To be the Villainess

O23.

Chapter 23

══ ◈ ══

I TRACED THE edge of the rare gemstone in my palm, watching as it caught the light, casting soft red glimmers across the room.

Good thing I brought this gemstone with me, otherwise I’d have to return to the Ducal Palace again. What a hassle that would’ve been.

Before I could lose myself in my thoughts, the door creaked open behind me.

“You’re not planning to walk around the capital in that, are you?” The Crown Prince’s voice was smooth, laced with a hint of amusement. I turned to see him leaning casually against the doorframe, his arms crossed.

I glanced down at my simple chemise gown, still far from the elaborate dresses I wore at the banquet. “What’s wrong with this?” I asked, raising an eyebrow. “It’s comfortable.”

The Crown Prince Lumine’s lips quirked into a small smirk as he pushed off from the door. “Comfortable, yes. But you’re stepping out into the middle of the festival. You’ll stand out like a sore thumb.” He moved closer, his black eyes holding mine with that familiar authority. “You should dress... appropriately.”

I narrowed my eyes slightly, picking up on the subtle command in his voice. “Appropriately?” I repeated, mocking his tone.

Before I could continue, he motioned to the open door behind him. “I’ve had my servants prepare something more fitting for the occasion. After all, I can’t have the Grand Duke’s daughter wandering the streets in that.”

I blinked, surprised by the gesture. “You... had a dress prepared?”

I was so surprised. I just asked him to escort me outside, not to get dressed.

He raised an eyebrow, his expression calm but with the unmistakable air of royalty. “Naturally. It’s expected.”

“And what exactly did your royal tastes choose for me?” I asked, mockingly.

Without missing a beat, the Crown Prince stepped aside, revealing a small group of royal servants behind him, holding a beautifully crafted dress.

The gown was a deep emerald green, its fabric shimmering in the light, with intricate silver embroidery running along the bodice and sleeves. It was elegant, yet not overly extravagant—perfect for blending into the lively crowd without attracting too much attention, yet still befitting someone of noble status.

Well, for a moment I thought he would prepare a ridiculous dress just like Darious, but luckily he didn’t.

I crossed my arms, still a bit reluctant but knowing there was no point in arguing. “Fine,” I muttered, trying to hide the small grin tugging at my lips. “But if this dress is too tight, you’re the one to blame.”

The Crown Prince chuckled softly, waving me off as his servants entered the room to help me change. “I’ll take full responsibility,” he said, turning to leave. “I’ll be waiting.”

It didn’t take long for the servants to dress me in the gown. The fabric was light and comfortable, the emerald color contrasting perfectly with the silver trimmings. The dress flowed gracefully as I moved, and it felt strangely... empowering. As much as I hated taking advice from the Crown Prince, I had to admit, it was far better suited for walking through the bustling capital than the chemise I had been wearing.

Once I was dressed, I looked in the mirror. The red gemstone in my hand still caught the light, glimmering against the rich green of the dress. I tucked the stone into a small pocket sewn into the fabric and made my way out to where Lumine waited.