Chapter 19: The Attendance

SOPHIA'S POV

I immediately turned to look at him.

Did I hear that right? Me? He likes me? As in, he actually likes me?!

Heat rushed to my face, spreading down to my neck, and I was certain my entire head was turning red. My heart pounded wildly in my chest as he suddenly leaned closer. Before I could react, his fingers gently grasped my chin, tilting my face up towards him.

My breath hitched as our eyes met.

Thump. Thump.

His gaze is intense, unreadable, and it sent shivers down my spine. My mind scrambled to process what was happening. The warmth of his touch, the scent of his coat, the way his eyes bore into mine—it was all too much.

"But before all else, Sophia,"he murmured, his voice deep and steady,"There is a matter of utmost importance that you must first be made aware of."

His face was getting closer and closer. I could feel his breath fanning against my lips. My eyes fluttered shut.

"W-what is it, Duke?" I barely managed to whisper.

"Sophia..."

I braced myself, waiting for the inevitable—the moment his lips would finally touch mine.

But instead, his voice came again, low and insistent.

"...You need to wake up."

Wait. What?

"You need to wake up."

"You need to wake up."

"You need to wake up."

"You need to wake up."

"Waaaaaaah!"

I shot up from my sleep, my breath coming in quick gasps as I jolted upright. My heart hammered against my ribs, the lingering traces of my dream still gripping my senses.

"Whatever is the cause of such a dreadful outcry?"

"Waaaaaaah!" My scream only grew louder when I realized the Duke was standing right in front of me.

Shocks! My heart! My gosh!

I clutched at my chest, trying to steady myself. My pulse was still erratic, and my mind was struggling to distinguish reality from dream.

Wait. That wasn't real? Don't tell me that wasn't real?!

"Duke… Do you have something to tell me?" I asked hesitantly, hoping for an answer that would confirm otherwise.

Instead of responding, he simply narrowed his eyes at me, his expression unimpressed.

"Has your head been rattled so severely that you now prattle utter nonsense?" he asked as his brow furrowing.

Ack! I just asked a question! Why is he so grumpy?!

As I stared at the deep crease on his forehead, reality sank in. My shoulders slumped.

So it really was just a dream.

What was I expecting? Why did I even assume he would confess to me? He doesn't even like me.

I groaned internally, burying my face in my hands. Ghad! I almost puckered my lips in my sleep! That's so embarrassing!

"How are you feeling?"

"Waaaaah!" I yelped again, startled by his sudden question.

"Seriously, what is the matter with you, Sophia?" he demanded, his frown deepening, his voice now carrying a chilling edge.

Argh! Why does he have to talk so suddenly like that?!

I turned my gaze away from him, feeling my face heat up again. But the moment I did, I caught sight of him staring right at me.

Thump. Thump.

"I-I'm fine," I muttered.

"I shall not do it again."

I turned to him, looking confused. "W-what do you mean, Duke? What won't you do again?"

"Each time I so much as lift a finger before you, you seem to lose consciousness," he remarked dryly. "Are you truly that sensitive?"

I immediately averted my gaze, pretending to find the farthest corner of the carriage incredibly fascinating.

Shet. My heart. I can't handle this conversation.

Waaah! Why does he have to say things like that when we're alone in this carriage?! Akk!

"Duke, was everything settled when we left?" I asked, desperate to change the topic.

"Was that not your desire? Why question it now?" he replied, his tone laced with irritation.

I quickly looked away again.

My gosh! What is wrong with him today? What is he even talking about? Wait, I'm not dreaming again, am I? Ghad! Something is definitely off with him right now.

"My Grace, we've arrived," the coachman announced from outside.

I climbed out of the carriage, but for some unknown reason, he remained inside. And for another unknown reason, I found myself waiting for him.

I turned to glance at him, only to find him watching me. I quickly looked away, my heart skipping a beat.

"I won't be staying," he finally said. "Go inside."

"Oh, I see. Hehe, okay then."

Just as I was about to walk away, his voice stopped me again.

"Princess Anastasia's birthday is but two days away. I shall be overseeing the event and will be absent for its duration."

Princess Anastasia?

I wasn't sure how to react to that information, so I simply nodded.

"In that case, I'll head inside now," I said softly.

