XAVIER Gosh, why does this feel more nerve-wracking than fighting demons?

I sat stiffly at the dining table with the duke and Aveline. It was just breakfast, but the weight of what I was about to say pressed down on me. The duke, as composed and intimidating as ever, sat at the head of the table, his piercing gaze making it even harder to speak.

"So, Xavier," the duke said coldly, breaking the silence. "Why are you here?"

"I have an announcement," I said, mustering every ounce of courage I had.

The duke raised a brow, his expression unreadable. "What is it?"

I turned to Aveline, who was sitting gracefully on my right. She gave me a small, reassuring smile. That smile gave me strength.

"I am dating Aveline," I declared, my voice firm despite the rapid pounding of my heart.

"WHAT?" the duke exclaimed, his voice booming through the room.

Gosh, this is scarier than battling demons.

"You agree to this, Aveline?" the duke asked, turning his intense gaze to her.

"Yes, Father," Aveline said with a serene smile, completely unfazed by his outburst.

Gosh, she's so pretty.

The duke let out a long sigh, rubbing his temples. "Well, if it's what my daughter wants, then I have no choice but to agree."

"Thank you, Father," I said quickly, relieved.

The duke glared at me. "You're not married yet. Don't call me 'Father.'"

I nodded quickly. "Understood, Your Grace."

Aveline chuckled softly beside me, and I couldn't help but grin.

After breakfast, I stood and requested to take my leave. "I must return to the imperial palace now," I said, bowing slightly.

"Safe travels," Aveline said warmly, her smile making it even harder to leave.

I bid goodbye to the duke and Aveline, stepping out of the estate with a lighter heart.

***

AVELINE Xavier has left, and now it's just me and Father.

"You like him, huh?" Father asked, his tone surprisingly soft, though his eyes still carried that sharpness I've grown used to.

I chuckled, nodding. "Yes, I do."

He sighed but didn't say anything further, letting me make my way to my room.

As I stepped inside, I noticed a pile of letters neatly stacked on my desk. Finally, some time to catch up. I sat down and began sifting through them, skimming the words and admiring the elegant scripts.

Among the letters, one caught my eye—an invitation to a tea party. I held it up and read it carefully. It was from Lady Margaret, scheduled for tomorrow.

Perhaps I should go. It might be nice to make a few friends, especially now that I've had my debutante.

I stood and called for Amy, my personal maid.

"Yes, my lady?" Amy said, bowing lightly as she entered the room.

"I'll be attending Lady Margaret's tea party tomorrow. Please prepare everything accordingly," I informed her.

Amy nodded, smiling. "Understood, my lady. I'll take care of it."

With that settled, I leaned back in my chair, my thoughts wandering to what tomorrow might bring. Making friends among the noble ladies... Well, let's see how this goes.