Chapter 6 – Part 2

“There is something you need to keep in mind.”

“What is it?“

“The article only mentions that the engagement was annulled. There isn’t a single word about you or our family.”

“And?”

“…….”

Slonian considered the situation from two possible perspectives.

First, they could have concealed Rachel’s presence out of consideration, anticipating potential gossip. Second, they might have only mentioned the broken engagement because Rachel didn’t appeal to them.

Slonian felt a deep concern, wondering if it was the latter. There had been no communication from the imperial palace so far.

‘If they were interested in Rachel, wouldn’t they have informed us by now?’

His anxiety intensified.

“Rachel, you must be especially cautious in times like this. Even more so since you’ve been careless until now.“

“Careless? What do you mean?“

“A marriage proposal from the imperial family isn’t a trivial matter. Now that the broken engagement has been announced, we don’t know when they’ll pick the next candidate. If, by any chance, you don’t please His Majesty, you could end up wasting time.”

While being chosen to go to the imperial palace was an honor, it also carried a heavy burden. Rachel was unaware of the weight that came with it.

“Father, stop. I don’t want to hear this on such a happy day.”

Rachel shouted. Baron Slonian, her father, didn’t seem inclined to give her the response she wanted. Instead of feeling joy, her once elated mood deflated at the sight of her parents’ uneasy reactions.

“Father, you seem more impatient than I am. We’ll see such articles in time, so please be patient.”

She disliked how her father’s words seemed to bring bad luck.

‘Only Eliana is unworthy of being in such talks, not me. The prince’s heart is with me, so I have nothing to fear.’

Feeling a growing sense of disappointment, Rachel recalled how her parents had always granted her every wish. Her mother, Sarah, gently took Rachel’s hand, her eyes filled with tears as she glanced at Baron Slonian.

“Baron, please. Let’s take this slowly. Rachel must have struggled, unable to tell us all this time.”

But Slonian did not relent.

“Until we hear something from the palace, do not reveal anything. You must be cautious.“

‘Do not reveal anything?’

She had waited so long for this day, and now she was being told to hide in the shadows again?

‘I can’t do that.‘

“No! I will make my presence known as soon as possible,“ Rachel declared firmly, biting her lip.

* * *

An invitation from the Madrino Marquis family arrived for a party. As usual, Eliana, Paul, and Sylvia’s names were all on the guest list, with a request to attend and enjoy the event.

The Leiberte household was in a frenzy on the day of the party. Sylvia called in four maids, determined to look her best.

“No, no! I told you to do it like this. Yes, put that ribbon on my right shoulder.”

The commotion was so loud that, even with the door closed, the sounds of maids trying to meet her demands were audible.

“What a fuss,“ Eliana remarked.

“I heard the youngest lady has her eye on a young nobleman, which is why she’s paying more attention than usual.“

“Ah, so that’s it.”

Eliana shook her head and sat in front of the mirror.

“I’ll put in some effort today.“

“Yes, My Lady.”

Mila was delighted to hear Eliana, who had been dressing simply lately, show such interest in her appearance.

Mila began carefully styling Eliana’s hair.

Eliana looked at herself in the mirror. Even without makeup, her clear and radiant skin was glowing. She looked completely different from the previous year when she had attended the Madrino Marquis’ party.

Her beautiful blue eyes were bright and resolute. Whereas she once seemed like a fragile leaf, easily shaken by the wind, now she exuded an aura that demanded respect. Her elegant nose and graceful jawline subtly drew attention. Mila, who was helping her, felt the same.

“Lady Eliana seems to grow more beautiful every day. I can’t take my eyes off her.”

Despite the constant barrage of public criticism, Eliana was blooming rather than withering.

“Attending a party at a time like this? Your decision is absurd.”

Matilda clicked her tongue in disapproval until the very last moment before departure.

“We were invited, so there’s no reason not to go.”

“Good grief.”

Matilda couldn’t understand Eliana. She wondered why Eliana would willingly walk into more humiliation. No matter how much Matilda criticized her, Eliana was unwavering.

‘Everyone’s asking why I’m going, saying it’ll only bring more shame. I’ll prove them wrong.’

Eliana was determined. Two carriages sped across the horizon as the sunset.

* * *

The Leiberte family’s estate was far from the Madrino Marquis’ mansion. The carriages arrived just before dusk fully turned to night.

