Killing Your Sweet Breath - Chapter 27

Chapter 14.1

The main hall of Duke Antherden’s estate was as splendid as the imperial palace itself.

Given the family’s esteemed reputation, nearly everyone who received an invitation attended the party, and despite the large turnout, the space didn’t feel cramped at all.

“This place could give the emperor a run for his money.”

Winter commented, making Van vibrate with laughter.

She had looked nervous when she first heard she had to attend a social event, but now that they were here, her calm and collected demeanor amused him.

“I thought you’d be nervous, but it seems I was wrong.”

“I’m glad it looks that way.”

Winter took a glass of white wine from a passing server’s tray and brought it to her lips for a sip.

As she glanced around the banquet hall, she became increasingly aware of the eyes directed at them. Van Helgram was a well-known figure in the capital, and once people recognized him, he inevitably drew attention.

Winter smiled brightly at everyone she made eye contact with, just as Van had instructed, like a country girl thrilled to be at her first party in the capital.

“Hello, Lady Frost.”

Those watching from a distance began to muster the courage to approach. Was it because of her natural-looking smile?

With her arm interlinked with Van’s, Winter greeted each person who addressed her, meeting everyone’s eyes with polite attentiveness.

“You’re as beautiful as the rumors say.”

“And you look so well-matched with the duke.”

Winter found herself gripping her glass too tightly, forcing herself to relax her grip several times.

While it was somewhat easier to handle those who approached her for a conversation, the women glaring at her from afar, hiding behind their fans, were acting so childishly rude that it was downright annoying.

If they understood the importance of this marriage, they wouldn’t be giving her such looks.

Winter locked eyes with the group of women staring at her from across the room. When she gave them a pointed smile, they quickly scattered, as if they couldn’t get away fast enough.

The two of them continued to walk around slowly, observing the atmosphere of the banquet hall.

Van pointed out the tendencies and characteristics of the nobles within Winter’s line of sight, and she carefully memorized and categorized them in her mind—those who could be allies, those who could be obstacles, and those who held no power at all.

“Winter, you’re giving people quite the intense stare.”

Van’s voice broke her concentration. Perhaps she had been focusing a little too hard. He slid his arm around her waist and whispered,

“Save that look just for me.”

As he spoke, Winter covered her face with her fan and lowered her gaze slightly.

To others, it might have looked like they were whispering sweet nothings in the middle of the crowd. Winter subtly pushed Van away and straightened up again.

Van released his hold on her and turned toward the far entrance.

The grand doors opened, and the host of the event finally made her entrance.

Lillian breezed in without a partner, yet her posture remained dignified and elegant.

Her silver hair cascaded down her back, and her cold green eyes surveyed the room. A confident expression rested on her face, concealing none of her ambition.

As soon as she spotted Winter and Van, she made her way through the crowd toward them.

“It’s been a while, Duke Helgram.”

She greeted Van with indifference, as if the broken engagement meant nothing to her. Van accepted her greeting dryly, but not coldly.

“This must be Lady Winter. It’s a pleasure.”

Winter was about to respond when something unexpected happened.

Lillian lightly kissed the back of Winter’s hand.

“I’ve been looking forward to meeting you. After hearing all the rumors, I was curious to see the woman who stole Duke Van Helgram’s heart.”

A kiss on the hand?

Winter was understandably caught off guard. Never in a million years did she think this would happen.

Who would show such respect to the woman who had stolen their intended fiancé?

Moreover, Lillian’s eyes held zero hostility. If there had been any, Winter’s sharp senses would’ve picked up on it.

“Thank you for inviting us to such a splendid party, and for the unexpected hospitality.”

Since Lillian had approached with no ill intentions, Winter dipped into a deep curtsey to show her sincerity.

The simple exchange between the two women captured everyone’s attention, and the room nearly fell completely silent.

One was the daughter of House Antherden, the family with the most influence against the emperor, and the other was the future mistress of House Helgram, known for openly opposing the emperor.

“Lady Lillian, my fiancée isn’t accustomed to these events. It would be better to continue this conversation once the party is in full swing.”

Van interjected, gently taking Winter’s hand, which was still resting in Lillian’s, and stepping back. Lillian smiled and stepped back as well.

The tension that had gripped the banquet hall finally eased as Lillian left to greet the other guests.

“She’s an interesting woman.”

Winter remarked, sharing her thoughts with Van as she watched Lillian converse with others from a distance.

“That’s a relief. I was worried you might kill her.”

“You’re just as amusing, speaking madness in such a gentle voice.”