Sister, I'm the Queen This Life (330 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 455

Count de Mare completely ignored Countess Contarini’s words—that much could be excused; perhaps their relationship was simply strained. Yet Yulia Helena clearly saw Leo III’s expression twist with anger.

‘Why would the king be furious just because the duchess’s handmaiden was slighted?’

Had the princess been a seasoned noblewoman well-versed in court intrigues, she would have instantly realized it: there was something between the king and the countess, who served as the duchess’s handmaiden.

But Yulia Helena, having only experienced childlike court life in the Grand Duchy of Manchike, was still unaccustomed to the stagnant, chaotic depths of a place like San Carlo.

‘Could Countess Contarini harbor feelings for Duke Cesare? Why would the king openly take her side?’

Just days earlier, during that tea party, Yulia Helena had firmly decided her first impression of Isabella: as a love rival vying for Cesare’s affections.

‘It’s common enough for a mother’s handmaiden to be involved with her son. That countess must have tried clinging to the duke, failed, and taken her frustration out on me.’

Her deduction was reasonable—and though her reasoning path was slightly misguided, the conclusion she reached was largely accurate.

What Yulia Helena never imagined, however, was that this woman was simultaneously targeting not only the duke but also his father, the king.

Moreover, the king, fully aware of everything, was actively playing along—an entirely new horizon unfolded before her.

Her train of thought was abruptly severed the very next moment as Prince Alfonso smoothly stepped beside her and addressed Duke Cesare.

“Duke, you’ve come a long way. My thanks for your efforts.”

“Oh, not at all.”

Cesare, suddenly called upon, tilted his head sideways and bowed. Yulia Helena thought she must be going mad—what should have clearly appeared servile instead made her notice only the sharp, angled line of his nose turned toward her.

“Please come over here. Your legs must be tired.”

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