In the Doghouse - Chapter 86
“Why are you bringing in Aunt?”
“I told you to stay out of it. I’m asking the Crown Princess for her opinion.”
Richard clenched his teeth in frustration. If Courtney weren’t present, he would have acted like a complete rogue, causing a scene. The shrewd old man had obviously anticipated that and invited her as well.
Courtney’s eyes darted around, trying to assess the situation. She wasn’t entirely sure of the emperor’s true intentions, but at least he wasn’t being overly forceful. She could observe and learn this year and perhaps suggest taking over next year.
But part of her felt ambitious. No one dared say it aloud, but there had been whispers about her being unfit, about her body being the only thing she had to offer. Though Richard had indeed desired her in that way, she wanted to prove herself, to handle her role confidently and publicly. She cautiously spoke up.
“If His Majesty recommends it, I’d like to give it a try…”
Richard abruptly stood up. He knew what his father was thinking—it was all about pushing the responsibilities onto him as soon as possible.
“Courtney, preparing for the festival involves a lot of work. You’re still adjusting to life in the palace. Let’s wait until next year. I’ll help you then.”
But Courtney had already made up her mind. Her voice was gentle but resolute as she responded.
“Wouldn’t it be better if you started helping me this year, Your Highness?”
Richard suddenly realized he was standing on the edge of a cliff. If he pressed the matter any further, she would get upset. She’d feel insulted, thinking he didn’t trust her or doubted her abilities.
He glanced over at his father, who maintained a solemn expression but was undoubtedly enjoying this little drama. Richard swallowed a sigh and reluctantly answered.
“Alright.”
“Thank you.”
Courtney smiled shyly. Richard returned her smile warmly before glaring back at his father.
“Your Majesty should help as well.”
“What?”
“Oh, there’s no need…”
“If you’re going to suddenly dump all this responsibility on her, you should help, too.”
Despite Courtney’s attempt to defuse the situation, Richard stood his ground. In the end, the emperor agreed. Officially, the Crown Princess would oversee the festival, but he promised to assist her behind the scenes.
Thus, a temporary alliance for the Harvest Festival was formed.
* * *
The very next day, Courtney’s schedule became much busier. Before the emperor’s cousin, Duchess Herbert, arrived, she had to finish selecting her ladies-in-waiting.
After personally interviewing six candidates, she chose two. While more would be needed eventually, she couldn’t afford to focus solely on this right now.
Madam Berricker brought the two newly appointed ladies directly to the Crown Princess’s office. When Courtney nodded in greeting, the older of the two, Isabella Millen, spoke first.
“Greetings to Your Highness, the Crown Princess.”
The two elegantly dressed women curtsied gracefully. Though they tried to maintain composure, their eyes betrayed their excitement about their new roles and the life ahead.
“Welcome, Madam Millen. Lady Morrison.”
Courtney alternated her gaze between the two women she had chosen, Isabella Millen and Rebecca Morrison.
Her selection criteria for her ladies-in-waiting were based on desperation. Though there were other candidates with better backgrounds and skills, they didn’t need the position as urgently as these two.
Isabella’s husband, Viscount Millen, was as much of a gambling addict as Frederick. As with the Devon family, their fortune had been depleted long ago. While Isabella was a noblewoman, working as a common servant was out of the question. The modest salary of a lady-in-waiting, something others might scoff at, was a lifeline for her.
Rebecca, on the other hand, was the daughter of a baron, and her family’s situation was relatively stable. However, her father, Baron Morrison, was notorious as a drunkard. As a result, no suitable suitors had come forward for Rebecca, leaving her in a difficult position. She needed to improve her reputation to secure a marriage.
Both women had their own stories, and Courtney could relate to both. She smiled awkwardly as she addressed them.
“I’m sorry to start you off like this on your first day, but we need to begin preparing for the Harvest Festival right away.”
“Pardon?”
The two women blinked in confusion, having expected duties such as serving tea or keeping her company.
“Madam Berricker will instruct you on your responsibilities. I’ll be counting on you both.”
Madam Berricker quickly took charge, explaining their tasks. It was crucial for Courtney’s close attendants to ensure her orders were effectively communicated to the palace staff. The two new ladies-in-waiting, still somewhat dazed, were promptly given their assignments.
Though busy, Courtney didn’t entirely neglect her ‘pet’. Despite both being so occupied that they barely had time for meals or rest, she made sure they shared a bed each night. Of course, they didn’t have time for anything elaborate—just brief moments of intimacy.
Then, on the appointed day, Duchess Herbert arrived at the palace. After paying her respects to the emperor, she immediately sought out Courtney. It was their first meeting. Duchess Herbert had been reclusive in her estate and hadn’t attended the wedding.
Though no longer a member of the imperial family by name, she was still an elder of this household. Courtney hesitated as she offered her greeting.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“Yes, Your Highness.”
The older woman’s voice was cold, her expression severe. Courtney instinctively shrank back, wondering if she had done something wrong or if the duchess simply didn’t like her. A flurry of thoughts raced through her mind in that brief moment.
