Chapter 103

Chapter 103

How could I not know how deeply His Highness cares for me?

Iona bowed her head in a reserved manner as she spoke.

It was an expression of faith to him, who was striving to prove his sincerity.

Naturally, Richard was extremely pleased.

Finally, the hand that had been gently stroking the back of Ionas hand withdrew.

As if he had achieved his purpose, he leisurely straightened up and promised, Ill take care of Florence on my own terms. She wont be able to lay a hand on you again.

Certainly, not having to deal directly with Florence was a welcome relief. Not that it wasnt, as Iona was already busy enough with other issues.

Watching Richard offer his cooperation, Iona smiled faintly.

Even after Iona shifted her gaze to the window, signaling the end of their conversation, the mans gaze, still clinging to that small smile, did not waver, as if he had forgotten how to look elsewhere.

***

By the time Iona and Richard arrived at the ballroom, it was already packed with people.

As the protagonists were often fashionably late, Richards timing to meet Iona reflected such leisure.

Before entering, Iona gave a final check to her attire and glanced at Richard.

He was wearing a suit with a white base and gold decorations, not exactly matching Ionas dress, but the contrasting colors created a balance of their own.

Not exactly like partners.

Of course, Richard hadnt shown the meticulousness of coordinating outfits with a partner beforehand. Maybe with his fiance, Florence, but certainly not with a subordinate like Iona.

It would be overly fastidious and beyond common understanding for them to match outfits.

Iona quite liked the appropriate distance she felt between herself and him.

His Royal Highness Prince Richard Matthias Lehmann and Dame Iona Modrov are now entering.

After the heralds voice announced their arrival, a momentary silence enveloped the hall.

The noise that had been subdued burst forth explosively as they stepped beyond the open doors.

Looking down at the murmuring crowd, Iona slowly descended the stairs, feeling the concentrated gaze of the people on the hand she held with Richard.

Despite the discomfort and a desire to distance herself from him, she knew she couldnt act on these thoughts.

As soon as she stepped off the last stair and touched the floor, Richards followers swarmed around them. They seemed immensely curious about Iona attending as Richards partner, an unexpected turn of events.

Others, pretending to be uninterested, subtly leaned in to eavesdrop. Richard, as if anticipating such reactions, responded with ease.

Iona is one of my most valued subordinates, suitable to assist me even in such gatherings, wouldnt you agree? His final question was directed at Iona.

Iona responded with a light smile, not wanting to provide fodder for gossip. In such situations, it was best to speak as little as possible.

While it was true that Iona was known as a favored subordinate of the Crown Prince, standing beside him in a role beyond that of an escort was unprecedented.

This situation was undeniably unusual, warranting a sense of alienation.

As expected, someone tactless subtly voiced their curiosity.

I thought Dame Iona would attend this event with someone else.

Their tone was light, almost as if making a playful joke. Perhaps it wasnt a lack of tact but rather an inability to resist the impulse to put her in a difficult position.

Iona was prepared for such questions.

I was honored to assist my lord, and Lord Leroy graciously understood.

You asked for permission? Richard interjected unexpectedly, prompting Iona to respond with tension.

Saskia, having quickly emptied her glass, pushed it towards Iona as if to hide the evidence.

Iona silently accepted it.

Anyway, you dont look too bad. I was worried you might have been in shock after reading the letter.

Iona recalled how she had responded to Saskias letter of concern.

[Im healthy. No issues, so dont worry unnecessarily.]

I thought I reassured you properly.

You, you are... Well, its good to see you so untroubled.

Saskia, after hesitating for a while, finally sighed. It seemed she had decided to direct her annoyance toward Florence, not the victim Iona.

Chewing on her lip, Saskia said, We should have barred Florence from the palace entirely, or even publicly shamed her. That would have made her cautious because of public opinion.

The accusations against her arent confirmed yet.

Yvonne is not the kind of girl who would be so smart as to bring up an unrelated name in a situation like this.

That was a valid point. Mentioning Florence brought Yvonne no benefit, especially considering her grievances against the Randshof family. Her betrayal was self-defeating.

Interpreting Ionas silence as agreement, Saskia was about to continue pressing when the room suddenly grew noisy.

Drawn by the gathered gazes, Iona looked up. Entering through the door was a familiar face.

My goodness, is that Lord Leroy?

Hes known to be handsome, but today hes absolutely... astonishing.

Theres no official engagement yet, right? Please say its true.

Excited whispers spilled from various corners, uncontained.

Iona, slightly frowning at the irritating remarks, couldnt take her eyes off Leroy.

His black shirt and red jacket gave off an unusually enchanting aura.

She had never thought of him as flamboyantly attractive, but it seemed her bias stemmed from his usually refined appearance. Adorned in striking colors, he captivated attention more than anyone else.

Even Saskia, usually indifferent to the opposite sex, openly admired Leroys face.

Oh, handsome

As Saskia quietly expressed her admiration, she suddenly turned to Iona with a realization. She then alternated her gaze between Leroy and Iona, as if comparing.

With rapid movements, Saskia grabbed Ionas shoulder and asked urgently, Iona, what am I looking at right now?

Pardon?

That outfit, it looks tailored on the same day as this dress. Whats all this about?

Oh, I coordinated outfits with my betrothed.

While attending as the Crown Princes partner?

Is there a problem?

Hearing Ionas nonchalant question, Saskia slowly closed her eyes. After a moment of stillness, she started to uneasily remove the sword at her waist.

Iona, enjoy the party. I have to leave early due to sudden troubles at home.

--- End Of The Chapter ----

[ TN: Join Patreon to support the translation and to read 5 chapters ahead of the release: /YourNoona

Join Our Discord for regular updates, and have fun with other community members: /invite/SqWtJpPtm9 ]