Chapter 10

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"So? Why did the engagement get canceled?"

"Because the other person fell in love with someone else."

Since they were well-acquainted, Kroene bluntly asked about the reason for the engagement's cancellation. There was no need to hide anything from her, so I briefly explained the circumstances leading to the cancellation. However, despite asking, Kroene only gave a disinterested response after hearing the explanation.

I then went on to explain why I had come to the estate, which seemed to pique her interest. When I mentioned the gossipy nature of the social circle, she commented that it was no different from the wind spirits. Indeed, that was true.

"Are you not going back to the capital?"

"At this point, I'm not sure. I think I'll stay here for about six months."

"Six months, huh?"

In my previous life, there was a saying that people's gossip fades after a season. Six months would be more than a season. While it's uncertain if the social circle's gossip would change in six months, it seemed like a reasonable amount of time to be away.

However, it seemed short to Kroene. With a somewhat disappointed look, she said, and I smiled wryly, telling her that it might extend depending on the situation.

"I see. Well, you must have been busy until now, so it's probably good to take it easy for a while, right?"

"Yeah..."

Taking it easy... Indeed, that might be good. Spending a leisurely day reading books or doing embroidery wouldn't be bad.

However, now that the barrier of being a royal fiancée was gone, I felt I could spend my time differently. For example, I could try things that ordinary noble daughters wouldn't do.

"What's wrong?"

"What do you mean?"

"You're thinking of something interesting, aren't you?"

At Kroene's grin, I instinctively touched my cheek. I wasn't really thinking of anything particularly interesting, but maybe my expression showed it? I thought I had learned to hide my emotions through my ladylike education. Maybe coming to the estate had made me more relaxed?

"I wasn't really thinking of anything interesting. I was just wondering if I need to live the same way as before..."

"Hmm? Then what are you going to do?"

What?

When asked, I couldn't immediately think of anything. As I pondered, resting my chin on my hand, there was a knock on the door. When I answered, Maggie entered, pushing a cart with a tea set.

Maggie poured the tea with her usual graceful movements. As the teacups were placed in front of Kroene and me, I lifted mine. Bringing the cup to my lips, a pleasant aroma wafted up.

"Tea isn't bad, but alcohol is even better."

"Still the same, I see."

A wry smile appeared on my face at Kroene's words. I don't know if all spirits are like this, but Kroene loves alcohol. She prefers ale over wine and wine over tea. I remember reports saying she drinks ale every time she comes here.

As for me, I used to enjoy alcohol in my previous life, but now I'm not a big fan. The reason is that the alcohol in this world is still in its early stages of development, and the types I enjoyed don't exist here.

Thinking about it, it's not just alcohol; the same goes for food. Having lived in a city known for its gourmet cuisine in my past life, the food in this world lacks both flavor and variety.

Until now, as a royal fiancée, I had been careful not to step out of the bounds of a noble lady, so I was hesitant to use my knowledge from my previous life. But now that the engagement is over, I could be more proactive. Maybe I should try to recreate some of the dishes from my past life?

"Maybe I'll develop some new dishes?"

"What kind of dishes?"

"Things to do while I'm here at the estate."

"Sure, why not? If you're going to make something, make it a good accompaniment to alcohol."

"Alright."

I laughed and agreed, and Kroene also smiled.

Now, what should I make first? What dishes can I make with the ingredients available here? I thought about it, trying to recall suitable recipes from my past life.