Chapter 4 - Chapter 4

Two days before the prince's and princess's visit, Aria-sama was invited to a tea party, and we are currently in a carriage. I looked out the window and saw commoners and some nobles milling about.

"Count Wislow's daughter is our age; I wonder what kind of girl she is. I heard she's been staying at home since childhood, and this is her first time in public," Aria-sama remarked, sitting elegantly. I didn't know what to say, so I remained silent.

"Miss, I heard she has a weak constitution, which is why she hasn't participated in any gatherings before. I've also heard from the other maids that despite her frailty, she is quite intelligent," Emily added, slightly bowing her head and sitting properly.

Sigh... I really don't know much about noble affairs, so I'll just keep quiet and let them talk.

After a while, we arrived at the venue for the tea party. The estate was smaller than the Williams estate, but it was still impressive.

Inside, there was a long table laden with various sweets, and to the side were plates and utensils. Around the room were about 20-25 round tables, each seating 8-10 people, with many noblemen and women mingling and chatting.

As we entered, a group of ladies approached Aria-sama. Both parties exchanged courtesies. "It's so good to see you, Williams-sama," one of the girls said, smiling. "Yes, we have so much gossip to share!" another chimed in, fanning herself. Aria-sama giggled softly. "Shall we find a place to sit?" she suggested, and they all took their seats.

Emily and I stood behind Aria-sama as they began chatting. I glanced around and saw everyone engaged in conversation. Aria-sama turned her head slightly to look at us. "Hayden, Emily, you can go eat first if you'd like, or you can explore a bit so you won't get bored. Just don't stray too far." Emily and I nodded.

Emily decided to get desserts for Aria-sama, while I chose to step outside for a walk. It felt a bit stifling being around so many nobles.

As I strolled, I found myself in the garden. It was beautiful, reminiscent of the one at the Williams estate but filled with vibrant red roses.

Wow... what a stunning sight! I wandered through the maze-like garden until I reached the center, where a lovely fountain and a stone statue stood beside a bench.

Continuing my walk, I approached a large tree, hoping to find some shade. But as I got closer, I saw a girl on a branch, struggling to reach an orange cat.

"E-Er... Come here, Sebastian. The tea party will start soon," she called, looking up but seemingly unaware of my presence.

As she inched closer, she finally managed to grab the cat, but her foot slipped. She screamed, but I caught her just in time.

I held her in a princess carry while she clutched the cat, her eyes wide in surprise. I gently set her down.

"Are you okay, miss?" I asked. She had beautiful straight, shoulder-length golden hair, accented by a cute black ribbon that made her resemble a bunny. Her round eyes sparkled like rubies, framed by long eyelashes. She was a bit shorter than Aria-sama and wore an adorable red dress.

The girl lowered her head, blushing with embarrassment, and nodded. "I-I'm alright."

"That's good to hear. If you'll excuse me, young miss, I must return now. I believe my master is looking for me," I said, bowing with my palm over my chest.

As I turned to leave, she called out, "Wait!" I looked down at her, and our eyes met. "Yes, miss?"

She hugged her orange cat tightly, her cheeks still pink. "If it's alright, may I know your name?"

I thought for a moment and nodded. Once more, I placed my palm on my chest and bowed. "I am called Hayden Reggian, from the Williams estate, and I serve as Lady Aria Williams' personal butler. It's a pleasure to meet you, miss."

She smiled and replied, "It was a pleasure to meet you too, Sir Hayden. My name is Yvone Wislow." After our introductions, I bid her farewell and made my way back to the tea party venue, where I found Aria-sama calmly sipping her tea—a truly beautiful sight.

I approached and stood behind her. She turned her head slightly to look up at me. "Where have you been, Hayden? I thought I told you not to stray too far," she said, pouting slightly.

"My apologies, Aria-sama. I walked around and found a lovely garden, so I decided to rest there for a bit," I explained, bowing my head. After a moment, I added, "I understand; I'll be more careful next time."

"Hmph," Aria-sama replied, turning back to her tea. I could have sworn her ears turned slightly pink.