Matthias, who hadn’t appeared at the wedding venue, had also been absent from the past two days of the banquet.

“Matthias, it’s been a while.”

“I hope you’ve been well, Your Highness.”

Matthias greeted me politely. It was a different attitude compared to when he used to address me affectionately as Lady Rheniola.

Matthias couldn’t meet my eyes properly, and there was an awkward atmosphere that hadn’t been there before.

“Have you been well? This conquering appearance suits you unexpectedly well.”

While I was happy to see Matthias, it wasn’t entirely comfortable. Despite his seemingly normal appearance, his eyes revealed a sense of loss, making me feel somewhat sorry. However, since he wasn’t showing it, I couldn’t pretend to know.

“Thank you. …You look very beautiful today, Your Highness.”

It seemed like he wanted to say something more, but Matthias pursed his lips, unable to voice it.

Although the conversation didn’t flow smoothly, Matthias continued to stand by my side. I hoped our distance wouldn’t grow further, and at this rate, it seemed like my wish might come true.

I anxiously waited for Cahilern to return while aimlessly glancing around.

At that moment, the music in the hall changed. Hesitant Matthias extended his hand towards me and said, “Could you grant me a precious moment of your time?”

Although it was somewhat presumptuous, given Matthias’s personality, I guessed he must have silently endured until now. I willingly took his hand. The moment Matthias escorted me to the dance floor, Cahilern appeared.

“Where are you going?”

Cahilern grabbed my arm the moment I entered the venue.

“Matthias requested a dance from me.”

Matthias spoke in a somewhat awkward manner, not fitting his usual character.

“I’m watching, so be careful.”

Cahilern smirked. It was a gesture that went against etiquette, but he showed no concern. Looking at me, Cahilern raised an eyebrow, as if asking, “What are you doing?”

“Refusing a dance request is not polite. Viscount Linton asked for a dance, and I’ve already accepted, so I’ll be back soon.”
I tried to persuade Cahilern as gently as possible. However, as if it were out of the question, he grabbed the hand that I had been holding with Matthias.

“I can’t stand seeing you with another man.”

This guy. Giving him a look that said, “What are you doing when everyone’s watching?” he responded with a gaze that seemed to say, “What’s the problem?” I couldn’t help but let out a bitter laugh in response to his reproachful gaze that seemed to say, “You should have refused from the beginning.”

“Your Highness, no matter how much you insist…”

“I’m sorry, Viscount Linton. I’m just a bit jealous.”

With an unapologetic expression, Cahilern bluntly spoke, escorting me to the dance floor. Matthias, left alone, looked awkward as he stood at a distance.

“If you wanted to dance, you should have said so.”

Cahilern whispered as he pulled me close to him with one hand around my waist. I raised my head in response to the nonchalant attitude of a man who clearly knew otherwise. If I descended to the dance floor like this, I would only attract unnecessary gossip.

I turned to Matthias with a apologetic expression, but soon found myself being lightly scolded by Cahilern, who caught my chin.

“Look at me.”