The Butler's Princess

Chapter 6 : Garden

It was a beautiful summer day in the palace gardens, and Princess Elodie decided to take a stroll with her loyal butler, Dillon. The warm sun shone down on the lush greenery and vibrant flowers that surrounded them as they walked along the winding path.

"Isn't this just a lovely day, Dillon?" Elodie remarked, taking a deep breath of the fresh air.

"Indeed, Your Highness," Dillon replied respectfully. "The gardens are looking particularly lovely today."

They soon found themselves approached by a group of three young women, all elegantly dressed and exuding an air of confidence.

"Why, if it isn't our dear cousin, Princess Elodie!" the tallest of the three exclaimed, a coy smile playing on her lips. "And who is this charming gentleman you have with you?"

Elodie felt a flutter of unease as she recognized the women - they were her cousins, Felicia, Penelope, and Beatrice, known for their sharp tongues and competitive natures.

"Cousins," Elodie greeted them politely, "this is my butler, Dillon."

Dillon bowed gracefully. "Enchanted to make your acquaintance, ladies."

Isabelle, the tallest cousin, stepped forward, her gaze fixed firmly on Dillon. "Well, Dillon, it's a pleasure to meet you. I must say, you are quite the handsome one, aren't you?"

Elodie felt a twinge of jealousy as she watched her cousin practically bat her eyelashes at her butler. Penelope and Felicia were similarly entranced, edging closer to Dillon as they giggled and asked him all manner of questions.

Dillon, ever the consummate professional, remained polite and composed, skillfully navigating the conversation without seeming overly familiar with the ladies. Elodie couldn't help but admire his poise, even as she felt a pang of protectiveness towards him.

"Forgive me, but I must steal Dillon away for a moment," Elodie interjected, linking her arm through her butler's. "There's a matter I need to discuss with him."

The three cousins pouted in disappointment, but conceded, allowing Elodie to lead Dillon away to a quieter corner of the garden.

"Forgive me, Your Highness," Dillon murmured, "I didn't mean to draw so much attention from your cousins."

Elodie shook her head. "It's not your fault, Dillon. They can be quite...persistent. I just wanted a moment alone with you, away from their prying eyes."

Dillon nodded in understanding. "I appreciate your concern, Your Highness. But you needn't worry - my loyalty lies with you, and you alone."

Elodie felt a surge of relief and gratitude. "Thank you, Dillon. I don't know what I'd do without you."

After Elodie had pulled Dillon away from her three cousins, the young women were left feeling quite disgruntled and disappointed.

Felicia, the eldest cousin, frowned as she watched Elodie lead Dillon away. "Well, that was rather rude of her, don't you think?" she huffed, crossing her arms over her chest.

Penelope, the middle cousin, nodded in agreement. "Honestly, she couldn't even let us have a few moments to get to know her dashing butler better." She shot a longing glance in Dillon's direction.

The youngest cousin, Beatrice, pouted petulantly. "It's not fair! We were just starting to have such a lovely conversation with him."

The three women exchanged glances, their faces etched with a competitive determination.