After I Died, He Died After Me Too - Chapter 31

Chapter 16.1

“Lady Fair.”

At the sound of Dexter’s voice, Elris slowly lifted her head, tears streaming down her cheeks. Bianca let out a quiet sigh and gently stepped in front of her, meeting his gaze.

‘I didn’t want to face him right away like this.’

She had intended to avoid him for a while. They had been together not only yesterday but also today, and it was an experience she would rather forget. Although she had gone for a walk to clear her complicated thoughts, things seemed to have only gotten more tangled.

From the way things were going, it looked like Elris might lose her position as a lady-in-waiting.

Bianca disliked the idea of losing potential candidates. Since there weren’t many high-ranking Guides, losing Elris would ultimately be a disadvantage for her. So, even if she didn’t like it, she couldn’t let Elris be dismissed.

Swallowing dryly, she waited for Dexter’s next words.

Though the matter was urgent, interrupting the Crown Prince, especially in front of others, was out of the question.

“If you wish to return to the Count’s estate, you’re free to leave at any time. I only called you to serve as Lady Astri’s maid. If that doesn’t suit you, then it’s best for you to go back.”

As she expected, he seemed determined to send Elris home. Perhaps he even intended to punish Count Fair. They would have no excuse to offer if he accused them of insulting him.

Bianca cast a quick glance at Elris.

Before she realized it, Elris’s face, streaked with dried tears, had frozen. She looked as though she was desperately trying to think of the right words to say.

‘Whatever comes out of her mouth, it better be the right thing.’

As a young lady with a certain reputation in high society, Elris should have enough sense to handle this situation tactfully. But as the realization hit her, Elris’s face turned even paler.

“Y-Your Highness, I…”

Seeing that Elris’s body swayed as though she might collapse at any moment, Bianca quickly steadied her and whispered softly,

“Lady Elris, beg His Highness for forgiveness. Don’t make any excuses—just apologize sincerely. It’s the only way you’ll be able to stay.”

Dexter would relentlessly find fault with whatever Elris said. She was sure of it.

“If you go back home like this, people will talk about you endlessly. So, ask for another chance.”

“….”

Bianca genuinely hoped that Elris wouldn’t have to return home. She truly didn’t. But Elris’s eyes, staring straight ahead, were red with humiliation. She looked like someone who had been deeply wronged.

Elris brushed off Bianca’s hand and dropped to her knees. It seemed she had realized this was her only option.

‘At least she’s not completely clueless.’

Bianca thought with relief. Surely, with this much effort, he wouldn’t dismiss her.

“Your Highness, please forgive me! I spoke out of turn, not knowing my place. I promise this will never happen again. I’ll fulfill my duties as Lady Bianca’s maid, so please… don’t send me back home.”

His sharp, crimson eyes moved from Elris, kneeling with her head bowed, to Bianca.

She quietly lowered her gaze in response.

“Your Highness, she’s my maid. May I take responsibility for punishing her? While Lady Elris may have made a mistake, she’s someone I need by my side.”

In many ways, it would be troublesome if Elris were kicked out.

In reality, since the reason for Bianca’s presence in the imperial palace hadn’t yet been announced, allowing Elris to leave would be dangerous. The imperial family wouldn’t trust her, and Count Fair’s family wouldn’t accept someone who had fallen out of favor with the imperial family.

And more importantly, could she even leave this place alive?

As that thought crossed her mind, Bianca became determined to keep Elris here, no matter what. At the very least, she needed to keep her around until he officially announced her as his exclusive Guide.

“So, I humbly ask, Your Highness the Crown Prince, to show mercy just this once.”

Now, it was up to him.

Bianca held her breath as she waited for Dexter’s response. While she didn’t know him well, she had never heard of him being needlessly cruel.

“It’s not my place to intervene in a maid’s affairs. Since she’s your maid, handle her punishment as you see fit. However, I’d prefer it if she stayed out of my sight for the time being.”

“I’ll do as you say.”

Bianca exhaled in relief. Truthfully, she hadn’t expected him to agree to her request so easily.

“Th-thank you, Your Highness! I’ll never forget the opportunity you’ve given me…!”