Chapter 442
It feels strange. Maybe it’s because I’m wearing a tuxedo for the first time instead of my usual uniform; it’s like my body is wrapped in a huge blanket.
“How is it? Is it uncomfortable to move in?”
“It’s good. Feels just like the clothes I always wear.”
I responded positively to the Imperial tailor’s question. The outfit might be unfamiliar, but since it was custom-made for me, I couldn’t find anything uncomfortable about it.
Honestly, if I said it was uncomfortable, the tailor would probably want to make a new one right then and there, which is a bit scary. Considering their skills and enthusiasm so far, I would not be surprised.
“Especially since you have to wear it five more times, I made sure to take care with it.”
“Oh dear, then I feel bad if I only pay for one outfit.”
“Haha, don’t worry about the cost. The Imperial Family will cover it.”
The tailor chuckled, covering their mouth, then turned their attention to Marghetta. Since the groom was fine, it seems they were focusing on the bride, the real star of the show.
Watching the tailor, I subtly adjusted my bow tie. I usually wear a necktie, so this feels so bare. They both go around your neck, but the length difference makes it feel off.
“Just gotta hang in there.”
I tried to suppress my awkwardness and get used to it. The expert dressed me, so it must be right. If I blurt out something like, ‘I prefer neckties,’ I might have to start from scratch with my outfit.
If being awkward was an issue, I wouldn’t have put the tuxedo on in the first place.
“Executive Manager, are you really okay? You look uncomfortable.”
While I was mindlessly fiddling with my sleeves, Erich, who was lurking nearby, tiptoed over and whispered.
Always sharp, huh? Or maybe I just failed at hiding my expressions?
“If I find comfy clothes, it’ll ultimately be a uniform, and I can’t wear that to my wedding, can I?”
Confirming that the tailor’s focus was on Marghetta, I quietly replied. If all clothes below the uniform were on the same level, it’s best to wear what’s given. That’s the path to everyone’s happiness.
Plus, this is a wedding, not an official event or workday. It’d be quite odd to wear the bloody Prosecutor’s uniform at a ceremony meant for blessings. If I messed up, it could turn the wedding venue into a collection point for various spirits.
“That’s true.”
Erich nodded, seemingly convinced by my explanation. Even the crazed Erich thought a wedding with the Prosecutor’s uniform was a bit much.
“At least it’s black, so that’s a relief. I can’t imagine you in white.”
“I wouldn’t give in on that.”
The only color requirement I had while fitting for the clothes was the color. As Erich said, I can’t imagine myself in white garments.
“And if I wore white too, it would distract from the bride. The focus should be on her.”
“Aren’t the grooms also the main character at their wedding?”
“I’m okay; I’m doing it six times.”
At least once, I should be in the spotlight.
As I added that, Erich’s eyes widened, and he began to giggle. Looks like the soon-to-be groom’s vast heart won him over.
The tailor always follows the same pattern when visiting the residence.
“This is the final version!”
The tailor, full of passion, drew attention like a super tank.
“Wow…”
First to be drawn in was Marghetta, enchanted by the tailor’s flair.
“Quick, try it on!”
“Yeah! We need to check for any odd parts.”
Other couples followed suit with passionate reactions.
And naturally, I got pushed into a corner and forgotten. This is a very familiar pattern.
“Well then, since the lady needs to change, can you step out for a moment, Executive Manager?”
But today, I couldn’t simply breathe quietly in the corner. The tailor pinpointed me and officially issued an expulsion order.
“…We’re going to be married, so why should I go out—”
“Please step outside.”
“Okay.”
I nodded obediently to the firm command.
Now that I think about it, the tailor is the highest authority here. Following the orders of the chief is only natural.
“Could I get a few others to help? It’s a bit difficult to change alone.”
“Well, if that’s the case, I should definitely help.”
Just before I went out, I heard the tailor and Trixie exchanging words.
I could help just fine too, but I didn’t open my mouth. I didn’t want to see a startled expression on a delighted Marghetta’s face.
*
I stared at my reflection in the mirror.
“The material is from the Iones Principality, presented to the Imperial Family. Since the lady’s grace doesn’t need to be expressed outwardly, we emphasized the freshness and beauty of the new bride rather than excessive opulence…”
Though the tailor explained the dress, I honestly couldn’t follow along properly. I was too lost in thought, captivated by the sight right in front of me.
Unknowingly, I reached out to the full-length mirror. As my gloved hand brushed against the glass, the reflection seemed to mirror my actions as if two brides were sharing a special moment.
‘Beautiful.’
I thought this while looking at the mirror, feeling like I had a strong sense of self-love, but at this moment, that was all I could think about.
