Chapter 39: Shuffling The Board

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(Y/n) had returned, finding herself stepping out of the limousine after waiting quite some time. All of the guests had arrived, no doubt all gathered in the ballroom or walking in the gardens. Either way, that meant she alone was entering, and by no means was she properly dressed for the occasion. Though she hardly wanted to dress up for Shota either, she had to get his present either way, so she sulked upstairs, noting the way the maids coming to and fro stared at her with shock.

Though she didn't respond to the glowers verbally, she did give a frown herself. It seemed they all knew the atmosphere of the situation well. Perhaps suspecting her more than their master was, the maids and other staff adjusted appropriately. No doubt spying on her every move and reporting even on how long she had spent sipping a cup of water, she couldn't help but develop a distaste for them. So much for the naive thought that she used to go on "girl's nights" with some of them.

An hour late, she extended the time by getting herself dressed. Regardless, she was somewhat surprised an outfit had been laid out for her, no doubt instructed by Shota. Red in color, she could only assume it was to match with her would-be fiance. She had put it on without much issue before grabbing the already wrapped gift and walking through the halls, receiving the same glowers. She continued to ignore them, knowing she would have been given more once she was inside the ballroom.

The announcers were surprised when the (h/c) haired girl arrived, both giving quick looks to one another. While one opened the two large doors, the other one entered, clearing his throat. With a noble display, the man began to introduce her with a loud and clear voice, drawing the attention of everyone. Though it was not at all ideal for the girl who simply wanted to hide in the shadows, she had no choice but to walk down the stairs, given the attention of everyone in the massive and elaborately decorated room.

As she looked around, she only recognized a handful of people, most of them servants in the mansion who walked around, providing drinks to the attendees. Nami was there as well, dancing with a slightly older girl she seemed to be fast friends with. Then there was Okura and Narcissa, though the latter appeared exhausted and detached. And though (Y/n) didn't know the nobles well, she could recognize a few of them. However, of all people, her eyes could not draw away from the doll-like being that sat at the table reserved for the hosts.

With lavender-white hair, she breathed, but gave no other signs of life. She had dull eyes, and though she was dressed in an elaborate gown and wore a radiant crown upon her head, no one paid her any mind. The beautiful young woman just remained still. There was no food in front of her nor any drink, unlike everyone else around her. Instead, a formally dressed man stood by her side, occasionally checking up on her.

"(Y/n)!" a voice called out excitedly, prompting the girl to see Shota beaming from ear to ear, "You've finally come."

The red-haired male extended his hand to the younger girl, pulling her in to a warm hug. Though there were signs of confusion on his face, he mostly portrayed his happiness to see her and his curiosity about what she held in her hands. With a forced smile, the girl handed the present to him, watching as he lit up red. He took a while to admire it, but didn't open it at first, placing it down himself on a nearby table filled with other presents. The male then made sure to arrange it so hers was at the forefront, separating it from others.

"I'm happy to see you made it," he sighed, placing his hand on his heart, "Whatever were you doing? I was worried."

"I know. I'm so sorry for coming late, but I was really nervous. Between having to be with all these people and practicing my etiquette...and especially your birthday present...I had a lot on my mind."

"What would you have to be nervous for? I'm here, darling. I don't care if your etiquette is lacking. I fell in love with you before you'd ever been in high society. And as for them, I'll always protect you. But...the gift...I'm sure I love it."

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