Javier leaned back in his chair, letting out a sigh. "Haaa… maybe becoming friends with her or making an alliance will actually be helpful later—for both of us." He looked at Liana
"Please, let her know I'll be waiting here and extend an invitation for her to join me at this event."
Liana eyes shone with approval as she nodded politely. "Yes, young master. I'll relay your message immediately."
"Make it sound noble and charming, okay? I don't want her to think I'm doing this out of pity or just because I have to."
Liana looked back, her lips forming a knowing smile. "Of course, young master. I'll ensure your message is delivered with the utmost care."
"Haaa… noble life. Why does everything have to be a strategy? Can't we just enjoy life?"
Still, even with his complaints, he couldn't ignore the curiosity inside him. What would happen from this little act of diplomacy?
Liana walked back gracefully, young lady Gracelle followed behind her, looking elegant and calm. Her maid walked quietly, staying two steps behind her.
When they got closer to Javier, young lady Gracelle gave a polite curtsy, her green dress moving gently. "Young master Javier," she said softly, "thank you for your gracious invitation. It is an honor to join you this evening."
Javier stood up and bowed slightly "Lady Gracelle, the honor is mine. Please, do have a seat and make yourself comfortable. I'm delighted we have this opportunity to converse."
Liana stood next to Javier, watching him talk with confidence. She noticed he showed charm and formality, which he didn't usually show.
Gracelle smiled gently as she sat down across from him, her maid standing close by. "You're most kind, young lord Javier. I hope I'm not imposing on your evening."
"Not at all, A pleasant conversation always enriches a gathering like this, wouldn't you agree?"
Gracelle nodded "Indeed, I couldn't agree more."
Liana watched quietly, noticing how Javier was acting a bit different. He's trying, she thought with a small, happy smile. He's actually trying.
"Sorry if I ask something, young master Javier," Lady Gracelle started hesitantly, looking at the glass in his hand. "I noticed your glass was filled with red wine."
Javier tilted his head slightly and raised the glass. "You mean this red wine?"
"Yes, young master Javier," she answered politely but with curiosity. "I thought you could only drink when you are fifteen years old and are an adult."
Javier laughed a little and glanced at Liana, who was standing behind him with her usual calm face. "Oh, that. Liana poured it for me. And I don't mind at all—after all, a little doesn't hurt."
Gracelle blinked, surprised by how relaxed he was about it.
"Do you want to take a sip?" Javier asked, holding out the glass with a playful smile.
Gracelle gasped softly, surprised by his boldness. "Young master Javier,that would be inappropriate," she said, shock showing in her voice.
Liana stepped in smoothly, her voice calm but firm. "Young master, it's best not to offer your wine to a guest, especially one as young as Lady Gracelle."
Javier shrugged with a cheeky grin, pulling back the glass. "Fine, fine. Just trying to share the experience. No harm done."
Gracelle relaxed a bit, but she couldn't help smiling at his playful side. "You truly are as carefree as the rumors say, young master Javier," she said softly, amused.
"That's just how I am," Javier replied with a wink, raising his glass slightly before taking a small sip. "But I promise, I'm not as reckless as I might seem."
Liana sighed inside, feeling both annoyed and fond. He always finds a way to turn simple moments into fun.
Inside Javier's mind.
Hah! I'm old enough to drink wine, duh… I am Nakamura Junichi, dumbass. If I want to drink a whole box of it, that's my choice. He rolled his eyes in his mind, a sly grin forming. Of course, in this world, I still look like an eleven-year-old. ehehe.
His eyes sparkled with mischief as he watched Gracelle, who looked flustered but curious. Acting on impulse, he gently pushed the wine glass toward her lips, his grin changing into a charming smile.
"Here," he said softly, "just a sip. I promise it's nothing too strong. It'll be our little secret."
Gracelle's cheeks turned bright pink, fully surprised by his boldness. She stammered, "Y-young master Javier, I really shouldn't—"
Before she could finish, the rim of the glass touched her lips. Hesitantly, with his kind but persistent attitude, she drunk a small drop of wine.
