She pretended as though she didnt notice. Theyd been backstabbing her not long ago, but it seemed like they wished to talk to her nonetheless. The wicked womans snort did not reach the ears of those people.

Still, they couldnt approach her easily. The person by her side became sullen for no reason at all.

I, um, apologize. Its because of me that

Theres nothing for you to apologize for, Sir. Im the one who should say sorry. Youre being harshly criticized because of me.

Not at all. Im sure it is my presence thats causing you trouble.

No way. Theres no other man as good as you.

Violet grinned. Seeing her smile, Aldin hurriedly turned away.

Some people who witnessed the wicked womans smile were also caught, breathless.

Violet was sincere when she said that. Objectively speaking, Aldin was a great man. Had he not proven his abilities by becoming a member of the imperial guard?

Still.

Nevertheless, Aldins self-esteem seemed to be very low. Violet mused, What about him could ever be bad?

Then, at one corner of the banquet hall.

Ahh, good gracious. I cant believe shes wearing such a vulgar dress.

I guess those rumors werent just rumors. Theres not just a few eyes here to watch.

Rather, isnt it a good thing? Wouldnt Laurents clothes be a waste on a woman like that?

I feel sorry for Lady Tolofia.

Im alright, so please stop.

The woman who was listening to that conversation laughed and said this.

Because she was a little shorter than her peers, the women surrounding her somehow looked like bodyguards.

But dont you resent her too?! If it werent for her, you would have been!

His Highnesss decision has played a role as well. Really, Im fine.

Theres a rumor that Everetts second daughter has no solid roots, but it seems like that particular rumor is about the first daughter after all.

Ah, come to think of it, neither Duke Everett nor the lady Duchess has silver hair

Shes been pretending to be so noble all by herself, but in the end, its just a mere ruse.

Their conversation was thus buried within everyone elses commotion, scattering through the air like a faint melody amidst the orchestral piece drifting gently along the hall.

Off to the side, a blond-haired woman smiled gracefully as she listened to the buzzing conversations around her, remaining quiet.

Not even aware of who can hear. How foolish.

Violet, too, had kept her ears open. She sighed. The conversation between the young noble ladies was by no means loud, but not to the extent that Violet couldnt hear them.

She heard about how the corset had been revived and was currently in vogue once more, and as expected, it had a formidable presence. While making a mental note to be careful around Lady Tolofia, Violet let out a slow sigh yet again.

Parts of the conversation was lost to Violets ears, but because Aldin had extraordinary senses, he heard them all. As he did, his expression darkened.

I knew it. Im a nuisance.

Do you think that the rumor is true?

P-Pardon?

The rumor about my silver hair.

O-Of course not. I just

Its alright. I already know, so Im just asking.

Violet closed her eyes and chuckled. Aldins face flushed red.

Rumor or whatever, it didnt matter. Violet laughed, not caring about the rumors about her silver hair.

It doesnt matter because its not true. Above all, your origins dont matter either, Sir.

Your present position has been obtained solely by your abilities, Sir Aldin.

A smile tugged up on her lips once more. This time, Aldins face didnt turn red.

Just, he calmly smiled back.

Even though Violet couldnt remember

That aloof confidence of never allowing anyone to stand above oneself.

Violet S. Everett possessed such a thing.

And, the moment they first met. Even now.

She was so utterly, breathtakingly beautiful. To the point that Aldin would feel guilty about even holding her in his heart.

If you dont mind, may I ask for one song?

While Aldin was pulled into reminiscence for a moment, someone approached Violet.

Is it not common courtesy to introduce yourself first?

Ah, I beg your pardon. I am the second son of House Lahn, Roth Lahn. If you dont mind, will you give me the honor of having the first dance?

Though he was being mild-mannered about it, he seemed to be placing much confidence in his face.

Violet laughed. The mans self-confident expression cracked.

Oh my, I apologize. I havent danced with my partner yet. If you dont mind, I can perhaps promise the next one.

Unable to even answer Violets soft smile, the speechless man backed down. Aldins eyes widened.

Roth Lahn was not the only one hovering around her. Although they couldnt bring themselves to talk to her first, there were many people who were biding their time and looking for a chance to do so. Or, there were others who were instead lurking around, wandering here and there because they couldnt find the courage to look for such a chance.

Im, um, a good dancer Aldin murmured.

I brought you up as an excuse to refuse that guy, but you dont actually have to dance with me if you dont want to. Ah, is that it? You dont want to dance with me?

Is that really it?

As Aldin couldnt answer, his face was gradually tinged by a bright red hue. Violet was now seriously considering if she was being rejected right here.