Chapter 02
“Liliana, I understand that you’re reluctant, but this is a party hosted by the king, and all unmarried young ladies from noble houses, aged fourteen to eighteen, are required to attend… Now, it isn’t written on the invitation, but escorts must be either a father or a brother. Essentially… this is a party for meeting princes. Liliana? Do you think I will allow you to attend just because you wish to?”
“N-no… that’s not it…”
Liliana’s gaze wavered. In this situation, she could never say something like, ‘I was a little curious,’ even if she had thought it.
“Liliana attending a matchmaking event… is far too early! If it were up to me, I wouldn’t want to send you. I truly wouldn’t. But circumstances being what they are, we cannot avoid it. So on that day, do your best to be as inconspicuous and modest as possible. Understood?”
“Yes, Father.”
Liliana nodded firmly, and Oliver, satisfied with her response, returned his attention to the documents in front of him. Taking that as a signal, Liliana quietly left the study and made her way to her own room.
The history of the Villiers family is long, and their lands, located a little distance from the royal capital, are fairly prosperous. Their local specialties include high-quality alcohol and foods or cosmetics made from sake lees, and recently they have also put effort into cultivating medicinal herbs and rare fruits. Without indulging in excessive luxury, one could live a fairly comfortable life.
The head of the family, Oliver, and his wife, Gianna, have three children: the eldest son Ian (19), the second son Aiden (14), and the eldest daughter Liliana (16). Ian, having graduated from the academy, has begun learning about leadership and management under his father in preparation for becoming the next head of the family.
Liliana and Aiden are still attending the academy. Ian and Aiden inherited their father Oliver’s appearance—tall, with smooth silver hair and sharp emerald-green eyes, and strong, handsome facial features. Ian keeps his silver hair cut short, while Aiden’s hair reaches his chest, tied in a single braid at the back.
Liliana inherited her mother Gianna’s features: she is short, with soft wavy light brown hair, large sparkling emerald-like eyes, and plump, adorable lips. She also has a modest… cute chest.
Although her appearance makes her look around thirteen or fourteen, she is particularly conscious of it. Many associate her small, charming appearance with a delicate, timid little animal, but she is far from just a trembling little creature.
She is surprisingly clever and quick on her feet. She enjoys reading romance novels, yet in reality, she is more interested in good food than romance—truly a girl who loves delicious meals and sweets.
