Three days had passed since the banquet. One could say it was only three days, but to me, it felt like a whole week—or even a month—had passed. Blankly gazing out the window, I sighed. It had been three days since I had last seen Max. Why wasn't he visiting? Was he busy?

There had been times when a similar thing had happened—him not visiting for a few days—still, I couldn't help but feel downcast. How could he leave me like this after what had happened at the banquet? I told myself it must be because there were many things to do as the empire's crown prince.

'But couldn't he at least send a letter?' I squeezed the mouse doll he gifted me a few days ago. That was when a voice came from outside the door.

"Lady Jubelian, this is Merilyn."

"Oh! Come in."

Merilyn entered my room with a silver tray. Surprised, she noted, "My lady, you seem to be always carrying around the little mouse these days…"

It was only then that I realized I was holding the toy. "Oh, it's…" I trailed off.

Smiling, Merilyn applauded, "I'm glad. It seems you admire him enough to overlook the things you dislike."

I gave an awkward laugh. 'What does that matter… He hasn't even paid a visit for the past few days…' Feeling dejected, I lowered my eyes. Merilyn held out the silver tray she was holding.

"There are two letters for you today, my lady."

I checked the seals on each letter. One was from the Arlo household, and the other was from…

'From the Herend household? Why would they send me a letter?'

The Herend family rarely showed themselves during social events. Our families did not interact much, either. I was skeptical about the legitimacy of the letter at first but opened it anyway.

Dear Lady Floyen,  How are you?

I don't know if you remember, but this is Yuri—I met you in front of Fyodor's Workshop a few days ago.

I just wanted to let you know that my liege will not be able to visit you for the next few days due to some things he has to work through. I am writing this letter in his stead.

He is doing his best to take care of his duties in order to see Your Ladyship as soon as possible. Please do not fret about his prolonged absence.

Thanks to her letter, I finally learned that Max had been swamped. With a smile, I let out a sigh of relief—glad to have heard some news about him.

Please feel free to come by whenever Lord Max frustrates you—we can talk over some tea and sweets. I can guarantee an enjoyable time.

In any case, I hope you have a wonderful day. I look forward to your visit.

Sincerely, Yulia Frey Herend.

The smile on my face never left as I read through the letter. The end however caught me by surprise.

'Yulia… She has the same name as the head of the former empress' guards.'

* * *

Fresia grimaced at her lord, who was swinging his blade in the air nonstop. 'I didn't know he would fall for the duke's trap so easily.' She had instantly deduced that what the duke had said was bait. Nonetheless, her lord had taken it seriously and was training to surpass his master. Knowing Max's character well—prideful and stubborn—there was one thing she could do to fix the issue at hand.

'I'll have to nag him to stop by the Floyen mansion before the week is over. Otherwise, he'll get dumped in no time.' Fresia sighed as she watched her lord grunt and swing his sword around. She was reminded of the very person she missed dearly—her cousin who supported her to become a swordswoman despite her being an illegitimate child.

"Yuri, I beg you. Please help the child so that he doesn't go astray."

It was because of her that Fresia had been able to become accepted into the family. For her—the former empress—Fresia was willing to do anything. Despite her determination, taking care of Max was difficult at times. Once he made up his mind, he didn't care to listen to anyone else.

Just then, Max angrily pushed his sword into its scabbard. "I can't do this," he muttered as he turned to face Fresia. "I'll be back. I'm just going to stop by the Floyen mansion for a moment."

A smile brightened Fresia's face. Her lord had let go of his stubborn attitude without help! 'Has the lady cured his obstinacy?' Fresia never thought such a cold person like her lord would come to care about someone so much to abandon his pride. 'How delightful.' A soft smile characterized her face.