Chapter 52

And what bothers me is that there are a certain number of men who think the same way as Father.

For the nobility, a marriage that connects families is the ultimate happiness for a woman, bringing prosperity, securing a position, and making her a socialite.

Well, I think such a view is understandable; there are reasons for valuing lineage.

So, I wouldn't loudly proclaim that it's all wrong.

After all, the nobility is more than just a privileged class.

Of course, there are people who think, "We're nobles, so we can do whatever we want to commoners"!

The children of such privileged class, who become maids or ladies-in-waiting to find good marriage partners, often end up in a vicious cycle because of their attitude and behavior, which is a sad reality.

But it's not just me; there are certainly others who take their work seriously and feel proud of it.

So, I don't want to change their way of thinking, but I was deeply disappointed that Father didn't understand me as a daughter.

I've always told him that I'm happy and fulfilled with my work, even when he emphasized marriage over work.

But I'm not sure what I said to make him leave that day.

Afterward, when Meina heard the rumors (I was dizzy that they spread so quickly), she was indignant, and I felt a bit relieved. Of course, I asked her to keep quiet afterward. Meina is very popular with her peers, both maids and ladies-in-waiting, so she's a great help in such situations.

But, you know, rumors that don't involve politics and just demean someone spread incredibly fast. Women might think it's inevitable, but if the guards have heard it, it's likely that the royal family has too. What a mess.

"…I apologize for the unpleasant words."

I don't want to frown any more, and I'd like to set this topic aside until I calm down. I was a bit embarrassed before the garden party, but it's not a scandal, just a laughing matter about my parents lamenting my looks. It's not funny to be the subject of such jokes, though. I'll have a serious talk with Father in the winter. Yes, a serious talk.

So, I feel a bit embarrassed and apologetic toward Lord Aldar Saul for hearing such things. I want to end this topic here; if I show that attitude, he'll understand.

"…It feels a bit awkward to say it again, though."

"…Eh?"

"My lady, I think you are a wonderful woman, Lady Yuria."

"Eh, eh?"

Lord Aldar Saul placed his hand on mine, which was on the table.

His hand, a bit warmer than mine, was naturally larger, enveloping mine. Despite his slender appearance, it was rough and calloused, probably from wielding a sword. I thought to myself, "This is a man's hand," but I didn't find it unpleasant.

"Your thoughtful and diligent work is recognized by those around you. Of course, by me as well."

"Ah, thank you…"

"Lady Yuria, as you know, the two names given to noble men at birth each have a meaning."

"Yes, I know. The first name is given by the head of the family, a name suitable for carrying the family name into adulthood…"

"Right, and the second name is given by the mother, to complement the first name given by the father. In my case, as you know, it was given by my paternal grandmother."

Thinking of my brother Merak Lavie, Merak is a popular name inspired by a wise man, and Father gave it to him, hoping he would be adept at navigating the world and continue the Vandied Viscount family. He was a bit embarrassed by the story. Lavie, given by my stepmother, is also a popular name inspired by a saint who values family.

But why is he bringing this up? I couldn't help but look at Lord Aldar Saul, who smiled gently.

…How long have we been holding hands? Would it be rude to pull away? I'm a bit nervous and sweating… I'm not worried about it getting slimy or anything.

"My name, Saul, is said to be the name of the younger brother of the first generation of the Baum family. He's not very well-known, but he supported the head of the family as a pillar of the branch family and was very family-oriented and domestic."

After taking a sip of tea, Lord Aldar Saul smiled a bit ambiguously—sadly, or perhaps exasperatedly—and continued.

I could tell from the atmosphere that he didn't want me to interrupt. I'm good at reading the room! And I think this choice is almost certainly correct.

"What is expected of me is to become the head of a branch family that supports my younger brother. My father had no brothers, so it's certain that I will establish a branch family in my brother's generation."

"…Is that so?"

"I think I'm good at supporting others, as that wish is contained in my name."

"Yes…? Is that so?"

"I hope you can rely on me. I'm flattering myself by telling you this story, but I hope I can be your support."

I was unsure if I should agree with "good at supporting" and responded with a question, but he didn't seem to mind.

Rather, Lord Aldar Saul smiled softly, perhaps blushing.

Eh, but you can rely on me.

Is this a compliment and an invitation to rely on him? Is this a flag? No, no, no, wait, wait. Just because I played a lot of otome games in my past life doesn't mean there are flags everywhere. I shouldn't jump to conclusions. Safe, safe.

"…Thank you. As at the dance party, I rely on you."

That's right, he's a reliable person.

Personally, I haven't relied on him much, but through our interactions in wishing for Lady Primera and Dean Dain's happiness, I've come to see him as a dependable adult.

He even invited me to dance to protect me, at the request of the Queen Mother, after the incident with Father. I came here today to thank him, and he's saying I can rely on him again. How good of a person is he?

"To be honest, I knew Father was disappointed with my appearance, but I was deeply disappointed that he didn't understand my passion for my work."

This is a sincere invitation to talk about my troubles.

Yes, I can't often consult others due to my position, so this is very helpful.

Lord Aldar Saul, though in a somewhat awkward position, is sensitive to people's feelings… and his experience as a good older brother exudes warmth. He even exudes charm.

"Well, it's a common tendency among older men. They believe that noble women should enter the household, dress beautifully, and promote the family name in society."

That's right, the head of the family should have the wealth and tolerance to adorn his wife, and the social world is a battlefield for women.

I honestly don't want to do that. I can't spread rumors or dress up, and I can't deal with those corsets and complicated hairstyles. I'd rather mop the hallway any day…

"But I think a woman who works happily is beautiful. The tea and sweets you always serve are delicious, too."

"Ah, thank you… very much…"

Being directly complimented and told that my work is good, my face heated up.

Because of that, I couldn't properly express my gratitude, and my words trailed off.

Ah, I look so silly. I look so silly!

But… the fact that someone recognizes and appreciates me for working happily warms my heart.

That's right, there are many people who recognize me.

It's just that Father didn't. I realize now that I wanted his recognition more than anyone else. That's why I was disappointed, and I couldn't see the people who do recognize me.

Ah, how pitiful.

By the way.

"Um… Lord Aldar Saul."

"Yes?"

"Could you… let go of my hand soon…?"

I think the food will be served soon!

I don't think it's a problem since we rarely come to this restaurant, but if the staff thinks we're an odd couple, it would be awkward, so could you let go soon?

I tried to convey this with my eyes, but he just gave me a sweet look—until the staff brought the delicious food, we stayed like that.

Well, I'm already overwhelmed before the meal even starts…