Why is he telling me this? Why? Would he stay if I asked him not to? Psh. What am I even thinking?

I turned to steal one last glance at him, but before I could, the carriage door closed shut.

I pressed a hand against my chest. I didn't even get to say goodbye.

It was funny, really. I knew he didn't like me. And yet, for some inexplicable reason, my heart wanted to believe otherwise.

Is there even a chance? Or am I just convincing myself that there is? And where exactly is this feeling leading me?

Before my thoughts could spiral further, I finally stepped inside.

Whatever happens next… I'll just have to deal with it when it comes.

After 2 Days

"Hays!" I let out a deep sigh.

From my place by the window, I heard a soft voice behind me. "You have been sighing rather frequently, Milady. Might something be amiss?"

I turned away from the window and met Lea's concerned gaze. She stood with a gentle expression, always attuned to my moods.

"It has been two days since I last saw the Duke, Lea."

A small smile graced her lips as she responded, "Once Princess Anastasia's birthday celebration concludes this evening, he shall return home on the morrow."

I bit my lip, staring back out the window. "Tell me, Lea, why do you think I wasn't invited to her birthday? After all, I am the Duke's sister."

Lea averted her gaze, suddenly finding the wooden floor far more interesting than the conversation.

A short chuckle escaped my lips. "I already know the answer, Lea. You don't have to struggle to find a way to phrase it." I sighed again, my fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns on the windowpane. "I know she doesn't like me. Well, no one here really does, right?" I smirked bitterly, watching the people outside the estate pass by, unaware of my existence.

Lea's voice was soft but firm. "Do not entertain such thoughts, Milady. That is simply untrue. It is merely that others fail to perceive the depth of your kindness."

"Aww, Lea." I turned and wrapped my arms around her, hugging her tightly.

I truly didn't know what I would do without her in my life. She was my one refuge in this cold and indifferent household. I was still holding her when an unexpected knock at the door startled us both.

"Good day, Lady Sophia. A package has arrived for you, sent by an unknown benefactor." the head servant announced, standing at the doorway with a large box in hand.

I furrowed my brows. "What is this? And who sent it?"

"There is a letter affixed to the package, my lady. Now, if you'll excuse me, I shall take my leave."

I watched her retreat without so much as a proper bow, her attitude grating on my nerves.

Wow. The audacity! Just like her master. Ugh, annoying!

As soon as she was gone and only Lea and I remained in the room, I eagerly opened the box.

My eyes widened in shock. "Shocks! Lea, am I dying? Why am I receiving such a luxurious gift?!"

I lifted the delicate fabric from within, letting the rich material of an extravagant ball gown flow over my hands. It was stunning—elegant embroidery, shimmering threads, and the finest lace I had ever seen.

"Lady Sophia, the letter," Lea reminded me, her voice brimming with curiosity.

"Ah, right!" I reached for the envelope and tore it open, my eyes scanning the words written inside.

"Vous êtes cordialement invité à l'anniversaire de la fille aînée de Don Cervantes, Mademoiselle Princess Anastasia Cervantes, à sept heures, au mois de décembre de l'an mil huit cent cinquante."

Wait.

I pressed a hand to my nose, half-expecting blood to trickle from it. My brain had just short-circuited.

Lea stepped forward. "What does it say, Milady?"

"Uhmm, I don't know either. Maybe you should read it instead." I hastily handed her the letter before my brain overheated.

Lea took the letter, then nodded in understanding. "I'm not very fluent in French, Milady, but I shall try."

She cleared her throat and read aloud, "Vous êtes cordialement invité à l'anniversaire de la fille aînée de Don Cervantes, Mademoiselle Princess Anastasia Cervantes, à sept heures, au mois de décembre de l'an mil huit cent cinquante."

I deadpanned. "Uhmm… Lea, you just read exactly what was written."

Lea beamed. "As you have commanded, Milady."

I placed a hand against my temple, feeling the beginning of a headache forming. I swear, I am going to smack her with a cotton bud! Lord help me!

"Translate it into English, Lea! You're driving me crazy!"

She let out an awkward laugh. "Ah! My sincerest apologies, Lady Sophia. I do not fully comprehend the language either. However, from what I can discern, it appears to be an invitation to Princess Anastasia's birthday celebration this evening."

