Living Up to Your Expectations - Chapter 27

She showed up again! I never heard she was coming today!!

The way she clings to Prince Lucius is just—what a shameless woman.

At first, everything was going smoothly. I pretended to stumble deliberately and gently leaned against His Highness’s chest.

My whispered “I’m so sorry,” my bashful expression; all calculated.

When I looked up at him, that smile. He seemed troubled, yet somewhat embarrassed. I was certain. His Highness was beginning to open his heart to me.

That’s when I noticed her. Seeing me dance with His Highness, her face clouded over. She must have realized the distance between us was definitely closing.

—Yes, it was so delightful.

But then. Everything was ruined by that ill-timed remark. Lady Crawford. A mere dance instructor suddenly started taking charge.

“Lady Winchester, would you be so kind as to demonstrate for Lady Beth?”

…Another demonstration? I’m sick of it.

She quietly accepted the hand Prince Lucius offered. As if following a pre-written script, her movements were flawless and elegant.

As the two moved to the center of the hall, the music began.

Her steps were precise, beautiful. A dance that captivated through skill and grace alone. That quiet elegance, it practically screamed “this is the dance of a true noble.”

No words passed between them.

When the music softly came to an end, Prince Lucius gently took her hand and spun her around, then bowed respectfully. She, too, curtsied deeply.

Their dance closed quietly, and perfectly.

After that, His Highness eventually said, “It’s time,” and left, leaving me stranded.

Then, as if she’d been waiting, that woman approached and said:

“Lady Beth, are you familiar with the debutante ceremony’s proceedings?”

—Nothing but sarcasm. I’ve heard it so many times I’ve memorized it.

Entrance, introduction, spirit manifestation via the Akrum Stone, dance with royalty, formal ball, words of blessing, closing remarks. I know the order perfectly.

So, I answered her smugly.

“Yes, of course I am.”

Then she sighed and said one thing.

“I see. So, you did know.”

Oh, how infuriating! I know exactly what you want to say with that exasperated look.

“Your manners are lacking,” or “Your dancing is awkward,” or “Will she really be ready in time?” that’s the face you’re making.

But it’s fine. I was originally a commoner.

Clumsily struggling to fit into noble society, while the Crown Prince kindly supports me and smiles. The nobles are moved by that sight. Isn’t that enough?

What more could anyone want?

But—

She conspired with the Lady to keep me in practice.

“I shall take the part of His Highness the Crown Prince, so please, Lady Duchess, offer your critiques.”

Lady Crawford said this with a beaming smile. Honestly, there’s no way I could feel motivated.

From her, it was all “your hand position is off,” “your rhythm is wrong,” “your gaze is unsteady”… what else was there?

She offered advice so smugly. It was unbearably irritating.

So tomorrow, I’ll definitely tell everyone.

“Yesterday, she was pointlessly strict with me. It was awful.”

Every time you do something, I’ll talk. Rumors will spread that “she was mean again,” you know? Fool.

Just as I was thinking that—

“Lady Crawford, please call on me anytime. I’ll be happy to assist.”

Saying that, she was seen off by Lady Crawford and disappeared through the door.

…If she gets called again, I can’t stand it.

I have to take this seriously.

Having my time with His Highness interrupted any further—no thank you. Oh, this is such a pain.

—Tap tap tap.

A knocking sound echoes at the door.

“Spirit Princess, the Chief Official of the Spirit Ministry is here.”

Here he is.

“Show him in.”

“How are you feeling today, Spirit Princess?”

“Thanks to you, I’m quite comfortable.”

“Your speech has become remarkably refined as well. The fruit of your daily efforts. Truly wonderful.”

You see, don’t you?

My efforts, and their results. You’re watching them properly.

“Your debut is soon. Are you feeling nervous?”

“To be honest, I still can’t believe it. That I am the Spirit Princess. That I stand shoulder-to-shoulder with royalty, and that I might even become the Crown Princess—oh my, I’ve misspoken!”

“Not at all. In fact, I have repeatedly told His Majesty the King. For the future of this country, the marriage of His Highness the Crown Prince and the Spirit Princess is the most desirable outcome.”

As I thought, this man is on my side.

Of course, he has his own calculations. But that’s mutual.

“I don’t have Lady Felicia’s education, after all it can’t be helped.”

“Not at all. I hear from your attendants that your relationship with His Highness grows ever closer. Also, the Spirit Princess is quite popular among the academy’s young ladies, I’m told. Ah, yes! I know you’re busy, but would you consider visiting an orphanage?”

…An orphanage?

“The sight of the Spirit Princess bestowing blessings upon children would be truly wonderful. I shall arrange for the newspapers as well. To make your existence widely known and solidify public support. Once that happens, even His Majesty the King would be unable to ignore the people’s voice.”

…I like it.

Me, as an “object of admiration.”

If I use that position skillfully, I can surely reach the Crown Princesshood.

“As it’s my first time, I’m a little nervous.”

“There’s no need to worry. The Spirit Princess, simply by being there, becomes hope for the people. Please, rest assured and leave it to me.”

Ah, I’m looking forward to it.