Chapter 14: The Drunk Lady

SOPHIA'S POV

"Duke?"

I barely recognized my own voice—it was barely above a whisper, breathless with disbelief.

My entire body tensed when I met his cold, unreadable gaze. The weight of his stare made my pulse quicken, and without thinking, I lowered my head. Was he cursing me for causing trouble again? For putting myself in yet another reckless situation? And now, he was here—standing before me, likely against his will—to save me.

Shame coiled in my stomach, twisting into something close to fear.

Without warning, he leaned down, bringing his face level with mine. My breath caught in my throat.

"I-I just wanted to get my brooch back... I-I'm sorry, this won't happen again," I stammered, my words tumbling over each other in my rush to appease him.

I winced when his hand suddenly reached for my foot—scraped raw, bare against the cold stone floor. Panic shot through me, and I yanked it back, tucking it beneath the folds of my tattered skirt.

"I... I ran too far earlier, so I took off my sandals," I explained hastily, my voice barely above a whisper. "But don't worry! I left them with lea—"

I cut myself off, inhaling sharply as his fingertips unexpectedly brushed against my cheek.

The world shrank to the space between us. The heat of his touch burned against my skin, stark against the chilled air.

"A noble lady's feet must never touch the ground," he murmured, his tone low and almost distant, as if speaking more to himself than to me. "And yet yours..." His voice trailed off, and for the briefest moment, his gaze flickered away, unreadable.

I opened my mouth to respond, but before I could, his hand shifted—lightly grazing my lower lip. A sharp, stinging pain shot through me, and I flinched.

His expression darkened.

"Your lip…" His voice was calm, too calm. "What befell your lips?"

I swallowed hard. "Huh? Oh, this?" I forced out an awkward laugh, raising a trembling hand to my mouth. "I tripped earlier, that's all."

Lying felt like my only option. If I told him the truth—that I had been slapped by one of the bandits—what would he do?

His gaze sharpened, and a heavy silence settled between us.

"Do I appear a fool to you, Sophia?" His voice dropped, dangerously low.

My fingers curled around the fabric of my dress, heart hammering against my ribs.

"Tell me." His tone was as sharp as a blade."Who has done this to you?"

I wanted to feel flattered. Maybe even a little touched that he cared enough to ask. But that wasn't concern in his eyes. No, it was something else. Something darker.

Before I could answer, a voice sneered from behind us.

"Well, well… so the rumors were true. This young lady really is connected to a Duke."

The words slithered through the air like a venomous snake, and both the Duke and I turned in unison.

One of the bandits stood a few feet away, his mouth twisted into a knowing smirk.

But he never got the chance to say another word.

A blur of movement—then a sickening crack.

A figure lunged from the shadows, striking the man with a powerful kick to his spine. The force sent him sprawling onto the ground with a strangled cry.

"A Duke?" A smooth, mocking voice echoed in the dimly lit room. "You must be mistaken."

The remaining bandits froze, their faces paling.

"D-deputy captain?!" One of them stammered, voice shaking. "You… you're here? That means…" His eyes darted toward the Duke, realization dawning over his face like a death sentence.

"That's right," Friedrich hissed, terror lacing his words. "He's not just a Duke—he's the Colonel, you fool!"

Panic rippled through them like wildfire. One of the men attempted to flee, but before he could even take a step, the Duke moved.

With the practiced ease of a seasoned warrior, he drew his sword in a single, fluid motion. The steel gleamed under the dim light—beautiful, deadly.

Then, without hesitation, he plunged it forward. The blade sank deep into the bandit's chest, a wet gurgling noise escaping from his lips. He crumpled instantly, lifeless before he hit the ground.

My breath caught in my throat. I've seen him fight before. I've seen him wield his sword, command armies, cut down enemies without remorse.

But never like this. Never with such raw, unrelenting aggression.

Another bandit barely had time to react before the Duke turned on him next. A flash of silver, a splatter of red—his blade sliced clean through, sending droplets of blood scattering across the dirt floor.

I felt the warmth of it on my skin.

Something inside me twisted violently, my vision swimming. The weight of the moment crashed down on me, suffocating.

And then—everything faded to black.

I bolted upright, a sharp pain radiating through my body as if I had been trampled by a horse.

Ugh. My head hurts. Wait… where am I?

I swept my gaze across the room, taking in the lavish silk curtains, the ornate chandelier casting a golden glow, and the intricately carved wooden furniture. The scent of fresh lavender lingered in the air.

This place was exquisite—far too elegant for someone like me.

Why am I here? What happened?

I winced as flashes of the past came rushing back.

Shocks!

