42. Suspicious

Ellie asked Sera, "Where did you go at that time?"

"At first, I was waiting right outside the Crown Prince's palace for you, Madam. But because I became increasingly worried about any improper rumors about you, I decided to return to the mansion to report it to the Grand Duke. When I arrived at the mansion, the head servant said that the Grand Duke was on his way to the palace, Madam."

"Hmm..."

Ellie looked at Viona, who was rubbing her feet and remained silent.

"Viona."

"Y-yes, Madam?"

"You're scrubbing my feet too hard."

"I apologize, Madam."

When Ellie finished her bath, and the servants had finished helping her put on her dress, Ellie asked Viona, "Viona, when the Grand Duke came to pick me up, were you the one who escorted him to the Crown Prince's palace?"

"Yes, Madam. When Sera left to report to the Grand Duke, I was waiting for you outside the Crown Prince's palace, and I was relieved when I saw the Grand Duke."