I Was Meant to Be the Evil Wife, But the Cold Marquis Fell for Me - Chapter 30

As they entered the grand hall, countless eyes turned toward them.

Liliana felt the women’s gazes—filled with admiration and envy. From afar, some looks even carried a hint of awe.

Leivis held her hand firmly, walking proudly, his presence unwavering.

Seeing his strength, Liliana smiled softly.

She wanted to stand worthy at his side. Straightening her back, she kept her smile, supported by the warmth of his magic within her, as they approached the dais where the King and Queen sat.

Leivis bowed deeply, his voice steady.

“Your Majesty, Your Highness. Thank you for inviting us. As Marquis of Elsdean, I offer my deepest gratitude.”

Liliana followed, bowing her head.

“Your Majesty, Your Highness, it is an honor. I humbly pray for your health and happiness.”

The King’s gaze lingered on her, his smile nostalgic.

“I am glad you both came to celebrate my Queen’s birthday tonight. Lady Elsdean, you look just like your mother.”
“You knew my mother?”

Liliana was startled. Her mother had long since left noble society.

“Your mother, Floria, was my admiration.”

Her mother was in her early thirties, the King thirty. It was natural they had crossed paths in society. If her mother’s magic had been stronger, she might even have been considered as a consort.

Leivis subtly stepped forward, shielding Liliana from the King’s gaze.

“…Your Majesty?”

The Queen, in a crimson gown, frowned and spoke softly. Then she turned to Liliana with gentle eyes.

“Thank you, Lady Elsdean. Please take good care of Leivis.”
“Yes, thank you. I will do my best to support my husband.”

The King added:

“If you ever suffer, don’t hesitate to rely on me.”

Liliana faltered, unsure how to respond. Leivis squeezed her hand.

“Your Majesty’s kindness is deeply appreciated. But rest assured I will protect her myself, and love her all my life.”

His resolute declaration made the King lean back.

“…Enough. I’ve heard plenty. Since when did you grow so possessive?”
“As a precaution. I won’t let other men near her.”
“You’ve gone too far. You’ve dyed her in your color…”

Liliana blinked. Did he mean the days of magic Leivis had poured into her? Or the chain of sorcery binding them?

(Is it that obvious?!)

She remembered the fearful gazes earlier. Perhaps men of high magic could see it all.

The King looked away from her.

“Be happy together… I truly mean it.”

His voice carried resignation, familiarity, and prayer.

◆◆◆

After greeting the King and Queen, nobles immediately crowded around Leivis. They were eager to see his bride.

Their eyes were sharp, curious. Leivis responded smoothly to all, while Liliana remained polite. Yet he never let go of her hand, which left her flustered.

The heat of the crowd overwhelmed her, every movement scrutinized.

“…Excuse us.”

Leivis cut off the conversation abruptly, guiding her out of the throng.

She felt the nobles’ lingering gazes as they walked away.

“Tired?”
“No, I’m fine.”

She answered reflexively. The ball had only just begun, and she had insisted on attending. Yet she hadn’t expected such attention.

“There are rooms for resting. But…”

He shook his head, leading her toward the stairs.

“Watch your step.”

Supporting her, he guided her up to the second floor. It was quieter, away from the crowd.

The glow from below faintly lit the space. He gestured for her to sit.

“Rest here. I’ll fetch drinks.”
“Thank you.”

His hand glowed faintly, wrapping her in light before he descended. She watched his back, sighing in relief.

From above, the hall glittered like another world. Nobles danced gracefully, gowns fluttering.

—A dream of splendor.

Nearly all the nobility had been invited.

(Where is Elina…?)

She realized her maid was gone. Likely separated in the crowd.

(Perhaps the restroom…)

Elina wore a charming dress. Maybe someone had spoken to her.

(I hope she’s alright…)

Liliana recalled a scene from the novel. Elina troubled by a man, rescued by Leivis.

Her worry grew. Leivis would never ignore such a scene. He would surely help Elina.

She wanted to search, but stayed seated.

(If I wander, I’ll trouble him. And in the castle, no man would dare misbehave…)

Surely no scandal would occur at the Queen’s birthday.

(If Leivis returns and Elina is still missing, I’ll ask him to look…)

She closed her eyes then sensed someone climbing the stairs.

Opening them, she gasped.

“Well, sister. What are you doing here alone?”

—It was Alec and Serena of House Valentin.

Her half-siblings.