“Avril, I want you to attend a masquerade ball with me.”

“…”

At the unexpected invitation, Avril’s mind went blank.

A masquerade ball. Avril’s stepsister, Corinna, would frequent such events. It was a social gathering for adults that ultimately led to her downfall.

From what I know, Corinna would wear a sexy dress, and for the most part, not return until morning…

Apparently, Prince Lawrence was supposed to be who conveyed the message to Avril, but after some discussion, Dylan said that he’d tell her himself.

Somehow, she kind of like watching Dylan being treated like a child by Lawrence. As she secretly watched their exchange, a warm feeling seeped into her heart.

…But all of the sudden, he told her that.

If I recall, His Highness Lawrence sometimes assigns missions directly to Lord Dylan. In other words, an upcoming mission will take place at a masquerade ball.

She also heard that masquerade balls couldn’t be attended alone. Corinna herself usually snuck out the back door late at night to meet her male escort.

I’m sure he only choose me because he can’t participate alone.

No wonder Dylan seemed so worried.

But am I up for it? Can I fulfill their expectations at a masquerade ball?

—No, until just recently, I was an infamous villainess in the royal capital! First of all, I should say yes right away. I mustn’t show how bothered I am…!

A few seconds was all it took for her mind to conjure up a few concerns. Nevertheless, Avril resolved herself and raised her head.

“Of course. In fact, I shall even take your hand and lead you through the entire masquerade, for I’m a villainess.”

“No, this time, it’s different. Let’s talk.”

Avril’s straightforward answer brought a look of utter confusion to appear on Dylan’s face. Lawrence, who was watching the conversation with a smile, interrupted.

“There’s something that I want Dylan—no, the Duke of Lancester to investigate. It’d be great if Ms. Avril could accompany him. It shouldn’t be that difficult, yes?”

“Worry not, I will provide him with perfect guidance.”

 In other words, they want me, an experienced villainess, to guide Lord Dylan through the venue? Then I have no reason to refuse.

At her firm nod, Chris suddenly burst out laughing. But when she glanced at him, Chris only smiled.

She knew he wasn’t ridiculing her, but his gaze… It was as if he were looking at a child. Even though they were only three years apart. Dylan, who watched the exchange, shook his head, appearing somewhat distraught.

“…As expected, I’m still uneasy. I’ll go by myself.”

“It’s alright! I’ll officially be bearing the title of Duchess of Lancester, soon. Besides, the second rule in the contract explicitly states that ‘the wife shall cooperate with all activities regarding the maintaining of the dignity of the Duke of Lancester.’ Please let me come with you.”

“…”

When she emphasized the words ‘duchess’ and ‘wife’ and didn’t falter in the slightest, Dylan fell silent. Chris, meanwhile, complimented her.

“Lady Avril, how amazing! As expected of a villainess!”

The problem was, she didn’t really understand what he was getting at.

After the matter was somewhat forcibly settled, Alexandra, who maintained a captivating smile during the entire ordeal, snapped the fan she was holding shut.

“Fufu, the masquerade balls in the royal capital are a little more formal and have a different air to them. I’m sure even Avril will be able to enjoy herself. Although, I have to apologize beforehand, for I can’t accompany you.”

What does she mean by different air?

　◇

Over the following weeks, Avril prepared to participate in the masquerade ball. The most challenging part was the dance practice.

While Avril had received a proper education, she was also taught all the manners and customs of a noble lady.

…However, the same couldn’t be said about dancing.

“Listen, I know this is your first time, but don’t think that I’ll be negligent. This is what you get for playing around and failing to acquire an education suitable for your status!”

“Understood…!”

The dance teacher summoned by Dylan and arranged by Chris was a graceful woman. Apparently, she had a son who was around the same age as Avril. Behind her nervous-looking smile, there was a hint of contempt.

Perhaps, she believed the public’s perception about Avril’s infamy. Well, not like it mattered to Avril, so she left it as it was.

This is my first time properly being taught dance! I’ll do my best so I can escort Lord Dylan to the masquerade ball…!

---

***T/N: Hell yeah! Our villainess’ dream came true! She finally gets to experience masquerade ball!

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