Even Charlotte’s engagement was political, imposed by Frederick and the Chancellor. Of course, Charlotte’s opinion didn’t matter. Prior evidence made it clear that Frederick had no intention of respecting Charlotte.

“Your Highness is very handsome. You seem to have good understanding of what suits you.”

“How handsome? Did I dazzle you?”

“Yes, you did.”

“Thank you. It was worth the effort this time.”

That was another suggestive remark. His eyes seared with a passion that seemed to captivate whomever he spoke with. Charlotte was somewhat wary, not knowing his true intentions. Nevertheless, she didn’t feel any malice from him.

Ethelbert, who must’ve noticed Charlotte’s caution right away, narrowed his eyes in amusement. Then, he bent down slightly, meeting her eye, and extended his hand.

“Your Royal Highness Princess Charlotte. Would you grant me the honor of dancing with you?”

He respectfully asked with refined movements, like a perfect gentleman. As expected of the Imperial Brother, he seemed accustomed to dealing with women. He looked straight at Charlotte, not minding the gazes of those around him—especially those from women.

Ethelbert acted as if Charlotte was the only woman in the room. No wonder many fell to his charm.

“…Yes. With pleasure.”

Unable to refuse, Charlotte agreed with a smile.

She moved to the center of the venue, dancing to the tune.

Moving her body was surprisingly easy. That meant he was good at leading. Never had danced so easily with someone before.

She had danced with Frederick, and the latter was skillful at reducing the burden on his partner and making their movements look seamless. Every time, without fail, she felt his proficient dance skill. Nevertheless, for Charlotte, dancing with Frederick was nothing more than a mentally painful chore. She didn’t find dancing with him comfortable.

Ethelbert was someone she’d normally be on edge with. At the same time, she did consider him a close friend to a certain extent, and she was able to relax around him.

Yes, it was such a contradictory feeling, even though she wanted to keep her distance.

“You’re good.”

“Not as good as Your Highness.”

“Dancing with your fiancé didn’t look all that pleasurable for you. How was he?”

“The only time I remember feeling happy with him was when I was a child.”

It was a really brief period of time.

“Are you enjoying yourself now?”

Right now. At this moment. Dancing with Ethelbert.

If she said “no,” how would he react? She suddenly got curious.

If she were to push him away, that would be the right answer.

“I wonder.”

“You can lie, just say you’re enjoying yourself. It’s called being polite.”

“I can say that if you want me to.”

“Haha. Then, no need.”

Ethelbert smiled, his eyes narrowing.

“I want you to be upfront with me.”

To Charlotte, whose heart had been crushed for so long, this request was a false one.

He was always like that. That’s why I want to be with him—and don’t.

“…I don’t hate this.”

“That’s great.”

When she put her curiosity aside and expressed her honest feelings, Ethelbert smiled in satisfaction.

***

“Older Sister.”

As Charlotte rested after dancing with Ethelbert, Juliet and Quentin showed up.

“I think it’d be best if you kept your distance from him.”

Juliet was staring at Ethelbert who was speaking to one of the country’s high-ranking officials.

Juliet always acted on her own values and interfere in Charlotte’s affairs, be it in food, dresses, accessories, friendships, and everything else. She imposed on everything that didn’t fit Juliet’s ideals.

“Why?”

“Huh?”

“For what reason do you think it’d be better if we don’t get along?”

“I… I just think that’s the case…”

Juliet winced, spinning a selfish, shaky argument.

She didn’t seem to be fond of Ethelbert. Perhaps she unconsciously sensed the unfriendly feelings he had for her, which were akin to hostility.

Even though Juliet helped them with the Elms family incident, Ethelbert was still cold to her. Although, it’d have been a nuisance if Ethelbert did get attached to her.

“He’s the Imperial Brother of the empire with whom we still have a tense relationship. The slightest misstep may result in great harm. He isn’t someone you can just distance yourself from just because you feel uneasy around him.”

“Older Sister…”

“As a princess, you should think more carefully before you speak. You should be aware that you’re always responsible for your words and conduct.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Your Highness the Crown Princess.”

Juliet was tearful after being reprimanded sternly, which enraged Quentin.

Charlotte was being blamed for simply pointing out the truth, like usual. As always, she was angry, but there was nothing she could do about it.

“I’m stepping out for a walk.”

Charlotte turned on her heels and left the venue.

---

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