AFTER that night, Cesia slowly hit her stride. She had always been relatively intellectual, having gone through the academy twice and spent more time on her studies than most, and she wouldn’t have had any objections to anyone calling her smart. Not that she could say that out loud. She had no problem with everyday conversation in foreign languages and was decently knowledgeable about history and culture. She wasn’t stuck up, so if she ever had a question, she asked it then and there, and there were even people who were impressed by how pertinent her questions were.
Lately, as she steadily raised her reputation in high society, Rosary had stopped waiting for her to provide encouragement after soirees. As always, though, Rosary taught her about noble social etiquette in the afternoon.
“That last question was too personal. Everyone might be curious, but they also know that there are times when you aren’t supposed to ask,” Rosary said.
Cesia nodded, then tried stating her own opinion, her heart pounding. “You’re right. But sometimes I think as I’m listening that everyone’s misunderstanding them, and they’d answer more readily if an outsider like me acted like I didn’t know anything and asked the question.” It might be too soon to argue against her advice, Cesia thought. However, she wasn’t going to be any normal noblewoman. She was a baroness and would eventually represent the kingdom and have opportunities to state her opinion as princess consort—she couldn’t just stick to what everyone else could say. So, she thought that she should make sure to have her own thoughts and opinions.
Seeing Cesia’s serious expression, Rosary reflected deeply. Cesia’s natural, distinctive charm was that she had that sort of quick-witted boldness. Marcus was well aware of that, and it would be important for the nobles of the country to find that out as well. “You have a point,” Rosary said. “But you won’t be correct every time, so please understand why it’s done this way first. Naturally, there will be times when it’s rude.”
Cesia nodded emphatically. “All right.”
At that, Rosary felt admiration well up inside her, though she made sure it didn’t show on her face. Cesia grew quickly. She readily picked up new things, and her perceptiveness meant she always put what she learned to good use. Rosary had appreciated “Selene’s” abilities when they were both students, but lately, whatever the reason, Cesia had been blooming rapidly.
In all honesty, the time had come for Rosary to start reducing the number of days she went to the castle and earnestly focus on preparing for her wedding ceremony. The first princess had already given Rosary permission to resign from her position, but worried about Cesia, she had prolonged her stay to the last moment possible.
With this, it looks like I’ll be able to get married without any worries, Rosary thought, pouting. The woman whom she had thought had been so shameless was now an important part of her life—more important than her wedding ceremony. It was frustrating and a bit embarrassing, but it wasn’t a bad feeling, either.