Antonia knew exactly what Monica wanted and, though she had no real qualms with Monica and Matthieu-Philippe as in-laws, she had sworn to herself that she would never betroth her children. That was why she had no problem throwing all formality away when she wedged herself between Monica and Tori when the attendant found them, and dragged Monica off.
Who was going to stop her? The Imperial Knights and Guards? Monica already told her escorts not to get between them. Antonia had one objective with her friend and that was to protect her daughter from her.
It was common for aristocracy, politicians, and rchants of ans to select the children of friends and allies to marry to their own, but it wasnt practiced in her maternal family. They thought it was archaic.
Theyd do various introductions and encourage relationships to form, but they would not agree to a betrothal, especially when their children were young. There were too many things that could go wrong when a well written contract could suffice without the emotional baggage attached.
There were many who didnt agree with this, such as the nobles of the Central Corridor, but it worked for her family and the marquis family she married into. Genevieve was betrothed when she was a baby and so ingrained was the betrothal in her mind, that Antonia felt she knew of no other option and was guilted into it. Guilted into giving that bastard a chance.
Antonia knew he couldnt be trusted. Her gut scread it and she pleaded with Genevieve to break the engagent. Such a thing wasnt unheard of. It was quite common, actually. Genevieve said she would, but in the end, she married the bastard anyway. Antonia was so angry that they didnt talk for five years; not until Genevieve called and said she wanted Antonias help in arranging her will. Antonia was going to reject her.
Only Monicas interference changed Antonias mind. By then, Genevieve was terminally ill and Antonia could only hold her tongue to keep from admonishing her for not listening.
Antonias own marriage, though backed by contracts agreed upon by both partners before they finalized their engagent, ca about because her husband was not only charming and good-looking, but treated her well and was honest to her. She fell for him faster than shed like to admit.
Of course, her father didnt agree at first. Gregorio was once her fathers student and her father thought Gregorio wasnt intelligent enough for her. Monica, back when she was just the daughter of Marquis von Schwert, told her that her father was right; Gregorio was an idiot. Monica was familiar with all the marquis families and Antonia shouldve listened to her.
But shed be lying if she said she wasn't attracted to Gregorio when he ca to Horizon for a tournant. She refused to call it love at first sight, but she made sure she tagged along with Monica to a dinner just to et him. He was the only man shed danced with that night and never looked back. Gregorio worked hard to prove himself to her father, though to this day, her father still thought he was an idiot.
It was a bit unfair considering her family had a reputation of producing brilliant people. Gregorio wasnt an idiot. He just wasnt as exceeding as her in particular fields and skill sets, which was fine. They balanced each other. Also, her Gregorio was aging very well.
Monica had been pursued by the then Prince Matthieu-Philippe, who was two years younger than them, and was so determined, Oliver, Monicas older brother and the best swordsman of their generation, couldnt deter him.
That was the kind of determined devotion Antonia wanted for Tori, but she didnt think it would actually co from Monicas oldest son. She knew about Piers behavioral difficulties as a child, and that he was withdrawn and socially anxious as an adult. Antonia didnt mind that; after all, she and her family supported him as crown prince.
What she minded was Monicas painful enthusiasm at the prospect of her eldest son, whom she was always concerned about, interested in soone. Not only did Piers willingly spend ti with Tori, but he went out of his way to help her. Often.
If Antonia let Monica have her way, shed lure Tori into an engagent and try to marry them as soon as legally possible. Her daughter was too kind and accommodating; there was too large of a chance shed agree to Monicas ridiculous idea.
I wasnt doing anything wrong, Monica said as she sat across from her. Antonia calmly placed so cured at on a piece of bread, but didnt answer. All I did was invite her to my birthday banquet.
And why would you invite my daughter to your birthday banquet? Antonia asked before taking a bite.
Monica shifted in her seat and quietly reached for her coffee.
The setting they were in was strange if one didnt know their history. The two won were seated in a small parlor, eating breakfast with their personal attendants standing on opposite sides of the room. The imperial knights were standing by outside the door, along with Guevera and OTuagh knights.
If a passer-by didnt know any better, one of them was being detained for questioning. And it wasnt Antonia.
Shes my friends daughter! Monica said with a gasp, as if she were offended that her actions would be questioned. Of course, I would invite her!
You didnt invite her to other functions before this.
Monica waved her hand dismissively. This is my personal birthday banquet, Toni. All previous functions were state-related. Theyd be too boring for a young woman. Besides, Tori had just started Lyce and needed to get acclimated.
