In A World Full of Silence, My Heart Will Find Its Way To You - Chapter 40

On the bridge of the Roxen Estate stood Count Cecil, illuminated by the dazzling white light of the morning sun reflecting off the scenery.

At the heart of the garden stood a beautifully sculpted swan and a lyre-shaped hedge, fitting the grandeur and elegance of the count’s estate.

From early morning, the manor was bustling with activity. Not only was Count Cecil returning after a month-long absence, but preparations for the upcoming party the next day kept everyone busy.

In the count’s study, servants moved about quickly, preparing tea and formal attire for the count.

Count Cecil, who frequently traveled abroad, had a notoriously discerning eye.

Finally dressed in the carefully chosen suit, the count sat at the table, sipping his tea with a stern expression.

Just then, Isabella entered the room wearing a dazzling red rose-colored dress. She proudly showed off her outfit to her father.

“Father, how do I look? It’s the dress you bought for me. I’m planning to wear it at the party tomorrow. Mother said she liked it too.”

Her flawless white skin and golden irises framed by feline-like eyes gave her the appearance of a living goddess. Her long, voluminous pink waves cascaded behind her like a flowing curtain.

“You truly are my daughter. I dare say there isn’t a noblewoman in the empire as beautiful as you. Every young lady at the party tomorrow will envy and admire your brilliance.”

“Really?”

“Of course. Would your father lie to you?”

“Hehe, then that’s good. I’m glad it pleases you too.”

With a gentle smile, Isabella took a seat opposite the count.

Soon, the head butler approached and handed the guest list for the upcoming party to the count.

“My lord, here is the guest list for tomorrow’s party as requested. We’ve resent invitations to the more prominent nobles today.”

“Good work.”

The count put on his glasses and slowly reviewed the list. Occasionally, he furrowed his brows at certain names he seemed displeased with.

“Madam William remarried a wealthy financier, didn’t she? And now she dares to appear in high society again. Even if Her Majesty the Empress gave her another chance to present herself… Society is falling apart these days.”

“Oh, father. There are plenty of women like her nowadays. High society is changing with the times, you know.”

The count nodded at Isabella’s smiling eyes, then laughed heartily as he gazed at his daughter as if she were the most precious treasure in the world.

“Well, you’re right. As a man in the trade business, I can’t afford to be narrow-minded. Still, it’s a shame that such a wise daughter of mine won’t be in her father’s arms anymore starting next week.”

“Don’t worry. Fortunately, Countess Bailey has offered me a grand estate not too far from here. I’ll be able to visit often.”

“I suppose I worry because I haven’t been around enough. Yes, please visit often.”

Isabella smiled gently, then glanced at the guest list. The count handed it to her.

“Since this is a party only for noble offspring, your opinion matters most. Check if anyone important has been left out.”

“Yes, father.”

As Isabella scanned the list, her eyes suddenly stopped on a name, widening in shock.

“F-Father… Eric? Eric Bailey? Is that the Eric Bailey I know?”

“Yes, the second son of House Bailey and the commander of the Imperial Guard. Why do you ask?”

Noticing the once-soft look in his daughter’s eyes harden, the count grew cautious.

“Is there a problem?”

“Father, why did you invite him? Even Edward and the Baileys themselves aren’t fond of him. He’s an eccentric man, and—”

Isabella paused and took a breath to control her emotions, raising her chin defiantly.

“Madam William, at least, comes from nobility. But this man’s mother was a lowly maid. He’s an illegitimate child. How could you invite such a person? Edward will be furious if he finds out!”

“Hmm. I understand your concerns, but there’s nothing I could do.”

The count set his glasses down and shook his head slightly.

“I didn’t invite him myself. He was added at the request of Archduke Charles. You know how important he is to me. Without his help, the deal we just closed would’ve never happened.”

“Archduke Charles? Why would he…?”

Isabella’s eyes darted in confusion at this unexpected turn. The count looked at her gently.

