The Villainess Became The Male Lead's Secretary

Chapter 24

"Thank you for the offer, Your Highness. Then I'll have to trouble you," Vivienne replied, appreciating Princess Artemis' kindness.

"No need to rush. I can wait," the young princess said with a gracious smile, showing her patience and understanding.

As Vivienne finished getting dressed, her mind couldn't help but wander back to the affectionate glances Artemis had been giving her younger brother, Leopold. The princess's crush on him seemed evident, and she couldn't help but find it endearing.

'I wonder how long this crush has been going on. My younger brother can be a bit oblivious at times,' Vivienne thought, her smile growing wider as she imagined the possibility of a blossoming romance between the two.

Once ready, Vivienne joined Artemis in the carriage, and they set off on the journey back to the palace. The rhythmic sound of the carriage wheels filled the air, and a comfortable silence settled between them as they both seemed lost in their thoughts. Vivienne's curiosity, however, grew stronger with each passing moment, prompting her to break the quietude.

"So, how long have you been having a crush on my brother?" Vivienne asked a playful glint in her eyes, breaking the silence.

The young princess's face turned a shade of red, betraying her embarrassment, as she responded, "Was it that obvious? Does he know?"

"I doubt my brother knows," Vivienne reassured her with a smile, understanding Artemis' concerns. "He can be a bit oblivious, so rest assured."

Artemis let out a sigh of relief, but the unease still lingered in her eyes. With a hint of vulnerability, she continued, "I've liked him for three years now. It all started back at school when he helped me with my studies. That was when I began to admire him for his kindness and gentleman-like nature."

Her voice softened as she shared the memories that had shaped her feelings for Leopold. Vivienne listened attentively, sensing the depth of Artemis' emotions and the significance of those moments in her heart.

"A lot of girls like him, too," Artemis admitted with a touch of uncertainty. "So, I doubt he would notice me since there are a lot of prettier and smarter girls who also like him."

'I know that my younger brother is comfortable around her, I am just not sure if he likes her, but I don't want to see the young princess having an unrequited love,' Vivienne thought, her mind filled with both concern and amusement. 'She'll need to work hard; he is an oblivious guy. As expected, my younger brother can be a male lead if it were in another story.'

Vivienne gently placed her hand on Artemis' shoulder, offering her support. "Artemis, you are beautiful, both inside and out," she said, her voice filled with sincerity. "Your kind heart and gentle spirit are what make you unique and special. Don't compare yourself to others. Leopold may not have noticed yet, but I have no doubt that he will see what a wonderful person you are."

Artemis looked both touched and hesitant, unsure of whether to believe in the possibility Vivienne was presenting. "You really think so?" she asked, her eyes searching for reassurance.

"I truly do," Vivienne replied, her voice unwavering. "Sometimes, the most genuine connections are the ones that are built on friendship and shared experiences. Leopold may not be quick to recognize his own feelings but trust me, your friendship means a lot to him. And who knows, with time, he might come to realize just how special you are to him."

Artemis, hearing Vivienne's encouragement, started to feel more confident in herself. As they reached the palace, Vivienne looked at the grand building with familiarity, her heart warming at the memories it held.

"Let's make this quick," Vivienne thought. Ava had expressed her desire to have a private conversation with Vivienne, so Artemis graciously parted ways.

As Vivienne knocked on the door, she was greeted by Ava's beaming face. Without hesitation, Ava pulled Vivienne inside her room, excitement evident in her eyes. The room was filled with warmth and a sense of familiarity, just like old times.

"It's so good to see you, Vivienne," Ava exclaimed, embracing her friend tightly. "I've missed you!"

"Vivienne! I'm so glad you're here," Ava exclaimed, hugging her friend tightly.

Vivienne looked at Ava with concern as she noticed her friend moving around a lot, worried that Ava might accidentally trip or hurt herself.

"I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations," Vivienne said with a warm smile, "although, unfortunately, I wasn't able to bring any gift today. But next time, I'll make sure to prepare one for you. I heard you urgently wanted to see me, and even though I am no longer the crown prince's secretary, please know that I'll always be here to support you to the best of my abilities."

As Vivienne spoke, her professionalism shone through, a testament to her years of experience as the crown prince's secretary. Despite the change in her role, her dedication to helping her friends remained unwavering.

Ava nodded, appreciating Vivienne's reassuring words. "Thank you, Vivienne. Your presence here means the world to me," she replied, her voice filled with sincerity. "I understand that things have changed, but I value our friendship beyond any official role you once held."

"As your friend, I'll always be by your side," Vivienne said, her tone softening with warmth. "Whatever you need, just know that you can count on me."

"I do have something I need your help with," Ava began, her tone serious and filled with concern. "I am worried about raising my child to become a healthy, strong, smart, and kind adult in the future. I want you to be there for them and help me in this endeavor. If anything were to happen to Apollo or me, I trust your judgment to care for our child until they come of age."

Ava handed Vivienne a letter, her face reflecting the weight of the request she had just made. "This letter formally recognizes that, in the event of any unfortunate circumstances, you have the right to take care of our child."

Vivienne was taken aback by the gravity of Ava's request. Her mind raced with conflicting emotions, unsure of how to respond. The enormity of the responsibility weighed heavily on her shoulders.

"Ava, this is a significant decision," Vivienne replied, her voice tinged with a mix of surprise and concern. "Are you certain about this?"

Ava nodded, her gaze unwavering. "I have given this a lot of thought," she said earnestly. "You have always been a dear friend and someone I trust implicitly. I cannot think of anyone else I would want to entrust with this responsibility."

Vivienne felt deeply touched by Ava's faith in her. Their friendship had endured many trials, and she knew the strength of the bond they shared. However, the magnitude of this role was not lost on her.

"I am honored that you trust me in this way," Vivienne said softly, "but I need some time to think about it. This is a decision that will shape the course of our lives."

Ava nodded understandingly, her concern for her child evident in her eyes. "Of course, take all the time you need. I wouldn't ask this of you if I wasn't sure of your capabilities and dedication."

With the letter still in her hands, Vivienne promised Ava that she would carefully consider the responsibility being asked of her. The weight of the decision loomed over her, and she knew that she needed time to reflect on it.