Do Your Best and Regret

Chapter 103

"...... It just so happened to be appropriate, Little Duke."

The Empress's expression softened. And Olivia deserved the triumphant smile on her face.

Conrad resembles a Duke more than anyone else. Therefore, for the sake of his brother's well-being and the imperial family, he would stand by the Empress. Even if the decision had nothing to do with Ethella's wishes.

"You can't make a Princess of Madelaine's first tea party full of pressure. The little Duke praises the Princess and escorts her to rest. If the weak Princess suffers, she will also be upset."

"Thank you for your concern. I was worried that the first tea party would be held at the Imperial Palace."

Conrad's answer didn't detract from Olivia's expectations.

Unlike Ethella, who was pale and tired, I only lifted the corners of my mouth. Now that I was able to face Conrad without disappointment or fear, his words had no effect on me.

Ethella gave up her rightful place to host the tea party, but what could I do?

That was then. For a moment, Conrad's words seemed to be interrupted and then I felt a strange gaze. I looked up and blinked.

It was Conrad. So far, Conrad's gaze on me has been one of two. Despise or hate. But it was strange for him to look at me now. He usually avoided my gaze so that our eyes couldn't meet.

".... Taking the advice of Her Majesty the Empress, I will also actively cooperate with Ethella's tea party here."

"What did you say, Little Duke?"

I wasn't the only one who couldn't believe my ears at the muffled voice. The Empress, who was smiling brightly, frowned as if she had misheard.

"Luckily, with the wisdom and help of the ladies here, the preparations seem to have gone smoothly."

The Empress pursed her lips. Ladies and young ladies alike were paying attention to the Empress.

".... The little Duke too might be busy with other things, but he can't wait to check such a small thing. It would be better to pay attention to the delegation in keeping with the status of the Empire."

"As a working group, I have to pay attention to the smallest details so that the delegation does not feel uncomfortable. Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty."

The Empress studied the little Duke's face. It can't be like this. She couldn't believe that it was the first time he'd behaved like this

The Empress gritted her teeth. She had to smile brightly, unlike her anxious heart.

".... The Duke must be very happy, little Duke. His are children who are so snappy."

Everyone could tell that there was a dagger in the laughter-laden words. And only I could tell that Conrad's eyes trembled a little at the words.

"I hope you think so."

Contrary to the look in his eyes, there was not the slightest tremor in Conrad's voice. Ethella's whispering of a smile next to me felt a little distant. I stared at him.

That was all uncharacteristic of Conrad.

I clenched my fists for a moment. What if it doesn't look good, and what if it does?

It has nothing to do with me.

Continuing to control my strange stirring, I turned away. In the distance, envoys and nobles were entering the garden.

It was a weird tea party. It is a tea party where envoys from other countries are invited, and there are no Princes or Princesses.

While the Prince, who was said to have been present at the luncheon, had a headache and had left his seat, the Princess did not show up.