Apparently, I’m a Poisonous Woman Who Sells One-Night Dreams, but I Ended Up Awakening a Hero’s Devoted Love - Chapter 2.9

Jerf came to pick up Mariadoll, who was wrapped in a crimson evening gown with open shoulders, on the night after their arrival at the port of Cortaus.

She had assumed that Jerf’s meeting with Prince Dennis would take place the following day, but instead, it was the first meeting between Crown Prince Leonidas and Melfi.

Upon reflection, that was, of course, the primary purpose of this visit, but for Mariadoll, who had been anxious and tense, it felt somewhat anticlimactic.

(Still, I’ll be meeting His Highness Dennis at the evening party.)

Even if there wasn’t much time for lengthy conversation, the meeting between Jerf, a hero from a former enemy nation and Dennis, who had commanded the front lines of the Cortaus army, was bound to draw attention.

Moreover, many people still harbored hatred toward Jerf.

Although Mariadoll disliked evening parties, this time she couldn’t afford to say so, and she secretly steeled herself.

But Jerf seemed to see right through her, offering a wry smile.

“Mariadoll, relax your shoulders. We’re not heading to a battlefield.”

“But—”

“I’m escorting such a beautiful lady. I want to enjoy it as much as possible.”

“……I understand. Back in Dunbargas, I was too worried about rumors to attend many evening parties. I’m sorry.”

“No need to apologize. I also don’t want other men laying eyes on you when you’re dressed up like this.”

Mariadoll thought it was unfair how easily he said such things.

Even without that, she still hadn’t grown accustomed to his impossibly handsome face, and when he whispered sweet words, her heartbeat quickened instantly.

“Well then, let’s go. I’m sorry to say, but tonight’s party will attract more attention than those in Dunbargas. If it becomes too much, Mariadoll, you’re free to leave early.”

“I won’t do that. I’m not wearing the bracelet tonight, so I must keep a close watch by your side.”

“I’d gladly accept a locked bracelet anytime.”

When Jerf offered his arm, Mariadoll placed her hand on it.

The two were staying in the detached palace prepared for Melfi. It was said that the king’s consort sometimes used it as well, and though it was called a detached palace, it was the second-largest building after the castle, with lavish interiors.

The Cortaus side understood that Jerf was there under the pretext of being a guard knight. Melfi and her original guard knight had already headed to the evening party venue. Still, it was within the same grounds, and the building where the party was held was close enough to walk to.

Initially, Jerf hadn’t planned to attend, but during the first meeting between Leonidas and Melfi earlier that day, the flow of conversation led to him being formally invited.

Mariadoll, who had brought a dress just in case, naturally ended up participating as Jerf’s fiancée. They left for the party hall on foot, thirty minutes after Melfi.

By the time they arrived, most of the guests had already gathered in the hall, and harsh glances flew toward Jerf from all directions.

(This is even worse than the glares aimed at a ‘poisonous woman.’)

She had expected it, but she had never felt such intense hatred so viscerally. Among the nobles and knights present, many had lost family or acquaintances in the war three years ago, or had been injured themselves.

Mariadoll straightened her posture, raised the corners of her mouth, and slowly scanned the room.

It would be wrong to act arrogantly just because he was a hero from the victorious nation, and Jerf had no intention of doing so. But if she hung her head dejectedly here, it might give the impression that Jerf was at fault.

Jerf had fought for his country, so that wouldn’t be the right response either.

So, Mariadoll maintained a calm expression and gracefully performed a curtsy.

That gesture, showing the utmost respect, was also a sign of their sincere intention to attend the party.

As if understanding Mariadoll’s intent, Jerf also placed one foot back and pressed a hand to his chest.

The two exchanged a soft smile and then crossed the hall directly to where Melfi was standing.

“Sorry we’re late.”

“No, I’m the one who should apologize for imposing, even if it was due to the flow of conversation. Mariadoll, you must have been surprised by the sudden invitation.”

“Yes. But ever since I decided to follow Lord Jerf to this country, I resolved not to be shocked by the unexpected.”

Beside Melfi stood Leonidas, his deep blue hair smoothed back and his blue eyes narrowed gently. Though he had only been appearing in public for about a year in place of the ailing king, his demeanor was already polished and natural.

(Cortaus is famous for being warlike, but it’s become much more peaceful since Crown Prince Leonidas started appearing publicly.)

According to Aiden, as soon as he turned eighteen and began representing the king, he declared that the nation would no longer rely on war to build its power—an impressive stance.

True to his word, he was now seeking to marry a princess from a former enemy nation. He kept his promises and had the drive to act.

Behind him stood another man. Like Crown Prince Leonidas, he had deep blue hair tied at the nape of his neck, and sharp, almond-shaped purple eyes turned toward Mariadoll and the others. He was just as tall and well-built as Jerf, and his dignified presence made Mariadoll gulp.

(That must be His Highness Dennis. Our first meeting, and so sudden.)

She glanced at Jerf, who also stood tall and imposing.

Their official discussion was scheduled for the next day, so this was their first encounter. Whether aware of this or not, the surrounding guests watched the two men closely.

The first to speak was Dennis, as the host.

“Duke Jerf Stanley. This is our first meeting. We won’t have much time to talk tonight, but please enjoy yourself.”

“Your Highness Dennis. Thank you for the invitation. This is my fiancée, Mariadoll. She came as Princess Melfi’s attendant, but she’s joining us tonight.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am Mariadoll Zealand.”

As she greeted him, she felt a wave of confusion. How had she ended up surrounded by royalty from a neighboring nation?

Still, she smiled, determined not to embarrass Jerf. Dennis said, “Please make yourselves comfortable,” before excusing himself to greet other nobles who hadn’t yet been welcomed.

(Like Crown Prince Leonidas, His Highness Dennis doesn’t seem hostile toward us. His desire to build friendly relations must be genuine.)

Feeling somewhat relieved, she heard music begin to play, and Melfi and Leonidas started to dance.

“Shall we dance as well?”

“Sure. His Highness Dennis told us to enjoy ourselves, so let’s do that. I’m still as clumsy as ever, so please bear with me.”

The two also stepped onto the dance floor, but Mariadoll soon realized it was a mistake.

As they danced, the glances exchanged by nobles they passed were filled with unmistakable malice.