"Brother," I call out softly, breaking his focus as I approach the lounge area. "Are you doing alright? You didn't cause any more trouble while I was gone, did you?"
Orlando almost chokes on his tea. He sets his cup down on the table with a small clatter, crossing his arms and glaring up at me with mild indignation. "What on earth are you talking about? You're the little one who's always causing trouble! How dare you accuse me?"
I let out a soft laugh, rolling my eyes playfully. "Yeah, yeah, of course. Tell that to the person who was making a huge fuss in front of the counter just a few minutes ago."
"I was not causing a fuss," Orlando grumbles, rubbing the back of his neck before narrowing his eyes at me. "Besides, what took you so long up there? It was just a measurement session, why did you take a whole eternity?"
"We ended up talking about a few interesting things," I reply with a subtle, knowing smile. "I'll fill you in on the details later."
"Fine," Orlando sighs, adjusting his coat.
"And remember, Brother," I add, stepping closer and giving him a pointed look, "we also have something very important to discuss."
Orlando blinks, looking slightly confused for a second. "About what?"
"About my upcoming ball, of course!"
"Oh... ah, right. Yes, that," Orlando mutters, clearing his throat awkwardly.
"So," I say, leaning down slightly to glance at the leather-bound lookbook in his hands. "What kind of dresses were you looking at so attentively? Did you find any designs you liked?"
"Well... yes, a few caught my eye," Orlando says, his tone softening slightly as he closes the booklet. He stands up, straightening his posture and looking down at me with firm authority. "Anyway, you can go ahead and wait for me in the carriage. I'll stay behind for a few minutes to finalize the orders with the head manager. You don't have to worry about anything . I'll make sure everything is taken care of."
"Wait, but I want to explore the market a bit more!" I insist, looking up at him with pleading eyes.
"Absolutely not," Orlando says firmly, leaving zero room for debate. "You've already been out for hours today. You need to go home, rest, and recover. If you overexert yourself and fall ill again..we.. we will be worried. So you're going back to the carriage right now."
"But, Brother—"
"No arguing, Eleanor," he cuts me off, though his eyes carry a look of genuine concern behind his strict tone. "We can talk more at home. Just get inside the carriage for now."
I let out a small sigh of defeat. Well, it's better not to push him too hard on my very first day out. I can always convince him to take me out again later.
"Alright, alright. I'll wait in the carriage," I yield with a gentle smile, turning around to head toward the main entrance with Lily.
Once I step outside into the cool afternoon air, Orlando turns around and walks straight over to the head manager, who bows politely as he approaches.
"Your Grace," the manager says smoothly. "How may I assist you?"
"You already know about the grand ball we're hosting for Eleanor," Orlando begins, his tone dead serious and exacting. "I want you to prepare the absolute finest gowns for her. Use only the highest-quality fabrics, silks, and thread available, do not worry about the budget in the slightest. You know her complexion and features, so select colors that will complement her beauty perfectly."
He pauses, his voice dipping into a softer, fiercely protective register. "And make sure the gowns are as lightweight as possible. My sister's health is delicate, and she cannot bear the burden of heavy, stifling dresses. I am leaving every single detail in your hands, so do not disappoint me."
The manager offers a warm, knowing smile, bowing her head gracefully.
"You may rest assured, Your Grace," the manager replies smoothly, a secret glint in her eyes. "Lady Eleanor herself has already given me very... specific instructions regarding the weight and comfort of her gowns. We will ensure she receives nothing short of perfection."
Orlando blinks in slight surprise at the manager's words, his brow furrowing for a brief moment before he brushes it off.
"Very well," he says, nodding with satisfied approval. "I'm leaving everything in your care. Make sure it is done flawlessly."
"It will be my utmost honor, Your Grace," the manager replies with an impeccable curtsy.
Orlando turns and strides out of the boutique, heading toward the awaiting luxury carriage.
Watching his departing figure through the tall glass windows, a subtle, intriguing smile plays on the manager's lips.
So... the high-society rumors weren't entirely wrong after all, she thinks to herself, her eyes glinting with amusement. The House of Valerius really has begun to cherish their daughter after ignoring for years. They're showering her with genuine care and affection.
She looks toward the doorway where Eleanor had stepped out just moments prior, her smile softening into one of deep curiosity.
Though, the most fascinating person in all of this is Lady Eleanor herself. What an utterly surprising young woman... She just keeps completely defying expectations.
A quiet chuckle escapes her as a distant thought crosses her mind.
If our master were to ever cross paths with her... ah, things are going to get very interesting.
"Who is this enigmatic figure the manager quietly serves, and what power do they hold from the shadows? If this master learns of Eleanor's sudden transformation, what will they do?
Stay with us to find out the answers."