CH 264

With a mischievous smile, Derrick asked, “Master, may I be bold to ask what gift you are preparing for her?” What the duke was preparing as a gift for his daughter was of great interest to the servants and maids in the Floyen mansion. Derrick tried to get a hint using his close relationship with the duke as his butler. However, Regis did not give way.

“The best thing I could give her.”

‘I see he’s keeping it a secret from me as well…’ Derrick sighed. ‘I understand it was my fault that I told the lady where the training hall was located during that incident, but…’ He then smiled, thinking that he would find out what the gift was in due time. He silently vowed to take good care of the lady and his master until then.

***

I had had trouble sleeping last night due to all the anticipation for various things, but it seemed that I had fallen asleep without realizing it. It was bright outside when I opened my eyes. Today, I would discuss the concept for the banquet with Madam Perez…

I yawned, desperate to sleep for a little longer. Nevertheless, I forced myself to leave the bed. I wanted to keep my promises. Once at my desk, I started writing out the plans for the banquet—elegant but trendy decorations so that it would be befitting for the duke’s mansion but still catch the people’s eye was the most important aspect. I jotted down notes considering all the details I could think of, and once I was finished, I could envision the banquet in my head somewhat.

‘This is good enough.’ I turned to the clock to realize that quite a bit of time had passed. The plan on my desk, I called for my maid. “Merilyn, could you please ask Madam Perez to come to my room?”

***

The woman sighed at the sudden surge of heat that overcame her. She was far from feeling well—always feeling hot, cold, then hot again. Madam Perez was suffering from the symptoms of menopause for a while now. Nonetheless, she had endured for the sake of the late duchess’ request—to remain until Jubelian’s coming-of-age ceremony.

“Madam Perez, I realize this is a difficult request, but… I want you to remain as the housekeeper until my daughter comes of age,” the lady had said.

It had been many years since she had been employed by the Floyen family. There had been many hardships, but it was this wish that helped the old woman cope until now. Reminding herself that the banquet was just around the corner and that she could soon retire, Madam Perez entered the lady’s room.

“Welcome, Madam Perez.” The lady was dressed in a simple dress. Seeing her, Madam Perez was brought to tears for some reason. Even though Jubelian had been difficult to care for during her childhood and teen years, she had grown up to be a wonderful lady. Sitting down, Madam Perez began to look through the plans that the lady had written. The ideas were not too extravagant, yet they were creative.

Satisfied, Madam Perez praised, “This is excellent.”

“Wow, really?!” Jubelian exclaimed like a child.

‘If I had known that she loved compliments so much, I should have praised her more often,’ Perez smiled. In any case, such regrets were futile as she would soon quit. Standing up, she said, “Then I will prepare the banquet according to these notes.”

“Wait a minute!” Jubelian yelled.

“I’m sorry?” Perez looked back, curious.

Taking something out of her pocket, the lady handed over something. “Take this.”

“This is…” the woman trailed off at the sight of an unexpected gift.

Jubelian smiled, “It’s primrose oil—rumored to be a useful remedy for menopause. I’ve also told Allen about it. He will send you some medicine as well.”

It was strange. Madam Perez had already made up her mind to retire after the lady’s coming-of-age ceremony. However, she now wanted to stay by the charming lady’s side for a little longer. Bowing, she expressed her gratitude. “Thank you, Lady Jubelian.”