Chapter 253
Even though she could have used other means, the fact that Gren insisted on sending it this way was intentional—a clear message that her involvement was traceable. After all, her family was the biggest hand behind the very underground organization that delivered it.
“Tsk.”
With a click of his tongue, Silas tore open the envelope. As he read the contents, a glimmer of interest flickered in his eyes.
She was still demanding, as payment for supplying the d***s, that Dehart and Sebelia be killed.
* * *
At the same time, Sebelia was carefully stepping down from her carriage. Following the curious stares of the crowd, she lifted her gaze to take in Golden Palace.
The palace, with its deep red facade perched atop a tall flight of stairs, glimmered gold depending on the light—so mysterious, so beautiful.
“It’s beautiful.”
“It might look good from the outside, but inside, it’s old-fashioned. It was built ages ago, so at least the exterior had to be impressive. That’s why a former emperor had it painted with a special pigment.”
Sebelia gave a quick, pouting glance at Dehart’s dry comment.
“Well, regardless of any old stories, it doesn’t make it any less beautiful.”
“I didn’t say it wasn’t beautiful. I just meant, it’s not a building worthy of your compliments.”
Sebelia was at a loss for words. Was he saying he just couldn’t stand the Golden Palace being complimented in front of him?
“At this rate, I’m not sure I can say anything around you.”
“Did I do something wrong?”
Suddenly, he slowed, looking down at her, his expression a little glum.
“I’m sorry. I just…”
He started to say something, then stopped, his lips moving but no sound coming out, before he let out a sigh. Already curious, Sebelia refused to let the matter drop.
“Why did you stop? What is it you want to say?”
“Well.”
Apparently finding it a little embarrassing, Dehart’s nape flushed slightly. Still, under her persistent questioning, he finally let the truth out.
“You’ve never said anything like that about Hillend Hall.”
“Oh.”
“I understand, of course. It was a political marriage, and there was no room for such feelings. I’m not blaming you. It’s just that…”
His words trailed off into the air and he gave a sigh.
“I suppose I was jealous. Sorry.”
The quiet admission left Sebelia a little dazed. It wasn’t until she’d climbed all the way to the entrance that she regained her senses.
“Dehart—no, Duke, just now…”
She’d said his name without thinking, only to realize there were other nobles around.
Oh no.
If anyone saw her calling him by name, who knew what sort of rumors might start? Sebelia quickly closed her mouth and focused on walking, but of course, Dehart noticed her odd behavior.
He frowned, leaning down.
“Did you just call my name?”
“No, I didn’t.”
She shook her head and hurried her steps, moving stiffly in her embarrassment.
“What’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell? If you need more medicine, just say so.”
“I… Well, now isn’t the time. Can we just go in first?”
She could feel eyes from every direction. Bringing it up now would just give the crowd something to gossip about.
“Sebelia, if you keep dodging my questions, I’ll have no choice but to assume you’re ill.”
At his stern tone, she sighed softly.
“It’s just… This is my first time at such a grand banquet. I’m a little nervous, honestly. I’m not sure someone like me should even be here. I must sound ridiculous.”
Thankfully, this excuse seemed to work.
“What if I faint in there?”
She tried to laugh, playing up her nerves. After a moment, Dehart replied quietly,
“That might not be such a bad thing.”
“Huh?”
“If that happens, I’d have every excuse to scoop you up and carry you right out of there—in front of all those men who can’t take their eyes off you.”
Startled, Sebelia quickly stepped away from him.
First jealousy, now this—what had gotten into him?
“But before it comes to that, I’ll make sure you’ve taken your medicine, so don’t worry.”
“You’re joking, right?”
“Who knows.”
With a shrug, Dehart started forward again. Even as she followed him inside, Sebelia couldn’t shake her suspicious gaze.
They walked together down the corridor, drawing close to the banquet hall. At the open doors, a footman glanced at them, cleared his throat, and raised his voice.
“The Duke of Inverness, Dehart and his partner, now entering!”
The music and conversation didn’t freeze in dramatic silence, but one thing was obvious.
At the far end of the hall, where the most distinguished guests sat, all eyes were fixed on them.
“At last, they’re here.”
Third Prince Hares Belkram, the other star of tonight’s banquet, murmured, barely able to hide his excitement.
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