“Horizon Matopju’s birthday party invitation? For me? Is it mine?”

Hila couldn’t believe her eyes. It was even more surprising because it wasn’t a party that anyone could attend.

“Can I really go?”

“Of course, this is your invitation.”

“Oh my goodness.”

Hila barely held back a scream and quickly covered her mouth.

From her covered mouth, sounds of joy erupted. She hugged Riley, folding her eyes like a crescent moon.

“I can’t believe it, Riley! The day has come for me to attend Matopju’s birthday party…! It’s a gathering of famous figures in politics and business.”

“Will you come with me?”

“Of course, Riley! I’ll definitely go! I’m so happy; I’m really fortunate to have you as my friend!”

“I’m happy because you’re happy.”

In reality, it seemed that the party wouldn’t be much different from the reception held at Horizon.

But then and now would be different. Back then, I just attended as a guest, but now I would be attending as Matopju’s wife.

‘I’m fortunate not to be alone.’

It might have a similar atmosphere to the reception, but back then, I was preoccupied with the divorce from Count Ermaintz, so I couldn’t properly enjoy or observe the party.

I remember Claire being so excited.

It must have been a gathering of influential figures.

“Before the party, you need to know all the personal information about these people. Here’s a list of people you must know.”

If she had been alone, she might have been nervous. Giben probably invited Hila knowing that. The difference between having someone to associate with and not is huge.

“By the way, are members of the Rianster family coming too? Including Reben Rianster?”

“Yeah, it’s Giben’s birthday party, so it’s likely that all the relatives will gather.”

“Do they know that you and Matopju are engaged?”

“…I’m not sure; maybe only my father and Miss know.”

“What about your family…?”

Hila, who knew that she didn’t have a good relationship with her family, spoke cautiously. In response to Hila’s question, Riley sighed.

“I guess so.”

“Um… Because they’re your family. But, I’m a bit afraid that your irresponsible younger brother might make trouble. Am I too sensitive?”

“…Of course, he’s likely to cause trouble because he has a notorious history. I heard he caused quite a commotion when he messed up the ceremonial etiquette. He might be sulking for a while.”

“That damn loudmouth, even shone during ceremonial etiquette?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“Yeah, that’s quite interesting. Tell me.”

While discussing the impressive incident that Claire caused during the ceremonial etiquette, they arrived at the shopping district.

As they selected the menu, they saw a familiar group.

It was a group accompanied by Josephine Lukan. Two men who were said to have broken their legs and were hospitalized with Josephine Lukan in the past were also there.
They exchanged glances with Riley and whispered among themselves, creating a commotion upon seeing her. They frowned deeply, as if witnessing something unpleasant, and quickly moved away.

Seeing their reaction, Hila, who would usually curse, instead embraced Riley’s shoulders, chuckling softly.

“They’ll regret and rue the day soon.”

“Why?”

“Why? Because they don’t know that you’re the one Matopju will marry. Did you forget how they tormented and belittled you just because you’re from an external background? I wonder what expressions they’ll have when they find out who you really are. Oh, maybe they’ll attend the birthday party too? After all, Josephine Lukan’s family is a high aristocratic family. The Lukan family and the Rianster family are closely tied in terms of wealth.”

“…Now that you mention it.”

“What’s with that expression?”

“Just…”

“Riley, don’t be discouraged. They won’t be able to treat you recklessly anymore. I’m really curious. Those who used to look down on and ignore you—what expressions will they have when they see you at the party? It must be ridiculously amusing. Oh my, just thinking about it gives me thrills.”

Thrills? What if Josephine Lukan is in the same category as Claire? It’s terrifying to think about it. Moreover, that place is where the upper class who controls Blesstige gather.

If I’m introduced as Giben’s fiancée there, will their reactions be favorable?

Just looking at the major aristocrats from Blesstige, the answer comes quickly. The probability of them sending warm looks to an outsider is low.

Handing over information about the main aristocrats while telling her to memorize it sweetly must be for this reason.

It probably means to be careful not to create any trouble or make mistakes that could be caught in a book.

‘That place might be a battlefield.’

Yes, it’s probably a high probability.

Riley forced a bitter smile. The burden on her for the party became a bit heavier.

Empress Vienez, who was taking charge of state affairs on behalf of her husband, who couldn’t properly control his body, felt great discomfort in the recent chaotic atmosphere of the palace.