Chapter 69
Perhaps Mother had told the maids in advance that she would be hosting a tea time.
If it were one of her devoted maids, they would have tried to stop her out of concern for her health.
“Hey, Tia. Do you think Mother’s really okay to be going outside? And also, the way she spoke just now…”
“…Yeah.”
Tiana couldn’t bring herself to either agree or disagree.
So, my sister noticed it too—the strange tone in Mother’s voice earlier.
“Lady Ellie, the Duchess is a strong woman, so please don’t worry. Now is the time to let her spoil you as much as she wishes.”
The maid, Dalia, spoke in a reassuring tone.
“You’re right. Thank you.”
Ellie smiled, showing her gratitude for Dalia’s kindness.
Ah, that’s right.
I brought some extra cookies I made last time. I couldn’t finish them all by myself—if we’re having tea time, maybe they can serve them.
“Would it be alright if you went on ahead without me?”
“Huh? Why? Are you going somewhere?”
Ellie looked puzzled.
It’s true—if she thought we’d go together, suddenly leaving might seem a bit rude.
“I just thought I’d have them serve these cookies for tea time.”
“In that case, I can go for you.”
Mariana volunteered immediately.
“No, it’s fine. I’ll go myself.”
“If Lady Tiana insists… then please, take this.”
Mariana handed over the bag that held the cookies.
“I’ll be right back, see you soon.”
Earlier, Camilla had guided me to Mother’s room, so I roughly remember where the kitchen is.
There’s a nice smell coming from this room—this must be it.
“Um, excuse me.”
“Oh? A child? What’s the matter, young lady?”
“Is she perhaps one of the servants’ daughters working here?”
The cooks noticed the little girl entering the kitchen and started talking to her.
“Um, I’m Tiana Asteer.”
“Oh, right, I think I heard something about someone from House Asteer coming—wait, what!? You’re Lady Tiana Asteer!? My deepest apologies, my lady! Please forgive my rudeness!”
The chef bowed quickly, startled by the unexpected visit of a noble young lady.
“No, please don’t apologize. I should be the one saying sorry for coming here so suddenly.”
“Oh, no, not at all! You are always welcome here!”
“Thank you for the warm welcome.”
“By the way, my lady, what brings you here today?”
“Um, could I ask you to serve these cookies for tea time?”
“Of course, my lady. We’ll bring them out shortly.”
“Thank you! I’m looking forward to it.”
After they gladly accepted, Tiana hurried toward the garden, where Ellie and the Duchess were waiting.
On her way there, she spotted Camilla carrying a single cup of tea.
Huh? Just one cup? Maybe it’s for Mother.
Then suddenly, Camilla stopped walking.
Something seemed… strange.
She took out a small glass vial filled with a clear liquid.
Is she… adding something to the tea?
From behind, Tiana couldn’t see clearly—but there was no mistake. Camilla was definitely putting something in it.
What on earth is she adding…?
