Villainess' Second Chance

CHAPTER FIVE

Being in the capital the next day exhausts me, especially when everyone is chattering about me, and not even in a good way. I'm sitting in the carriage with Veronica, I wanted to revisit the shop where I left the cup to examine.

I took a deep breath, it isn't as effortless to be the evil person like everyone assumes. Everyone avoids me and everyone seems to hate me. I heard constant rumors, and some of them aren't even true. Just like earlier, I heard a new rumor about me that I purchased a slave and kept it in the ducal state's dungeon.

The Duke doesn't even have a dungeon! That's ridiculous!

I used to say that Eloise is indeed a good antagonist back when I was merely a 'regular' human reading the novel. But I can understand how difficult it must have been for her to endure such comments every day now that I'm living in her shoes for the second time.

I let out a deep sigh. My eyes were wandering at the carriage's window when I saw a mass number of people hovering near the capital.

What exactly in the world is going on over there?

Veronica asked, "My lady, is there something wrong?"

"Nothing," I repeat. However, I couldn't shrug the feeling, something's indeed bothering me.

When we returned to the ducal's residence, Veronica sorted all of the items I purchased at the boutique while I dressed in my chamber. I love spending on the dresses, probably because I love wearing Eloise's gowns.

"Veronica," I called

"Yes, my lady?"

"I'd like to take a stroll. Please do not follow me." I stated before I left my chamber. Veronica only bow her head down.

Just the same as yesterday, I went for a stroll in the garden, but when I arrived, I spotted someone. It's Augustus, wielding his sword hilt alongside other knights nearby.

I'm basically standing here observing every move that he makes. I understand why Thalia fell in love with him. He had this strong but gentle aura, his expression is just as angelic as hers, and he cares about her all the time.

I don't know why Eloise fell in love with that man in the novel, but since I'm not technically Eloise, he's not my type.

He's bound to be in love with Thalia, and I can't be known as the villain and also be a man stealer.

He glanced in my direction and looked startled to see me, he then immediately looked away. Despite my confusion, I really do not care.

I sat down on the grass and gazed at the dahlia and the other lovely flowers in front of me.

I decided to lay on the grass for a while to admire the fresh air and the lovely view. It's peaceful. Slowly, I closed my eyes and took a quick nap.

I only woke up when I heard Veronica sounding a bit concerned.

"M'lady, why are you lying down there?" Veronica stated, "It's almost time for your lecture, Miss Adelaide will be arriving shortly."

I sat down and rubbed my eyes. Did I sleep for too long? Veronica assisted me to stand up. Before we headed back to the mansion, I noticed Augustus on the side. We made eye contact.

Until now I still couldn't read what he was thinking...

As I entered that room, I spotted Adelaide occupied with a book. Damn, she even got here earlier than I do.

"Oh my, am I late?" I asked

Adelaide was a bit surprised as she didn't immediately notice I entered the room. She looked up and saw me, "Ah, n-no, not really at all, lady Eloise, I-I just arrived here," she spoke before she stood up.

"I see, but I still feel terrible for becoming tardy, I'm sincerely sorry," I uttered and bowed my head down

She panicked, "N-no, no no, it was all fine! Really, you don't have to bow your head to me."

I stood up straight and smiled before I sat down across her. We engage in a brief conversation as the room erupts in laughter before we begin our lesson.

A few hours have passed, and the lesson is finally over. Time goes by so quickly when you're having fun.

"I had a wonderful time today, Adelaide."

She smiles, more relaxed than yesterday, "Likewise, lady Eloise, you're nothing at all like the rumours depict. I'm beginning to like you as my student." She stated, "I'm looking forward to having another class with you."

I give Adelaide a smile in return and remark, "Then, I'll see ya tomorrow. I'll plan something enjoyable for us."

She looked perplexed, "But, lady Eloise, we don't have any class schedule tomorrow."

"Don't worry about it. I plan on hanging out with you this weekend as a thank you for being patient with me and not quitting on me like my other teachers did prior." I smile, "It'll be my treat."

"Oh my, I- I don't know what to say. But I'm looking forward to it."

"Great! Same day tomorrow, alright?"

Adelaide simply nodded in enthusiasm before she bid farewell. I waved back to her as Veronica escorted her to her carriage.

I was wondering if I also deserves a little treat. A dessert won't hurt, am I right?

As soon as Veronica came back, I immediately requested her, "I would want to eat something sugary, Veronica. Could you bring me some desserts?"

"As you wish, my lady," she bow her head

"Thank you," I said before she walked out of my chamber and went to the kitchen.

I couldn't help but be happy. At last, someone finally see me as a person, not as a villain. Adelaide Bouvier, I'll make sure you'll still going to end in the same original path that the novel written for you, I'll just help you along the way as you friend.

This excites me so much I could barely contain my smiling face.

Well, I'll find a way to reward her tomorrow.

It's too early to propose that she work as the royal prince's mentor, but what are the possibility she won't agree? Plus, the imperial palace are looking for someone to privately tutor the prince, this is Adelaide's only chance.