"An invitation? And who invited me? The Duke? But he never mentioned anything to me. And he certainly doesn't seem to want me there."

"The letter makes mention of the Prime Minister, Princess Anastasia's esteemed guardian. It is quite possible that the invitation came from him."

Uhmm… And why in the world would the Prime Minister invite me?

"Do you think I should go?"

Lea hesitated for a moment before answering."It would be deemed most discourteous to decline an invitation from His Excellency, Milady."

"So that means I should go?"

Lea sighed. "However, Milady, the head maid has given strict instructions not to permit your departure. It is by the Duke's command."

Tss. What does he think I am, a possession? Something he owns and controls at his whim? Why didn't he bring me along to the celebration? Does he not want me to be seen by the woman he fancies? Is he afraid I might ruin the night? So, that's how he truly sees me? A bringer of trouble?

Annoying! Infuriating!

I leaned out the window, inhaling fresh air in an attempt to calm myself. But my irritation only grew when I noticed a carriage passing by, carrying three women.

My brows furrowed as they looked up at me, their lips curling into smirks.

Those pretentious daughters of Herr Adolf! Grinning like they're the most beautiful women in the world! Hah! They look like mere maids! Disgusting!

"Who are you glaring at, Lady Sophia?" Lea asked curiously.

"Lea, where do you think those three are headed?" I asked, my gaze following the carriage.

"Most likely to the palace, to attend Princess Anastasia's birthday celebration."

My scowl deepened.

They get to attend while I remain here, wasting away by the window?

Unacceptable.

"Lea, prepare yourself."

"For what, Milady?"

I turned to her with determination burning in my eyes. "I am going."

Lea gasped. "But the Duke does not wish for you to attend!"

"But I was invited too!" My voice rose. "If he doesn't want to see me, then he doesn't have to look! And I will make sure I don't look at him either! If he doesn't care about me, then I don't care about him! We'll both mind our own business!" I declared, my fists clenched.

But this time…

Let's see who ends up looking first.

"HAHAHAHAHA!" I burst into laughter.

Lea blinked at me, her expression filled with concern. 

I just ingonerd her and continue grinning like a madman. "My dearest Lea, hurry and assist me."

Lea sighed in resignation. "As you wish, Milady."

I smirked once more.

I am Sophia Shaina Jang. I shall return! And I will encounter the world—wait, is it encounter? Or conquer? Ah! Whatever!

"HAHAHAHAHA!" I cackled again.

Lea simply stared at me as if I had gone completely mad.

Whatever! I laughed once more.

"Lady Sophia, are you entirely certain about this?"

I gripped the scissors tightly, feeling their weight in my hand as I carefully assessed the strands of hair before me. My long locks cascaded down my shoulders, but my focus was solely on the section I intended to cut—right at the front, just above my forehead.

Yes, I was going to try see-through bangs. It was time for a slight change in my appearance.

"You know, Lea," I said, tilting my head with a confident smirk, "this style of bangs was a trend in the era I came from. I'm certain that whoever lays eyes on me later will be left speechless."

"Uhm… if you say so, my lady," Lea responded hesitantly. "But… need I remind you of the last time you altered your appearance? You ended up without eyebrows."

DUDUN!

I snapped my head toward her, eyes wide in horror.

Oh no. She's right. What if I mess up the cut? What if I end up exposing the vast runway that is my forehead? Waaaah! That can't happen! But… whatever! For the sake of beauty—I'll take the risk!

"I got this, Lea. Just chill."

Taking a deep breath, I steadied my grip on the scissors.

One eternity later, I gaped at my reflection in the mirror, utterly stunned.

Wow. OMG.

I had tried to do this countless times back in my school days, but I could never bring myself to go through with it. Yet now, driven by sheer desperation, I had finally done it.

I remained frozen, staring at my amazing transformed appearance, until I noticed Lea gazing at me with an amused look, her eyes wide with admiration, as if she were beholding a saint.

I turned my head slightly, only to see Lea dabbing at her teary eyes.

"What's wrong?" I asked in puzzled look. 

Instead of answering, she suddenly cupped my face with both hands, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.

