Upon hearing Violets answer, the marchioness smiled softly.

So, did you feel at ease?

Yes.

What a relief. But speaking as your chaperone and as Lilys friend, Id have to advise you to stop painting. Do you know why?

A little.

As an esteemed ducal lady, you have no need for art. There are many people in this country who remain conservative and old-fashioned, and there are many aristocrats who wish to drag down those who are at the top. Numerous people are eager to judge and undermine the actions, words and everything else related to a ducal lady such as yourself, even with something as simple as what youre wearing. Youre refusing all invitations because you know that, dont you?

Lets see. Rumor has it that Laurents designer got kicked out of the Everetts mansion in the capital. Thus, Lady Everett must be very arrogant.

Is that so?

Violet merely sipped her tea, unbothered. Narrowing her eyes at this, the marchioness laughed.

I understand that you have no intention of entering social and political circles. But still, there will be times when youd have to face some people even if you dont want to.

I appreciate your advice, truly, but Im quite alright.

As Violet set down her teacup, she smiled. Its not that the marchionesss advice meant nothing to her. Its just that she had already been through it countless times.

The marchioness smiled as well.

On the other hand, personally speaking, I wish to tell you that you should do whatever you want.

May I ask why?

Of course. How can I not know the true reason why you had so many thorns around you three years ago? It was all because you didnt want to leave any openings to those who wish you any harm.

But compared to how you were back then, you look so much more at ease. You started painting because you like it, didnt you? Then, thats enough. Whats the point of being conscious of other peoples opinions?

Thats quite the uncharacteristically radical remark.

Considering my position, theres no other way to answer. Before getting married, I was merely a daughter of a low-ranked viscount, and I came to a realization while observing the other nobles. Ah, if I keep trying to conform to those peoples standards, I will be left with nothing of my original self. I am my own person. You understand?

Though the marchioness spoke delicately, her words carried much seriousness. Violet looked at the smiling marchioness attentively.

The name Violet S. Everett has that weight. No matter what other people say, your esteem as a ducal lady shall never change. For them to say that a ducal lady is arrogantwhat a bunch of idiots, arent they? You are prideful because youre in a position to keep your head held high.

Thank you very much for saying that.

Gosh. My friends daughter is like my own daughter. Whenever you get the urge to come to the marquisate, dont hesitate at all and just come, alright? Ill drop everything and make time just for you.

As though responding to the marchionesss kindness, Violet smiled broadly.

And the marchioness smiled as wellit was the comfortable smile of a woman towards someone she considered a daughter.

* * *

After teatime, the two of them took a short stroll in the garden. In the meantime, the marchionesss chatter was not over.

Even though Violet enjoyed talking to her, she couldnt help but feel a bit tired.

Before I became the Marquiss wife, I mentioned that I was a daughter of a low-ranked, rural viscount, right? I only got to meet Lily during the debutante ball, and then we became close friends. And somehow or another, I started seeing my husband, though it was not without many hardships.

When the marchionesss story went on a tangent, it was nonetheless exciting. Listening to the love story, Violet was reminded of a romance novel.

The marchioness continued her story as they crossed the garden.

Perhaps this is the reason, but its true that I dont tend to conform to tradition by default. I had this garden landscaped according to my tastes. Isnt it pretty?

Yes, I agree. I think its very beautiful in a different way from Everetts garden. I see its because of your tastes, Madam.

Hohoho. My son, that rascalhe keeps saying that it looks messy, but its only expected. I did it freely.

In the midst of their long conversation, someone appeared before them. It was a man, politely standing in front of them.

Oh my, Alec?

Im here to greet you, Mother. I hope youve been well. May I know who this is?

Ah, yes, say hello. This is my guest, Lady Everett.

Ohh, the most famous person in the capital these days. I greet you, the rising star of House Everett. I am Alec K. Leshan. Please feel free to call me Alec.

The man who greeted her according to etiquette reached out one hand to her. Violet then offered her own hand, and the man kissed the back of her hand naturally.

Goosebumps rose up Violets spine.

May I call you Lady Violet? Ah, please forgive my rudeness. Mother, I heard that theres a bit of a problem going on at Titaro right now.

Whaaat? Ah, I was going to rest for the first time in quite a while, but theres nothing I can do. Alec, will you be a dear and show Her Ladyship around for a moment?

Letting out a sigh, the marchioness smiled helplessly and looked at Violet with a sad expression.

Im sorry, its something out of my hands. Ill be right back, but you and Alec can continue touring the garden. I dont wish to treat Everetts lady and my friends daughter like thisIll be sure to come back right away after Ive finished my work.

Of course, Madam. Please dont be pressured to rush.

When the marchioness went away, the young lord and Violet remained in their seats.