A Painting of the Villainess as a Young Lady

Chapter 96

Upon hearing Violet’s answer, the marchioness smiled softly.

“So, did you feel at ease?”

“...Yes.”

“What a relief. But speaking as your chaperone and as Lily’s friend, I’d have to advise you to stop painting. Do you know why?”

“A little.”

“As an esteemed ducal lady, you have no need for art. There are many people in this country who remain conservative and old-fashioned, and there are many aristocrats who wish to drag down those who are at the top. Numerous people are eager to judge and undermine the actions, words and everything else related to a ducal lady such as yourself, even with something as simple as what you’re wearing. You’re refusing all invitations because you know that, don’t you?”

“......”

“Let’s see. Rumor has it that Laurent’s designer got kicked out of the Everett’s mansion in the capital. Thus, Lady Everett must be very arrogant.”

“Is that so?”

Violet merely sipped her tea, unbothered. Narrowing her eyes at this, the marchioness laughed.

“I understand that you have no intention of entering social and political circles. But still, there will be times when you’d have to face some people even if you don’t want to.”

“I appreciate your advice, truly, but I’m quite alright.”

As Violet set down her teacup, she smiled. It’s not that the marchioness’s advice meant nothing to her. It’s just that she had already been through it countless times.

The marchioness smiled as well.

“On the other hand, personally speaking, I wish to tell you that you should do whatever you want.”

“May I ask why?”

“Perhaps this is the reason, but it’s true that I don’t tend to conform to tradition by default. I had this garden landscaped according to my tastes. Isn’t it pretty?”

“Yes, I agree. I think it’s very beautiful in a different way from Everett’s garden. I see it’s because of your tastes, Madam.”

“Hohoho. My son, that rascal—he keeps saying that it looks messy, but it’s only expected. I did it freely.”

In the midst of their long conversation, someone appeared before them. It was a man, politely standing in front of them.

“Oh my, Alec?”

“I’m here to greet you, Mother. I hope you’ve been well. May I know who this is?”

“Ah, yes, say hello. This is my guest, Lady Everett.”

“Ohh, the most famous person in the capital these days. I greet you, the rising star of House Everett. I am Alec K. Leshan. Please feel free to call me Alec.”

The man who greeted her according to etiquette reached out one hand to her. Violet then offered her own hand, and the man kissed the back of her hand naturally.

Goosebumps rose up Violet’s spine.

“May I call you Lady Violet? Ah, please forgive my rudeness. Mother, I heard that there’s a bit of a problem going on at Titaro right now.”

“Whaaat? Ah, I was going to rest for the first time in quite a while, but there’s nothing I can do. Alec, will you be a dear and show Her Ladyship around for a moment?”

Letting out a sigh, the marchioness smiled helplessly and looked at Violet with a sad expression.

“I’m sorry, it’s something out of my hands. I’ll be right back, but you and Alec can continue touring the garden. I don’t wish to treat Everett’s lady and my friend’s daughter like this—I’ll be sure to come back right away after I’ve finished my work.”

“Of course, Madam. Please don’t be pressured to rush.”

When the marchioness went away, the young lord and Violet remained in their seats.