Each of them was determined to form a connection with the Duchess of Erzet, seeing the opportunity as one to advance their own status. But as they drew near, they hesitated, their smiles faltering as they took in Eileen's attire.
'I should have worn a dress.'
The thought kept nagging at Eileen as she stood there, feeling conspicuous in her hunting clothes. Maybe she should have insisted on wearing one, despite Cesare's insistence on practicality. Now, amidst the delicate dresses of the noblewomen surrounding her, her outfit felt all the more out of place, and her confidence began to wither.
Trying her best to hide her dismay, she managed a polite smile and greeted the ladies as they approached, though her words felt distant, and her hands trembled slightly. But then, just as her nerves were beginning to get the better of her, she spotted a familiar face—Baroness Contarini.
"Baroness!"
