villainess chapter 14

In her previous life, she hadn’t had such private meetings outside of Academy or family-related events. Private invitations and attendance before a debutante ball were rare. It would have been acceptable if they were already acquainted, but the Grand Ducal family wasn’t known for socializing much. Furthermore, there were eligible young men in that family. If it were a family of only ladies, she would have been less concerned. Every little detail worried Vivian. With a troubled expression, she asked her father,

“I haven’t even entered society yet, and I’m only twelve. Is it alright for me to go?”

“Of course, it is. There’s nowhere in the Empire our Vivian can’t go, except perhaps dangerous places.”

The Duke’s tone left no room for doubt. As if knowing her concerns, he continued, “Your mother also built friendships with other young ladies through tea parties before her debut.”

“Mother did?”

“Indeed.”

Vivian’s eyes widened. Her mother, who valued etiquette and propriety so highly? Relieved by this unexpected revelation, she giggled softly. The Duke, gazing at his daughter with eyes full of affection, said, “So don’t worry and have a good time.”

“Yes, Father.”

The door closed behind Vivian, and her characteristic quick steps faded down the hall. Then, a man who had been concealed in the shadows silently emerged. Hugo, his previous gentle expression gone, gave the man instructions in a low voice. With a single nod, the man vanished.

A week passed, and the day of the tea party arrived. The Beaufort carriage, carrying Flora and Vivian, passed through the gates of the Grey family’s capital mansion. Befitting a Grand Ducal family, the townhouse, located in a prime area of the capital, was magnificent.

“Wow, Vivian. Even the garden here is as splendid as the one at our estate.”

“The Grand Ducal family is truly something else.”

After passing through the extensive gardens, they arrived at the grand main building. The carriage doors opened, and the sisters, escorted by a Beaufort knight, stepped out.

“Vivian, this will be my first time meeting the Grand Duchess. Do you think it will be alright?”

“Of course, Sister. The Grand Duchess specifically asked for you to come.”

Flora, unusually nervous, was reassured by Vivian, who hopped out of the carriage. Guided by the Grand Duke’s butler, the Beaufort sisters entered the main entrance. As if awaiting their arrival, the Grand Duke and Duchess, along with Caroline, greeted them with warm smiles.

“Welcome to the Grand Ducal residence, Lady Flora and… young, I mean, Lady Vivian.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am Flora Beaufort of the Beaufort family.”

“And I am Vivian Beaufort, the second daughter.”

The sisters curtsied in turn, holding their skirts delicately. Their youthful yet graceful demeanor brought pleased smiles to the faces of their hosts.

As Flora and Vivian raised their heads, they saw the Grand Duke, who had come to greet them personally, bore a striking resemblance to his son. His dark, night-black hair and intense, shadowy eyes were particularly noticeable.

Wow, he’s really tall.

Even in casual attire, he seemed clad in an armor of solid muscle. He had the imposing physique of the head of a family that had long protected the Empire with its military might.

Seeing the Duchess beside him, Vivian felt a momentary pang of concern.

Oh? Why does she look so frail?

She had glossy black hair like the finest velvet and the distinctive bright gold eyes of the Aeternum Imperial family. But her warm smile was devoid of color, her complexion pale. She was a stark contrast to the large-framed Grand Duke, appearing so delicate that a mere touch might cause her to collapse.

Vivian had never met the Grand Duchess before, only hearing that she was the current Emperor’s cherished younger sister. It was said she was married to the powerful Grand Ducal family within the Empire, rather than to a foreign royal family.

Was she not sent to another kingdom because of her frail health?

Unable to stare rudely, Vivian quickly averted her gaze.

Caroline approached the Beaufort sisters, eager to begin a conversation.

“You must be tired from your journey. We’ve prepared refreshments in the outdoor garden. Please let us know if you’d prefer to be inside.”

“Not at all. We’re grateful just to have been invited to your mansion.”

Flora replied politely with a gentle smile. Caroline’s voice became even brighter as she exclaimed, “Oh, please don’t be so formal! I’m eager to chat and get to know you both.”

“It’s an honor.”

The atmosphere was quite pleasant. Observing their interaction, Vivian had a good feeling about their budding relationship.

The Grand Duchess, after exchanging greetings with Flora, suddenly turned to Vivian.

“Lady Vivian, do you also enjoy outdoor tea parties?”

“Oh, yes, Your Highness. An outdoor tea party in such a large and vibrant garden, bathed in the warm sunlight… it’s incredibly romantic. This is my first outdoor tea party, and I’m very much looking forward to it.”

Slightly startled by the unexpected question, Vivian quickly put on an excited expression. In truth, she was genuinely thrilled. The warm afternoon sun, the cool, fresh air, and the beautifully manicured garden—enjoying desserts and tea with Flora in such a setting… it was a welcome respite.

“Well then, we older folks will excuse ourselves. Please enjoy your time together here at the Grand Ducal residence, young ladies.”

The Grand Duchess, who shared a striking resemblance with Caroline, smiled warmly. Beside her stood the Grand Duke, tall and broad-shouldered. Despite his imposing and somewhat intimidating presence, his expression was softened by a visible effort to create a welcoming atmosphere. Vivian imagined that this was what the Grand Duke’s heir would look like in a few years.

Evan watched the scene unfold from his room on the second floor. He had just finished preparing to head to the training grounds, timing it perfectly with their arrival. Leaning against the window frame with his arms casually crossed, he murmured with a smirk, “Welcome.”

A warm spring breeze ruffled his hair gently. As he watched Vivian, a fleeting expression of wistful longing flickered across his face before disappearing.