The Reason Why She Can’t Get Married - Chapter 88

Schedule: Thurs and Sun

Chapter 88

Selena decided to approach Luna Meyer first. Lemon informed her of Luna’s plans: she intended to target Noel Ratliffe for the first rose. True to her bold nature, Luna visited the Ratliffe Ducal Residence on the very first day, but unfortunately, Noel was out, and their meeting was unsuccessful.

Selena kept a close watch on Luna’s movements, following her whenever she headed towards the Ducal Residence. After three days, both ladies were finally granted an audience with Noel and ushered into the drawing-room.

“I didn’t expect to meet the Duke with Lady Irving,” Luna initiated the conversation as they waited for Noel.

“Indeed, what a coincidence,” Selena replied brazenly, despite having orchestrated the situation. But Luna was no pushover.

“I’d prefer to be here alone. An unfortunate coincidence, really.”

“Haha. Your passion for becoming the Summer Fairy is admirable, Lady Meyer.”

“Is there a particular reason for such fervent dedication?” Selena subtly probed.

“Hmph, I simply detest losing.”

“So, you’re participating in this competition purely for the sake of winning?”

“Well, there’s also the thought that if not me, then who else deserves to be the Summer Fairy?” Luna lifted her chin haughtily. “I plan to propose to the man I fancy with the golden and diamond rose awarded as a prize.”

“Wow, that’s impressive.” Her answer aligned with the request, making Selena’s eyes sparkle. Had she found the client so easily?

As anticipation swelled within her, Noel opened the drawing-room door.

“Good afternoon, Lady Irving. And Lady Meyer.” He was as radiant as ever. His jewel-blue eyes fixed on Selena. Though he addressed both ladies, his gaze hadn’t left Selena since he entered. Uncomfortable, Selena lowered her eyes. Unfazed, Noel continued to stare as he walked towards his desk.

“You’re both here for the rose, I presume.”

“Yes, that’s right. Give me the rose.” Oblivious to the strange tension between Selena and Noel, Luna made her demand as if it were her due.

Selena rolled her eyes and, in an attempt to help Luna, spoke up. “Your Grace… how many roses do you have?”

“Three.”

“Perhaps you could give us one each?”

“Yes, let’s keep things peaceful and have one each,” Luna chimed in.

Noel, leaning against his desk, looked between the two women, a faint smile playing on his lips. “Very well.”

…What? Even Luna seemed surprised by his unexpectedly agreeable response. Noel reached for a blue-ribboned rose on his desk and offered it to Luna.

“There you go, Lady Meyer.”

“Thank you.” Luna quickly secured the rose before he could change his mind, offered a curt nod, and left the room.

Now, it was just Selena and Noel. He tapped his fingers lightly on the desk. “When will you look at me properly, my lady? It’s been a while. Aren’t you glad to see me?”

‘…No, not really.’

Selena glanced at Noel sideways. This was their first encounter since Layla’s request. His expression betrayed neither anger nor displeasure. Slowly, she lifted her gaze.

“You’re looking at me now.”

“Give me the rose, Your Grace.”

“Just like that?”

“…You just gave one to Lady Meyer without any conditions.”

Noel shrugged. “I don’t want to just give you one, Lady Irving.”

“.…”

“Because you haven’t kept your promise. You know what I mean, don’t you?”

Of course she knew. He was referring to the dinner she’d used for the request. Selena was speechless.

“…Then, what do I have to do to receive the rose?”

“Hmm.” Noel crossed his arms, feigning contemplation, then smiled. “Answer three questions, and I’ll give it to you.”

“.…”

“What do you say?”

It wasn’t a bad proposition. Not an unreasonable request. All she had to do was answer his questions. ‘And he doesn’t seem like he’ll ask anything too difficult.’ Selena nodded.

“Alright. Ask away.”

“First question: What do you like?”

An easy question. But also vague. Selena tilted her head. “What kind of things? Food? Colors? Or something else?”

“Anything at all. Tell me what you like.”

“Well, then…I like sweet desserts. Strawberries are my favorite fruit. I also like animals and children. Spring is my favorite season, and I love to lie down more than anything.”

“I see.” Noel’s lips curved into a gentle smile. He then posed his second question. “Next, what do you dislike?”

“Umm, anything at all again?”

“Yes.”

This time, she took a moment to consider before answering. “I dislike strenuous exercise. I also dislike swimming and rainy days. I have a weak stomach, so I can’t stand anything disgusting. I also dislike bitter or fishy-tasting foods.”

“So, you’re not fond of seafood?”

“I eat baked fish. I don’t particularly enjoy it, though.”

Noel stroked his chin, nodding as if committing her words to memory.

“Ask your last question.”

“Alright. Third question: Why are you afraid of me?”