Bittersweet | l.fx au

Chapter 5

You finally met the person who you're supposed to replace. She's quite older than some of the maids as defined by her graying hair. But she was the sweetest to you. Next week was her last week and after getting preparations done, she's also helping out with the event coming this week.

"Now," Soohyun begins. "You will be shadowing Lia throughout this entire event as we can only prepare for so much."

"Don't worry, I will do my best." You declared.

"Aw, you're adorable!" She coos over you. "Better than my daughter who refused my affections since she was a teenager."

You keep quiet, not sure if you're feeling prideful or embarrassed at her comment. Soohyun lets you follow her and explains every step so much that you feel a bit overwhelmed. The day of the event is coming up soon and you know for sure the castle is in a bit of panic as they try to settle everything.

Your hands are shaking and before you know it, the day has arrived.

Lia takes out all the fancy clothes from the wardrobe, deciding which would be best. Felix is actually up early today, snacking on some pastries you brought while Yeji does his hair. There's silence and you're watching carefully, ready to take the plate back to the kitchen.

You're a bit nervous but you suppose that everything will be alright today. Hopefully. Once Felix is done, you take notice and quickly rush to him. "I'll take that back, Fourth Prince."

His warm eyes look at you while he smiles. "Thank you. I do apologize you didn't have enough training for events such as this."

"It is fine, Fourth Prince." You take the plate back and leave no room for argument while you rush back to the kitchens. The event will start at noon and it's barely ten o'clock. While you pass through the hallways, you see multiple maids cleaning for a second time in any areas guests may be. The ballroom is especially noisy while they decorate it and set up a few things. You're barely at the kitchens when someone appears.

The Second Prince!

Immediately, you do what you're taught and bow until he passes. That is, until you see his shoes stop right in front of you. "You work for the Fourth Prince, right?"

"Yes, Second Prince." You say it and surprisingly, you remain calm.

"Tell me," He starts. "Has my brother finally taken responsibility for the event today?"

You're not sure what he means but you think it's best to keep it vague. "I am not quite sure, Second Prince. He sent us away for this past week."

There's a moment of silence and you fear that you may have screwed up. "I see," He finally says, which makes you relax somewhat. "Lift your head."

Ah shit. There goes your nerves again and you finally lift yourself up, eyes meeting his face but not quite his eyes. "Is there anything else you're not telling me?"

Huh? You honestly don't know what he's going on about. "N-No, there isn't, Second Prince. I am still training under Miss Lia." You managed to stammer a bit.

"Ah, that's right." The Second Prince eyes you down. "I forgot that this would be your first time." He doesn't say a good-bye or "you're dismissed" as he continues walking on. His own maid sends you a pitying look and rushes after him. It seems the Second Prince took on the intimidating air of either the Queen or King. Your legs feel stiff and you try to calm yourself down before you start the day.

You're a bundle of nerves. Lia is reassuring you that as long as you stay by her side, everything's going to be fine! At last, the person who calls out the guest (hey, you don't know every position in the castle) shouts the name of the first guest. Here you go!