Chapter 50
Standing in only her thin underdress, Felice straightened her back. As she had in the past, she tilted her shoulders back slightly and lifted her chin.
Rose entered the curtain, smiled, and circled around her.
“Take a deep breath.”
She wrapped the measuring tape around Felice’s waist.
“Twenty-one inches. Half an inch smaller than when we made your debutante dress.”
One of the assistants nodded and recorded the measurement, while Felice replied casually.
“I see.”
“Could you lift your arms slightly?”
Rose measured carefully, her hands brushing lightly along Felice’s figure. Satisfied, she stepped back.
“I actually had a dress in mind for you. We’ll modify it based on today’s measurements. Would you like to try it on?”
“Ah… Rose.”
“It’s my indulgence, but I hope you’ll accept it.”
When Rose winked, Felice hugged her in gratitude.
“Thank you, but I’m the one who should be thankful.”
With her eyes curved beautifully, Rose glanced behind the curtain and lowered her voice.
“Go speak with the Duchess. No one can hear you, so don’t worry.”
With one last wink, Rose stepped back, and Felice emerged.
Duchess Vanessa, reclining on a sofa, was checking a catalog while sipping tea.
“Thank you for waiting, Duchess Vanessa.”
“No, my pleasure. I now realize that Miss Felice’s debutante dress was one of Madame Rose’s creations.”
Duchess Vanessa smiled.
“By the way, I recall you mentioned that Miss Felice doesn’t currently have a romantic partner?”
“Yes. I’ve been busy recently, so there hasn’t been time.”
Felice nodded and took a seat opposite her.
“I see. Considering the important work you handle, I suppose that makes sense.”
“Yes, it does.”
At that moment, Duchess Vanessa’s gaze lingered on Felice’s face before lightly resting her chin in her hand and blinking. Felice, unsure how to read it, responded with a polite smile, though the noblewoman’s penetrating gaze continued.
After taking a sip of tea, Felice broke the silence with her usual polite smile and brought up the main point.
“As mentioned in my letter, everything has been progressing well since that day. The prince mentioned he’s developed an interest in someone.”
“Since that day? How wonderful.”
Duchess Vanessa said, raising an eyebrow as she grasped her teacup.
“Yes… His feelings seemed to have moved more quickly than expected. He’s aware of his interest, too. All thanks to the Duchess’ help.”
“…No, I had a purpose of my own.”
The Duchess smiled gently, sipping her tea. Felice blinked, following the aroma, and enjoyed it briefly despite the slightly heavy atmosphere.
“Miss Felice.”
Luckily, Duchess Vanessa began again.
“How is Baron Kelton? I heard he’s hospitalized.”
“Ah… he hasn’t improved yet. Actually, his condition continues to worsen…”
“I see. That’s unfortunate. He needs to recover quickly.”
Felice responded with a small nod and smile, keeping her reply formal.
“By the way, you’re staying at the prince’s residence now, correct?”
“Yes.”
“That must involve many concerns. I have a villa—would you consider moving there?”
“Oh, no. It’s my responsibility, and I couldn’t impose further on you, Duchess…”
“Miss Felice.”
The Duchess said softly but firmly. Felice swallowed and met her gaze.
“It’s already my responsibility.”
Though Duchess Vanessa’s smile remained, Felice couldn’t refuse. She had grown used to understanding the unspoken meaning behind such offers—primarily, that the Duchess feared the prince might develop interest in her.
“I’m grateful for your thoughtful help. I’ll move after informing the prince.”
Felice said quickly.
There was no reason for her to continue staying at the prince’s residence anyway.
After all, she will no longer need to conduct bedroom lessons.
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