Chapter 255 - Peaceful Days in Oblivion

“It seems the hunting competition will be held a month before Lady Jubelian’s banquet,” Rose noted.

Beatrice sighed when she was reminded of the event she had forgotten about. She knew that the emperor and empress would do anything to tie her up with Mikhail. The knight would gladly accept the gesture—he might even offer some game to her after the contest was over. If that happened, the nobles would believe there was a romantic relationship brewing between the two, and it was no question that the empress would appreciate this situation.

‘Mother will gladly welcome any circumstance for me, as long as it helps my brother in her womb.’ Beatrice felt her stomach turn. If she could, she wanted to give up her position as the royal princess and run away from the palace. Unaware of the dire situation she was in, the members of the tea party talked amongst themselves in peace.

“I would like to cheer on Lord Elios that day.”

“Me, too!” Mary Ann agreed with Catherine.

Rose sighed. “I am planning on cheering for my older brother. How about you, Lady Jubelian?”

“Oh, I… I don’t have anyone to cheer for.” The members of the tea party were reminded that the lady’s lover was a commoner.

Beatrice immediately thought of her stepbrother. ‘Maximillian. Why doesn’t that guy announce his relationship with her already?’ Having seen Max act coy in front of Jubelian, Beatrice did not doubt that he was charmed by her. Moreover, he was someone who obsessed over what was his. No matter how much she thought about it, she couldn’t understand why he didn’t make their relationship public.

‘It feels like he’s planning something…’

As Beatrice pondered this, Jubelian asked “Your Highness, what are you so deep in thought for?” Her face was the picture of innocence.

Smiling, Bea made up an excuse. “Ah, I was thinking of what to give for your coming-of-age present.” She soon burned with enthusiasm. ‘Right. Let’s not care too much about the hunting contest. The more important thing is to make sure Jubelian enjoys her banquet.’

***

Just before sunset, I returned home from the outing. I was going to say hello to my dad, but unfortunately, he wasn’t home.

“Master has been out for a while, Lady Jubelian,” a servant told me. “He asked that you eat dinner without him since he will be returning late.”

I contemplated whether I should discuss the ideas for the banquet with Madam Perez, but I was too tired. Deciding to meet with her tomorrow, I got ready for bed. That was when Merilyn called, “My lady, there’s a guest for you.” I had an idea about who it would be and opened the door. As I had expected, it was Max.

“You came through the front door today,” I noted as I let him into my room.

He looked at me without a word, then he hugged me. With a gentle voice, he answered, “You don’t like me using the window.”

Somewhat proud of him, laughter bubbled from within me. “So, you’re not going to do the things I don’t like from now on?” I teased with a smile.

His expression remained serious. “If there’s something you don’t like from now on, feel free to tell me.”

“I understand.”

Gently brushing his thumb over my lips, he whispered, “I missed you today.” Before I knew it, his other arm was tightly wrapped around my waist. He was obviously tempting me. I was at a loss on what to do when a voice called for me.

“My lady, please come out for a minute!”

I flinched in surprise at Merilyn’s urgent call.