Chapter 101:

Chapter 101:

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From the moment the Duke of Carlyle appeared, the Empress seemed to have decided to change his course.

She began to take care of Juliet as if she was a loving adoptive parent.

You should stay in my palace until you recover.

The Empress generously offered, even providing a luxurious guest room.

This kindness felt somewhat burdensome. After all, Juliet had some responsibility for the intrusion of a wolf into the palace.

Fortunately, the Emperor and Empress didnt seem to think that far.

Roy and his party caught Graham and left. However, many had witnessed the intimate conversation between Juliet and Roy.

Juliet decided to behave obediently, following the Empresss instructions for now. It was best to make a good impression, not knowing how things would turn out later.

Juliet sat in the ballroom, dressed in a dress chosen by the Empress.

Due to the earlier commotion, people glanced at her from a distance with wary eyes.

If their eyes met, they would either be startled and look away or force an awkward smile.

Well, it wasnt so bad.

Juliet shrugged.

Excuse me, Countess Monad.

A slightly different group of people started to approach her.

Yes?

Juliet didnt know the name of the refined-looking noblewoman who addressed her, so she responded vaguely.

When she came to her senses, demure young ladies surrounded her.

Excuse my boldness, but what is your relationship with the gentleman who approached you this morning?

The young ladies, with their sparkling eyes, seemed burdensome, but they didnt appear malicious.

Whats there to hide?

Hes a friend.

Oh my, really!

Being friends with Lycanthrope is impressive!

Juliet glanced over the young ladies.

They were types she hadnt encountered much over the past few years, so they seemed younger than her.

Juliet thought the curious-looking noble young ladies were quite cute. So, she obediently answered their various questions.

Yes, we met while traveling.

Oh my.

The reactions were as expected.

So, have you promised a future with him?

No, not at all

The conversation seemed to be heading in an unexpected direction.

Isnt that so?

Recognizing the familiar voice, Juliet turned around. A decidedly handsome man looked down at her with a cold gaze.

Duke.

Juliet responded with a polite, thin smile.

Excuse us

The young ladies who had been chattering around Juliet scattered like herbivores that had encountered a predator.

Do you have business with me?

I simply wish to dance with you.

Juliet looked at him in surprise.

Theres nothing you can offer me.

That might not be the case. Think about it.

Juliet was puzzled.

What was he offering? A clean break?

What if I refuse?

You wont.

Lennox spoke softly.

Because you wouldnt want to lose something precious to you.

Juliet brushed off his hand and stood still. Her porcelain-smooth forehead wrinkled.

Why are you acting out of character?

She whispered, as if sighing.

You got the sequence wrong.

Lennox smiled faintly and brushed it off.

You keep making me act childish.

Juliet looked incredulous, but that was the most honest thing he could say.

Lennox Carlyle thought he knew Juliet Monad well. When and how she laughed. Or how sweetly she sobbed.

Seven years was a long time.

Enough to become accustomed to someone and lose interest. So he thought he knew her thoroughly.

But his pride was easily shattered.

The woman who deceived him and ran away seemed like a completely different person from the Juliet he had known for seven years.

When Juliet first ran away from him, the emotion he felt was closer to fear than betrayal.

He finally admitted that he hardly knew anything about Juliet Monad.

At that moment, the short dance ended, and applause erupted.

Your Highness.

Juliet, exhaling a shallow breath, spoke as if consoling a child.

I have nothing to give either, even if you say so. I dont know what you want from me.

Juliet tried to softly persuade him.

You said it, Your Highness. A contract is established when theres something to give and take, so

I have it.

Lennox spoke forcefully, holding the back of Juliets hand.

Juliet sent a slightly confused look. Sometimes, she had an inscrutable expression.

Have what?

There were times when she stared at him with those precarious blue eyes.

Then he would become anxious, as if she would disappear from his sight.

He felt so restless that he needed to immediately hold her to confirm her presence.

You owe me.

However, suppressing his urge, Lennox bent down and pressed his lips to the back of her hand.

It was an utmost courteous gesture.

Your Highness.

Its better not to make me wait too long.

However, the red eyes that looked up at her while kissing her hand were nothing but rude and intimidating.

You know, Juliet.

While escorting Juliet back to her place with impeccable manners, he whispered softly:

Im not very patient.