"That's enough, young master," Liana said sharply, stepping forward. Her eyes showed a slight twitch in her brow, showing her disapproval. "You shouldn't force such things on a lady, no matter how 'gentle' your intentions might seem."
Gracelle quickly sat up straight, her maid looking just as shocked. "T-thank you, young master Javier," Gracelle murmured, her voice very quiet as she looked down, her cheeks still bright.
Javier, unfazed, leaned back with a satisfied smirk. "See? Nothing to worry about. I told you it was just a sip."
The soft music from the orchestra filled the big hall, creating a romantic and elegant feeling. Javier, who usually seemed indifferent, suddenly stood up and reached out his hand to Gracelle.
"Would you like to dance, Lady Gracelle?" he asked smoothly, his eyes looking into hers with confidence.
Gracelle heart skipped a beat. This gesture—this invitation—meant a lot in noble society. It showed that he recognized her as an equal. She smiled shyly and placed her hand.
"I would be honored, young master Javier," she replied, her voice a little shaky.
As they walked to the center of the dance floor, the nobles around them whispered quietly, curious about the youngest son of Viscount Garius showing such charm.
Liana, standing behind and watching, raised an eyebrow but stayed calm.
Javier started the dance with ease, guiding Gracelle through the steps gracefully. Gracelle felt her face get warm, both from being close to him and realizing everyone was watching them.
But Javier wasn't completely focused on the dance.
"Ehehe..Let's see how Liana reacts to this"
As the music reached its peak, Javier spun Gracelle gently and pulled her close by the waist. The room seemed to hold its breath as he leaned in, his eyes locked onto her surprised ones.
Before she could say anything, his lips pressed against hers in a bold kiss. Gracelle froze, completely shocked. Her first kiss—so sudden and intense—made her heart race. She didn't pull away, her mind too overwhelmed to react.
When the kiss ended, a soft murmur spread through the room. Gracelle, still in Javier arms, could only stare at him.
Gracelle felt like the world was spinning as she stood frozen in the center of the dance floor. Her cheeks felt very hot, and her heart was pounding as if it might burst. She blinked quickly, staring at Javier with wide, shocked eyes.
What just happened? His handsome face, that confident smile, and those eyes stayed in her mind, replaying that moment over and over. Why does my heart feel like this? Why does he look even more handsome now?
She lightly touched her lips, which were still tingling from the kiss. She couldn't find the words or think straight. All she knew was that Javier De Armand had completely captured her attention.
Meanwhile, Liana stood at the edge of the room, feeling a strange tightness in her chest. A strange ache bothered her heart, one she didn't understand. Her eyes narrowed for a moment before she quickly returned to her usual calm expression.
How could you do this, young master Javier!? she thought, gripping the tray in her hands tighter.
If you wanted a kiss, I'm right here. Haven't I always been the one you turn to? Haven't we shared kisses that were more passionate? And didn't you always say you'd marry me when you turned eighteen?
Though her face stayed gentle and calm, a storm was brewing inside her.
You want to play games, young master? Fine... Just wait.
Javier, not aware of the trouble he had caused, returned to his seat with a carefree smile, clearly happy with the attention he'd created. He glanced at Liana and caught a hint of something in her eyes—was it jealousy? Amusement? He wasn't sure, but it made him smile even more.
But Liana wasn't going to let him win easily. Just wait, young master! You may have started this game, but you won't win it.
( End of Chapter )
Creation is hard, cheer me up!
Lady Gracelle returned to her seat, Still feeling flushed from the whirlwind of emotions. Gracelle sat beside Javier, holding her juice glass with slightly shaking hands. Her heart hadn't slowed down at all. She drank the juice quickly, hoping it would cool the fire in her chest.
Meanwhile, Liana watched the young lady and her young master. She could see it clearly—Gracelle was completely smitten.
All it took was one dance and a kiss? Unbelievable! This girl is already head over heels, isn't she?
