divorce chapter 5

The southern resort city of Dali was beautiful and vibrant. The dazzling blue sea and the lively people in their light clothing, the towering trees intertwined with brilliant tropical flowers, created an exotic atmosphere. I’d recently purchased a villa here, and as I unpacked, I enjoyed the sea breeze flowing through the open window. Nina came in to explain the day’s plans. “Since it’s your first day, it’s best not to overdo it and just enjoy yourself.”

“Really?”

“Yes. I’ve scheduled a massage for you, and made a reservation at the most famous restaurant here. After your massage, you can head straight there.” A smile bloomed on my face at the perfect plan. This was the leisurely life I’d missed out on in my past life, and now I was finally living it. After a refreshing massage that seemed to melt away the three years of relentless work, it was already time for sunset. Nina suggested a light and dazzling outfit for the evening. The empire-waist dress, made of pale sky-blue chiffon, was embroidered with gold and silver threads and adorned with beads.

“Isn’t it too flashy for just a restaurant?”

“My lady, the restaurant isn’t the end of the night. You don’t plan to just dine in this vibrant city of revelry, do you?”

What? Was there something special here? I’d been so focused on earning money for the past three years that I had no idea how things had changed.

“Hee hee hee. A dazzling nightlife awaits. Did you know Dali has a party venue where the lights never go out, all year round?”

This was news to me. I focused intently on Nina’s words.

“Anonymity is strictly guaranteed.”

“Hmm.”

“And above the party venue is a luxury hotel where high-ranking nobles often come to play.” It sounded like a party with a very clear purpose: a place for hot nights, where no one asked for names and everyone headed straight to bed.

“I’ve made arrangements so you don’t have to worry about the Count finding out.”

“Good. I trust your skills, Nina.” Holiday flings were always special. After dinner, I dismissed the carriage that had brought me and boarded a different one Nina had prepared. I couldn’t help but marvel at its extravagant exterior, almost rivaling the imperial palace.

“It’s more than I expected.”

“Hee hee hee, right? And here.” Nina handed me a fox mask.

“About the anonymity I mentioned earlier… you are now a red fox.”

“Oh…” Was the color a nod to my reddish hair? I obediently accepted the mask.

“When you’re inside and want to address someone, use an animal name and a color. Understood?”

“Yes.”

“Then, have fun!” I stepped out of the carriage, brimming with excitement, as Nina waved me off. Inside, the venue was filled with men and women dressed more casually and flamboyantly than those at typical social gatherings. Lively, exotic music filled the air, and the open-air setting allowed a gentle breeze to circulate. Though dim, the lighting was sufficient to discern faces. In the center, men and women danced, creating a scene reminiscent of a club. I hadn’t been to a club even in my past life, and here I was. 

I took a cocktail from a waiter’s tray and settled at the bar. Everyone seemed so at ease. Drinking and partying required a certain skill, though. Perhaps it was due to my lifelong workaholic nature, but I felt awkward trying to mingle. Still, I felt good. The breeze was cool, my problems were solved, and this was Dali, renowned as an earthly paradise! I hummed along to the music, now familiar, and sipped my cocktail. Then, a man standing in a corner caught my eye. 

He wore a gray rabbit mask, but his physique was anything but rabbit-like; he was tall and powerfully built. Shouldn’t that be a gray bear mask, not a gray rabbit? His ash-gray hair suggested he’d chosen the mask to match. The muscles in his arm, visible beneath the fabric of his shirt as he held his drink, looked taut. I found myself captivated by his movements, and our eyes met. 

Embarrassed, I quickly looked away, pretending not to have noticed him. But then I changed my mind. Here, anonymity was the rule, even if we recognized each other. Why not give it a shot? I got off my stool, smoothed my dress, and walked toward him. His eyes, though hidden behind the mask, seemed to gleam sharply. Feigning nonchalance, I smiled and spoke.