I Tamed the Monstrous Prince - Chapter 46
Chapter 46
“Her Majesty, the Empress, sent this for me?”
It was a velvet dress with a deep square neckline and fashionable puffed sleeves. The cream-colored fabric shimmered, embroidered with gold and silver thread. Roses, the symbol of the Imperial family, bloomed across the bodice, tiny pearls nestled between the delicate stitching. The organza and tatting lace collar was the height of extravagance, dazzling to the eye.
And the gown wasn’t the only arrival.
“Her Majesty also sent attire for His Highness, the First Prince.”
Another box was opened, revealing an array of equally opulent menswear. The most striking piece, clearly intended to complement my gown, was a cream-colored justaucorps, also embroidered with gold and silver thread. A doublet, dress shirt, and cravat were included as well. I wasn’t well-versed in men’s fashion, but even I could tell this ensemble was exceptionally stylish.
I felt a strange tightening in my chest as I looked at the clothes. Seemingly oblivious to my unease, Countess Elvira said softly, “I hear Her Majesty has made a grand pronouncement.”
Was she referring to my promise to present Cesar in human form at the ball? I waited for her to continue.
“Her Majesty commends Your Highness’s devotion to your husband and has decreed that no expense should be spared in supporting you both.” Countess Elvira’s tone, surprisingly, held neither mockery nor sarcasm. “Therefore, she commands you to inform me of any and all needs you may have.”
“Anything at all?”
“Yes, anything. She has instructed me to provide every possible assistance.”
Seeing my bewilderment, the Countess added slowly, “So, please understand, there will be no excuses for failure due to a lack of support.”
Countess Elvira studied my expression, then drove the point home. “You should be grateful for Her Majesty’s generosity.”
The words “Her Majesty’s generosity” felt like a noose tightening around my neck. This gift was a warning. There was no turning back.
“I, too, shall see to Your Highness’s comfort.”
“Is that also by Her Majesty’s command?”
Countess Elvira smiled faintly, offering no further explanation.
I felt as though I’d been ensnared in a cunning trap. One moment, I was plummeting into an abyss; the next, I was thrust onto a meticulously crafted stage. No one, not even I, knew what role I was meant to play in this drama, whether it was a comedy or a tragedy.
Inwardly, I struggled to find a different perspective. Perhaps this was for the best. Receiving assistance was surely better than facing this alone. This entire endeavor was a gamble with no guarantee of success. Any help offered should be welcomed.
Straightening my spine, I declared, “Please convey my deepest gratitude to Her Majesty for her consideration.”
My response brought a crescent-shaped smile to the Countess’s lips. Turning to leave, she offered a parting phrase, “May the Holy Cross guide you.”
Servants continued to arrive, piling boxes within the room. With each addition, I felt the invisible grip around my throat tighten.
***
Giovinetta Flores strode down the hallway, the pointed toes of her shoes clicking against the floor. The Flores family servants quickly bowed their heads, wary of incurring the wrath of their eldest daughter. Giovinetta’s destination was the drawing-room.
“Mother!”
The heavy drawing-room door swung open. Celestina was enjoying her afternoon tea.
“Giovinetta, such a lack of decorum.” Celestina placed her teacup silently on the table. Unfazed, Giovinetta marched to her mother’s side and sat. A maid quickly brought her a glass of cold water.
“Have you heard?” Giovinetta gulped down the water, catching her breath.
“Heard what?”
“About Irenea!”
Celestina raised an eyebrow. “What about her?”