"Nothing, uh, It's just simply… breathtaking," she murmured emotionally. "The delicate strands of hair framing your face only enhance your petite features. Your eyes—my lady, they seem to speak on their own, as if anyone who dares look into them would be powerless to refuse your every wish. Your lips are naturally thin yet so full of color, as if kissed by roses, and your cheeks carry a softness that adds to your ethereal beauty. And your skin…" Lea's voice trembled slightly. "It's so fair and flawless that one might think a single touch would cause it to break like fragile porcelain."

Wow. That was… oddly specific.

"Lea, are you feeling okay?"

"My apologies, Milady," she said, shaking her head as if in disbelief. "I've seen you in elegant attire many times before, yet I still can't get used to how utterly divine your beauty is. You resemble an angel descended from the heavens or perhaps a goddess taking human form. Your visage is so breathtakingly perfect that I cannot help but shed tears."

Uh… what?

I wanted to laugh at her exagge words, but her expression was so earnest that I held back. 

"Don't worry, Lea," I assured her playfully. "I'm still human. We're friends, aren't we?" I winked at her, and she just smile sweetly. 

For a final time, I turned back to the mirror, observing my full appearance. I wore ball gown in a rich peach shade, its fabric undoubtedly of fine quality, draping elegantly over my form. My long hair, now slightly curled at the ends, cascaded down my back, accentuating the new bangs that perfectly framed my face. I had only applied the lightest touch of cosmetics—given my allergy to makeup—but somehow, the fresh cut made my features stand out even more.

Oh, look at me, shamelessly admiring myself! Hahaha. Just kidding!

"Lady Sophia, you almost forgot this," Lea suddenly said, startling me as she carefully placed a pair of elegant dangling earrings onto my ears.

I gasped as I caught my reflection once again.

Wow. Now, I can say it with certainty—I look stunning. Smirk.

"Lea," I said, standing tall, "I believe I am ready."

"Lady Sophia," she said softly, gently taking my hand, "I hope you return home with a smile."

I squeezed her hand in return and met her gaze.

"I promise, Lea."

t༺❀༻Palace ༺❀༻

As soon as I arrived at the palace, my jaw almost dropped. It felt as if I had stepped into a dream, like I had been transported into the pages of a fairy tale book. No matter where I looked, the essence of the Victorian era screamed at me—whether through the grand architecture or the distinguished guests. Everything I laid my eyes on looked like a living, breathing painting. The elegance surrounding me was indescribable, beyond the reach of mere words. If I were to tell anyone in the future about this, even with proof, they probably wouldn't believe me.

This is so unreal.

Upon reaching the palace gates, I quickly retrieved my invitation. However, I furrowed my brows when I noticed the royal guards staring intently at me, their expressions unreadable.

Have they never seen an alien with an invitation card before?

"Quel est votre nom, belle dame ?"

"Quel est?" Wait! What did he just say?

Since I couldn't understand him, I simply raised my invitation card for him to see.

"See? make reading a hobbit, arraseo?"

The guard only frowned deeper at my words. Shocks! I could feel my bangs curling from the stress.

"She is my guest. Permit her entry at once."

I immediately turned toward the voice that had spoken.

"Good evening, Prime Minister. Thank you for inviting me to Princess Anastasia' Birthday celebration," I said with a respectful bow. But the moment I straightened up, I flinched as he suddenly lifted my chin with his fingers.

"I have laid eyes upon you countless times, yet with each encounter, I find myself evermore enthralled by your beauty."he praised me as lifting my hand to his lips for a kiss.

This old man is seriously creeping me out.

"Thank you for your kind words," I forced out, keeping my composure.

"My sincerest apologies for my tardiness in escorting you. In truth, I had only just arrived at the Duke's estate to collect you, only to find that you had already departed. I pray you do not take offense." He smiled at me, his gaze unnervingly fixated on my face.

I returned his smile out of courtesy, but deep down, I was getting goosebumps from his words.

"Come, let us make our way inside together." He extended his arm toward me.

I wanted to refuse, but I was worried about offending him. Left with no choice, I reluctantly took his arm, feeling like a monkey clinging to a branch.

Oh my gosh. He feels like a sugar daddy. I should have just stayed home.

As soon as we stepped inside, my heart pounded in my chest. The hall was packed with people, all of them exuding an air of nobility, their refined presence suffocating. But what made my nerves skyrocket even more was the way they were all staring at me.

