Chapter 266 - What's Happening?!

“Your Highness,” Victor interrupted Dennis’ train of thoughts. “Shouldn’t you tell us what your weakness is, then? We are your right and left-hand men—we won’t tell anyone!”

Dennis’ face crumpled, but to his surprise, the crown prince muttered, “I’ll tell you two later.” Having given these orders, he left the room, unaware that his aides were watching him leave with astonished expressions.

***

‘It is going to be my once-in-a-lifetime event, so it wouldn’t hurt to be fancy’ were the words I engraved into my head as I mulled over the design for my dress. A sudden knock on my door brought me back to reality, and I turned to the clock. ‘Earlier than expected, huh…’ My guest was reputed to be a diligent person, but I had not expected someone to be four hours early. I was fortunate that I had gotten ready to meet Madam Perez before the appointed time. If not, I would have been caught in my pajamas. I hastily opened the door to my room then widened my eyes. “Oh, Dad!”

“Did you sleep well?”

“O-of course!”

Taking a peek inside my room, he asked, “There is something I would like to discuss. Could I come in?”

“Please do!” We had always conversed in the dining hall or drawing room until now—it was the first time Dad had come to my room. Suppressing my excitement, I walked over to a chair and sat down.

Glancing at me, he began, “I heard about what happened with Elios.”

I studied his expression. Although his eyes were cold as usual, I was not afraid of receiving criticism from him. “Yes, I have,” I answered. “Dad, do you remember the question you had asked me while I was reading the Theory of Fief Management?”

“Of course,” he nodded. “I had asked you about the three most important elements regarding an estate.”

He still remembered. Smiling, I said, “Yes. I still think the same way, and that was why I put the people first when making my decision.”

Dad gazed at me for a split-second. “Well done,” he praised.

I couldn’t help but beam—I was elated! Perhaps this was true happiness—in the past, I used to think I would be content with my life once I was wealthy enough. Little did I know that I was an arrogant fool to think in such a way. What mattered were the people around me—I wanted to spend my days with those I cherished. I smiled, recalling familiar faces. Nonetheless, Bea soon came to mind, and I immediately felt down. There was a chance that she would drink poison in a couple of months after my coming-of-age ceremony according to the current progression of events…

Until now, I had been busy thinking of ways to avoid my death flag—and in the process, I had decided on living alone for the rest of my life. But now, I wanted to protect myself and those around me instead of running away. The original writing didn’t mention the identity of the culprit, but I decided to find out on my own.

“Jubell.”

I was brought back to a smile—Dad calling me by my nickname did not sound awkward at all. “Yes, Dad?”

“Don’t worry about the expenses for your coming-of-age ceremony. I want you to purchase what is needed for the experience you want.”

Assuming he was exaggerating, I responded playfully. “Quit joking, Dad! We might go bankrupt if I do that.”

However, he remained stern. “We have enough assets—more than enough—to the point that you won’t be able to spend them all in your life. So, please use them to your heart’s content.”

Was this true? I knew my family was rich, but were we that wealthy? Maybe this was how it felt like to wake up one day as the heir of an affluent family. It was true that I was not forced to live a frugal life until now, but now that I was permitted to spend freely, I was beyond excited. An enormous amount of money was before me… but did it matter? Working with Ian, I had made plenty of money until now. Moreover, he constantly sent me accessories, and they were enough luxuries for me. In any case, I didn’t want to show that I was not interested and disappoint Dad, so I answered in an exhilarated tone, “Thank you, Daddy!”

“Yes, from now on…”

Bang! Dad’s words were cut short by a loud thump on my door. I frowned. Who could it be? I was about to get up when Dad stopped me. “I will get the door.”

“Thank you.” The door creaked open, and I soon heard a familiar voice.

“Master?”

I quickly turned my head to realize it was Max. “Oh, Max! What brings you here—” I exclaimed as I approached him. However, Dad reached out and stopped me.

Shaking his head while giving a death glare to Max, Dad snarled, “I think I’ve already told you to be responsible before.”

“I am aware of this. There is a reason why I am here…!” Max hissed back. I listened to their exchange for a moment then frowned. Something was strange.

“Whatever the circumstances are, you must take the responsibility for your position if you want to spend time with my—”

“Wait a minute!” I had no choice but to interrupt Dad. “You two. I want to know what happened behind my back!”

The two men froze in place at my scolding.