Celestira stepped out of the carriage, her heels clicking softly against the marble steps as murmurs rippled through the crowd.
"Miss Celestira? What is she doing here?"
"She has such an infamous reputation."
"It's been ages since she attended a gathering."
"W-will she splash tea on someone again?"
"D-don't worry! I'm sure Madam will put her in her place."
"Y-yeah, definitely."
Celestira sighed, resisting the urge to roll her eyes.
Why did I do all those things in the past? she thought bitterly. Just because a few petty noble ladies ran their mouths, I now have extra work to fix my image.
Behind her, her personal maid Rose looked visibly annoyed.
What do they know? Miss is the kindest, most benevolent lady here!
The fire of justice burned in Rose's eyes, but Celestira's gentle smile calmed her. It was reassurance — a silent "I've got this."
Now, where are they? Celestira scanned the venue until her gaze landed on them.
Aha. There they are.
She walked gracefully toward a table where a noble lady with pink hair and amber eyes sat surrounded by her friends — including Celestira's favorite nemesis: the dark-haired, dark-eyed Lady Varelle Drayden, and her little pack of followers.
With elegance lacing her tone, Celestira said,
"Would you ladies mind if I joined you?"
A mocking snort cut through the air. Lady Varelle smirked, her black hair gleaming under the chandeliers.
"I mean, of course. Seat her, Your Ladyship," she said with thinly veiled sarcasm.
Celestira, unfazed, replied cheerfully, "Thank you, my lady."
Then came the venom.
"So what brings you here? I heard you haven't attended any gatherings since… that incident."
Celestira smirked inwardly. Oh, you really like trapping yourself, don't you?
"Oh my! I had no idea you knew about my carriage accident near Lake Misli," Celestira said sweetly. "It was supposed to be kept secret from the public."
Lady Varelle froze. "W-what? It was supposed to be a secret? M-Miss Alicia told me about it!"
Celestira tilted her head, her smile turning razor-sharp.
"Are you implying that my dear sister shared confidential matters that were meant to stay hidden under the Duke's order?"
A hush fell. Then a lady nearby whispered,
"Isn't Lake Misli close to Lady Varelle's estate?"
Celestira smirked.
They took the bait. Now, let's see how you wriggle out of this, my lady.
To be continued…