"Your Excellency, I was unaware that she was the young lady you had intended to escort." I barely had time to react before Princess Anastasia appeared before us.

"A happy birthday to you, Princess Anastasia. My apologies for not bringing a gift," I said politely.

"Do not worry about it, for I never expected anything from you in the first place. Besides, I already have the person I most wanted to spend my birthday with by my side, so I have nothing else to wish for," she said with a smirk.

The person she most wanted to spend time with? Even without her saying his name, I knew she was referring to the Duke.

Speaking of the devil, where exactly is he? My gaze swept across the room, but I couldn't find him anywhere.

"Lady Sophia, let us make our way to the dining hall. The banquet is about to commence."

I simply nodded at the Prime Minister and followed him.

As soon as we reached the long banquet table, I immediately spotted the young Prince Ludwig and Friedrich.

And why exactly are these two staring at me like that? Did they miss me?

Just as I was scanning for a place to sit, both of them abruptly stood up.

"Here, Lady Sophia," they both offered in unison.

Uhmm, something seems off with these two. To avoid making a scene, I sat between them without complaint.

I was just in the middle of grabbing food when the hall was suddenly thrown into commotion. Several royal guards entered, and to my utter shock, the person who made my heart race followed right behind them. I quickly averted my gaze.

It was only a millisecond—our eyes barely met—but the impact it had on me was overwhelming.

I grabbed my glass of water and took a sip, feeling as though my heart was about to palpitate uncontrollably.

Sophia, get a hold of yourself. Remember, you lose if you're the first one to look at him. Do you understand?

I pretended not to have seen him and focused on my plate, determined not to waver.

"Happy birthday, Princess Anastasia. I extend my sincerest apologies for my tardiness; pressing matters at my office required my attention." he explained, his tone surprisingly soft.

I don't know why, but the way he spoke irked me. Why did his tone sound so different when talking to Princess Anastasia compared to when he spoke to me?

After greeting all the important figures present, he finally took his seat—directly in front of me. I felt my entire body freeze in place.

Gosh! Out of all the available seats, did he really have to sit right in front of me?

Akk! My heart can't handle his presence. I just hope I can survive this dinner without looking at him.

The tension in my system was too much, and in my distraction, I suddenly choked on my food. Immediately, Prince Ludwig and Friedrich both shot up from their seats, their faces filled with concern.

"Lady Sophia, are you alright?" they asked at the same time.

Akk! What is up with these two? Are they trying to make a scene?

Out of reflex, I glanced across the table to steal a peek at the Duke, only for my breath to hitch when I caught him looking at me. But to my surprise, he quickly averted his gaze, as if I was a complete stranger to him.

Wow. After two days of not seeing each other, he just looked at me and then ignored me?

Fine! If he doesn't want to acknowledge me, then I won't acknowledge him either! Wait... wasn't that my original plan in the first place? Wow. I can't believe this is happening.

I was still in turmoil over the whole situation when, all of a sudden, Prince Ludwig leaned in close to my ear, making me jolt in shock.

"Lady Sophia, are you alright?"

The moment I turned to look at him, our eyes met at an agonizingly close distance, and I instantly held my breath. I hurriedly turned my head in the opposite direction, breaking the eye contact.

Shocks. That was too close! Why did he have to lean in like that?!

"Lady Sophia, would you care to exchange seats with me?" Friedrich asked, his expression unreadable, though it seemed like he had just witnessed what happened between me and Prince Ludwig.

"No need, my apologies," I muttered, shaking my head.

I resumed eating, even as the atmosphere around me grew heavier. It felt as if unseen eyes were watching my every move, sending a shiver down my spine.

Cautiously, I lifted my head, stealing a glance at the Duke. However, the moment I caught sight of his unwavering gaze locked onto me, I quickly averted my eyes.

How long has he been staring? Was he secretly counting the strands of my see-through bangs? This is insane.

Once the banquet concluded, I wasted no time in distancing myself from them. There was something in the air when we were all together—something off, something suffocating.

Sigh. I should have brought Lea along. At least then, I would have someone to talk to.

Waaah! I want to go home!

Seated in the farthest corner of the ballroom, I watched as the soft melody of a romantic tune filled the grand hall. The moment the music started, couples gracefully took to the center of the room, swaying in elegant harmony.

