Give Me Back My Glass Shoe - Chapter 60

Hello everyone! there are changes in the chapter numbering, I had edited it to the correct arrangement as there was confusion in the chapter count. Apologies and enjoy the translation!

“I assure you, it won’t even be half the number of people who saw the article accusing me. And even those who see it won’t believe it.”

I wrote a retraction article under threat. I’m sure there are people who think that way. Paiki added with a blank face.

Aniella moved her lips. She had no other plan but to get Claudie back and write the retraction article. As she was rolling her eyes, trying to come up with a new plan, Paiki finally revealed his demand.

“Do you know the best way to cover up such an article? It’s to admit to a part and deny the most important fact.”

Paiki’s plan was this:

Paiki admits that he took Aniella from the party to the Ducal residence. However, he completely denies the kidnapping allegation. How is that possible? All that’s needed is a convincing reason for people to believe.

“If we say we were lovers, then it wouldn’t be strange that I took you, who was injured, to the Ducal residence for treatment, or that I kept you for a somewhat extended period.”

How did he come up with such an idea? He truly is skilled in cunning strategies.

While impressed, Aniella pointed out the uncomfortable part.

“So you were aware, Your Grace, that such behavior towards a woman you just met is strange?”

“…It wasn’t our first meeting.”

“I have no memory of meeting you before that?”

Although she knew his face because he was such a famous figure, they had never even exchanged greetings, let alone been introduced. Aniella thought Paiki was lying again.

Paiki crossed his arms and furrowed one eyebrow.

“If we just insist we were lovers, no one will believe it. We need to show a convincing performance in public.”

“Does that mean I have to go on dates with you, Your Grace?”

“…I was going to suggest you come as my partner to the party being held tonight. Do you want to go on a date?”

Aniella’s cheeks flushed, and she shook her head.

“Ah, the party. Yes. I understand.”

She agreed in her fluster, but upon second thought, it didn’t seem like a matter to be decided so easily. A party partner? All the attention of high society would be on them.

Could she overcome the pressure and actually pull it off?

She was worried. She wasn’t mentally prepared. Couldn’t it be a party another night, not tonight?

She was about to ask, but Paiki was quick to act. He immediately called a maid to get her ready.

Exfoliating, polishing, and even a massage. Having received the full course treatment, Aniella thought it was fortunate he seemed less angry than she had expected. However, she changed her mind when she saw the dress and shoes the maid brought, saying they were for her to wear today.

The moment she saw the sky-blue dress and glass slippers, she remembered the day she fell down the stairs. Could it be that his intention was to mock and torment her?

“It suits you perfectly, as expected.”

Paiki grinned as he looked at her, now fully ready. He looked satisfied. Aniella became convinced he was indeed trying to torment her.

“Why do you have the face of a pig being led to the slaughter?”

From now on, you need to show an affectionate side to many people. You’re not planning to keep that face there, are you?

His scowling brow felt accusatory to her. Aniella gave him a sidelong glance and sharply turned her head away.

The maids who had helped her get ready were standing right beside them. What must they think of her? Although they weren’t laughing at all, Aniella felt they were mocking her beneath their bowed heads.

“There’s no ‘affectionate’ man who calls the woman he ‘loves’ a pig being led to the slaughter.”

Aniella emphasized the words ‘affectionate’ and ‘loves’. Paiki was the one who suggested the act. Shouldn’t he be the one to show a convincing attitude first?