The Reason Why She Can’t Get Married - Chapter 74

Schedule: Thurs and Sun

Chapter 74

‘So, he did have a deadline, but not the kind I expected.’

“That means I need someone within the empire to cooperate with me—”

“And that has to be us?”

Rio chuckled and nodded.

“Unfortunately, my only friend in Carlton has already refused to help. And it wouldn’t be appropriate for me, a foreign crown prince, to go around stirring things up in the empire while on official business.”

Even a crown prince of an allied nation couldn’t just disrupt the imperial capital as he pleased. Moreover, if it became known that he was using his official visit to pursue personal matters, it would be incredibly problematic.

“I’ve heard of Serenade’s reputation even in the Tifae Kingdom. Our nobles are quite interested. I hear you’re known for your discretion. That’s why I’m asking Serenade for help.”

“Hmm, I see.”

Selena felt a surge of pride knowing Serenade’s reputation had reached the Tifae Kingdom. Her hard work and dedication to her business had paid off. Noticing Selena’s pleased expression, Rio spoke cautiously. “So, please, my lady. Accept my request.”

“Yes, I understand. Serenade will find your first love for you, Your Highness.”

Selena readily agreed. Her decision wasn’t impulsive or solely based on her good mood. She had intended to accept Rio’s request once her initial question was addressed.

“Thank you so much, my lady. I’ll be sure to reward you handsomely.”

Rio’s face brightened. He gratefully shook Selena’s hand.

“Just trust us and wait. We’ll find Belle before you return home.”

Selena smiled brightly. She didn’t think this request would be too difficult. Rio remembered Belle’s appearance and their meeting place clearly, and finding his first love wouldn’t interfere with his official duties.

Locating Belle based on Rio’s memories should be relatively straightforward. She could already envision the beautiful reunion between Rio and his first love, transcending their social divide. Selena was confident.

***

…Or so she thought.

“I don’t understand how you manage to pick the most irritating requests. It’s a talent, really.”

Maximilian clicked his tongue, his long legs extending beyond the table. Selena offered a hollow laugh, inwardly cursing.

‘The real talent lies in Your Highness finding every single one of my requests irritating…’

The day after accepting Rio’s request, she received an unexpected summons from Maximilian. A sense of foreboding had accompanied her reluctant journey to the Imperial Palace. Upon arrival, he greeted her with a remark that felt eerily familiar.

“Don’t take Prince Rio’s request.”

She could understand his interference with Gabriella’s case, as she was his sister, but she couldn’t fathom his interest in Rio’s matter.

“Why not?”

“Do you honestly believe a relationship between a crown prince and a commoner is feasible?”

Maximilian tilted his head, a sneer playing on his lips, as if the question itself was absurd. Selena, too, generally discouraged relationships with vast social disparities.

The one with the lower social standing usually ended up hurt. However, Maximilian’s blatant mockery irritated her.

“His Highness requested it. I don’t see why you need to involve yourself.”

“I knew you’d say that. You never listen to me.”

Maximilian exaggeratedly sighed, making it seem as though her single act of defiance was a recurring pattern.

“If you refuse to decline the request, at least put in minimal effort. It’s a pointless endeavor anyway.”

“Thank you for the advice, Your Highness. But I’ll manage on my own.”

“So you’re telling me to mind my own business and keep my mouth shut.”

Instead of denying it, Selena simply smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. Maximilian let out an exasperated laugh, waving his hand dismissively.

“Go on, then.”

“Yes, Your Highness.” Selena promptly rose, dipped her head in a curtsy, and exited the drawing-room. Naturally, she had no intention of following Maximilian’s orders.

***

Serenade, based on Rio’s testimony, commissioned a portrait artist to recreate Belle’s face. Using the portrait, they began a discreet search.

About three days later, with Lemon’s help, they received information suggesting Belle might be living in the Herren district of the 17th ward, on the outskirts of the capital. As a point of reference, Rio and Belle had first met in a back alley of the Tar district in the 15th ward.

“My lady, the Herren district isn’t safe. It would be best to disguise yourself as a commoner,” Lucy advised.

Following her suggestion, Selena donned simple clothes and covered them with a worn brown robe. Pulling the hood low over her face, she concealed her fair complexion.

“Randy, Lucy. Let’s go.”

“Yes, Boss.”

The three of them left the office, heading for the 17th ward. In front of the building sat a massive, unfamiliar carriage, bearing the royal crest.

They stared at it, speechless. Suddenly, the door swung open, and Maximilian stepped out. “Your Highness…?”

“I told you to handle it however you saw fit. Clearly, you never listens to me.”

“But, Your Highness, why are you here…?”

“You’re the type to do what you want, regardless of what I say. So, to save myself the trouble, I came myself.”

At his audacious declaration, Selena’s shoulders stiffened. Incredulous, she asked, “Are you saying… you came here to stop me?”

“No, I mean I’m coming with you.”