Chapter 24. Fortuitous Meeting (2)

Translator: Atlas / Editor: Scarlet

As expected, Lisbeth’s eyes narrowed at the sight of them with their arms intertwined. The smiling Rihanna clearly noticed.

‘She must really like George’.

She really didn’t want to use such childish tactics, but as long as she could cause them both discomfort, anything was fine.

“No, Rihanna.” George spoke quietly. “There’s still plenty of time.”

“But let’s go quickly. We mustn’t be late for an important event.”

“You’re right.” George then added in a sweet voice. “By the way, you look even more beautiful today.”

“…Really?”

She had made sure she was well groomed. She didn’t want to hear nonsense in the future. She intended to minimize possible rumors that her husband had cheated on her because she didn’t pay attention to her appearance.

“You look great today too.”

***

Leaving the mansion, the three of them were heading for the same carriage as usual.

“Lisbeth, wait.”

Rihanna stopped Lisbeth who was about to get into the carriage. Surprised, Lisbeth asked her what she was doing. Rihanna spoke calmly looking at Lisbeth.

“We’re going in different carriages today.”

Lisbeth and George put a shocked expression on their faces.

“Why suddenly? Usually…” George started.

“Because today I have something to tell you.”

“…To me?”

George became nervous unconsciously because she was talking seriously. Rihanna nodded, smiling.

“It’s a couple’s issues, so it’s a little embarrassing for my sister to hear.”

“……”

“Do you agree, Lisbeth?”

“…Of course, sister.” Lisbeth nodded without showing any hint of displeasure.

“I’ll follow you in the little carriage.”

“See you later, Lisbeth.”

Rihanna quickly climbed into the carriage. Lisbeth looked at George with a puzzled expression. George looked at Lisbeth with a helpless expression. Lisbeth, who frowned slightly, motioned for him to quickly get into the carriage. George turned around to get into the carriage.

Finally the carriage moved toward the Imperial Palace.

“Is it important what you will tell me?”

She didn’t say anything even after the carriage was underway, so the frightened George asked first.

Rihanna, who until then had been looking out of the window, finally turned her attention to George. He looked uneasy, like a person who had done something wrong.

Did he really think she would never find him out with behavior like that? Rihanna, who scoffed inwardly, spoke seriously.

“Yes, it’s important.”

“What is?”

“I just wanted to tell you that I’m very proud of you.”

George was surprised by the unexpected words. Rihanna smiled softly.

“You always wanted to become a bureaucrat and work for the Empire.”

“……”

“I’m so happy that you fulfilled your dream. I’m proud of you..”

“…Really?”

“Why are you asking me that question?” She obviously didn’t mean it. “Do you think I’m lying?”

“I never thought you admired me.”

“Admire…”

Rihanna chuckled to herself at the completely unexpected word.

Did he want her to admire him when he was having an extramarital affair? Even when she liked him, there was nothing she could admire him for, but now that she found out he was being unfaithful, that would be ridiculous.

“I’ve always admired you.”

“I didn’t expect this.”

“Of course, it’s like you’re heaven itself.”

“Thank you for those words.” At last George’s drooping shoulders lifted. “I’ll do better from now on, Rihanna.”

“I’ll also do everything I can to support you.”

Lies must be answered with another lie.

***

The carriage finally arrived at the Imperial Palace of Esteraz.

As soon as she stepped out of the carriage, she was greeted by the sight of the enormous palace. Although this was not the first time she had been to this place, she was always overwhelmed by its majesty.

“What are you doing?”

An annoying voice brought her back to her senses. When she turned around, she saw George with a scowl on his face. He didn’t seem to like that she was admiring the Imperial Palace. Rihanna quickly replied.

“I’ll follow you.”

Rihanna didn’t know how long she was contemplating the place. She chuckled to herself as she walked into the Imperial Palace with George.