THE REBORN LADY IS LOVED BY HER FOSTER BROTHER: THE SCARIEST VILLAIN

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197. As a “Sister”

On the journey back to the ducal estate.

Swaying rhythmically in the carriage, Ortansia's thoughts drifted aimlessly into melancholy.

‘How much longer can I go on like this...?’

For now, at least, she could remain his younger sister. Yet sooner or later, the person Gérard chose to take out, the one he wished to show those majestic views to, and the one he actually brought to such places would become someone else. When that day came, would Ortansia truly be able to congratulate her brother on his happiness with an untroubled heart?

‘I need to control myself while I still can.’

She ought to be enjoying every second spent with Gérard, yet before she knew it, her mind kept running in these depressing circles. ...Perhaps it would have been better if she had never realized her romantic feelings for him in the first place.

Just as her thoughts were spiralling into a downward track…

“...A certain Noble is hosting an evening party in a few days.”

Gérard’s abrupt murmur caused Ortansia to jerk her head up in surprise.

“An evening party?”

“Indeed. It is an event where not only aristocrats but also influential merchants will gather.”

“Is that so...? Will you be attending, Brother?”

At Ortansia's simple question, Gérard offered a quiet nod.

‘Why would he bring that up all of a sudden...?’

Was it merely casual conversation? Was he complaining about how tedious it would be to attend, or perhaps looking forward to something specific...?

’Gasp! Don't tell me... Has he fallen in love with some wealthy merchant's or Noble's daughter?!’

It wasn't an impossible scenario. Perhaps he wanted to subtly hint to Ortansia that he had found a partner. A flurry of wild possibilities rushed through her head, leaving her unsure of whether she was keeping her facial expression under control.

Gérard continued, oblivious to her inner turmoil.

“Which is why you shall come as well.”

“Pardon?”

The completely unexpected invitation squeezed a rather ungraceful noise out of her throat.

Never before had Gérard tried to usher Ortansia out into high society like this. Her father often advised her, “Attending this function will benefit you well in the future,” but Gérard was firmly the sort who preferred to say, “Stay quietly at home.” So why the sudden, drastic change of heart?

‘Th-This means he’s planning to properly introduce me to his lover, right...?’

She could think of no other logical explanation. It seemed she would have to steel her resolve far sooner than expected.

“I understand. I shall make the necessary preparations.”

Forcing her lips into a presentable smile, Ortansia gave her consent. ...As his "sister," she had to bless her brother's happiness. That was the one and only thing she could do for him.

Gérard said nothing, his sharp gaze lingering fixatedly on her face. Worried that her smile might have looked unnatural or strained, Ortansia felt her cheeks begin to twitch—

“...I will arrange your attire myself.”

“Wh-Whaaat?!”

Gérard’s astounding offer caught her so off guard that she nearly bit her tongue.

Arrange my attire himself? For him to go out of his way to declare that, she could only interpret "attire" as referring not to his own clothes, but to hers.

And yet—

‘WHY?!!’

As far as Ortansia was concerned, Gérard was a man who couldn't care less about what anyone wore, whether it was himself or someone else. If someone wore an outfit glaringly inappropriate for the occasion, he might furrow his brow, but otherwise, he would neither comment on it nor pay it the slightest mind.

Ortansia mentally reviewed her past behavior, but at the very least, whenever she attended society events, she had always been impeccably dressed for the occasion. There should be nothing for Gérard to worry about...

‘...Is it because I'll be meeting his lover, and he doesn't want me looking unrefined?’

She had read in a book somewhere that love changes a person. Gérard, who had always been thoroughly indifferent to other people's appearances, had clearly undergone a massive shift in mindset now that he had found someone.

‘...It hurts.’

The bitter sentiment surged from the absolute bottom of her heart.

She had been by Gérard’s side all this time. She had been so close to him for so long. Yet the one who had actually changed him was a lover he had (presumably) only met recently.

‘Still, I have to accept it.’

“...Understood. I shall look forward to seeing what you choose for me, Brother.”

At the very least, she wanted to remain his "Sister" to the end without becoming a burden or annoyance to him. Though her heart was weeping internally, Ortansia mustered every ounce of strength to offer him her brightest, sweetest smile.

T/N: Hello guys! A very big thanks to everyone who is still here. The novel release is slow because the author has not finished writing or release the chapters. right now, i have translated up to the last page she posted and will keep you guys updated. Shalom💜

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