Chapter 24

On the night of the imperial performance, it was quite late by the time I returned from Cecilia's mansion. We had been so engrossed in conversation that we lost track of time. I'm sorry I got back to the townhouse so late.

After the imperial performance, I returned to the townhouse to change into a dress before heading to Cecilia's mansion. She had a modest dinner to celebrate the success of the performance. Cecilia said, "Wear a dress to set the mood!" I had brought a dress just in case, but I was harshly criticized.

Aly really has no sense outside of music. She said my dress made me look like an old lady. Cecilia tried to make me wear her dress, but our chest sizes didn't match! Our body types are completely different, especially our chests! I've received a few of her dresses before, but they're still too loose. Every time I wear them, it feels like a stab to the heart.

It's strange. I've been careful to eat chicken breast to make them bigger, but it doesn't seem to work.

Cecilia even brought out her secret whiskey collection, and I got to taste the luxury of the capital again. Her butler was surprised and said, "Are you all old men?" Ralford, as always, had a sharp tongue. Hehe.

We parted ways with a bit of regret, but it was quite late. It's been a while since we stayed up so late, so I'm a bit tired, but I'm very satisfied.

Lord Joshua hadn't returned yet, which was a relief.

Since the Wilhelm incident, Lord Joshua has become overly protective and quite bothersome, though he does care for me.

I knew Lord Joshua was attending a royal banquet tonight, so I planned to return to the mansion before that, but it ended up being quite late.

The knights can't all stay at the townhouse, so they take rooms in the outskirts, but I was allowed to stay at the townhouse.

Last year, the servants treated me like a sore spot, and the stay was uncomfortable, so staying at the knights' inn would have been fine.

This time, the treatment is a bit better. They even helped me change for the dinner and suggested I eat in the same dining room as Lord Joshua.

Last year, my meals were brought to my room. Well, last year was a super tight schedule with only two nights, so it was convenient.

Eating in the same dining room as Lord Joshua means I'm treated like family or an honored guest.

Considering I wasn't even allowed into the mansion before, this is a significant upgrade.

Maybe the staff is just overwhelmed because a few other knights are staying here too.

My relationship with Carving has changed a lot over the past year. The tour that was supposed to happen last fall was postponed, and instead, we had a marching performance. Not having to rush the tour preparations allowed us to focus on the marching performance, and I developed a strong sense of camaraderie with the troops. Naturally, I had more opportunities to meet Lord Joshua, the leader of the troops.

While my presence was accepted in the castle, the townhouse is a different story. I realized the relationship between the townhouse and Carving's knights is a bit delicate. I'm naturally on the side of the knights.

I'm a bit wobbly in these unfamiliar heels. Maybe I drank too much.

Belsam took my hand and helped me up the stairs when Lord Joshua returned. I'm a bit tipsy, but I should greet him.

As I descended the stairs, Lord Joshua was just coming in.

Wow! He looks so cool!

He really is handsome no matter what he wears!

He took off his black cloak to reveal a long-tailed evening coat. His tall stature makes it look great!

The dark blue with silver embroidery must match today's knight's uniform. His long, flaxen hair stands out against the dark blue, making him look so sexy.

I must have been kept from the evening party. The young ladies must have been difficult dance partners.

... I can't shake off the high from Cecilia's mansion. I must still be tipsy.

Lord Joshua noticed me coming down the stairs and smoothly approached, taking over from Belsam to escort me.

Oh, what a gentleman. I'm getting so nervous.

"Where have you been, Alette?"

Oh, what a good voice.

It hits me right in the gut.

Especially when I'm tipsy. My rationality is about to fly away.

"A friend invited me to dinner."

I tried to sound calm.

"You're a bit tipsy? Your face is unusually red."

Oh, I've been caught?

After drinking so much, I must smell of alcohol.

I really let my guard down.

But Lord Joshua also smells of alcohol and perfume.

The young ladies must have kept him.

Oh, today the shrine maiden was present, so it must have been Alicia. That makes sense.

"I'm glad you're back. I wanted to thank you for today, but I got back late. ... How about some coffee?"

Yes, please.

I wanted to have some chocolate as a treat today.

Lord Joshua put his hand around my waist and escorted me to the parlor. I was wobbly because of the heels.

He looks slim but has a solid build. I can tell clearly when standing next to him like this.

Oh, my rationality is about to fly away.

No, Alette! No indecent moves!

If I make a move here, I'll be remembered as a pervert for generations!

But just a little.

Can I at least enjoy his scent without him noticing?