Odette found Eli’s claims somewhat dubious given they were grounded in mass-market romance novels, but she nevertheless felt there was some merit to them.

‘Currently, there’s not a single woman in Ertman’s entourage, so purchasing feminine items is… suspicious.’

The circumstances alone were suggestive enough of the presence of a woman.

And besides, Valter was objectively attractive.

So she had deliberately imposed that second condition, not expecting him to agree so easily.

‘So does that mean he isn’t seeing anyone?’

This was an unexpected turn of events.

And her mood was strangely uplifting.

For some reason, Valter’s words kept echoing in her ears.

[Dash]Did you desire me that much, my princess?

The issue was that, contrary to her intent, she felt rather good about this development.

Even if they were to marry, it was going to be a contractual marriage, so she was indifferent to Valter having another lover.

But now, the possibility seemed to have entirely disappeared!

‘It’s better than a regular marriage, anyway.’

Love-based marriages were also susceptible to affairs. This way, no mistress would appear to challenge her status.

Of course, this premise depended on the marriage actually happening.

Valter, who had gathered the documents, knocked his knuckles on the table.

“Since the contract is now in place, let’s discuss the progression of our marriage. I’d like it to proceed as quickly as possible.”

“Ah, yes. Do you have any ideas in mind?”

“The most straightforward approach would be for Your Highness to send me a public marriage proposal, which would be approved by His Majesty.”

“While that’s the most straightforward, it’s also the most susceptible to interference.”

“But it’s the standard approach, so it carries less risk. You don’t like being the center of attention, do you?”

“I don’t enjoy it, but I’ve grown accustomed to it. A lot has been happening lately.”

And Odette sensed that this method would undoubtedly come with complications.

‘Especially given what happened with Blake recently.’

It was unlikely to be a smooth process.

So…

“I’d prefer another way. Something more certain and quick.”

“Do you have any suggestions?”

“Of course. But I’m not sure if you’ll be comfortable with it.”

“I’m all ears. What is it?”

At Valter’s words, Odette flashed a sly smile.

“A wedding rehearsal.”

Or, shall we create a major scandal?

As Odette added this and began to explain her plan, laughter eventually erupted from Valter’s lips.

It was a laugh that seemed genuinely delightful.

Valter, containing his laughter, casually brushed his face.

“My princess, you are… bolder than I anticipated. Are you sure you won’t regret this?”

“Hmm… I’m not sure, but still.”

“Well, even if you do regret it, I had no intentions of backing out.”

A major scandal it is, then. I like it, too.

Valter smiled languidly as he added this.

One week later.

Regis Xavier, also known as Count Xavier, stepped into the palace, grinding his teeth.

‘This damned…’

In just a few days, his face had turned haggard as though he’d been losing sleep.

A social event he’d held at Count Xavier’s residence had been ruined by some mad woman, and his reputation had plummeted as a result.

Already notorious, Regis found himself further ostracized in the wake of the incident.

The only communications he received were from those of ill repute, inviting him for drinks and laughter.

The broad network Regis had once boasted was now completely shattered.

Even if he claimed that he was wronged, that it was a false charge, nobody believed him.

‘That insane woman…! Wherever she’s hiding, I will find her and kill her.’

Moreover, he had searched everywhere for that actress named Helen but found no trace of her.

It was likely that she had fled the country; even with a manhunt, not a trace of her was found.

‘She definitely didn’t act alone. She must have had backing.’
And it was certain that the man behind all this was Duke Ertman.

Not long ago, a message had come from Lise.

[Dash]Look at this, Duke Ertman spent the night with Odette. There’s evidence they’ve met since then.

[Dash]They also visited the Lutel Theater. She’s from the Lutel Troupe, isn’t that obvious?

Of course, the reason Walter had been to the Lutel Theater was merely because it was the largest theater in the capital.

To the cornered Regis, all these circumstantial pieces of evidence seemed organically linked.

[Dash]Duke Ertman must be plotting to ruin you. Maybe it’s because of Odette. Remember he wanted the princess?

Lise fanned the flames of Regis’s suspicion, and he became utterly convinced.

During this, news arrived from Lise that both Walter and Odette would be attending the periodic royal ball.

[Dash]Time for revenge, don’t you think?

Along with such instigation.

‘Those damn liars… I’ll expose their disgusting faces.’

Regis couldn’t stand Odette, let alone Walter.

How dare she flirt with Walter when she’d been blushing at him at the academy!

Such a woman needed to be thoroughly trampled upon.

Regis gritted his teeth.