Chapter 7 The Tea Party
I can't believe this day has finally come.
For the past few days, I've received multiple letters from various noble houses inviting me to tea parties.
You know what? I hate tea parties.
Aristocratic tea parties are the worst. They're not gatherings—they're battlefields. A war of brains and poisoned smiles. A clash of pride wrapped in silk and perfume. It's exhausting.
And I already know the main topic: Vladimir and me.
Ever since news of our broken friendship spread, the rumors have multiplied like a plague. The way gossip infects high society... it's worse than any disease. Ugh.
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Today, I'm visiting the House of Moore at the invitation of Lady Elissa, daughter of Viscount Moore.
I chose a royal blue dress—elegant, but not excessive. A fresh, natural makeup look. My hair neatly straightened. Simplicity is my preference; I don't need heavy jewelry or unnecessary embellishments. They're bothersome.
The House of Moore is wealthy—well known for their jewelry empire—and their garden reflects it. The tea party is extravagant. Statues adorned with embedded gems shimmer under the sunlight, surrounded by blooming roses and curated floral arrangements.
It's beautiful.
Still, I'm not fond of roses.
I prefer sunflowers.
As I step onto the garden aisle, a knight in ceremonial uniform announces my arrival.
All eyes turn toward me.
The intensity of their gazes makes my stomach churn. I feel like prey walking into a ring of predators.
Calm down, Estelle. Just survive this.
The high-pitched voice belongs to Lady Elissa. She's wearing a striking red gown that complements her curled blonde hair and greenish-gray eyes. Behind her stands Lady Marianne, the daughter of a renowned trading genius.
They fall completely silent.
Good. They didn't expect me to fight back. They amuse me.
I turn—and freeze.
Everyone immediately rises and bows.
She stands there in a radiant yellow gown, glowing like a goddess beneath the afternoon sun. The true female lead. Her beauty is dazzling—almost unreal. Her innocent face never fails to charm.
I bow respectfully as she approaches with dignified grace.
The ladies behind us whisper in confusion.
Then—
Murmurs shift.
What the f*ck is she doing?
It's all hearsay! What twisted narrative is this?
I laugh.
gasping people
Gasps ripple through the garden.
Insecure? Is she na?ve—or pretending to be?
I laugh again.
I turn to leave, looking like a villain they can take down. I think I'll thank Vladimir later; I learned a lot from him. I think I can be a perfect villain, huh.
With a bright smile, I walk away from that gilded sh*thole.
Bitches.
The wind blows gently across the terrace.
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It's cold tonight.
Ollie enters my room with a tray.
She hesitates.
She turns back, eyes glossy with emotion.
She bows and leaves.
Having someone like her... it's comforting.
But this is my war.
And I will fight it alone.
Someone is orchestrating a conspiracy against me. They've already succeeded in damaging my reputation.
I won't forgive that.
I sip my tea.
Delicious.
Now think, Estelle.
The Princess is acting strange. Too innocent. Too na?ve. Too different from her role in the novel.
Did my interference change the plot?
I need to uncover who's spreading these rumors.
If I don't... I might die.
Brother??? They're floating.
Floating.
I slam the door and dive into bed.
Estefan and Vladimir remain outside, suspended in midair.
The Spades—a secret organization devoted to eradicating the Black Mist's corruption. Most members are survivors seeking vengeance against the Teras.
Their leader, Macabre—impulsive, powerful, and feared.
With that, Vladimir vanishes into the night.