The Tea Party
I rode with Siana by carriage to the Florence ducal estate, and the sheer size of the mansion took my breath away.
“So this is… Florence-san’s home…”
It wasn’t just the size. The craftsmanship and intricate decoration were stunning.
And then there was the garden—wide, open, and overflowing with vibrant blossoms. I’d visited many noble estates, but none as beautiful as Florence-san’s.
“What a gorgeous place, Siana.”
“…Yes, it is.”
Siana’s reply came a bit hesitantly, but I figured she was simply overwhelmed by how lovely everything was.
While we stood admiring the mansion and its garden, the gates opened, and Florence-san appeared, wearing a warm, welcoming smile.
“Lux Rodwell-sama, thank you so much for taking the time to visit the Florence ducal estate today.”
Today, Florence-san wore a dress as well, though unlike at the entrance celebration, this one wasn’t nearly as revealing. That outfit must have been an exception, meant for that special occasion.
I returned Florence-san’s polite greeting with one of my own.
“No, thank you for inviting me to your tea party, Florence-san.”
“Not at all…”
After addressing me, Florence-san turned to Siana with a faint look of puzzlement.
“…And the young lady in the maid’s uniform—is she your maid, Lux Rodwell-sama?”
“Ah, yes… I wasn’t sure if it would be inappropriate to bring her along since the invitation was just for me, but she insisted, and I couldn’t say no. If it’s a problem, I can send her home immediately.”
I said it with genuine regret, but Florence-san’s gentle expression didn’t change as she responded.
“It’s no trouble at all. If your maid came along, I imagine she was simply concerned. After all, her master was invited by someone from a ducal family with whom he has little connection. Isn’t that right?”
Florence-san looked to Siana as she asked, and Siana nodded in reply.
“Yes. I did consider that I might cause trouble for my master or Florence-sama, but even so, I couldn’t help worrying about him…”
“That’s quite all right. Please, I insist. Join us and enjoy the tea party. May I ask your name?”
“My name is Siana.”
“Siana-san, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
With those words, Florence-san offered Siana a kind, sincere smile.
“Well then, shall we?”
With Florence-san leading the way, we made our way to the location prepared for the tea party.
It was a charming spot within the garden, centered around a small table and two chairs, surrounded on all sides by a sea of flowers.
The setting was perfect for enjoying tea or light treats. Everything had already been arranged, from the teapot to the selection of sweets.
Only two chairs had been set out, clearly in expectation of my visit alone. Florence-san offered to fetch another, but Siana insisted she was fine standing, and took her place behind me as I sat facing Florence-san.
“Your home is truly beautiful, Florence-san.”
“The Florence family takes pride in our architecture and gardens, so I’m delighted to hear you say that. This house still feels too grand for someone like me, but I do think it’s a beautiful place.”
“Is that so? I think you’re beautiful too, Floren—”
Just as I was about to say that I thought Florence-san herself was beautiful, Siana suddenly reached around and clamped a hand over my mouth.
“Siana…!?”
Surprised, I turned to her, and she leaned in to whisper softly by my ear.
“Master, I think it would be best if you refrained from complimenting other women too freely.”
“W-Why not?”
“I can’t explain… but please, just avoid saying such things to anyone who isn’t me.”
“Then is it okay if I compliment you?”
“You may praise me all day long, if you’d like.”
“O-Oh, alright then. Got it.”
I didn’t know what her reasoning was, but if Siana said it was better this way, then there was probably a good reason behind it. For now, I’d just trust her and go along.
As we chatted with Florence-san about light, trivial things, the conversation suddenly shifted to something deeper.
“Lux Rodwell-sama, is there someone you care for romantically?”
Someone I care for… She must mean if I have a crush or a fiancée.
“As of now… no. And I don’t think anyone feels that way about me either.”
As I spoke, I heard a faint sound from behind me where Siana stood. It was so brief I dismissed it, keeping my attention on Florence-san.
Then, with a soft smile, Florence-san looked at me and said,
“I see… Then, if I were to propose an engagement to you, Lux Rodwell-sama, what would your answer be?”
The moment Florence-san asked that question, I felt a wave of murderous intent rising from directly behind me.