The Old Maid

" I will have to excuse myself for a second then, Ladies," Arianne said.

She rose from her seat.

But after doing so, someone gently grabbed her other hand.

"Oh, Lady Arianne, I would want to please be with you so I can assist you. Once again, I apologize for my sudden actions, Lady Arianne," Melinia said

Her eyebrows were creasing. With some tears leaving her eyes

Arianne went near the lady. She leaned and wiped those tears away

Then Arianne smiled at her

"Don't worry, Lady Melinia, I know it was only coincidentally. Don't mind it. Besides, I hope you have fun with the others while I change clothes, alright?"

"B-But----"

"It's alright, Lady Melinia. I've invited you all today because I wanted to get to know you all better, so don't bother with a small action like this, alright?" Arianne said

The tone of her voice was soft. It nearly caressed anyone within the garden.

Even Valia, who seemed to be intimidated earlier, was looking with widened eyes at the lady