"There's a rumor going around that I'll be handing out Aspiria for free at the hunting festival. Baroness Contarini informed me that it's already widespread, and it seems all the noble attendees are now expecting to receive Aspiria as a gift."
"Ah."
Cesare's reaction was swift, but it told her everything she needed to know—he was already aware of the rumor. He seemed entirely unbothered, as if it were a trivial matter.
"I don't know who would spread such nonsense, but even if we clarify it as a rumor, I'm worried it could damage House Erzet's reputation…"
Still fretting, Eileen hesitated for a moment before adding, "Was this what you meant when you mentioned I might get upset?"
"Hopefully, you won't get too angry."
The words Cesare had said in the carriage lingered in her mind. At her question, he chuckled, as if the entire situation were laughable.
"For something like that?"
"…"