“I don’t know the reason. But both His Majesty and the archduke have taken a strong interest in the man. He’s not someone we can treat lightly. Don’t go spreading rumors about him being a bastard. Even the Baileys would be displeased to hear that.”

“Insulting him would be a disgrace to the Baileys as well. Just enjoy the party with a light heart. You understand what I mean, right?”

“Yes…”

Though she reluctantly answered, Isabella couldn’t shake her discomfort.

But the count’s firm gaze forced her to push aside her curiosity.

“Father, I’ll excuse myself now. I need to visit the dressmaker with mother. See you at dinner.”

“Very well.”

Isabella forced a smile in return to her father’s relaxed one.

Only after she had walked some distance down the corridor did her lips drop into a cold line.

She bit her lower lip a habit she did when deep in thought.

What on earth is going on? Why would Archduke Charles support him…? Eric’s rise in status won’t help Edward at all. If only I could humiliate him in front of everyone…

As she mulled over the idea, her steps slowed. Then suddenly, her eyes lit up as if she had remembered something.

Yes, that could work. You’ll pay dearly for ignoring my warning.

A sharp smile crept onto her lips.

The day of the party at Count Cecil’s estate. As the evening darkened, Eric stood in front of a mirror in a perfectly tailored black tuxedo.

Next to him, Aria helped tidy his outfit.

Social gatherings were places of dreams where status was acknowledged, friendships were formed, and often, fateful connections made.

It was easy for handsome young men and beautiful ladies to meet at such parties.

As she buttoned his suit, a faint sadness crossed Aria’s face.

It was natural for Eric to marry a noblewoman. But she couldn’t help the growing sorrow in her heart.

Maybe it was because she had finally opened her heart to him. But a maid’s unrequited love was a cruel fate.

Knowing this, Aria kept her feelings hidden deep inside.

“I wonder how those stuck-up nobles will see me. Probably just a fun bit of gossip.”

Startled by Eric’s voice, which broke her thoughts, Aria looked up. He was frowning, slightly shaking his head.

Did he not realize how many noblewomen would be watching him with admiration?

Aria quickly scribbled on her notepad, wanting to offer him some encouragement.

[You are the emperor’s trusted commander of the Imperial Guard, and the second son of House Bailey. No one would dare treat you lightly. You are radiant just as you are.]

Furrowing her brows, she tried to show how sincere her words were.

Eric blinked as he read the note, then smiled softly.

“So you can make that kind of face. Do you really think I’m good enough to capture the hearts of noble ladies?”

When Aria nodded vigorously, Eric’s eyes widened in surprise before he laughed heartily.

His bright, laughing voice was as smooth and rich as fine wine.

Aria felt that beautiful image of him etch itself into her memory, and a small smile spread across her lips before she realized it.

Then suddenly, as if he found her adorable, Eric pulled her gently toward him.

Their bodies touched in an instant, and Aria’s startled eyes met his deep blue gaze.

He whispered softly:

“Do I look that way to you, too?”

Aria couldn’t tear her eyes away from him. Her face turned crimson.

His gaze was like a deep, wide well, pulling her in with no escape.

Yes. That’s why I’m afraid. Afraid that one day… you’ll leave me, too.

Though she couldn’t say it aloud, her heart screamed it silently.

The only sound between them was the occasional ragged breath as they fought back their instincts.

Their lips were barely a hand’s breadth apart. Aria feared she might no longer be able to push him away.

She was terrified she might grab him, plead for his love, and expose the feelings she had long hidden.

Just as she took a step back, Eric’s strong arm wrapped lightly around her slender waist. He gazed at her with a faint smile.

“I want to take you and run far away… But you’d reject me again, wouldn’t you?”

His gaze lingered on her, until a voice called from outside.

“Young master, it’s time to leave.”

Eric finally turned his eyes away and walked out.

Aria clutched her chest, still feeling the warmth of his touch on her waist.

She tried to calm her pounding heart the heart she could never fully control.

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