Unfortunately, I'm an Evil Villainess

Chapter 43 - My Future Father-in-Law

Now that the holy days were finally over, Father brought up the betrothal to the king, who requested a meeting with us. Mother and Father prepared a list of questions that he might ask and had me memorize all of them and the answers. It was child's play after the ceremonies.

In my past life, I never had a job before I died, so this was my first ever interview, and one that would determine the entire course of my life. I could hardly wait.

"Are you ready, my angel?"

"Yes, Father! I'll be out in a second."

I gave one last twirl in front of the mirror, gazing at my reflection lovingly, and came out of my room. Father was waiting in the hall and smiled when he saw me.

"You look beautiful, as always. No surprise, given who you got it from."

"Of course. You look great, too, Father."

I wore a grand golden dress with regal jewellery. They weren't ostentatious, but they were of the highest-quality I owned. It was fitting for a to-be princess.

Father wore a handsome suit, not the kind like my past life, but a noble attire suitable for the grand duke. It matched his public demeanor, forbidding and strong. We were the image of House Avington, formidable, elite, and proud.

"Shall we? His Majesty awaits."

Father offered me his arm. I took it, and we headed to the king's private study where he was going to meet us. People we passed on the way greeted us extra courteously and once again I delighted in the influence our power had. Soon, it would be even more.

A valet stood beside the door to the study and bowed as we approached.

"Please, enter. His Majesty is expecting you."

He held open the door and Father and I walked in. It was a comfortable study, spacious and stately, as expected of the king. Bookshelves and paintings lined the walls, along with large windows overlooking the main courtyard. A few couches and armchairs rested to the side, unoccupied. The king sat behind his desk and looked up upon our entrance.

Father bowed and I curtsied, putting in every ounce of elegance I had. We greeted the king together.

"Good morning, Your Majesty, the Sun of Orilon."

King Henry organized the pile of papers he was looking over and moved it to the side. He smiled, the picture of a wise and kind monarch.

"Good morning, Grand Duke and Lady Valentina. Do sit."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

We pulled out the chairs opposite the king and sat down. It was a curious feeling to be so close to the man that held the most authority in the kingdom, but I was calm, for I was confident he approved of me, or would once this was done. I was the most perfect noble lady.

"How are you, Lady Valentina?"

"I am very well, thank you. How are you, Your Majesty?"

"I am excellent, thank you for asking. And you, Zacharias?"

"I'm fine."

I was already tired of so many manners. We planned for my etiquette to contrast with Father, all so that one day I wouldn't have to do that anymore, because no one would be above me. That thought kept me going.

The king clasped his hands on the desk. His expression shifted to be more serious.

"Then, we will get to the point. Lady Valentina, I heard the betrothal between yourself and Prince Oscar was your idea?"