“We’ve arrived, My Lady.”

At the coachman’s words, Eliana stepped out of the carriage. Towering trees lined the path, and a tall white fountain stood at the end. Its cascading water cut through the cool night air.

Rows of statues marked the direct path to the party. As Eliana ascended the stairs with Paul and Sylvia, all eyes of the nobles gathered there turned toward her.

“Oh my, look over there. It’s Eliana Leiberte.”

“I thought for sure she wouldn’t come to this party.“

“She must still be clinging to hope of seeing the crown prince.”

Even though they whispered, Eliana could hear everything.

‘What a load of nonsense.‘

“She’s not going to hear anything good.“

“Do you think she’ll end up in tears tonight?”

When that comment hit her ears, Paul spoke up.

“Eliana, you must be getting full on all this mockery, huh? Being part of your family has even made my ears itch.”

He spoke without restraint.

“If your ears itch, scratch them. What are your hands for?”

Eliana gave Paul a sidelong glance, replying with an amused smirk. As she quickened her pace, Paul hurried to catch up.

“Hey!“

“Why are you following me?“

“Everyone is staring at you and whispering. Do I really have to deal with talk about broken engagements, not just at the tavern but even at a party like this?“

“So what do you want me to do about it?”

Eliana cut Paul off.

“I’m already here and have no intention of staying cooped up at home.“

“Why are you being so selfish?“

“Paul.“

Eliana’s expression turned serious.

“They’re all talking about me, not you. You and I have nothing to do with each other, so mind your business. That’s how we’ve been up to now, haven’t we?“

“…”

Eliana firmly shut down his complaints. Even though Paul wanted to argue, he knew she was right, so he couldn’t say anything. Eliana wasn’t interested in whatever Paul might say next.

Leaving him and Sylvia behind, Eliana confidently ascended the long staircase, which reflected the wealth of the Madrino Marquis family. Her steps were firm and unhesitant.

At the top of the stairs, she saw a tawny door leading into the party hall. The doorman opened it for her.

“Lady Eliana of the Count of Leiberte’s household!”

A servant loudly announced her name. Unlike the sparse crowd on the staircase, the entrance to the hall was packed with nobles. As expected, all eyes turned to Eliana.

She walked towards the Marquis and Marchioness of Madrino, meeting each gaze with a calm nod, unfazed by the looks directed her way.

‘Yes, this is the moment I’ve been waiting for. I’ll make sure they know I’m not the woman crying alone in a corner of a room.’

Though many of the looks were critical, Eliana’s demeanor remained poised and confident. The image of a pitiful woman abandoned from her engagement was far from her radiant presence.

It was as if the scandal of her broken engagement had never happened. Noble ladies whispered behind their fans, eyes scanning Eliana from head to toe as if appraising her.

‘Go ahead and look. That’s why I dressed like this.’

She didn’t care. Though Eliana was always beautiful, today, she was absolutely striking. Her pale skin gleamed like pearls under the lights, outshining any jewel. Her silky golden hair cascaded naturally down her back.

Her blue and white dress perfectly accentuated her figure, the off-shoulder design highlighting her elegant shoulders. The dress, layered with lace, gave off a feminine and pure aura.

“The daughter of the Leiberte family is here.”

The Marquis of Madrino recognized her and spoke first. Eliana’s every step toward them exuded grace.

“Hello, Marquis Keegan, Marchioness Vivian. Thank you for inviting me to such a lovely party.”

Eliana greeted them politely. The two families were on good terms, largely thanks to the Marchioness, known for her vast network and impeccable character. Few houses dared to oppose her.

“Eliana, thank you for coming. You’re most welcome here.”

The Marchioness greeted Eliana with a warm smile. Contrary to her earlier worries about whether Eliana would attend, she appeared more vibrant than ever.

“I was worried you might not come, but I’m relieved to see you looking so well.“

“Thank you for your concern, My Lady. Since you invited me, of course, I had to attend.“

“Of course, I was concerned. I’ve known you since you were young. You’re probably aware, but the Crown Prince will be here soon… will you be alright?”

The Marchioness asked cautiously, but her words implied that she would make arrangements to be considerate. Eliana was grateful for her kindness.

“The broken engagement with His Highness was indeed difficult, but…”

TL NOTE: A more advanced chapter of this story is already up on the site. Visit dusk blossoms for more advanced chapters and stories.