The Kind Older Sister Is No More

“Oh my goodness.”

Lady Jasmine gasped at Noel’s resolute answer. On the side, Irene’s face burned. Even though she knew they were to be married, she was extremely embarrassed. Did he really have to say it so ambiguously? She shot a glimpse of Noel, who appeared to be stoic as usual. How could he have such a calm demeanour when Lady Jasmine was gazing at them so wickedly?

Lady Jasmine, keen for more gossip, trained her attention on Irene. Was it real? Her eyes seemed to be asking. Despite her hot-headedness, Irene still nodded in response. Of course, Irene had nothing to worry about. They were, after all, in a contractual relationship.

“Yes, we do.”

This time, Noel looked down at her. His face cracked a little, but Irene, who was focused on Duchess Jasmine who was making a fuss, did not notice his gaze. Perhaps it was a good thing, because with the intensity of his gaze, she might have reheated and imploded then and there.

“Oh my. I see. Oh my God, is this a secret?”

Lady Jasmine whispered. She was too excited for her own good. But who could blame her? The Duke of Kristen, next in line possibly, to the Kristen throne. Such a powerful family, and the Miss Chase -- were an item...

“It is not a secret, but I do not want it to become a fuss.”

Noel replied calmly to Lady Jasmine’s furtive voice. At his answer, Lady Jasmine chuckled. She unfolded her fan and covered her mouth, but the fan could not hide the creased outlines of her eyes. She was clearly enjoying herself.

“Had it been a ball, it would not have been easy to hide this great news, but today is an exhibition where you can appreciate the delightful works of famous artisans, nobly and elegantly. I do not wish to disturb the two of you.”

“Thank you for your understanding.”

“Regardless, thank you again for being here. I remember you attended my ball last time, so I took up the courage and sent you an invitation again, and you really came. Can I think of it as having a crush on me? Ho-ho.”

Lady Jasmine could not hide her excitement. She looked at Irene expectantly, then to Noel.

“Have a good time darlings~” she said before departing, her cape swishing behind her.

As if a storm had swept through, Irene stood frozen. She angled her head, and looked up at Noel. He seemed a little tired too, perhaps they were both in the same condition. The exhibition had not even started yet! What were they doing drained already?

Feeling a sense of unity, a laugh escaped her lips. It was a pleasant sound, like the peal of bells breaking the sombre mood.

Turn met her eyes. For a brief moment, she worried she may have offended him. But soon, his laughter too, rang in the air, overshadowing her pointless concern.

*I love our happy duo ^o^