After everything that happened, I'm dead meat. The Duke is going to kill me! I need to get home and explain, but how can I do that when I don't even know where I am?!

I swung my legs off the bed and headed for the door—only to halt in my tracks. Standing in front of me was a woman, her long black hair cascading in waves down her back. She wore a simple yet elegant white dress that reached just above her knees, making her look like a vision straight out of a painting.

I turned toward the mirror, studying my reflection.

"Oh, Sophia… Sophia, you're such a beautiful lady. But why does the man you love seem completely unaffected by your charm?"

I sighed dramatically, touching my cheek. "Could it be that the Duke is actually gay and in love with Friedrich? Shocks!" I gasped, covering my mouth.

Idiot! What Friedrich?! Have you already forgotten about that wretched Princess Anastasia?!

"Lady Sophia."

"Oh, wretched?" I blurted out before realizing my mistake. My hand flew to my mouth as my eyes widened.

"Anastasia? I mean, Princess Anastasia?"

Gosh! What is this witch doing here?!

"Are you feeling any better?"

A moment ago, yes. But now? Not at all.

"I'm fine. Wait a minute! Why are you here?"

"Because you're in the palace."

"What?! I mean, what?!"

I turned in a frantic circle, truly taking in my surroundings for the first time. The sheer elegance of the room hit me like a brick. The marble floors gleamed under the chandelier's soft glow, and every piece of furniture looked like it belonged in a museum.

How does this room belong to that woman?! And more importantly, how did I end up here?

"If you're wondering why you're here, it's because of my brother."

"B-brother?"

"The very man you aided—only to find yourself ensnared by misfortune—is none other than my younger brother, Prince Ludwig von Wittelsbach. A prince by birth, and the rightful heir to this kingdom's throne."

"WHAT?!"

That handsome thief… is her brother?! How?! Ugh! Of all people, why does it have to be her?! And why are all the handsome men in this era somehow connected to this Princess Anastasia?! This is infuriating!

But wait… what did she just say? Prince? Future king?

As the realization dawned on me, I felt my stomach twist into knots.

Am I going to be executed?!

"Lady Sophia, I extend my sincerest apologies that you have been entangled in my brother's insurrection. He is yet young and lacks the full measure of wisdom such matters require. I trust you comprehend my meaning."

Huh? Rebellion? Whatever, I careless about their family matters. 

"I wished to inform you that my brother has regained consciousness and has expressed a desire to see you. Might you be willing to visit him in his chamber?"

I hesitated for a moment, "Alright."

Honestly, I still wanted to rest, but I'd rather meet her brother than stay in the same room with this woman any longer. Besides, I should at least thank him for what he did in the end.

"It is the first chamber to the right as you step beyond this door."

After I take a bow, I immediately stepped toward the door. I was about to leave when her voice rang out again.

"Fear not, for I shall endeavor to persuade the Duke of your innocence… though I cannot assure you that his wrath shall be easily quelled."

I turned back and, once again, saw that infuriatingly smug smile on her lips. I raised a brow at her words, watching as she left the room before finally stepping out myself.

Ugh! That witch! She's so full of fake kindness. Grrr! So annoying!

Before stress could fully settle in, I started walking.

Wait—where was that guy's room again?

First room on the right… So, this must be it.

Just as I was about to knock, I noticed that the door was slightly ajar.

"I'm coming in—" My sentence was cut short when a strong arm suddenly grabbed me and yanked me inside.

I gasped in shock, my heart leaping to my throat. "W-what are you doing?" My eyes widened as I found myself pressed against the cold, sturdy wall of his room.

A smirk played on his lips despite the bruises marring his face. "How fare you, young lady?

He looked completely battered, yet he still had the audacity to grin. "I'm strong, obviously. Want to test it?"

"May I?" he asked, his grin widening.

"Sure," I smirked.

He leaned in slightly, closing the distance between us, but before he could get any closer, I swiftly stomped on his foot.

"Aahhh!" he yelped, recoiling in pain.

"See? Told you I'm still strong." I crossed my arms, scanning his room as he groaned.

Just like my quarters earlier, his was elegantly designed—unexpectedly refined for a man. It was well-kept, with expensive-looking furniture and drapes that screamed nobility.

My fingers absentmindedly brushed against my cheek as a thought crossed my mind.

What would it feel like to step into the Duke's chambers?

Gosh! Just the idea gave me butterflies!

"Pray, why is your face so flushed?" he suddenly asked, curiosity laced in his tone. "Are you perhaps elated to find yourself within my chamber? To speak truly, you are the first lady I have ever permitted to enter here,"he added, smugness dripping from his words.

