wildflower chapter 4

The warm sunlight illuminated Eisen’s golden hair. Her navy blue court dress, with its classic beauty, suited her perfectly. This style of dress would surely become fashionable simply because Eisen wore it. 

“Miss Frederick Eisen will be the beautiful flower of society.” 

“She’s already the Empire’s crimson rose.” Lilian lowered her head, fiddling with her fingers. She knew comparing herself to others was a bad habit, but she couldn’t help feeling inadequate next to Eisen, who had been incredibly popular since her debut, and who happened to be the same age as Lilian. 

Eisen was humorous and outgoing, while Lilian was a pathetic young lady who stammered when attention was drawn to her. Just moments ago, she had been unable to join the other young ladies her age who were making flower rings, and instead remained seated with the older noblewomen under the parasol. “Miss Frederick also believes that love is pure.” 

“Perhaps the author, Clarice, is a young lady of her age.” 

“If that’s true, I feel foolish for being so captivated by such a woman’s romance novel.” Lilian flinched, then softly asked, “…Why?” 

“Why? Because you were moved and captivated by the writing of a young woman who has only experienced half of love.” 

“Exactly. The moment I read the bedroom scene, I was completely turned off. It makes me question her previous works, too. It might have been written by a woman who’s never even been in love. It lacks any real emotional depth.” Eisen recited the last verse of her poem. 

“I long for your touch, like a lily, to reach me and stay.” Polite applause rippled through the garden party attendees. 

“I wonder who will sweep away such a virtuous and lovely young lady.” Lilian sighed and silently watched Eisen smile in response to the cheers. Then, Eisen’s gaze, which had been relaxed, shifted to something behind Lilian. A faint blush rose on Eisen’s cheeks. Curious, Lilian turned around. 

“Cairn?” Cairn Etienne Headington, who had been standing at a distance, approached Lilian de Vermore and extended his hand. His black hair, with its blue sheen, looked particularly soft today. His sculpted, sharp features held a blend of wildness and boyish charm. Everyone at Lilian’s table, regardless of age, stole glances at him. 

“It’s been a while, Lady de Vermore.” 

We saw each other just three days ago. Lilian wanted to retort, but refrained due to the many onlookers. Drained by the married women’s gossip, she was secretly relieved to see Cairn. She winked at him, hoping he would rescue her from this situation. Cairn responded with a knowing smile. 

“The two of you have always been together since childhood. You’re still so close.” Lady Ashton teased. “I’ve also had a close relationship with Lady Ashton since childhood. Isn’t it a man’s duty to keep beautiful women close?” 

Cairn skillfully parried her words and gestured with his hand as if urging Lilian to take it. “Shall we go, Lady de Vermore?” 

Cairn was like a silver-tongued serpent. He used his charm to rescue Lilian from uncomfortable situations time and time again. Lilian politely thanked the noblewomen for their company and took Cairn’s hand. As they walked towards the Palace of Baltan’s glass conservatory, Lilian finally exhaled. 

“Perfect timing.” 

“Did I rescue you again, just at the right moment?” 

“Yes.” Lilian’s expression remained troubled as she walked carefully, escorted by Cairn. 

“Lilian, are you alright?” 

“Yes…?” 

“Your face is red. You look like you’re about to explode.” Lilian touched her cheek with her free hand. Just as he said, her face was flushed. 

“I’m… em-embarrassed that everyone was looking at me when you came over.” 

But her flushed face wasn’t due to embarrassment. It was because the noblewomen’s speculations had been spot on. Just as Lady Ashton had suggested, Clarice, the author of Love Covered in Filth, was indeed an inexperienced v*rgin. And how did Miss Lilian de Vermore know this? Because she was Clarice, the veiled author! The shame of having her secret exposed made her face burn.