Chapter 37

"Are you nervous, Mimosa?"

"Yes! No! ...Yes, I am."

"Hehe, of course you are. It's fine to be nervous. Her Highness the Queen is very kind, so you can relax. Ah... but she's not an ordinary lady, so you might be surprised."

I couldn't quite grasp the meaning behind my stepmother's words, but I focused on the thought that the handkerchief I brought as a gift was well-made as I walked alongside her through the palace corridor.

Today, it seems there's a tea party in the palace's early summer garden. The palace has gardens for each season, and there are also large, well-maintained flower beds and a garden that only the royal family can enter.

It seems that being invited by Her Highness is not that rare, but only those with a solid background and character are called. I am, so to speak, an extra. I might not be invited again after today, or if I am liked, I might be invited frequently.

My stepmother is often invited. She said she thinks I will be liked too, but she is always kind to me, so I can't help but feel nervous.

When the butler showed us the garden, early summer's vivid red roses were in bloom, and a large white parasol was spread out, creating a pleasant shade. Under it, elegantly dressed ladies were in full bloom, rivaling the roses.

"Wow..."

"You're making a strange sound, Mimosa."

"Ah, it's just so picturesque... It's amazing."

"Isn't it?"

I was so captivated by the scene that I let out a strange sound, and then I felt a strong arm wrap around my shoulder from behind.

And a voice, clearly female but with a strong, almost masculine resonance, said proudly:

The arm and the sensation on my back were definitely female, but she seemed tall. I am of average height, so even with heels, she felt exceptionally tall.

"Oh, Your Highness, good day."

"Oh, oh, oh, Your Highness?! Ah, ah, thank you for inviting me today...!"

When I turned to look, I saw a woman with silver hair tinged with blue, wearing a luxurious fur and a sleeveless mermaid-line blue dress with blue high heels. She released my arm and walked towards the tea party venue.

What was the strength in her eyes when she looked at me? In the midst of the ladies who were like flowers, she was the most beautiful blue rose... That was my first impression of Her Highness.

"Come, Countess Chaltry, Miss Mimosa. I will introduce you to everyone."

Despite the lady-like and refined behavior, Her Highness exuded a bold dignity. I was immediately intimidated, but I felt as if I were watching the protagonist of a story... and I'm sure everyone here felt the same... I was drawn in and followed Her Highness to my seat.