What if shes too busy to go now? You know how challenging her project is. Antonias eyes narrowed and Monica averted her gaze.
Thats why I wanted to talk to her. Monica frowned and shot an irritated look at Antonia. I didnt want to force her to go, but this whole ti, youve purposely kept busy so I couldnt talk to her!
So, youve noticed.
Of course, Ive noticed. Its rather obvious. I can see why youd keep her away from Gideon, but I havent done anything.
Antonia gave her a deadpan look. You sneaked out of your room this morning to wait for her outside and then chased her into the garden.
I didnt chase her, Antonia Maria. I waited and intercepted her. There is a difference. Monica bit into a piece of toast with smoked salmon and chewed it violently. I just wanted to talk to her.
Why.
Why cant I get to know my friends daughter? Monica frowned. Genevieve only had a son. I only have sons. Youre the only one with a daughter!
Monica, do you only have two friends?
For a mont the two won stared at each other. I thought marrying Gregorio would loosen you up, but I see youre still the Ice Queen from Lyce. So cold...even to . Monica lifted her hand and pretended to wipe a non-existent tear. But its fine. I still love you.
And since you love , you love my daughter?
Yes. Ive had Sebastian and Kasen over before, Monica said, proudly.
Your brother had to go to war, so you hired my son to replace him as an instructor for Piers.
That was Olivers recomndation and he got Gregorios approval.
And you only invited Kasen over when he was in Universit and assisting Piers with his Lyce project, Antonia said, knowingly.
That is why I want to rectify that and invite Tori over earlier. Monica appeared very confident.
Antonia raised a brow and slowly chewed her food before swallowing. And this has nothing to do with the fact that my daughter has been escorting your son to social events and your son has been aiding my daughter with her project?
Monica sighed. Those are coincidences. A bonus, if you will. Uncle Emil and Auntie Vivian have spoken very highly of her. Doesnt it make sense that Id like to et her?
Antonia let out a low breath and lifted a serviette to dab at the corners of her mouth. Monica. Be honest with , she said as she placed the cloth back on to the table and t Monicas eyes. Part of her didnt want to confirm this, but it would be necessary to know what the other party thought in order to counter it. Do you want Tori to look at Piers as a prospective partner?
The Empress eyes crinkled up and she was quiet. She seed to be thinking of an answer that would appease Antonia. She lowered her head and knit her brows together.
I want to encourage their relationship.
Antonia lifted her head a bit. What do you think their relationship is?
Monica cringed. Friends?
Thats right.
But what if it turns into sothing more? Monica asked, sitting up straight, and appearing more attentive. What if-
It will be my daughters decision. Antonia narrowed her eyes. You know how I feel about betrothals.
Im not suggesting that we betroth them, Toni. I just want to encourage their relationship because it seems to be helping Piers social anxiety, Monica told her. She grimaced and shook her head. Not to say that Im using your daughter for that purpose. My son just seems quite attached to her and is willing to take steps outside his comfort zone when she is involved.
At this, Antonia frowned. Monica, I understand that you are very protective of Piers and only want whats best for him. However, dont forget that I am protective of Tori. When I got her back, looking as if death would take her any mont, I swore that I would never put her in a position where she would suffer. Her eyes reddened as she rembered the near skeletal infant in her arms fourteen years ago. If she chose to walk away from Piers, nothing will keep her from doing so. Do you understand?
Monica was quiet once more and then nodded. I would not force your daughter to do sothing she wouldnt want to do. If one day, she chose to pursue a life that didnt involve Piers, then I will stand down.
I just want to make it clear that nothing will trap my daughter, Antonia said in a firm voice. As long as you understand this.
Monica let out a low breath, admonished. I understand.
Good. Antonia reached forward and took her cup of coffee. She looked down at the half empty cup. She poured herself another cup and then lifted her hand for one of the attendants to co. More coffee. And send Tori in.
Monicas head snapped up. Her eyes widened and she looked towards the door eagerly. Antonia rolled her eyes. Youre going to let talk to her?
You leave tomorrow. I should give you a chance. Antonia took a sip from her cup. Monica smiled widely and rose from her seat, about to round the table to hug Antonia. Dont.
Right, Ice Queen.
At least try to show a regal bearing when Tori is here.
I am always regal.
Im sure.