Liana felt a tightness in her chest and a spark of irritation.
Hmph! Young master, if you're going to be this reckless, don't come to me later for a kiss or anything else. You'll get nothing! Just ask this noble young lady next time. I'm sure she'll be happy to oblige.
She kept her calm expression, but a mischievous idea formed in her mind.
Two can play this game, young master. Let's see how you handle this.
She stepped forward, looking calm and professional, and said sweetly
"Young master, how about inviting Lady Gracelle to stay with us for the whole week? I'm certain she would enjoy the hospitality of the Armand estate."
Javier blinked, surprised. "Stay for the whole week?" he repeated, looking at Liana. He noticed the glint in her eyes, a sign of mischief, but he couldn't figure out her plan.
Gracelle eyes widened, and her cheeks turned bright red and she stammered "O-oh, I wouldn't want to impose…"
"Not at all," Liana replied gracefully, with a soft smile. "It would be a wonderful opportunity for you and the young master to deepen your friendship. Wouldn't you agree, young master?"
Javier felt a bead of sweat on the back of his neck. What is she planning now? He looked between Liana, who seemed too pleased, and Gracelle, whose eyes sparkled with excitement.
"Ah… sure, why not," he finally said, forcing a grin. "Lady Gracelle is always welcome at the Armand estate."
Liana bowed slightly, her smile never fading. Checkmate, young master. Let's see how you like being cornered.
"Oh, that's wonderful," Liana said with her usual gentle smile, folding her hands neatly in front of her. "I shall inform Lady Francesca about the invitation. Surely, you would not refuse such a generous offer, would you, Lady Gracelle?"
Gracelle's face lit up right away, her excitement hard to hide. "O-of course not! I would be honored to stay," she said, her voice shaking slightly with joy. Without thinking, she moved closer to Javier, her eyes shining with determination. "Thank you so much, Young Master Javier. This means so much to me."
Javier froze. His mind raced as Gracelle excitement grew
Crap. What have I done?
He quickly glanced at Liana, hoping for some help, but her calm expression showed nothing except a hint of smug satisfaction.
This is bad. This is really bad, he thought, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. The whole point of kissing Gracelle was to see how Liana would react, not to get himself into this mess!
"Lady Gracelle," he started, trying to sound calm, "I sincerely appreciate your acceptance of our invitation. I trust your stay will be... both pleasant and comfortable."
"Oh, I have no doubt it shall be," Gracelle replied eagerly, her cheeks flushed. "It will be such a delight to spend more time with you, Young Master Javier."
Javier forced a smile, but inside, he was screaming. Liana, what have you done!!!!?
Behind him, Liana adjusted her posture. "Serves you right, young master. Maybe next time, you'll think twice before trying to test me."
"Now, if you'll excuse me, Young Master, Lady Gracelle," Liana said with her ever-gentle smile, folding her hands elegantly in front of her. "I must inform Lady Francesca about this arrangement. Oh, and… wouldn't it be more fitting if Lady Gracelle were to stay in the same room as you, Young Master?"
Javier nearly choked on the wine he was sipping. "Pardon?!"
Ignoring his reaction, Liana leaned closer to Gracelle and whispered in a sweet yet conspiratorial tone, "This is your opportunity, Lady Gracelle. You know… to establish yourself as a potential future bride."
Gracelle eyes widened, and her cheeks flushed. "Oh! Do you truly believe so, Miss Liana?" she whispered back, barely able to contain her excitement.
Javier felt the walls closing in around him. He couldn't say no—doing so would risk offending Gracelle and causing a scene. Yet agreeing would only complicate matters further.
He forced a polite smile, trying to maintain composure. "Ah, I believe that Lady Gracelle staying in my room might be… improper. Surely, we should consider her comfort as a guest and arrange a more suitable accommodation?"
"Oh, but I would not mind at all, Young Master Javier," Gracelle replied quickly, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "If it would not be inconvenient for you, of course."
