Deciding I had to explain first, I opened the door. I was taken aback to see so many people assembled. It wasn't just my maids… I mean, why had they all come running? I was in my room for goodness' sake! Almost all of the servants and the maids working in the mansion were looking at me with worrisome eyes.

Wiping his sweat with a handkerchief, Derrick carefully asked, "Could you tell us what's happening?"

Taking in a deep breath, I opened my mouth. "Oh, it's… it was an accident." Everyone stared at me in silence. Breaking the awkward atmosphere, I admitted, "I'm sorry."

The servants looked away. "Oh, p-please don't worry about it. We are just relieved that you are safe, Lady Jubelian," Derrick spoke for them.

I was feeling sorry and somewhat embarrassed by their kindness when a voice quipped, "Jubelian, did you blow the whistle because you were bored?" The one who mocked me was Geraldine—of course, it was that good-for-nothing. I couldn't believe he was picking on me like that. Why would I even do such a thing? I wasn't a little kid!

As I scowled in his direction, Merilyn spoke. "My lady, were you bored?" Her brown eyes were wide in curiosity.

Having no choice, I faked a smile in response.

* * *

Originally, Max had planned on never visiting Fyodor's workshop again. But it was a different story if he was getting a gift for someone other than Jubelian.

Having spotted an item, he picked it up for purchase in satisfaction. However, his face crumpled soon after. He wanted to give another present to the lady.

Max wondered what he should get her for a moment then left the studio as he had no intention of buying her gift from the workshop. Deciding to look around, he took a stroll around the square. That was when something caught his eyes. The little object reminded him of her. Captivated by what he saw, he stood in place. That was when the owner grinned and welcomed him.

"Come take a look! It's a cute little doll kids will love! Plus, it even moves when you poke it!" he advertised enthusiastically. "Why don't you try it, sir?" the man suggested, to which Max poked the toy. It then began to tremble. The small, white stuffed animal had round eyes and looked timid and harmless—it reminded him of Jubelian.

"I would like this wrapped. I want to give it as a gift."

The owner replied excitedly at his first sale. "Congratulations! You, sir, are my first customer. So I will give another for free!"

Deciding to keep the other one for himself, Max smiled.

* * *

After what happened, I was forced to play ball with the maids—something only kids did, by the way! Having exercised against my wishes, I was exhausted. It was all because of Max.

There was only one day left until I would give him a response, yet he was treating me like a friend rather than someone he loved… On top of that, he had disappeared after causing a mess. I couldn't help but be upset. Gritting my teeth, I decided to think a little more about whether or not to date him.

That was when knocks came from the window again. I approached the entrance to the balcony to realize he was holding an elegant package in his arms. Was that why he had suddenly rushed out? I stopped myself from smiling and opened the window.

"Here, this is for you," he said rather indifferently. Accepting the wrapped box, I gazed at him with loving eyes. I was wondering whether I could open the gift when he spoke again. "I bought it because it reminded me of you." His tone was full of confidence.

I opened the package with anticipation but was soon startled.

'What… is this?'

The stuffed animal looked like a real mouse. Wondering if it was alive, I touched it slightly. The doll squirmed in response.

"Aaaah!"

Scared out of my mind, I had no choice but to throw the seemingly live creature across the room.