I rolled my eyes. "Like I care?"

"Feisty," he muttered.

"Not your problem." I shot him a glare. "So? Why did you call me here?"

Wait… don't tell me… is he going to have me guillotined?! Oh, crap, I almost forgot—this guy is the prince of this kingdom!

"A-ah, Your Highness! Please forgive my insolence. I had no idea you were the prince!" I hastily bowed, forcing my voice to tremble.

I mean, he looked like an ordinary young man, but he really was a prince. One word from him, and my head could roll.

But instead of looking angry, he just chuckled. "Haha! For one who seeks forgiveness, you display a most remarkable lack of sincerity."

Still bent forward in my bow, I lifted my head and shot him a glare.

I'm already apologizing, and he's still being difficult?!

"See, see? Who pleads for forgiveness whilst wearing the scowl of a vexed fox?"

Straightening up, I planted my hands on my hips and huffed. "Ha! Do you really think I care that you're a prince? I don't even respect the Duke, so why would I respect you? Go ahead! Have me guillotined! I don't care. I'm out of here!"

I spun around, ready to storm out, but his sudden burst of laughter made me freeze.

"Haha! By heavens! Never in my life have I laughed so heartily! You truly are a remarkable creature!"He clutched his stomach, shaking his head in amusement. "Well, I merely wished to extend my gratitude in person. In truth, I was deeply moved by your return, despite the peril it entailed."

I blinked, taken aback by the unexpected shift in his demeanor.

And then… his face turned red.

Oh. My. Gosh. Is he blushing? Tsk, tsk. I must have left quite the impression. Well, it's nothing new. With my beauty? Duh. Flip hair

"How old are you?"

"Huh? I… I'm seventeen," he mumbled, looking away.

"Ohh. Still young, huh? But, well, that's not a problem." Haha! Just kidding.

"You are correct. Father insists that I am of age to wed." he admitted, his blush deepening.

I stiffened as my amusement fading. I grimaced when I saw that he was really blushing now. Tsk. This kid got it bad.

"How about you, young lady? How old are you?"

"Nineteen."

"Merely two years my senior, then. If that is so… might you consider becoming my lover?"

"What?!" I nearly choked on my own breath—despite not eating anything.

"Have you lost your mind?!" I blurted out. "You're way too young! I'm too young! And just so you know, I don't like your sister, so I sure as hell wouldn't want to be connected to you either! Also, you're a prince! That's a lot of responsibility!"

"Pry, did I hear you right?" His eyes twinkled with intrigue. "Do you not hold any fondness for my sister, Princess Anastasia?"

"Yes! So, sorry, so I don't like you either!"

Oh, my. Rarely does one speak so plainly of their disdain for the royal family," he mused, a lopsided grin forming. "You do realize such words could be deemed treasonous, do you not?"

"As if I care," I scoffed, turning toward the door. "Whatever. I'm leaving."

If I were actually from this world, I'd probably be sweating bullets by now. But I'm not. Any moment now, I could return to my own time.

"Very well. If that is the case… pray, tell me, what might persuade you to reconsider and look upon me with favor to be your lover?"

Oh, great. Another fool willing to do anything for me. Double flip hair

"Then tell me why you steal things even though you're a prince. What made you a rebel?"

His playful expression faltered, and he averted his gaze.

"Because of the Prime Minister," he muttered.

The Prime Minister? Wasn't that the same man with Princess Anastasia in the hall last banquet? I smell something fishy.

"What about him?"

"Apologies, but I don't want to talk about him."

I frowned. "K. Fine. I'm leaving then."

I turned on my heel, heading for the door—only for him to step in front of me, blocking my exit.

"What if I give you this?" he said, holding up something that made my eyes sparkle.

"Waah! I knew it! You stole that!"

"What mean you by 'stole'?" he scoffed. "To call a prince a thief… you possess no small measure of audacity." He chuckled. "For your information, you dropped this whilst yanking at my hair. You ought to be grateful that I deigned to retrieve it for you."

"Whatever, now, hand it over!"

I reached for the brooch, but he swiftly raised his arm, keeping it out of my reach.

Oh, this jerk! He's using his height against me!

Oh, you wanna play? Fine!

I bent my knees, took a deep breath, and jumped. A victorious grin spread across my lips as my fingers curled around the brooch.

Got it!

But just as I landed— "Waaaaaah!" I lost my balance.

Before I knew it, I crashed straight into him, and we both went tumbling to the floor.

"Ugh! That hurt!" I groaned in pain.

The moment I looked at him, I froze. Prince Ludwig… was grinning.

