ITD

CHAPTER LXVlll

Today, Courtney was brimming with confidence. Her first public appearance had been a success, and while the compliments she received might have been empty, hearing praise all day made it hard not to feel a bit proud.

As for the night ahead, there was no longer the nervousness she once felt—only anticipation. It was quite a change, considering they’d only spent two nights together. After keeping control so well last time, she felt sure she’d handle things even more skillfully tonight.

Just in time, Hanson arrived with a delivery.

“Your Highness, the item you requested…”

“Oh, thank you.”

Courtney quickly stepped forward to accept the package before the maids could approach. Even though everyone, including Hanson and the maids, acted like it was no big deal, Courtney felt a bit self-conscious.

The box might not have been transparent, but it wouldn’t take a genius to guess what was inside.

And today, she had another slightly embarrassing request to make. Handing him the gift from Lady Chalder, she hesitated.

“And… could you also take care of this…?”

“Shall I deliver it to His Highness the Crown Prince?”

“No, actually… just wait a moment.”

Courtney leaned in and whispered quietly enough for only Hanson to hear. True to his reliable nature, Hanson simply nodded and disappeared with the item, returning in less than thirty minutes.

“Is this suitable?”

“Yes…! I-I mean, thank you.”

Hanson didn’t ask why she’d given him such an odd task, and the maids didn’t pry into what she planned to do with it. Even so, Courtney, who knew all the details, felt a wave of embarrassment. The room suddenly felt much too warm.

She reminded herself she needed to hire a personal maid soon—having to rely on Hanson for these kinds of errands was becoming unbearable. She stashed her new toys under the bed.

With everything prepared, Courtney headed down to dinner. She was still in the dress and hairstyle she’d worn during her outing. She told herself it was because she would soon change into her nightgown anyway, but part of her couldn’t ignore the fact that Richard had complimented her outfit earlier. The only issue was…

“Courtney. It might be more comfortable to eat in something casual.”

Of course, Richard wasn’t the type to pick up on those details. Annoyed, Courtney responded in a sulky tone.

“I’m comfortable like this.”

Whether he understood her frustration or not, Richard just smiled in response. Courtney fought the urge to smile back and forced her lips into a straight line as she sat down.

The appetizers arrived, and Courtney poked at her food with a fork, sneaking glances at Richard. Did he have any idea what was coming tonight? She was torn between wanting to drop hints to gauge his reaction and keeping it all a secret to surprise him.

Once the main course was served, the servants left, leaving the two of them alone. Courtney wasted no time.

“Richard.”

“Yes?”

“Are you ready to cry all night?”

Richard’s eyes flashed at her bold question, though he held back the smile threatening to break free. Keeping his excitement in check, he gave a short, composed answer.

“As much as you want.”

Courtney was thrilled with his response. For a brief moment, she entertained the idea of throwing him down right then and there, but she still had enough restraint to hold back.

She bit her lip, focusing on cutting her meat into ever smaller pieces.

Richard, too, was silent for a long time. Eventually, in a low, strained voice, he muttered.

“Courtney… next time, please don’t say things like that before dinner.”

“Hm?”

“I feel like my heart’s going to explode. I can’t eat anything.”

Courtney’s eyes widened in surprise. True to his word, Richard had put down his utensils and was now gulping down wine. His neck and ears had turned red, making him look tipsy. The sight was so endearing that Courtney burst into laughter, not stopping until Richard’s entire face had turned as red as his ears.

With a mischievous smile, Courtney teased him further.

“Don’t leave anything on your plate. You’ll need the energy tonight.”

Richard was utterly captivated by her boldness and confidence. He felt moved—maybe even to the point of tears, if he allowed himself to be dramatic.

“Yes…”

His voice was strained as he picked his utensils back up. Courtney smiled, raising her wine glass, unable to take her eyes off him.

They both knew tonight would be one of their most intense nights yet.