The week leading up to the charity gala passed in a flurry of preparations. Ethan ensured every detail was perfect. For him, this event wasn't just a social gathering; it was the first step in reshaping Amara's reputation and shielding her from the venomous gossip that had plagued her.
In the morning, Ethan joined Amara in the garden for breakfast—a habit he'd begun since their wedding night. Amara seemed more at ease in the open air, and he noticed her shoulders relaxing slightly as she sipped tea.
"Are you nervous about the gala?" Ethan asked, breaking the comfortable silence.
Amara looked up, her expression guarded. "Should I be? It's not as if anyone there will treat me kindly."
Ethan leaned forward, his voice firm. "That's where you're wrong. By the end of the night, they'll see you for who you really are. And I'll be right beside you."
Amara blinked, momentarily caught off guard by his sincerity. Then she smirked faintly, her defenses rising again. "Bold words. Let's see if you can deliver."
Notification:
"Amara feels a mix of doubt and hope.
Happiness increased by 3%. Trust in you increased by 2%.
Reward Unlocked: Intermediate Charisma Skill."
That afternoon, Ethan visited the system store to explore options for enhancing their chances of success. The system had introduced several new items, and one caught his eye:
Item: Social Grace Amulet
Effect: Improves wearer's confidence and charm in social settings.
Cost: 800 points.
Without hesitation, Ethan purchased the amulet and decided to gift it to Amara later.
In the evening, Amara sat in her room, poring over the list of guests while trying not to feel overwhelmed. As much as she pretended otherwise, the thought of facing so many judgmental eyes made her stomach churn.
A knock on the door broke her thoughts.
"Come in," she called.
Ethan entered, holding a small velvet box. "I thought you might like this," he said, handing it to her.
Amara opened the box to reveal a delicate amulet with a soft golden glow.
"What is this?" she asked, frowning slightly.
"It's something to remind you of your strength," Ethan said. "Wear it to the gala. It'll help."
Amara studied him, her skepticism evident, but there was also a flicker of curiosity in her eyes. Finally, she nodded and slipped the amulet around her neck.
Notification:
"Amara appreciates your thoughtful gesture.
Happiness increased by 5%. Trust in you increased by 4%.
Reward Unlocked: Basic Strategic Analysis Skill."
The next day, Ethan decided to test his newfound Intermediate Charisma Skill by arranging a surprise meeting with several influential nobles known for their neutrality.
The group gathered in the estate's parlor, their faces wary.
"To what do we owe this invitation, Your Grace?" one of them asked.
Ethan smiled, exuding confidence. "I wanted to personally discuss the upcoming charity gala and the role my wife will play in the event. As you know, this year's focus is on supporting orphanages in the southern regions—a cause dear to her heart."
The mention of Amara surprised the group. In their eyes, she had always been a selfish villainess.
"I didn't realize the Duchess was involved in such efforts," another noble remarked cautiously.
"She's been passionate about this for years," Ethan said smoothly, weaving in truths from the novel's backstory that Amara had never been credited for. "I'd appreciate it if you would take the time to speak with her at the gala. I think you'll find her insights invaluable."
By the time the meeting ended, several nobles had softened their opinions, intrigued by this unexpected side of the Duchess.
Notification:
"Charisma Skill successfully utilized.
Task Complete: Shift Neutral Nobles' Perception (Progress: 3/10).
Reward Unlocked: 500 Points."
That evening, Ethan found Amara sitting by the fireplace in their shared sitting room. She was reading a book, her expression thoughtful.
"How was your day?" he asked, taking a seat across from her.
"Busy," she replied curtly but without malice. "The gala looms over everything."
"It's an opportunity," Ethan said gently. "Not a burden."
Amara sighed, closing her book. "You make it sound so simple."
"It's not simple," Ethan admitted. "But we'll face it together."
For a moment, Amara looked at him, her defenses wavering. Then she nodded, a small but genuine smile gracing her lips.
Notification:
"Amara feels reassured by your support.
Happiness increased by 4%. Trust in you increased by 3%.
Bonus Reward: Advanced Memory Recall Skill."
As they prepared for bed, Ethan felt a growing determination. The gala was only days away, and it would mark the beginning of a new chapter for both of them. Together, they would rewrite the narrative that had been unfairly forced upon Amara.
End of Chapter 6