‘It’s probably because of Swain. He must still suspect that I want a divorce because I like another man. That’s why he’s unnecessarily flirting.’

Still, it’s a bit unexpected.

I know so much about Rashid, yet right now, I feel like I don’t know anything about him at all.

As I turned the pages one by one, I kept thinking about the kiss from earlier.

The moist and ticklish sensation that had touched me just moments ago kept lingering on my forehead.

‘No, I need to focus!’

It’s because I’ve been seeing a handsome man too closely, too often. I lack immunity.

I steeled my resolve once again. This was no time to be distracted.

I needed to build up reasons for divorce to present to the temple. I needed evidence to support my claim that I shouldn’t remain as the Duchess of Penvernon.

I’ve already started implementing the first step.

Madame Kruger will spread the story that I bought dresses from the entire catalog. Rumors spread quickly, and it will soon circulate in social circles.

If it gives the impression that the Duchess of Penvernon has gotten a taste for money, or that her true nature has been revealed and she’s now pursuing luxury unlike before, it would be a success. That wouldn’t be a big issue later on anyway.

The Imperial family would be wary of the Duchess of Penvernon becoming too influential. They would have wanted a Duchess who would be of no help to Rashid.

Then I should hold a banquet soon. I planned to make it as big and boisterous as possible. I thought I should make appearances at other invitation events in advance to gather more guests.

And also… I could ‘fail in an investment’ by buying a bogus real estate. This should be enough to take up a spot on the list. Though it would be difficult to squander all of the Duke’s family fortune.

‘Where would be good?’

I spread out the Imperial Geographic Map. While territories usually became family names passed down through generations, they were also often subjects of trade. If the land had a special use, it was even easier to trade.

‘For example, something like a mine.’

My goal was to buy the most useless place at the highest price possible.

But I shouldn’t do something too nonsensical either. It would be more troublesome if it looked suspicious to everyone. It’s enough to leave an impression that I failed to recognize something wasn’t worth its price.

After contemplating for a while with a gemstone guide and a map spread out side by side, I decided to purchase a sunstone and moonstone mine.

Both were gems that were popular in the past but have since fallen out of fashion.

‘It’s like the jade or cherry molding in apartments.’

Sunstone and moonstone had lost their rarity value because so many people used to wear them. They were items that everyone had tucked away deep in their jewelry boxes, never to be touched again. They became faded names, left only with past glory.

The mines were nearly depleted from excessive mining during their popularity, but with few people looking for them now, the supply and demand somewhat matched. This seemed appropriate.

‘Sun and moon, huh.’

I hummed a tune. I like the names to begin with. Buying the two together even gave it a romantic feel.

I decided to send a message to request a broker to help with the purchase of the mining site.

‘The broker can’t be just anyone either.’

It shouldn’t be someone diligent and smart. I don’t need an evaluation like ‘The Duchess might not know much else, but she knows how to judge people.’ It should be someone who’s either obviously greedy, clumsy and foolish, or pitifully inept at everything they do—something along those lines.

“…Call someone like that.”

I prioritized the unfortunate and unsuccessful option.

A Duchess who ruins her business blinded by sympathy!

It was a description that would make even me want to click my tongue and point fingers.

‘Good, this is it.’

The next day, a broker matching the conditions came to the mansion with documents.

“Well, what do you know, we have exactly the property you’re looking for. It’s hard to find these days, you’ve timed it perfectly.”

The broker enthusiastically laid out his well-oiled words. He spoke of nonsense, saying if you miss this chance you won’t be able to buy it, that it’s an investment for the future. The broker, on the brink of bankruptcy due to repeated failures, acted desperately.

“I’m glad I timed it well.”

He rattled off his words fluently.

“Don’t be surprised. According to an ancient legend, the site where the last dragon fell asleep is right beneath this mine. They say the dragon’s energy is imbued in the gems! Isn’t that incredibly amazing? It’s a truly mystical place.”

‘In the end, that just means the gems’ luster is dull.’

What legend. He certainly has a way with words.

“It’s in Count Samoa’s territory, so it’s very close to the western Penvernon duchy. You can either purchase the land outright, or you can sign a contract for exclusive mining rights for 30 years.”

The excited broker presented two options. They were choices that didn’t even need consideration.

“Of course, we should go with the purchase. I’m willing to buy the land between the duchy and the mine to make access easier for mining. I’ll pay the brokerage fee generously.”

「That’s right! Mark inwardly rejoiced.」

At that moment, I heard the inner thoughts of broker Mark. I quietly observed as relief spread across his face, thinking he was now saved.

“You definitely won’t regret this, my lady.”

The broker who had caught his mark clapped his hands together in delight.

Of course, I was delighted too.

Everything was going smoothly.

I completed the land transaction by filling out the purchase application through Mark. It was a transaction where I carefully checked even the seal of Count Samoa’s territory attached to the document. When buying the land to be used as a road between the duchy and the mine in one go, a considerable amount of money was spent at once.

Apart from gathering material for the divorce papers, just the act of spending money made me feel quite good. There was a thrill in not having to worry about what to buy. It was an experience I couldn’t have if not for now.

“It’s time, my lady.”

“Ah, yes.”

Time had flown by while meeting with the broker. It was already time for dinner. I went down to the dining room on time.

Rashid and I tried to have dinner together as regularly as possible.

He was often busy discussing state affairs at the imperial palace, or dealing with territory issues. Still, he made time to attend dinners whenever possible.

‘Eating is important, after all.’

When I entered the dining room, Rashid was already there waiting for me.

“You look in a good mood, Alisa.”

“Do I?”

“Did something good happen?”

“Ah, I bought something.”

I sat down with a grin, without specifying exactly what.

“I heard. You purchased a sunstone and moonstone mine.”

‘If you knew, why did you ask?’

Rashid already knew everything, as if it were natural. He was truly meticulous.

Then he must surely know why I bought it too. There was no reason to hide my intentions from him.

“Yes. This much is fine, right? You never know, it might be quite useful.”

“You can do as you please.”

Rashid answered readily. Honestly, it’s not a small amount, but he doesn’t seem to care much. Does he not know how much it is yet? Anyway, it’s more than enough expenditure to fulfill the purpose I want, so whatever.

As I was about to wet my throat with the wine on the table, he continued.

“But will that be enough? You spent too little. Don’t worry and spend as much as you want. The founding festival is coming up soon, so prepare everything you need.”

…Such a typical line from the male protagonist in a romance novel.

“Yes! Then can I buy more?”

So I answered like a supporting villainess from a romance novel.

* * *

Inside Madame Kruger’s boutique.

Noble ladies were gathered in small groups, engaged in conversation.

Usually, the higher-ranking noble ladies would have Madame Kruger come to their mansions to fit their dresses. However, those of slightly lower status, or those who enjoyed mingling with their peers, would visit the boutique in person to chat.

Madame Kruger approached one of the noble ladies.

“Listen to this, Madam. The other day, the Duchess of Penvernon, you see…”

“Penvernon? You mean that thin, small woman?”

“Madam! Watch your words.”

Madame Kruger put her finger to her lips, shushing. Countess Galloway frowned at her attitude.

“There’s nothing to be careful about.”