"Ah, young lady, I had not taken you for one so swift." he murmured, a teasing glint in his eyes.

I furrowed my brows. "Are you insane?"

I pushed myself up, about to get off him— When the door suddenly burst open.

"SOPHIA!"

My breath caught in my throat as my eyes widened in horror.

"What are you doing?" he asked me with a furrowed brow, his sharp gaze drilling into me. His authoritative tone sent a shiver down my spine, making me swallow hard several times before I could even think of a response.

"Oh, Duke." Prince Ludwig uttered. "The lady nearly lost her footing, so I sought to steady her—alas, misfortune saw fit that we both tumbled to the floor." Ludwig explained, his voice steady yet laced with unease. 

"Pray, forgive my sister's lapse in decorum. Might I reclaim her now? We shall be taking our leave." His grip was firm as he seized my arm, his impatience evident.

Before we could exit the room, he suddenly turned back to Ludwig, his piercing gaze settling on him once more.

"Next time..." He let the words hang in the air, making my pulse quicken. His eyes darkened as he studied Ludwig.

"Mind yourself and keep a proper distance from my sister." His voice was low, almost a warning, before he turned back to me, his hold tightening as he pulled me out of the room.

W-What was that? Why did he say that? Wait, no! This isn't the time to get flustered! Ludwig is a prince—why would he say something like that?

A burning heat spread across my cheeks, and I clenched my fists, trying to regain composure. Before I could even process my swirling emotions, the Duke abruptly stopped in his tracks. I had no time to react, colliding face-first into his broad back. A pained whimper escaped my lips as he let go of my arm with an exasperated sigh.

"What business had you in another man's chamber?" he asked, his voice sharp with disapproval.

"Ah. Well, I, uh... I just had to retrieve something from him," I stammered, shifting on my feet under his intense gaze.

"Retrieve? And what exactly?"

I instinctively clutched the brooch tighter in my palm, preparing to show it to him, but before I could, a melodic voice interrupted us.

"Duke, the banquet my father has arranged for today's town festival is prepared. Might you grace us with your presence?" Princess Anastasia stood beside us, her elegant smile radiating warmth. The Duke's expression immediately softened, and he returned her smile with a nod. I found myself turning away, unwilling to witness their exchange.

"I will follow shortly, Princess Anastasia," he replied smoothly.

"In that case, I'll go ahead." She gave him another bright smile before gracefully walking away.

"Hurry up and tell me what you retrieved," he demanded, finally shifting his attention back to me once the princess was gone.

"I retrieved my brooch that got caught on him earlier," I admitted, instinctively hiding my hand behind my back, as if the small object held some sort of incriminating evidence.

The Duke exhaled sharply, rubbing a hand down his face as if trying to rein in his frustration.

"Sophia, I cannot fathom how many more times you're going to get yourself into trouble in this place because of your recklessness and impulsiveness. Might you, for once, use that thing inside your skull so that I and others won't have to constantly worry about your actions?"

His words struck like a whip. My head snapped up, my breath hitching. His eyes were dark, his features hardened with irritation. Unable to hold his gaze, I lowered my head, feeling the sting of his reprimand settle deep in my chest.

I wanted to argue—to tell him that I had a reason—but the truth was, he wasn't wrong.

"I'm sorry, Du—"

"Sorry? If a mere apology could amend all ills, we would not find ourselves in this predicament. You are in a world far removed from the one you once knew, Sophia. If you wish to remain unscathed, I suggest you conduct yourself with greater prudence!"

His words were as cutting as the cold night air, and before I could respond, he turned his back on me, walking away without another glance.

Tears welled in my eyes as I clutched my trembling hands. He really is heartless! Does he even know why I ran so far and ended up getting captured? It was just to retrieve this brooch!

"He's so cruel!" I muttered, my voice thick with emotion as I wiped at my damp cheeks.

That's right, Sophia. Starting now, you're officially un-crushing the Duke. He has no heart!

"Ahhh! One more drink!" I exclaimed, even though the person in front of me seemed to be doubling.

"Young lady, how many glasses of wine have you indulged in? Are you not yet overcome with drunkenness?"

"Prince Ludwig, come on! It's the town festival! We have the right to party! So, what are you waiting for? BOTTOMS UP!" I said, tossing him my glass filled with wine.

"Haha! As much as I should like to indulge your merriment, young lady, I fear the Duke may very well run me through with his sword should he find you in such a state."

"Duke? Which Duke are you talking about? That ridiculously tall one? And handsome? And handsome? And handsome?"

"I am well aware the Duke is good-looking gentleman, you don't need to repeat it over and over."

