Chapter 10

Thank you for reporting the typo!

I can feel my already less-than-ideal health deteriorating due to stress.

I need to stop my sister before she says something that can't be taken back, but my whole body is stiff and unresponsive. Yet, my gaze remains fixed on the two of them, and I can't help but feel an unbearable disgust at myself for hoping for something from Ilvys.

My sister's advances show no sign of stopping, as if I don't even exist. I had thought she wouldn't feel any guilt, but her sudden change in demeanor makes it seem like she doesn't even remember her actions.

My sister doesn't seem to realize that she's being brushed off, and she continues to spout unbearable words.

Mother cleared her throat.

She probably doesn't want to incur Ilvys's displeasure, and her eyes are telling me to do something quickly.

However, before I can make up my mind, Ilvys notices and gives me a gentle smile, as if to say it's okay. My sister lets out a high-pitched squeal, mistaking it for a smile directed at her, but I don't stiffen again at her shrill voice.

"Is Lord Lambert about to return? I just overheard that, but are you free afterward? I'll accompany you in place of my sister!"

As she says this, my sister sways her body and tries to get closer to Ilvys. Of course, Ilvys maintains his Arcane Smile and keeps his distance.

(There's no way that was a coincidence.)

My persistent sister must know about the duke's carriage and noticed it parked in the courtyard, planning her approach.

She must have been eavesdropping on the conversation while waiting for the right moment.

"I'm sorry, but I have work to do afterward."

"Huh? But you said you were going out with my sister earlier..."

"Yes. The plans have been rescheduled for tomorrow, so I need to finish today's work today."

Realizing she has no chance, my sister reluctantly backs down, though her eyes glare at me with hatred, as if she's ready to pounce the moment Ilvys is out of sight.

"Come now! Since His Grace has said so, it would be rude to keep him any longer. Let's be proper ladies and see him off."

The moment my sister falls silent, Mother seizes the opportunity to end the conversation.

Her determination is clear; she won't allow any objections.

"That's right. Amalia isn't feeling well, so it's best to see you off here."

"I appreciate your concern. Until next time."

"Yes, see you tomorrow. Take care."

With that, Ilvys heads for the front door.

"Oh, by the way, there's one thing I forgot to mention."

But Ilvys stops and turns back to my sister with a menacing smile.

"There's no one who can replace Amalia as a noble lady."

I can't help but gasp.

I don't know if it was my sister, who was glared at, or me, who heard it up close, or both, or perhaps just my own mental breakdown.

But.

But, I was definitely saved by those words.