I was admiring the flowers with Liam.
At the other side of the garden
Behind the trees, Finch whispered to the Duchess, "Look, Lady Embra, Master Notus like the flowers you picked personally." Embra smiled knowingly and replied, "Of course, he does," As she spoke, she thought to herself, "He has the same taste as his father."
Finch said to The Duchess, while she was lost in though, "I think it's time master start having some friends. His age is catching up and some companionship would do him good. What do you think, Lady embra?"
When the Duchess heard Finch's words, she thought, "Now that I think about it, he doesn't really socialize much, often lost in his books. Perhaps some friends would do him good." She turned to Finch and said, "Arrange a gathering for him, Finch." Finch bowed and replied, "As you wish, Your Grace."
Back to my Side of garden
I smiled in confusion, wondering what they were up to. As they peeked out from behind the trees, I waved at them with a smile, and they waved back, their faces lighting up.
As I spotted them, they emerged from behind the tree, their gentle smiles illuminating their faces. We stood there together, watching the flowers sway in the breeze for hours. The warmth of the sun and the sweet scent of the blooms lulled me to sleep. Before I knew it, they scooped me up and carried me back to the safety of my room.
I stirred awake, my frail body a testament to the struggles I'd faced since birth. As the morning light crept into my room, I slowly opened my eyes to find Liam standing beside me, a warm smile on his face.
"Good morning, Master Notus," he greeted, his voice filled with respect and kindness.
I returned the greeting, my voice still husky from sleep. Before I could even process the morning, Liam continued, "Lord Grace requests your presence at the dining table."
My eyes widened in surprise. Lady Grace rarely took meals with me, her schedule typically consumed by matters of state and governance. The fact that she'd asked me to join her was both unexpected and intriguing. I couldn't help but wonder what this sudden change in routine might portend.
With Liam's assistance, I changed into fresh attire, feeling a lingering sense of embarrassment still. Once ready, we headed to the dining hall, where Lady Embra was already seated, Finch by her side. As I entered, Finch bowed with a warm smile, while Lady Embra's gaze met mine, her lips curving into a gentle smile.
"Please, Notus, take a seat," she said, her voice soft and inviting, as she gestured to the chair beside her.
I sat down, feeling a mix of surprise and curiosity at the unusual setup. We chatted for a bit, the conversation flowing easily, until Lady Elara's expression turned thoughtful.
"It's time you started making friends, don't you think?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with a knowing glint.
I hesitated, my past life as a loner still a heavy influence. "I'm alright," I replied, forcing an awkward smile.
But Lady Elara was not deterred. "You'll be attending the Empress's daughter's birthday party," she announced, her tone brooking no argument.
My eyes widened in shock. The Empress's daughter – the infamous villainess of this world. I felt a shiver run down my spine at the mere thought of attending a party hosted by such a notorious figure. "I...I don't think that's necessary," I stammered, trying to convey my reluctance.
But Lady Elara's expression remained firm, leaving me wondering what lay ahead.