The Villainess Proposed a Contractual Marriage 01 by ---

Author:--- [---]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: traitorAIZEN
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 27

Imperial Palace Ball

I felt time passing.

What I expected to be an uncomfortable moment in the glass greenhouse ended on a surprisingly warm note.

It seemed public perception had progressed. Some asked about relationships that ignored social barriers, while others showed interest in temple life.

As we chatted about various topics, the sun had already set outside, and the imperial ball was fast approaching.

The time: six o’clock sharp.

Standing before the ballroom entrance, Elphisia spoke with a commanding voice.

“Announce us.”

At that moment, the doorkeeper opened the door and proclaimed loudly:

“Her Highness Princess Elphisia Luminel, and Sir Harte of the Temple!”

I realized then that I truly was Sir Harte of the Temple.

Given my baptismal name, I likely wouldn’t be expelled, but having left on my own, the possibility existed. Of course, to the stiff-necked nobles, I’d be nothing more than a commoner.

In an empire with strict separation of church and state, the temple held no sway. It was merely a religious institution serving the deity and accepting the faithful.

A fitting role.

And it was structured to be that way.

So it wasn’t strange that some viewed me unfavorably.

I surveyed the high seats reserved for the imperial family. The raised platform, with its two tiers, offered a commanding view of the entire ballroom.

Currently, all seats were empty.

“The imperial family enters last, I suppose.”

“Are you worried?”

“Well, he is just a child.”

“You need to let go of your preconceptions.”

Elphisia showed no concern. Her trust in Yulian seemed remarkably high.

“You seem to think he’s not much just because you won that word game, but that child is far more extraordinary than you realize.”

“…I know he’s precocious, like a little old man.”

I knew what kind of person Yulian would grow up to be. He’d become talented enough to match wits with Elphisia, a dark horse in the succession struggle.

“If you know, then keep your eyes open and watch.”

“Elphisia, you’re truly remarkable… I can’t help but worry.”

“It’s not that I’m remarkable, there’s just no reason to worry. What’s wrong with failing a bit? He can always return to the Duke’s mansion or the orphanage.”

“Well, well.”

I never expected Elphisia to say such a thing. She always seemed to have a perfectionist side. So I assumed she wouldn’t even consider the possibility of failure.

“You’ve been smiling this whole time. I see there was a reason for your composure.”

“No, I’m smiling for a different reason.”

“What is it?”

When I asked, Elphisia snorted.

“It’s quite amusing to see you desperately trying to avert your eyes while being so aware of my thighs. Your expression, the way your eyes dart around…”

“Y-You…!?”

I couldn’t finish my sentence. Because… it was an embarrassing truth I couldn’t deny.

It’s not that I lack desire. As a holy knight with a baptismal name who’s vowed chastity, I merely suppress my urges.

Although we’re married, it’s just a contract. I dare not be intimate with her. It absolutely must not happen.

‘This is torture… ‘

Still, that side slit is incredibly alluring.

Somehow, her outfit seems to hit all my preferences. It was only when Elphisia appeared in this side-slit dress that I became aware of my own tastes.

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