Chapter 1.5

The rhythmic sound of hooves echoed outside the carriage.

“I apologize for startling you so suddenly.”

“…”

Yes, she was startled—far more than when Katrina Eseth had lashed out at her.

Fortunately, the etiquette she had diligently practiced since childhood came to her rescue. She quickly composed herself, climbed into the carriage with a calm demeanor, and ensured none of the young ladies outside noticed the man’s presence.

“It wasn’t the suddenness but the long absence that surprised me more.”

Of course, she only pretended to be unaffected; she wasn’t truly unbothered.

‘How can he act so casual, as if we saw each other just yesterday?’

Carnier shot a disgruntled look at her fiancé.

Servante Lupen Asherit.

The 27-year-old Crown Prince of the Asherit Empire.

Born as the legitimate heir of the Emperor and Empress, Servante was an impeccable successor in both lineage and character. Even among the strict elder nobles, it was said that no other heir in history had faced so little criticism.

That wasn’t all. His radiant golden hair, a hallmark of the Imperial Family, and his striking appearance made him stand out even more. Though his perfectionism bordered on obsession and his expression was perpetually cold, such traits were hardly considered flaws for a man destined to rule a vast empire.

A cold, noble-blooded member of the Imperial Family, he commanded reverence. Everyone bowed their heads before him, never meeting his gaze without permission.

The only exceptions were the Emperor and Empress—and his long-time fiancée, Carnier.

‘How long has it been since I’ve seen that esteemed face?’

Not that it mattered. She hadn’t even caught a glimpse of his hair, let alone his face.

Carnier hid a smirk behind her fan.

“I was slightly worried that, being so busy, Your Highness, you might forget our wedding day.”

“That would never happen.”

His soft voice carried a sharp undertone, but Servante showed no sign of being flustered.

“Half the reason I’m busy is because of our wedding.”

So, what? He’s too busy because of me to find time to meet me? Is that what he’s saying?

Her eyes narrowed above the edge of her fan. Whether he noticed her displeasure or not, he turned his head slowly.

Then, he picked up a document from beside him and handed it to her.

“What is this?”

“I changed the menu for the banquet feast based on your earlier suggestions.”

“…”

“Review it and let me know if there are any other concerns.”

Carnier accepted the document. She pretended to read it, but the words barely registered.

‘That was just an excuse to send a letter…’

Since she couldn’t see him or exchange letters with him unless it was for official matters, she had used the banquet menu as a pretext. The real intent of her letter had been, ‘Hello? Are you alive? Do you remember we’re getting married?’

As she fiddled with the edge of the document, grumbling inwardly, Servante loosened his cravat and sighed.

“I didn’t expect the ambassador from the Kingdom of Delva to have a strawberry allergy.”

Originally, the desserts were supposed to feature strawberries, which were in season. Carnier, noticing the revised section, nodded slowly.

“…It’s rare for someone’s dietary preferences to be so well-known. I only found out by chance. While it might not have been a major issue if it were just the desserts…”

“We’re trying to expand trade with the Kingdom of Delva. Paying attention to even small details won’t hurt. Besides, she’s not just any noblewoman—she’s the Queen’s sister. I’ve arranged for her to sit near His Majesty at the banquet, so this level of consideration is only appropriate.”

What seemed trivial was, in reality, far from it. Their wedding banquet was also a stage for diplomacy between nations. Among the many countries, delegations from the eastern Selbrid Empire and the western Kingdom of Delva were particularly important for future relations.

“Thank you for letting me know.”

“It’s nothing. By the way…”

Carnier, having already memorized the document, set it aside.

“Did you come here just for this?”

“Not entirely. I had other business as well.”

Of course. This could’ve easily been handled via correspondence.

Suppressing a sigh, Carnier straightened her posture.

“Is it important business?”

“…”

“Your Highness?”

Even while seated, he was a head taller than her, and his gaze felt unusually heavy.

A sense of foreboding swept over her.

‘Could it be… Is he about to confess to having a secret lover or something?’

Fortunately, her fears were unfounded.

“I was wondering if we could visit your late parent’s grave during our honeymoon.”

“…My parents?”

Caught off guard, Carnier blinked. Servante nodded, confirming she had heard him correctly.