I had no intention of joining them, content with observing from a distance. But soon, my attention was stolen—not by the melody, nor the glimmering chandeliers, but by two figures amidst the dancers.

The Duke… and Princess Anastasia.

As I watched them waltz together, their movements perfectly synchronized, I couldn't help but acknowledge how well-matched they were. They look like a real prince and princess from a fairy tale book or a Disney movie. Watching them is undeniably stunning.

And then, as I continued watching, realization struck me like a bolt of lightning.

I've already lost.

I wasn't just staring at him—I was fantasizing about him.

How ridiculous.

"May I have the honor of this dance, Lady Sophia?"

Startled, I looked up to find a man standing before me, his hand extended in invitation.

I took his hand in response, smiling up at him. "Of course."

By the time we reached the center of the dance floor, Friedrich spoke again, his voice tinged with hesitation. "Lady Sophia, may I… may I offer you a compliment?"

I tilted my head in curiosity. "A compliment? For what?" I almost laugh. 

"Ah… my apologies, but I simply cannot contain myself. You look positively enchanting this evening," he admitted, his gaze faltering as a hint of shyness crept into his demeanor.

Pfft. Of all the men I've ever seen blush, Friedrich has to be the cutest.

"Thank you, Deputy Captain. You look quite dashing yourself," I replied sincerely.

I smiled at him, but a sudden sensation of being watched sent a prickling sensation down my spine. As if compelled, I turned my head to the right—and my breath hitched.

My eyes met the Duke's.

Panic surged through me, and before I could think, I turned my gaze toward the ceiling.

Ack! Of all things to look at, why the ceiling?! Stupid!

I dared another glance in his direction—only to find that he was still staring at me.

Thump. Thump.

Shouldn't he be looking at his partner? Why is he staring so intensely at me? And why does his gaze feel so sharp?!

I should be annoyed—but instead, my heart is racing. Damn it!

As Friedrich and I continued our dance, an unexpected figure appeared before us.

It's the young Prince—Prince Ludwig.

"May I have the honor of this dance with Lady Sophia?"

Wait—what? Friedrich and I are not even done with our dance yet.

Friedrich remained composed, though his voice was firm."Your Highness, might I request that you permit us to complete our dance first?"

The Prince's jaw tightened. "I would have been the first to ask her, had you not so abruptly intervened."

"I do not mean to be disrespectful, but pray, what exactly do you imply by that?" Friedrich questioned, his voice sharp.

Woah. What was that? Why are they suddenly arguing in front of me?

As the scene escalating too quickly. I stepped between them, raising both hands in an attempt to defuse the tension.

"Okay, okay! Chill gents. The night is long, and there's plenty of time to dance. If you both really want, we can just dance together. Right. Right?"

No reaction. My words fell on deaf ears. Okay, guess I'll just shut up now.

"Deputy Captain, I merely desire a dance with Lady Sophia." Prince Ludwig insisted.

Friedrich narrowed his eyes. "It appears that a dance is not the only thing you desire."

Prince Ludwig smirked. "That depends entirely on you. Have you another interpretation in mind?" He then rolled up his sleeve.

"I'm an easy man to deal with," Friedrich responded.

And without warning, he threw a punch.

My hands flew to my mouth in shock. Everything happened so fast—so fast that before I could react, Prince Ludwig retaliated with a punch of his own.

A crowd quickly formed around us, whispers and gasps filling the ballroom.

Oh god. What are they doing?!

Just as I started moving to intervene, Prince Ludwig grabbed a nearby vase. My breath caught in my throat as I realized what he was about to do.

He was going to smash it over Friedrich!

Acting purely on instinct, I threw myself between them, shielding Friedrich from the incoming attack. I squeezed my eyes shut, bracing for the impact. My entire body trembled as I awaited the inevitable pain.

But then— A strong pair of arms wrapped around me.

The sharp crash of shattering glass rang through the air, followed by the sound of ceramic pieces scattering across the marble floor.

Slowly, I opened my eyes.

And there, shielding me, was the very last person I expected.

Blood stained his shoulder, small shards of broken glass embedded in his flesh. Yet, despite his injury, he remained steady, his hold on me firm.

My breath hitched.

"R-Raphael?"