“The previous you, let’s say… seemed to have a richer expression. And your tone was more lively.”

“Did I used to be like that?”

I reacted as nonchalantly as possible. However, despite my calm exterior, my mind was in turmoil.

Did my actions, aimed at not offending anyone, appear too different from usual? Yes, the original Reneola wouldn’t have been able to hide her jealousy! I seem too composed now!

“The situation has changed now. As Prince Eric rightly said, now Lady Floria is not just my sister but the princess of a nation, so I must watch my words and actions.”

I tried not to show my panic while responding. It wouldn’t be good for them to find out that I was possessed. Revealing that I am not the real Reneola wouldn’t result in them simply letting me go; rather, they would likely use me in some way. Especially since Shanna, who can use magic, might exploit any weakness she finds in me.

Glancing around, I saw Floria tilting her teacup, apparently having no further probing intentions. Of course, her interest in ‘just Reneola’ would be that much. Shanna seemed to observe me a bit longer but then turned away, and I internally sighed in relief.

“As I mentioned before, adapting to the palace is not easy.”

Floria, having put down her teacup, spoke after a brief pause, her eyebrows drooping sorrowfully.

“It must be my shortcomings.”

‘Ah.’

That reminded me, in the early part of the original story, Floria, having become the princess, had trouble blending in with the royal family.

This was quite different from the overwhelming support she received from the public and courtiers, who loved stories of good triumphing over evil.

Even without having had a royal wedding yet, she received the title of princess due to the marriage being considered the event of the century. However, the royal family, traditionally aligned with Duke status or higher, hadn’t fully accepted her yet.

‘And there are rumors that Floria deliberately ensnared Prince Eric.’

There were talks that she used her beauty to intentionally approach Prince Eric and staged the glass slipper incident to become the princess. How else could there be only one person in the entire kingdom whose foot fits the glass slipper?

I would commend whoever first harbored such suspicions. Of course, the reason Floria was the only one to fit the slipper was due to Shanna’s magic.

Anyway, Floria faced many difficulties at this time in the palace due to her unstable position. It was crucial for her to solidify her position as princess as soon as possible.

“I always feel so lonely, being all alone.”

Floria shed tears with a forlorn expression. Everyone else might have been deceived by that pitiful look, but I knew better. I knew those were crocodile tears. However, I pretended to be fooled and played along.

“You’re not alone, Lady Floria. Prince Eric would be upset to hear that.”

“But he is always so busy…”

“Such a busy person rushed here out of concern for you. It was evident how much he cares for you.”

The original Reneola would have gloated over Floria’s situation. Knowing she had been suspected once, I deliberately made my expression suggest that I found Floria’s situation amusing. Her lips twisted as if she expected this, and I felt relieved.
“Talking with you like this seems to calm my heart. In fact, it was Shanna’s idea to invite you to the palace. I’m glad I listened to her.”

You, my enemy.

I briefly glanced at Shanna and our eyes met. I quickly pretended not to notice. It was that damn fairy’s idea to bring me to the palace, contrary to the original story.

‘Did she sense that I’m possessed? No, if that were the case, Floria wouldn’t be acting like this.’

It was clear she sensed something was off about me but didn’t know the reason. She must be keeping me close to keep an eye on me.

“It seems she was worried about me not getting any sleep, pondering over this all night.”

Floria continued, holding my hand.

“Sister, even though our relationship was strained, it’s all in the past. I have forgotten everything. How about we become close sisters from now on? Please stay with me here in the palace.”

If I refused, she would probably send a pigeon the moment I stepped out of the capital. There was only one possible answer I could give. I deliberately ignored the doves that were fluttering around, glaring at me.

“If you allow me by your side, it would be an honor.”

I pretended to be moved and nodded. Floria’s eyes briefly narrowed before softening. Then she hesitated, moving her lips as if she was about to speak.

I sensed it was my turn to initiate a conversation.

“If there’s anything I can do for you, please tell me. Considering the mistakes I made as a child, there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for His Highness.”

“Sister…”

“Just a moment, Lady Floria.”

Shanna, who had been quietly standing in the background, interrupted as Floria appeared to be tearfully moved. It was evident they had coordinated their responses in advance.

“You should not trust her so easily.”

“Shanna!”

Turns Out He’s Been Secretly in Love with Me

One-line summary: He acts like he doesn’t like her but is actually playing hard to get.

Synopsis:

Xu Muzhou like her. He has liked her for a very long time, and through repeated schemes, he finally closed the distance with her.

But this is still far from enough.

He wants to be the one who stands out among her many suitors, to fight for her attention, and to make her take the initiative to pursue him.

_____

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