticing my expression, spoke mischievously.
"Then perhaps we should part ways for a little while?"
"Only for a moment, you understand."
I spoke clearly.
Edwin, who was looking at Olivia smiling with her round eyes, gritted his teeth.
Every time she looked at him with eyes so full of trust, Edwin was grateful for that faith—but it also frightened him, as though a fire had ignited inside his chest. He did not know whether it was because of the people in this banquet hall, or because of the truth he had not yet revealed to Olivia.
It is just as Olivia said.
"You will be away only for a little while."
Edwin grinned and leaned toward Olivia.
Rattle.
The sound of bells rang faintly.
"After that moment, wherever I may be, I will soon return to Olivia's side."
The alluring voice was like a spell. I nodded my head. My heart, which had been beating irregularly from nervousness, began to race for an entirely different reason.