It’s truly, truly beautiful. More beautiful, elegant, and stunning than anything I’ve ever seen. Just standing there exuded grace.
‘I’m marrying in this.’
As that thought hit me, my face began to flush. I’d be standing next to Carl in this dress, making vows of eternal love at the very spot where the Great Emperor pledged his love to the first Empress, with all gathered blessing us.
“Sorry, but I’m not quite ready to be with someone yet.”
Even though I was on the verge of the best moment in my life, the thought of the worst moment came to mind strangely.
Three years ago, when Carl pushed me away from my love. When Carl was still burdened with a heart wound, and I didn’t even realize it.
I wept hard back then, surrounded by my brothers and sisters, crying my heart out even in front of Father.
‘That was back then.’
I cautiously turned my head, glancing around. Beatrix was watching happily, Louis was smiling brightly and commenting on how beautiful I looked, Irina was clapping gently with a grin, and Elisabeth was endlessly praising me, while Penelia nodded approvingly.
Now, I wasn’t receiving comfort from family. I was being celebrated among my new family.
“Ma-Marya?”
I flinch at Beatrix’s shocked voice, realizing tears had started to trickle down my cheeks.
Fortunately, it wasn’t a flood of tears, but even a single drop was enough to ruin my carefully applied makeup.
‘This shouldn’t be happening.’
Today is supposed to be a happy day. Why is this happening? The atmosphere was lovely until I showed up and surprised everyone.
“I-I’m fine…”
I barely opened my mouth, but my eyes and mouth didn’t cooperate as I wished. A voice that didn’t sound okay came out.
So embarrassing. I shouldn’t be crying out of nowhere.
“Other brides can get emotional so close to their wedding. Showing tears isn’t something to be embarrassed about.”
The tailor, calm amidst the chaos, tried to soothe me.
Whether that statement is true or just a white lie to comfort a crybaby isn’t clear—
“Marya’s crying?!”
When Carl suddenly burst through the door, it seems I need to consider the latter to calm him down.
*
I had been lingering at the doorway, but as soon as I heard the word ‘tear,’ I barged in without thinking. Who wouldn’t panic seeing their future bride crying in the midst of all this?
I felt relieved to hear the tailor explain that the tears were of joy. I noticed Marya herself seemed confused about why she was crying.
“…That happened.”
– Huh.
When I told my future father-in-law about the little chaos, he chuckled.
– Looks like Marya takes after her mother more than me. She’s clearly emotional, just like her mother.
“Did my mother shed tears as well?”
– I was misunderstood a lot because of it. There’s quite an age gap in our marriage, so there were rumors flying around that I’m stealing her away.
I quietly bowed my head at my father-in-law’s mumbling demeanor.
Unfortunately, considering his build and appearance, it’s not odd that he received such misunderstandings. Plus, as he pointed out, the age difference between Marya’s mother and him is quite significant—
– Don’t think of anything strange. Lift your head up.
“Yes.”
I quickly composed my expression and lifted my head.
Calm down. If I show any trace of a smile now, my father-in-law might get angry.
‘How could a Duke be stealing a bride?’
I nibbled on my lip and desperately suppressed my emotions.
But really, who started that rumor? One of the former Dukes? Otherwise, it doesn’t make sense.
“Still, just like how your wife is happily living with you, I feel good knowing I’ll also be happy with Marya.”
– That is one way to look at it.
After erasing the thought of ‘stealing a bride’ from my mind, I opened my mouth desperately, and my father-in-law seemed pleased.
Despite the rumors spread by outsiders, they live harmoniously together. Hearing this from the youngest son-in-law must make them feel good.
– Has it really been this long already?
After a lengthy conversation with my father-in-law about various topics, he turned his gaze to the corner and muttered softly.
– I’d better cut this short. We’ll discuss the details next time at the estate.
“Already? Since Marya is trying on the dress, why not stay and see it for yourself?”
– …It’s fine. I’ll see it at the wedding anyway.
I sensed a moment of hesitation from my father-in-law. However, I didn’t urge him again. A warrior must keep his decisions firm; as a fellow warrior, it’s my duty to respect that.
– Oh, speaking of which.
Just as my father-in-law was about to end the call, he opened his mouth again.
– The Wise Duke will soon be coming to the estate. He’s making a fuss about attending his niece’s wedding.
“Yes, I’m prepared for that.”
– If the Wise Duke attends the wedding, the Gold Duke will as well.
That statement left me speechless. Having all five Dukes gather for a mere Imperial Count’s wedding is…
‘This is going to be insane.’
I feel like my wedding will go down in the history of the Empire.
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