Nevertheless, it was thanks to him that Beatrice would begin smiling again. As her once abandoned soul was rekindled, Mikhail fell in love with her and pledged to protect her. He became someone who would do anything for his lady. Beatrice also recognized his efforts and gradually warmed up to him as well.

All in all, I was not worried. Although he had been a piece of trash to me, it would be different for Bea since they were fated to become lovers. Somewhat relieved, I glanced in Mikhail's direction then flinched. I didn't understand why, but he was looking in my direction. I quickly averted my eyes elsewhere and took deep breaths to calm down. That was when I noticed the crown prince was leaving Bea's side. Realizing she would be left alone, I instantly moved my eyes in an effort to meet hers. That was when someone placed their hand on my shoulder. I turned my head in surprise only to realize it was Rose.

"Lady Jubelian, Veronica and I are going to the powder room for a moment."

I sighed in relief at those words and nodded. "Of course! Go ahead." I directed my attention to where Bea had been once the two left. I could tell she was looking at me as well. I was wondering whether I should approach her first when Mary Ann and Catherine began a conversation with me. The two were chuckling about something.

"Lady Jubelian! Would you like to do something fun with us?"

"Fun?" I asked back, to which the two ladies pointed at a group of young men nearby. They were all handsome, but the one that stood out the most was the eldest son of Duke Elios. Among the young noblewomen, he was considered the best man to be married to in the empire.

"The gentlemen over there suggested that we go play a card game in one of the lounges."

I sighed when I realized what they were talking about. 'Ah, so this is… It's like a blind date, isn't it?' I was tempted as it had been a long time since I had received an invitation like this. Still, I felt uncomfortable leaving Rose and Veronica behind—not to mention that I was still thinking about saying hello to Bea."Then why don't we all go together once Rose and Veronica return from the powder room?" I suggested.

Mary Ann and Catherine exchanged glances. Then they whispered in unison, "There is one gentleman among them—his family does not have a favorable relationship with Lady Veronica's family."

I understood what kind of situation I was in. They were afraid that I would tell their whereabouts to the two absent ladies once they returned. In any case, being in the banquet hall at this moment was dangerous for me. For this reason, I was convinced for a moment. Still, I did not want to leave Bea here alone. Given the changes in the original plot so far, there was a chance that Mikhail might do something stupid to her.

Catherine exclaimed just then, interrupting my thoughts. "Oh my gosh, look at that!" Her wide eyes demonstrated her excitement.

I turned to see Mikhail courteously greeting the princess. 'Ah, of course. There's no way he would do something foolish.' Bittersweet feelings overcame me as I realized fate had finally put the two together. Mikhail would finally be Beatrice's knight in shining armor. She wouldn't have to cry in secret anymore. 'May you be happy in the future,' I prayed for Bea. I then replied to the two ladies, "Okay, let's go." ThischapterfirstappearedonM|V|L^EMPYR.

* * *

The man before her had bright blond hair and amethyst eyes. He definitely deserved to be counted as the best groom in the empire along with the eldest son of Duke Elios. In any case, he was unimpressive in Beatrice's eyes.

'You mean he was loved by Jubelian… with that face? She deserves much better.' Beatrice was glaring at Mikhail with such thoughts when the knight opened his mouth.

"Your Highness, pardon me for blocking your way. I was drawn by your beauty." The ladies surrounding Mikhail swooned over the bold statement, but the recipient—Beatrice—was not listening.