Chapter 13. The Count's Return
🌹 ━━･❪ Two Days Ago ❫ ･━━ 🌹
At this very moment, I find myself in the Clorance Manor's Garden. Why, you may ask? Well, it's all because of what transpired just an hour ago.
"My Lady..."
I paused my reading and lowered the book, eager to see the face behind the voice. By now, I'm becoming more familiar with the voices of those around me as time goes on.
When I spotted Mira standing before me, holding a tray of Earl Grey tea and the cookies I had requested earlier, I smiled and temporarily closed my book. However, my smile vanished as I observed the expression on her face, causing my brows to furrow.
"Is something troubling you, Mira?" I couldn't help but inquire, sensing that she wanted to share something with me but was holding back.
Mira remained silent, but her face clearly indicated that she wished to speak. I suppose my ability to read people's expressions and emotions, honed during my time in the real world, can still come in handy in this new realm.
I let out a deep sigh. "Mira, look at me," I instructed, more as a gentle request than a command. After all, I didn't want to startle her.
Mira lifted her head, and as our eyes met, I offered her a warm smile.
"Mira, I hope you understand that I have no desire to devour people - I don't even entertain thoughts of consuming human flesh. It's utterly repulsive. So, if there's something you wish to tell me, please do. Understood?"
She nodded. "Yes, my lady."
"Good. But seriously, do I give off even the slightest hint of being a young lady who feasts on humans?" I asked, attempting to inject some humor and lighten the atmosphere.
Mira's tense expression eased, and her lips curved into a faint smile. How endearing!
"Now, what is it?" I redirected our conversation back to the initial topic.
"Well, my lady, I was simply curious about something."
"Oh? And what might that be?"
"I've noticed that you've been spending most of your time in your chambers or the library these past few days. Have you not considered venturing outside and attending tea parties hosted by other noble young ladies?"
I paused mid-bite of a macaroon upon hearing Mira's words. It hit me like a weighty stone, triggering a flood of realizations about Cassia's character from the novel rushing back into my mind.
Cassia de Clorance, the sole daughter of Count Steven Clorance, held a significant position within the Clorance family. Being the only female descendant in the family bloodline, she carried the title of "The Clorance's Only Lady," which brought her considerable renown.
However, her fame extended beyond her lineage. Cassia was a prominent figure in high society, keeping herself abreast of the latest offerings the world had to offer: exquisite dresses, dazzling jewelry, elegant footwear, and more. The Clorance family possessed an immense fortune-so vast, in fact, that they could squander it with little regard, as if tossing away a mere scrap of paper.
How could I have forgotten such an important detail? I can't afford to panic. I must remain calm and find a way to navigate through this. Mira couldn't possibly suspect anything, could she?
I looked up at Mira, and she appeared genuinely concerned, her face reflecting her worry.
What is she thinking right now?
"Is this related to your amnesia, my lady? Are you feeling unwell? Should I summon a physician to examine you?"
Ah, so that's what she's thinking. I felt a wave of relief wash over me. Why was I getting worked up over nothing? Mira has no knowledge of my true identity as a reincarnator from another world, who has taken over the body of Cassia Clorance.
I couldn't imagine Mira believing me if I were to tell her the truth about not being the real Cassia Clorance. Worst case scenario, they might think I've lost my mind and decide to send me to a mental institution. That's something I absolutely cannot allow to happen.
To ease Mira's worries, I gave her a gentle smile. "Mira, please don't think too much about it. I've simply had some realizations and I want to change my bad habits. I wish to be seen as Lady Cassia Clorance, not the villainess. And for now, I'm not quite ready to face others. I prefer staying at home where it's comfortable and warm. Having you and the rest of the staff here is more than enough for me."
As I finished speaking, I noticed tears streaming down Mira's face. Panic surged through me.
"Oh God! Mira, what's wrong? Are you hurt? Why are you crying?"
"My lady..." she sniffled, wiping away a tear. "My lady is so kind, caring, and sweet. I am devoted to my lady with all my heart, body, and soul. I would even sacrifice my life for my lady's sake."
I winced at her words. "I appreciate your devotion, Mira, but I don't want you to die. I want you to live and be happy. Understand? Now, please, stop crying."
I handed her a tissue that was on the table because she still couldn't stop crying. This girl really...
I felt a wave of unease wash over me as Mira's demeanor suddenly changed. Her dark aura sent shivers down my spine.
Nervously, I swallowed before speaking. "Um, sure. What would you like to know?"
Mira lifted her gaze to meet mine, her tears now absent, and a smile crossed her face. But it wasn't a warm smile, it was a sinister one, giving me an unsettling feeling deep within.
"Could my lady kindly tell me the names of those individuals who have audaciously labeled my lady as a villainess?" she asked, her tone dripping with an eerie calmness.
I tried to smile at Mira even though I was nervous about the way she was smiling now.
"W-Why do you want to know their names, Mira?" I stammered, feeling a surge of fear. Mira's sudden change in demeanor was deeply unsettling.
Mira's expression remained chillingly calm as she responded, "Please, my lady, have no concerns. I merely wish to have a brief conversation with them."
What's this? Why do I feel like she's emphasizing the word 'talk'? Or am I just imagining things?
"Ah... Mira, you see, I don't remember their names very well. Remember, I'm still dealing with amnesia? I vaguely recall being referred to as a villainess, but it's not something you should worry about."
"But, my lady..." Mira's ears seemed to droop like a disappointed puppy, and her cute pout tugged at my heartstrings. It was hard to resist her adorable expression.
