Chapter 27

"Then, are we going to part for a while?"

After tying the string, I tried to move away from Phil.

"About that—"

Phil suddenly turned around and was holding my hand.

"There's a big ball next week. Would you like to go with me?"

"A ball?"

"It's not a formal one; about half the people will be wearing masks. So—"

Just as Phil's grip on my hand tightened, there was a knock on the open door. Phil's hand immediately let go. A moment later, my brother Albes, with a stern look on his face, entered.

"I told you not to do anything strange to Lucia, right?"

"I just held her hand."

"Besides, a ball? Have you forgotten how much attention you draw together?"

It seems my brother had been listening to our conversation.

...It's fine. I probably didn't say anything strange.

"Lucia has already drawn attention because of the Orfels family incident. Please stop now."

"That's why I'm thinking of going to a masked ball. I'll dye my hair too. It will take more time to prepare, but being a little late will make us less noticeable, which is better, right?"

Phil's face was serious.

Albes was deep in thought but eventually spoke slowly.

"...From what I've heard, there's only one masked ball happening around this time."

"I'll do my best to avoid drawing attention. I know the schedule for the day and the security inside. If anything happens, we can escape quickly. ...And"

Phil stood up, glanced at me, and whispered to my brother.

"Didn't you say you wanted to show her once?"

"That's... true."

My brother, who had been growling low, looked at me.

Why is the conversation about the ball now about showing me something?

As I tilted my head, Albes nodded decisively.

"Alright, it's up to Lucia. ...Lucia, do you want to go to the ball?"

"I would like to go, but—"

"Right, I see. Got it. Phil can take you."

"But, my ball gown has been altered and I don't have one anymore?"

"I can borrow an older one. I'll have Tiana prepare it. I'll get everything you need."

"That would be helpful, but—"

I looked at my brother.

I thought he would object, but surprisingly, Albes just shrugged.

"Unlike Sir Gorman, Phil is a good dancer. I can guarantee that."

"Lucia, you just need to prepare your shoes and come to the capital. If possible, come the day before. I'll be staying at the barracks, so you can be at ease. Will Albes come too?"

"Of course. But it's been a while since I've been to your house."

"I hardly stay there myself."

Phil smiled wryly and stood in front of me again.

"What do you think? I won't force you if you're not interested. But if you have even a little interest, let's go to the ball. And... I want to dance with you."

Phil smiled, but his eyes were very serious.

Looking up at his face, which was even higher than my tall one, I thought for a moment.

I've attended several balls with Sir Gorman since our engagement.

The first time, I was captivated by the glamorous world, but over the years, it has become a painful experience.

But with Phil, I wouldn't have to worry about my height.

I wouldn't be glared at even if I jumped around.

"Lucia, ...what do you think?"

Phil was waiting for my answer, a bit tense.

I smiled.

"Well, I would like to dance with you, Phil."

"Great! I'll start preparing then! And I'll get some work done too!"

Suddenly energetic, Phil gripped my hand and gave a hearty hug to my brother, who had a stern look on his face.

Then, before the carriage arrived, he rode his horse lightly and left.