TPHRU 24

Chapter 24…

The Princess of Mirage Finds Her Role.

It was Felicia’s second morning at the castle deep within the forest.
She opened the window and took a deep breath of the crisp early morning air.
Along with the scent of greenery, she could faintly smell the pleasant aroma of freshly baked bread drifting in.

As she recalled what had happened in the library yesterday, she let out a soft sigh.
The happiness of meeting the person who had been watching over her all along… it was the first time she had ever confided her feelings to someone like that. Her chest felt tight, yet full — a strange, restless feeling she couldn’t quite describe.
She didn’t yet know how to handle this new emotion that had blossomed in her heart.

After getting dressed, she went downstairs and peeked into the kitchen. Inside, Hugo was skillfully preparing breakfast.
“Good morning,” she greeted.
Hugo looked up.
“Good morning, Lady Felicia. Is there something you need?”
Since it was still quite early before breakfast, Hugo asked with a hint of curiosity at her unexpected appearance.

“No, um… I was just wondering if there’s anything I can do to help…”
Even though Yoann had given her a place to stay, Felicia couldn’t bring herself to simply live in the castle doing nothing. She wanted to find a role — something that would let her become a true member of this household.

Felicia had been born and raised in a marquis’ family, but after her engagement was annulled, she had asked her father to let her learn domestic skills — not just personal care, but also cooking and sewing — so that she wouldn’t be helpless no matter where she ended up.
Part of it was because she couldn’t stand doing nothing all day in the mansion, but also because it had ceased to be a place where she could feel at peace. She had already been preparing herself to leave whenever the time came.

In this castle, Yoann’s familiars apparently cleaned every corner thoroughly, leaving nothing for Felicia to do. So, she thought perhaps she could at least help with the meal preparations.

“Lady Felicia, I could never trouble you with such tasks…” Hugo began, but then stopped when he noticed her uncertain expression. He thought for a moment.

(She offered to help with cooking — perhaps she’s familiar with it. Maybe she can even make sweets? She’s probably looking for something she can do herself.)

Raising his head, Hugo asked gently,
“Lady Felicia, have you ever made sweets before?”
Felicia nodded.
“Yes, I used to make them at home.”
“That’s wonderful. Then, could I ask you to make some sweets for Lord Yoann? Despite how he appears, he has quite a sweet tooth. I usually go into town to buy them, but if they were made by you, I’m sure Lord Yoann would be delighted.”

Felicia’s face lit up at the suggestion, and seeing her radiant expression, Hugo smiled warmly in return.