“I appreciate the thought, but I’m not sure if we’ll have time to visit the Raymore Duchy…”

“We’ll adjust the schedule. Even though they’ve passed, they were the ones who arranged this engagement. I thought it would be appropriate to pay my respects. Unless, of course, it makes you uncomfortable?”

“No, not at all.”

Her stiff heart softened. Carnier offered a genuine smile.

“I’d like to visit my parents as well.”

The graves of the late Duke and Duchess were in a cemetery in the Raymore Duchy, not in the capital.

She had considered visiting their graves before the wedding but had dismissed the idea as impractical. As someone about to join the Imperial Family, her movements were restricted, and even bringing up the matter was no simple task.

Thus, she deeply appreciated his suggestion.

“Thank you for your consideration, Your Highness.”

“It’s only natural.”

Seeing her smile, Servante’s expression softened. But as soon as Carnier blinked, his gentle look vanished.

“I’ll have Aleph adjust the schedule.”

“Yes. My parents will be delighted.”

“…Then.”

“Pardon?”

She tilted her head, not quite catching his muttered response.

The carriage began to slow. Hearing the coachman bring the horses to a halt, Carnier looked out the window.

They had already passed through the gates of the Duke’s estate.

‘When did we get here…?’

Time had flown by as they reviewed documents and exchanged a few words.

Carnier glanced at the time before making a suggestion.

“Your Highness, if you leave now, you’ll miss dinner. Would you care to join us?”

While the Duke and Duchess might be startled by the sudden arrival of the Crown Prince, and the kitchen staff might panic at the unexpected task of preparing a royal meal, she didn’t want to send him away after such a thoughtful visit.

There was also a selfish desire to spend more time with her fiancé.

However…

“I have other matters to attend to. Thank you for the offer, but I must decline.”

The line was drawn firmly.

Though she was used to this, a pang of disappointment still surfaced. Carnier closed her eyes briefly, suppressing her emotions.

“…I see.”

“Don’t worry about me. Take care of your health. Things will only get busier.”

“Yes.”

“I’ll contact you once the date for visiting Raymore Duchy is set.”

The carriage came to a complete stop. Outside, she could hear voices expressing surprise at the sudden appearance of the Imperial carriage.

Carnier quietly adjusted her skirt.

“Thank you for escorting me.”

“Mm.”

He gave a slight nod, devoid of any emotion.

As Carnier prepared to rise, the carriage suddenly jolted.

“Ah…!”

Caught off guard, she lost her balance and stumbled forward.

“Careful…!”

Strong hands caught her before she fell.

“Ah, thank you…”

As she lifted her head to express her gratitude, Carnier froze.

‘Too close…’

The face of the man who had always seemed untouchable was now uncomfortably near.

So close that she could hear his breath.

His vivid red eyes, sharper than any jewel, were fixed entirely on her.

Her hand, inadvertently resting on his chest, felt the solid muscle beneath. Despite holding her, his arms remained steady and composed. Within his embrace, her heart pounded loudly.

“…Are you alright?”

“Yes… I’m fine.”

“Good…”

As if questioning her, his brows furrowed. Carnier, snapping back to her senses, quickly pulled away.

A voice was heard from outside immediately after.

“My apologies, Your Highness. Were you injured by any chance?”

“No harm was done, but it was dangerous. Be more cautious next time.”

While the coachman apologized profusely and Servante gave him a stern word, Carnier could only hear the frantic pounding of her own heart.

‘Calm down, calm down, calm…’

Her face flushed, not just from surprise at the unexpected physical contact. Realizing this, Carnier quickly lowered her head.

Servante, noticing her reaction, tilted his head.

“Are you feeling unwell?”

“No, not at all.”

Just then, the door opened. Without even properly looking at him, Carnier immediately stood.

“Thank you for escorting me. Please travel safely.”

“Wait…”

He seemed to say something as she stepped down in haste, but she moved faster.

The footman, who had been waiting to assist her, was momentarily startled but quickly stepped aside to close the carriage door.

Aleph, the aide seated on the coachman’s bench, leaned forward.

“My apologies, Lady Raymore. Were you injured at all…?”

“No, I’m fine. Please take care on your way back.”

“Ah, yes. Have a pleasant evening.”

Slightly embarrassed by her unusually quick response, Aleph straightened his posture. Soon after, the coachman cracked his whip, and the carriage began to circle back the way it had come. Carnier busied herself adjusting her skirt, avoiding looking at the window where Servante sat.