Chapter 93
For a while, sponsor gatherings had typically been held at well-known galleries or at the private pavilions of aristocratic art lovers. But this time, the venue was set for the Royal Academy of Art.
Perhaps it was because both Marchioness Depende and Claude himself would be attending.
Felice took a steadying breath as she thought about the academy.
Just as the Marchioness had wished to keep their lessons secret, Felice herself wanted her painting to remain undisclosed. Fortunately, Mr. Edmund, the headmaster, never officially acknowledged Felice as a student. Instead, he allowed her to display and sell her paintings in the gallery anonymously.
It was exactly what Felice wanted. Of course, she never knew who purchased her paintings. Unlike other artists, she couldn’t meet clients, explain her works, or discuss prices. The academy handled everything as her intermediary—even the pricing. But she didn’t mind.
Normally, women wouldn’t be able to display works in the academy’s gallery under a hidden identity, let alone as artists.
“Claude…”
Even if she were to see Mr. Edmund today, he would keep her secret. As someone who knew about her connection to the Marchioness, he was likely the only person present who wouldn’t see her and Claude attending together as scandalous.
Especially since the Marchioness herself would be there, he’d likely think it was just an extension of their lessons—using her nephew as part of Felice’s artistic education. After all, to be a good artist, one had to train their eye by studying other works.
If rumors did start, at least the headmaster would know how to play along.
“But I must make sure Lady Elise doesn’t misunderstand.”
In the carriage to the academy, Felice opened her notebook.
“Of course, when Count Legrand is around, I can talk about art, but as a romance tutor, it’s just as important to prevent Lady Elise from getting the wrong idea.”
After all the affection the Racliffe household staff had shown her, Felice had spent days planning carefully.
May the Prince win Elise’s heart and find both love and a secure political footing!
Felice looked at Claude, her face full of determination.
“So, the story goes: The Marchioness, fond of Annie at the Racliffe estate, suggested she have a tutor—and that’s how I was introduced. That’s the start of the cover story, right?”
Felice went over the details of Claude’s fabricated backstory.
“Then, because Annie showed some talent for painting and the Marchioness was seeking an artist to sponsor, she asked my opinion on art education. That’s why I’m here today. Isn’t that correct?”
Claude nodded in agreement.
“In that case, Claude, unless I’m talking with Count Legrand, I’ll make a point to stay with the Marchioness rather than by your side. It wouldn’t look good for me to act as your partner. I’ll discuss this with the Marchioness myself.”
Felice fully expected Claude to agree.
But after listening to her, Claude fell silent in thought and finally shook his head.
“No.”
“…Excuse me?”
Felice blinked, taken aback.
“Miss Felice, don’t you remember what I told you? Lady Elise is attracted to bold, commanding men. And not only in private settings.”
Felice swallowed nervously.
“Wait… You’re not planning to give me any ‘commands’ at the sponsor gathering, are you?”
Claude just grinned.
“No need. She’s brought a partner with her this time.”
“…She has?”
“You’ll see firsthand what it means to give a truly bold command.”
Felice clutched her notebook a little tighter. Somehow, she had a feeling this art event would not go as she’d planned.
* * *
Marchioness Depende looked at her former student and her beaming nephew, barely stifling a laugh.
“Do they even know how to lie properly?”
She clicked her tongue behind her fan in disbelief.
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