The Queen Who Deserves To Be Tainted - Chapter 41.2

Had it been a normal guest, she would have gladly accepted without a second thought. But the fact that this was the princess who had nearly become Ejnar’s consort made her hesitate.

Yet, because of that very fact, refusing her could lead to unnecessary misunderstandings. In the end, she agreed to meet with Princess Rachela. Their meeting was set for two days later, the day before Ejnar’s birthday.

* * *

“Um… I think those earrings would suit you better.”

It was as Elfreda was being dressed by Illene, choosing accessories. It was rare for her to be so specific about what she wanted, so Illene was caught off guard and fumbled.

“Ah, you mean the one on the left, right?”

“Yes. That’s my thought… Do you think it’s not good?”

“Oh, no! I was actually debating between the two.”

Illene quickly picked up the earrings Elfreda had pointed out. They were far larger and more extravagant than the ones she had been handling earlier.

As she carefully placed the earrings on Elfreda’s ears, Illene leaned in and whispered softly.

“You don’t need to worry, Your Majesty.”

“…Hmm?”

“I know her face. Your Majesty is far more beautiful.”

Illene wrapped her arms warmly around Elfreda’s shoulders as if to give her confidence and added.

“Of course, these gorgeous earrings will enhance Your Majesty’s beauty, but even without them, it wouldn’t affect the outcome much.”

At those words, Elfreda smiled faintly, a blush coloring her cheeks. Illene couldn’t help but smile in return, finding her incredibly beautiful.

It wasn’t just empty flattery.

While Princess Rachela was also a beauty, in Illene’s eyes, Elfreda was far more striking. She knew the worries Elfreda had, which was why she had put extra effort into her appearance today. If her efforts could ease even a little of the queen’s mind, she would have no other wish.

“Your Majesty, Princess Rachela has just arrived in the reception room.”

It was time to go.

Elfreda walked gracefully toward the reception room, her purple satin dress trailing softly behind her. For the first time as queen, she would be meeting a guest alone. The thought sent a fresh wave of nervousness through her.

As she entered the reception room, the woman seated there slowly rose to her feet. With a bright smile, she bowed to Elfreda. Her light lavender curls, gently cascading in soft waves past her chest, added to her graceful presence.

“I, Rachela of Giver, greet the Queen, the moon of Machi.”

When she raised her head, her golden eyes, a much sharper shade than Ejnar’s, met hers.

Elfreda instinctively smiled back.

The woman’s delicate features, small face, and fair skin reminded Elfreda of a fine porcelain doll, a beauty that was difficult to ignore. For a moment, she felt somewhat intimidated, but then, recalling how Illene had encouraged her earlier, she straightened her shoulders.

She spoke with a soft voice.

“Please, sit, Princess. Welcome to Machi.”

“Thank you for your warm welcome. By the way, I’ve brought a gift.”

Rachela gave a subtle nod to her attendant, who quickly brought over two boxes and handed them to Illene.

Illene opened the boxes and showed them to Elfreda. Inside, neatly arranged, were square jelly candies filled with an abundance of nuts.

“I wasn’t sure what you might like… This dessert has been very popular in Giver’s social circles since last year. If you enjoy nuts, I think it will suit your taste.”

“It looks delicious. Illene, could you bring a plate so we can share it with the princess?”

“Oh, Your Majesty!”

Rachela gasped in surprise, clearly touched.

“Thank you for your kindness. In fact, I’ve been dying to have a bite since I arrived. It’s that good.”

“Then, we must certainly share it.”

A little while later, Illene returned with a plate of jelly.

Elfreda took a bite, noting the firm texture and the slight challenge the nuts added to chewing. However, the sweetness and chewiness made it undeniably delicious. Paired with tea, the flavor was even more enjoyable.

She smiled contentedly and thanked Rachela.

“Thank you for the wonderful gift. And for coming here today.”

“Aahh.”

Rachela smiled casually as if it was no big deal.

“I was curious about whom the King had married.”