I smiled reassuringly at her. "I promise you, Mira, I'm truly fine. No need to concern yourself."
"My lady, are you sure you're not trying to deceive me?" Her voice carried a tinge of doubt.
I chuckled softly. Honestly, I don't feel that too bad of being called a villainess because I wasn't Cassia Clorance from the beginning. I just got to be reincarnated in her body. But I also still feel a bit sad about it.
Closing my eyes for a moment, an idea suddenly dawned on me. I opened my eyes, beaming at Mira.
"How about we have tea in the garden? The weather is lovely, and the fresh air would do us good," I suggested, gesturing towards the window.
Mira's face lit up with delight. "That's a wonderful idea, my lady! I will prepare a table and chairs outside-"
"Oh, Mira, instead of tables and chairs, let's use a picnic blanket instead. It will be much cozier and enjoyable," I interrupted her, my excitement evident in my voice.
Mira's smile grew even wider. She bowed her head and replied, "As you wish, my lady. I will make the necessary arrangements."
And so, it was decided. It struck me that this would be my first time experiencing the Clorance Manor from the outside. I had been confined indoors since arriving in this world, never once getting a glimpse of the manor's exterior.
As I took in the breathtaking sight before me, the sheer size and architectural beauty of the manor left me in awe. It was truly a sight to behold.
I was in the midst of enjoying the tea that Mira had just poured when a man approached us. I had seen his face on the day I arrived here, but I didn't know his name.
"Greetings, my lady. I have an important announcement to inform you of," the man said as he stood before me.
I raised an eyebrow. His demeanor seemed far from respectful towards Cassia. I could sense traces of arrogance in his speech. While I knew it wasn't right to misuse someone else's power, I couldn't tolerate such an attitude. Setting down my tea cup, I stared at him from head to toe, raising an eyebrow in challenge.
"What's your name?" I asked in an authoritative tone of voice.
He flinched, even clenching his fist. Interesting.
"My lady, he is—" Mira began to speak, but I lifted a finger to silence her, signaling her to pause for a moment.
"I'm not asking you, Mira," I said, redirecting my attention back to the man standing in the sun.
The picnic blanket was placed under the shade of the tree, ensuring that he wouldn't dare step on it while I lounged comfortably. It wasn't my fault that Mira had suggested the blanket; she had arranged everything with the help of other maids.
"Well, are you going to continue standing there? In case you're unaware, I'm in the middle of enjoying my tea," I spoke dismissively, as if I didn't care about what he had to say. Although I had no idea about the issues between this man and Cassia, I acted as though I didn't give it a second thought.
After I spoke, the man finally bowed. "I apologize for my late introduction, my lady. I am Gillian Pinonua, an assistant butler in charge of the manor."
So, he was an assistant butler. And a Pinonua. His name wasn't mentioned in the novel, but I recalled another character with the same surname-Grace Pinonua, the first friend of the female protagonist, Amoria. He could very well be Grace Pinonua's older brother. Hazel-colored hair and black eyes-his appearance matched the description of Grace Pinonua.
"Then, Gillian," I said, noticing his flinch as I addressed him by name but choosing to ignore it. There was undoubtedly some history between him and the original Cassia. "What is the announcement?"
Gillian took a deep breath before speaking.
"The Count Steven Clorance will be returning to the Clorance Manor."
I nearly choked on my sip of tea, the liquid spraying out as I heard his words. I looked at him, a mix of shock and disbelief on my face. "What did you just say?!" My voice had inadvertently risen, the urgency and surprise evident.
"My lady..." Mira tried to approach me to calm me down, but I paid her no mind.
"T-The Count will be r-returning to the Clorance Manor, my lady..." Gillian stammered, his voice trembling.
🌹 ━━･❪ Present Timeline ❫ ･━━ 🌹
"Good morning, My Lady. Are you awake?" Mira asked as she gently opened the door and entered the room.
I nodded, rubbing my eyes. "Yes, I just woke up."
Mira, along with the other two maids, Camille and Rosette, helped me bathe and get dressed in an elegant gown for the day.
"Um, Mira?" I called out.
"Yes, My Lady?" she responded.
I sighed. "Why am I wearing this fancy dress? Are we going somewhere?" I asked, feeling puzzled.
Today, all three of them were acting strangely. Not just Mira, but Camille and Rosette as well.
"Oh my, have you forgotten what day it is, My Lady?" Rosette spoke while fixing my hair.
I furrowed my brow. "Is there a special occasion to celebrate?" I asked, getting more confused.
"My Lady, today is 'that' day," Camille chimed in, adjusting the ruffles on my dress.
"Could you girls just cut to the chase and tell me what's going on?"
The three of them exchanged glances, as if silently communicating with each other through their eyes.
"It appears that my lady has truly forgotten today's date," Mira said, finally breaking the silence.
"My lady, today is the day..." Camille began.
I couldn't shake off the uneasy feeling that washed over me.
"...that the Count Clorance will be returning to the manor," Mira finished the sentence.
I fell silent. Those words triggered a memory from two days ago. So, today was the day-the day the Count would return to the manor.
Just what on earth is that Count thinking? Coming back to this manor when he badly wants to stay away from her daughter. Doesn't he prefer the ambiance of being at the Clorance's second manor which was located near the imperial palace than being here?
All of us turned towards the door as it opened. Hana, one of the maids, rushed into the room, panting and out of breath.
"The C-Count... has arrived," she managed to say between breaths.
Oh God! It seems like I can't do anything anymore. Might as well face it. Holy shit! I'm meeting the novel's villainess' father today. Just great.
To be Continued...