"Ah! He may be handsome, but he's cruel! He has no heart, no liver, no spleen, no intestines, and no liver, and liver, and liver..."

"It seems the Duke has an incredibly large stomach, considering the number of livers he has."

"Yes! Exactly! The wider his stomach, the narrower his heart! He's such a ter—"

Before I could finish, he suddenly covered my mouth. "Young Lady, your brother is just outside! Pry, lower your voice."

I pushed his hand away and clicked my tongue. Why is he so scared of the Duke when he's the prince? Don't tell me what Lea said was true—that the King favors the Duke more than his own son.

"Hmph! So what? Are you scared of him? I could punch him right now! Watch me—"

"And pray, what exactly do you intend to do?"

I was about to stand up when he grabbed my arm to assist me.

"I'm going to challenge the Duke to a fistfight!"

He scratched his head at my words. "Ha. When intoxicated, you resemble a mere child, Young Lady. Truly, you are quite the headache."

"Wait… You don't believe I can beat up the Duke, do you? Ah! Hold on, I'll show you my abs."

I was about to lift my shirt when a firm hand stopped me.

"You never learn, do you?"

I looked up at the incredibly tall man standing before me.

I didn't know why, but suddenly, I hiccupped. Then, I grinned. He really was so handsome.

"Duke, it's you!" I greeted him with a big smile.

"It seems like the spirit of alcohol has truly struck you," he said, frowning.

"Wrong. It seems like I've been struck by you. Hahaha! So handsome!" I laughed, attempting to rest my head on his chest, but he stopped me with his index finger on my forehead.

"You're troublesome."

"I shall call for a servant to escort her to her chamber so she may rest." Ludwig was about to take my hand when the Duke suddenly pulled me behind him.

I gasped. It felt like my world had just spun.

"Wow, amazing! The world literally spins around you, Duke!" I clapped my hands in amusement.

Both of them sighed and scratched their heads at my comment.

"She doesn't need to rest here because we'll be leaving soon anyway. I'm just waiting for the musicians to perform," the Duke said as I rested my head against his back.

Ahh. I could no longer understand their conversation. All I knew was that he smelled really good and had such a broad back. I grinned widely.

"In that case, I shall leave her in your care. I shall take my leave." Ludwig said, waving before turning away.

"And you? What mischief have you entangled yourself in this time? You indulge far too much in drink when it is plain you cannot bear it." he said as he held both my arms, finally facing me.

I smiled. I was about to hug him when he blocked me again with his index finger on my forehead.

"Ugh! Why?! You're so stingy!" I pouted.

Then, my heart suddenly started racing when he smiled.

All this time, I had never seen him smile in front of me.

"You know what? You're so annoying! Why did you have to smile now, when my vision is doubling?" I pouted, closing my eyes.

I opened them again when he didn't respond. I was confused when I saw him just staring at me.

I didn't know why, but I couldn't stop myself from gazing at him, even though my vision was blurry.

Why is this man so incredibly handsome, tall, and well-built? I smiled.

"Duke?" I called.

"What?" he responded.

"Are you Google?"

"What is 'gogel'?" he asked, frowning.

"Duke, the correct answer is 'why,' not 'what'! Are you dumb?" I frowned.

"Dumb? your mouth I—"

"Shhh! Just say, 'Why' Okay?"

"Right, so why? okay?"

I frowned again when he repeated the word 'okay' at the end. Arg! Never mind!

"Because you have everything I'm looking for." I smiled widely and playfully hit his chest. He just shook his head at my words.

"Duke?"

"What now?"

"Did you know that I'm a scientist?"

"Scientist? What?!"

"Scientist, Duke. You're really dumb, aren't you?" I frowned.

"What do you mean by 'dumb,' Sophia?! Ugh. Very well, what of it?"

"The correct response is 'why,' not 'so what'!" I repeated in a high voice. 

He flinched when I raised my voice but then chuckled slightly.

"Fine. Why?"

"Because… because… you're my lab!" I teased, poking his side with my index finger. But he didn't react.

"Duke!"

He flinched when I suddenly raised my voice, and I almost laughed.

"Duke, are you Korean?"

"....."

"Because I feel like you are my Seoul-mate!" I laugh like a crazy Korean ajjuma. 

"You've clearly been overtaken by the drink. We should return home before you start uttering even more absurdities."

He was about to take a step when I grabbed his arm.

"Duke, do you like me?" I asked without thinking.

"Why?" he replied.

I smirked bitterly because he thought it was just another pick-up line.

I lowered my head.

"Duke, it's because…"

I smiled faintly.

"I like you."