There was a knock on the door and it opened to let in her daughter in a simple, maroon dress with her curly bundle of hair in a haphazard bun and a matching headband. Mama, did you call for ? She noticed the Empress imdiately and made a polite curtsy. Your Majesty.
My baby. Antonia smiled warmly as she extended her hand, beckoning her daughter forward. Monica gave Tori a small nod before Tori reached her mothers hand. Monicas look of disturbed disbelief at how affectionate she was to Tori was not lost on Antonia. The Empress has been asking to have coffee with you. Do you have a mont to join us? I know youre quite busy.
I can make ti, Mama, Tori smiled as a third seat was brought to the table. I just finished speaking to Instructor Ignatius about using ice calcite to cool the air indoors. Im not scheduled to have lunch with Lady Idunn and play with Ava until later.
Good, have a seat. Antonia had Tori sit next to her. She then put so pastries on the small plate in front of Tori.
Tori reached to pluck a cookie from the plate and looked at the Empress. Your Majesty, thank you for having . How can I help you?
Monica opened her mouth, but Antonia cut her off. My sweet, rest assured that Ive told her everything that you told us about Prince Gideon and Sir von Dorns harassnt. Her sharp eyes turned to Monica.
The Empress gave another nod. Lady Tori - may I call you Tori? She reached forward to touch Toris hand and Antonia narrowed her eyes. Monica retracted her hand.
Of course, Your Majesty.
Tori, then. The Empress bead for a mont, as if shed gotten closer to Tori. She then furrowed her brows and tried to appear serious. I was unaware that my second son had said such things to you. We are not a family that abuses their position and I have reprimanded him for accusing you of such things as buying your way into school and cheating. I am very upset that he did so without investigating whether or not it was true. Not that it would be. Your mother is brilliant and so Id expect her daughter-
Your Majesty. Antonia sent her a stern look.
Yes, as I was saying, the Empress said, unperturbed. I will also discuss his actions with his father. In regard to Sir von Dorn, we have already decided to send him to La Garda as it is clear his discipline is lacking.
Tori nodded and seed to think for a mont. What if Sir von Dorn refuses?
The Empress raised a brow, as if shed be surprised if he dared. Then we will relieve him from the position of Gideons knight.
Antonia watched her daughters eyes widen. I see. Tori seed to smile as she munched on a piece of cake.
If either of them continue to show you unwarranted animosity, please dont hesitate to let us know, the Empress said. The Imperial Family does not approve of this sort of behavior.
Thank you, Your Majesty. I will keep that in mind, Tori said.
With that ugliness behind us, Id like to pick up where we left off this morning, Monica said with an affectionate look at the teenager. I was pulled away so rudely. She shot a glare at Antonia, who pointedly ignored her. It will be your first ti at an imperial banquet. I know your mother likes to buy you dresses, but I believe a new, more extravagant one will be necessary.
Yes, that is what my seamstress said, Tori agreed with a nod. Rest assured, Your Majesty, Ive taken the precaution of preparing a new dress fitting for the occasion.
Tori likely didnt notice, but Antonia did. A flash of disappointnt went across the Empress face. Antonia held back a smirk.
What about shoes?
Ive also taken care of that.
Have you made arrangents for your hair? Monica looked hopeful.
Yes. My brothers friend is coming to Auntie Lucias to do my hair that afternoon. Tori took a sip of coffee and Antonia was pleased. Her daughter had beco quite the planner.
I see...then, I suppose there is nothing left for to do but await your arrival, Monica said, barely concealing her disappointnt.
Tori smiled and gave her a small nod.
Well, it seems that Her Majesty has asked all the questions she needed to ask, Antonia said.
Monica took in a breath and stiffened in her seat. Im not-
I know youre busy. Antonia continued without rcy as she reached over and stroked so stray hairs out of her daughters face. So you go ahead and get back to your day. I will keep Her Majesty company.
Monica looked at her indignantly. Her eyes were wide and Antonia could see her silent look of what are you doing; Im not done..
All right. Then, I will see you at dinner. Tori finished her cookie and stood up. Antonia tilted her head, keeping her right cheek raised. Tori gave her an affectionate peck. Dont overwork yourself, Mama. Tori looked at the Empress pleasantly and gave her another curtsy. Enjoy the rest of your day, Your Majesty.
Monica clenched her jaw and watched helplessly as Tori left. As soon as the door closed, she turned back to Antonia with a glare. You said you were going to let talk to her!
I did.
The Empress scowled and leaned back against her chair, crossing her arms over her chest. I cant believe I was so excited to see you....
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