As the Villainess Who Was Dumped, I Am Saved by My Childhood Friend from a Noble Family and Spoiled in the Frontier - Chapter 6

A week had passed since I served as interpreter.

As usual, we were enjoying our afternoon tea party.

“Nina, thank you again for your interpreting the other day. Did you enjoy the dinner?”

During our usual tea party with the three of us, Lord Franz said this to me.

“Yes, very much! The wine and food were delicious.”

“I’m glad to hear that. That place is a favorite of my family’s. Perhaps the three of us should go next time.”

“Oh, Brother! You actually want to go alone with her, don’t you? Aren’t you just using me as an excuse?”

Maria teased us as she said this.

“Really, I’m no match for you, Maria. Speaking of which, thanks to Nina’s excellent work, we were able to conclude the trade agreement. It seems I’ll be receiving a reward from His Majesty the Emperor.”

“Congratulations! That’s a testament to your negotiating skills, Lord Franz.”

“No, no, I think Nina’s contribution was greater this time. I’ll accept it as the representative for now. By the way, I was also offered the position of Deputy Secretary of State, but I declined.”

“What?! The Deputy Secretary of State?! That’s a crucial position overseeing diplomacy! It’s the number two spot in the State Department. Why would you refuse?!”

For a noble, it should be a position one would absolutely want to accept. And at Lord Franz’s age, assuming the role would have shattered the record for the youngest appointment by a wide margin.

“If I, who already holds military power, were to also control diplomatic authority, it would give rise to unwarranted suspicions. The balance would be poor. Besides, wouldn’t it be troublesome if the Crown Prince resented me even more?”

“That may be true, but… Could it be that you did it to protect me?”

Indeed, at that party, Lord Franz had defied the Crown Prince to protect me.

“That’s not it. It’s purely a matter of balance. Moreover, being number two in the State Department at nineteen is a position beyond my station. It’s not wise to make more enemies through jealousy. I’m already in the enviable position of being an Elector, after all.”

“If you say so…”

I’d hate it if my actions caused problems for Lord Franz’s work. I don’t want to be a burden.

“Don’t worry about it. But I doubt that alone will satisfy you, Nina. In that case, how about this? I’d like you to assist me with my work for a while. You said you were bored, and I could use an excellent secretary. It’s the perfect arrangement, isn’t it?”

I could tell he was deliberately phrasing it like an exchange to keep me from feeling guilty. What a wonderful person he is, to be so considerate.

“I’d be happy to help.”

But being too reserved would only trample on his kindness. It’s better for me to do my very best at what I can do.

“Then I’ll be counting on you from now on, Nina!”

The Margrave gave me a childlike smile.

※

“Honestly, you two are both so stubborn. Brother, you should just say it clearly. Having Lady Nina by your side is a much better reward for you than the position of Deputy Secretary of State, isn’t it? With this matter, you even secured a promise from His Majesty that Lady Nina won’t face any further charges or punishment.”