Crap. Crap. Crap. Javier's mind screamed as he felt the trap closing in. He glanced at Liana, silently begging for help, but her calm smile only grew.
"Well, uh… let's not make any hasty decisions," he stammered. "My mother, Lady Francesca should have the final say on this."
"Of course," Liana said, bowing gracefully. "I'll mention it to her. Don't worry, Young Master. Everything will be "arranged" perfectly."
With that, she turned and walked away, leaving Javier to worry about his predicament.
This is bad. Really bad.
Lady Francesca was seated with Lady Silvia, Lady Gracelle's mother, at a table decorated with lavish adornments and a feast of delicacies. The two noblewomen were enjoying light-hearted conversation.
From the corner of the room, Liana approached gracefully, her steps measured and her expression calm. She stopped a polite distance from Lady Francesca and curtsied.
"Madam, pardon my intrusion," she began gently. "I have some delightful news to share with you."
Lady Francesca's smile brightened at the sight of Liana. "Oh, Liana, do come closer and tell me what it is. You always bring such interesting tidbits."
Liana stepped forward, lowering her voice for privacy. "It concerns Young Master Javier, Madam. It seems he has made his first significant connection tonight with Lady Gracelle."
Lady Francesca's eyes lit up, and Lady Silvia leaned in with interest. "Oh?"
"Yes, Madam," Liana continued smoothly. "Young Master Javier has invited Lady Gracelle to stay at the estate for the entire week. He believes it will be an excellent opportunity to strengthen ties between families."
Lady Francesca clasped her hands together, her face glowing with pride. "Oh, my sweet boy! He's growing up so quickly. Silvia, what do you think? Isn't it wonderful that our children are getting along so well?"
Lady Silvia chuckled warmly. "Indeed, Francesca. My Gracelle has always been a little shy, but it seems your son's charm has worked wonders. This could be the start of a wonderful alliance between our families."
"I couldn't agree more," Lady Francesca said, practically beaming. "Liana, ensure everything is prepared for Lady Gracelle's stay. Her comfort must be our highest priority."
Liana curtsied again. "Of course, Madam. I will see to it immediately."
As she stepped back, Liana felt a twinge of satisfaction. This should make things… interesting, Young Master. Let's see how you handle this.
Lady Gracelle, filled with excitement, rushed to her mother's side, where Lady Francesca and Lady Silvia were still engaged in cheerful conversation. She greeted Lady Francesca with a graceful bow and a warm smile.
"Lady Francesca, thank you for inviting us to this wonderful celebration. Happy birthday, and may your years ahead be as radiant as this evening," Gracelle said sweetly, her voice sincere.
Lady Francesca smiled warmly. "Thank you, my dear. You're such a polite and lovely young lady."
As Gracelle turned to chat with her mother about the invitation, Javier sat stiffly at his table. He could feel Liana's composed presence behind him, but her aura felt too smug for his liking.
I'm doomed. Absolutely doomed!!
Gathering his courage, Javier stood slowly, hoping for a quiet escape. Liana followed behind him, her expression serene, though he sensed a hint of mischief.
Approaching the table where his mother, Lady Francesca, and Lady Silvia were seated, he bowed politely. "Mother, Lady Silvia, Lady Gracelle. Excuse me, but I believe I'll retire to my room now. I hope you all enjoy the rest of the celebration."
He turned to Gracelle, managing a polite smile despite his internal panic. "Lady Gracelle, feel free to visit me later. After all, you'll be staying the week, and I'm sure we'll have plenty of time to discuss... anything you wish."
Gracelle blushed and nodded, her heart racing again. "Thank you, Young Master Javier. I'll look forward to it."
With that, Javier offered a respectful bow and quickly retreated. As he walked away, he whispered to Liana, "You planned this, didn't you?"
"Planned what, Young Master?" Liana replied innocently, though a faint smirk tugged at her lips.
This week is going to be a nightmare, Javier thought, quickening his steps toward the safety of his room.
( End of Chapter )
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