Since returning to the Duke’s mansion, peaceful days followed. Wedding preparations were also in the final stages.

Shanette murmured with a worried look, “Now we just need to decide on the venue…”

We had visited several places, but none seemed perfect.

‘Shanette really cares a lot about Reus.’

Just hearing the childhood stories she occasionally shared about Reus, it was clear how much she cared for her nephew. And through these stories, I also learned about the difficult and lonely childhood Reus had endured.

Lost in thought, Shanette asked me, “The west greenhouse seems the best choice for the venue. What do you think, Roel?”

“The greenhouse…”

I hesitated to agree, feeling wrong about using such a meaningful place for a fake wedding. The west greenhouse was a cherished spot of the late Duchess, personally designed by the previous Duke.

Using someone’s precious memories for a wedding that meant nothing to me felt like a terrible intrusion. And surely, Reus would also feel uncomfortable with it.

However, Shanette, unaware of my feelings, continued to persuade.

“The greenhouse is spacious enough for the guests, and it seems the best choice in many ways.”

“Hmm…”

“Roel, is there something else bothering you? You can speak freely.”

As I struggled to respond, Reus appeared.

“What’s the matter?”

“Oh, Reus, you’re here? Sit with us for a moment. We were discussing the wedding venue with Roel.”

“Hadn’t it been decided before?”

“Yes, but the place we visited didn’t turn out as good as we thought. I’m suggesting the west greenhouse. What’s your opinion?”

Reus’s arrival added another dimension to our discussion, potentially shifting the dynamic and decision about the venue.
“I don’t mind where the wedding takes place, as long as it happens.”

I was surprised by Reus’s unexpected response, and he tilted his head slightly as if wondering what the problem was.

“Roel, if you don’t like the greenhouse, feel free to say so.”

“Oh, no, it’s not that I don’t like it… It’s just… whether it’s appropriate for me to have a wedding there…”

As I trailed off, Reus replied thoughtfully.

“Roel, I plan to follow your wishes. Don’t worry about others and do as you please.”

Despite my concerns, Reus seemed indifferent as usual.

Eventually, the wedding venue was set at the west greenhouse of the Duke’s mansion, and the day that seemed so distant arrived swiftly.

Yes, today was the day Reus and I were to be married.

‘I’m getting married.’

I had chosen this path, but it still didn’t feel quite real.

Whether it was wearing a wedding dress, soon entering the ceremony, or even becoming the Duchess in name only after today’s wedding.

‘It seems better than I thought…’

Or was I just too tense to feel anything?

Then, Shanette spoke up.

“Roel, are you very nervous? Should I get you some medicine if you’re too anxious?”

“No, I’m fine, Shanette.”

I tried to smile reassuringly, but the worry on Shanette’s face only deepened. It seemed I was too numb to fully grasp my own condition.

But then again, such a reaction was to be expected.

Reus had prepared one of the most grandiose weddings among the nobility – no, the grandest.

With the wedding being of the highest magnitude, renowned nobles attended, and even members of the royal family were present.

Recalling this fact suddenly made my mouth dry and breathing slightly difficult.